Nepal and Bhutan: The Celestial Himalaya

Ever since Nepal opened its doors to visitors in the 1950s, its capital, Kathmandu, has conjured up visions of mystery and wanderlust, and this is as true today as it was back then. The heart of the city is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Durbar Square, but equally as beguiling are the historic squares in Patan and Bhaktapur, the other two major settlements in the Kathmandu Valley, the Hindu complex at Pashupatinath, the sublime Buddhist stupa at Boudhanath and the hilltop temple of Swayambhunath. Your time in Kathmandu is at leisure but we are happy to discuss and arrange a sightseeing program for you in and around this enthralling city, based on your interests.

A further day to explore Kathmandu and the surrounding valley.

After a thrilling flight from Kathmandu over the Himalaya mountains to Paro, you will be met by your private guide and driver, both of whom will remain with you for the duration of your time in Bhutan, and driven to the country’s capital city of Thimphu. Stop en route to see the colourful suspension bridge near the tiny settlement of Tamchog Lhakhang, and in the afternoon, explore Thimphu itself. Sightseeing is flexible depending on your interests but can include the National Textile Museum, the Jungshi paper-making factory and the National Memorial Chorten.

If possible, we recommend coinciding your visit to Thimphu from Friday to Sunday, as this is when the city’s colourful weekend market takes place.

Today’s journey to Punakha begins with a visit to Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic statue made of gold-gilded bronze that guards the entrance to the Thimphu Valley. Continue the journey to Punakha via the Dochula, a high mountain pass marked with over one hundred memorial stupas (Buddhist shrines). Punakha’s dzong (fortress-monastery) has a strategic river position and is arguably the most striking fortress in the country. There will be time to appreciate this architectural wonder before travelling the short distance to the town of Punakha.

Punakha’s location in a warm and fertile sub-tropical valley makes it one of the most appealing places in Bhutan to enjoy a spot of hiking, and this morning’s 45-minute walk to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten presents impressive views of the Punakha Valley.

After a picnic-style lunch on the banks of the Mo Chhu (Female River), you can try your hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport, and the remainder of the day can either be spent relaxing or you can continue exploring Punakha. For an additional cost, enjoying a spot of gentle rafting on the Mo Chhu is also possible.

Drive back along the same route to Paro, stopping at the 15th-century hilltop fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang along the way. Sightseeing in Paro, later today, will include the National Museum of Bhutan, a former watchtower that now houses a fascinating collection of more than 3,000 pieces of Bhutanese art, and, if time permits, Paro Dzong which was built to defend the then small settlement from invaders from Tibet. There are also several temples worth discovering, including the 15th-century Dungtse Lhakhang, and the Kyichu Lhakhang which dates back to the 7th century and is one of the most sacred and oldest temples in Bhutan.

Departing in the morning, today’s highlight is a visit to Taktsang monastery, more commonly known as Tiger’s Nest. One of the most revered places in Bhutan, the monastery seemingly hangs off the face of the cliff that rises from the valley floor some 900 metres below. The roundtrip hike takes between 4 and 5 hours and there are spectacular views of both the monastery and the encompassing valley along much of the route. Returning to Paro, lunch will be taken at a traditional farmhouse, and the rest of the day is at leisure.

This morning you will be transferred to Paro airport for your return flight to Kathmandu, where, on arrival, you will be met and driven the short distance to Dhulikhel.

Situated 30km southeast of Kathmandu, the authentic Newari town of Dhulikhel is the ideal place to relax and unwind after touring in this part of the world. With several interesting short walks, nearby Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas, as well as a stunning panorama of the Himalayas from the ridge above the settlement (weather permitting), there is enough to occupy those who wish to be active. But, equally, sitting on the terrace of your chosen boutique hotel or lodge resort and enjoying the vista presented before you is also a prime activity in this peaceful location on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley.

Private transfer to Kathmandu International Airport and check-in for your onward flight.