Sacred Kingdoms Tour: 12-Day Nepal & Bhutan Luxury Escape

Your 12-day Sacred Kingdom Tour begins upon landing in Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon arrival, you will be received and transferred to your hotel by our representatives. Take time to settle into the vibrant atmosphere of Nepal’s capital. In the evening, you will meet the Himalayan Asia Tours and Travel Team for a welcome dinner at a premium restaurant. This is your first opportunity to savor the authentic culinary treats of Kathmandu.

After a hearty breakfast at the top-notch Hilton Hotel, you will prepare to board your flight to the lake city of Pokhara. Situated under the shadows of the mighty Annapurna range, Pokhara offers natural excursions and vibrant cultural experiences. Today, you will visit the Devi’s Fall and the sacred Gupteswor Mahadev Cave, then head out to the International Mountain Museum. In the evening, you can stroll the lively Lakeside road stretch and visit the cozy cafes or restaurants/bars featuring live music.

Enjoy your breakfast, relishing the serenity of Pokhara by the tranquil Fewa Lake. After breakfast, you will take a boat ride across this beautiful lake to a bustling island and visit the Tal Barahi temple. Next, you will take a scenic drive to Sarangkot. Sarangkot is a famous viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Check into your hotel and join your guide to explore the nearby villages before settling in to witness a spectacular sunset paint the icy Annapurna and Machhapuchhre in shades of gold.

Your day begins before dawn to witness the magical sunrise over the vast Himalayas. After the sunrise experience, you will prepare to leave for Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, you will take an immersive excursion into the spiritual heart of Nepal. The day’s itinerary includes a visit to the revered Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Temple before concluding the day with an exploration of the Patan Durbar Square – a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its artistic craftsmanship and intricate architecture.

Today, you will take a brief break from Nepal and head to the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. Your journey takes you on a scenic flight over, giving you close-up views of the icy giants, including the mighty Mount Everest. Upon arriving at the Paro International Airport, you will drive to the cultural city of Thimphu. Check in at the Pema Ko hotel, and adjust to your new destination, enjoying the serene environment of the Bhutanese capital.

After breakfast at the luxurious Pema Ko, you will visit the cultural highlights of Thimphu. The tour includes a visit to the Buddha Dordenma statue and the National Memorial Chorten. After lunch, you will get on your private vehicle and drive to Punakha via the stunning Dochula Pass. The Dolucha Pass is a stunning viewpoint offering a 360-degree view of the Himalayan vista and 108 memorial chortens.

Next, you will descend to the lush Punakha Valley and check into the Dhensa Boutique Resort. Enjoy a tranquil retreat overlooking vast rice fields and pine forests.

Your day begins with the exploration of the architectural masterpiece of the Punakha Dzong. This is an ancient fortress located at the confluence of two rivers. From the dzong, you will walk to one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan before continuing your journey to the beautiful Gangtey (Phobjikha) Valley.

Today, you will explore the protected glacial valley and relish the tranquility of the Gangtey Valley. The Gangtey Valley is a preferred winter habitat of the rare black-necked cranes. You will visit the Cran Information Center and learn more about these fascinating birds.

After exploring the U-shaped Gangtey Valley, you will drive back to Paro to continue your Bhutan tour. In Paro, you will stay at the premium Le Meridien, at the banks of the beautiful Paro River.

Your itinerary for today includes a rare visit to the Haa Valley. This is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and culturally rich districts. The journey takes you along Bhutan’s highest motorable road, over the scenic Chele La Pass. In the Haa Valley, you will visit the charming villages and soak in the tranquility of the environment. Following this immersive tour, you will head back to Paro and visit the National Museum (Ta Dzong) and the historic Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong).

Today is the pinnacle of your Bhutan tour. You will take a moderate hike to the Takshing Monastery or the Tiger’s Nest, located on a sheer cliff face, 900 meters above Paro. The hike takes you through the serene pine forest, adorned with colorful prayer flags. Though short, the hike gives you a sense of accomplishment. Enjoy the tranquility of the monastery before descending.

In the evening, you can celebrate your triumph with a relaxing spa treatment or a hot-stone massage session.

Your tour of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has come to an end. Today, you bid farewell to Bhutan and head back to Kathmandu. Upon reaching the bustling Kathmandu, you will go on a sightseeing of the famous Swyambhunath Stupa, also popular among tourists as the Monkey Temple, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Enjoy your breakfast at the luxurious Hilton Hotel. Depending on your time and flight schedule, you can head out to the local market for a last-minute souvenir shopping or visit a nearby cafe. Three hours before your scheduled flight, a private vehicle will pick you up and transfer you to the airport, officially ending your memorable Sacred Kingdoms Tour of Nepal and Bhutan.