Depart your home country for your flight to Nepal.
Most suited for
Couples, Solos
Ideal time to visit
March - November
Weave the rich culture of Nepal with the otherwordly charm of Bhutan on this 16-day adventure.
In Nepal, skip domestic flights to dive into the varied countryside around the Kathmandu Valley. Go on hikes and bike rides against the backdrop of Himalayan panoramas, exploring intricate villages and connecting with local life at a community homestay.
Then hop over to Bhutan and delve into the enchanting traditions as you explore the Dzongs and paddy fields of the lush Punakha Valley. Cap off your adventure with a climb to the celebrated Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Exploring the Valleys of Kathmandu & Bhutan
As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We will create a bespoke package which will be completely unique for you.
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Day 1
Your adventure begins
Days 2 - 3
Kathmandu
Touch down in Kathmandu and gently ease into your adventure with an evening visit to Pashupatinath, one of the city’s most revered Hindu temples. During your time in the colourful capital, join your guide to explore the must-see sites like Patan Durbar Square and Swayambhunath and delve into Nepali traditions and handcrafts. You’ll have the chance to get hands on and learn local crafts like Paubha painting in Patan, too.
Days 4 - 5
Namo Buddha
Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and head out to Namo Buddha, about a 1.5-hour drive from Kathmandu. This sacred Tibetan Buddhist site is a sight to behold, and you’ll stay nearby at the peaceful Namo Buddha Resort (an ideal base for exploring the spectacular surroundings and Newari villages on day hikes). The pilgrimage site of Namo Buddha will wow you, as will its panoramic views of the Himalayas and the serenity of its monastery, Thrangu Tashi Yangtse. Don’t miss the chance to step into the shrine room, where you might hear the monks chanting – a magical experience.
There will also be time for you to simply relax in the resort’s gorgeous gardens, where you’ll spot birds flitting around, and unwind in the sauna or do some yoga. In the evening, sip hot punch by the campfire – a perfect end to a day of discovery.
Day 6
Panauti Community Homestay
Today, it’s on to Panauti town, which lies just 10km away. If you’re feeling active, we can arrange for you to trek or cycle some of the way (rather than be driven the whole way).
Your time at this pioneering, female-led community homestay is a unique opportunity to slot into the rhythms of local life. Enjoy sharing home-cooked meals, taking part in puja ceremonies and exploring your new surroundings of little villages, green hills and holy rivers with your host family.
By the time you leave, you’ll feel a real sense of connection to this beautiful part of the Kathmandu Valley and the gracious villagers who call it home.
Days 7 - 8
Bhaktapur
Next, you’ll visit Bhaktapur – a UNESCO-protected little city with huge cultural significance and some of the finest architecture in Nepal. If you’re in the mood for some light adventure, you can start with a hike from Panauti to Sanga. It’s a lovely walk along a well-marked path that takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, and scenic ridgelines. Then, you’ll hop into a car for the final stretch to Bhaktapur.
Delve into the heart of the city, alive with traditional arts, and get hands-on with the local crafts. Start by trying your hand at woodcarving with the help of skilled guides and refuel with a traditional Newari lunch. Afterwards, head to a pottery workshop, where you’ll get your hands dirty at the potter’s wheel, guided by local artisans who really know their stuff.
Days 9 - 10
Depart Nepal and arrive in Bhutan
After a short 30-minute drive, you’ll catch your onward flight to Paro, Bhutan. Your guide and local driver will be there to welcome you and whisk you away to Thimphu. During your time here, you’ll have plenty of chances to soak up the distinctive atmosphere of this sleepy capital city. Both the golden Great Buddha Doredenma and the iconic National Memorial Chorten offer amazing panoramic views of the valley below and are well worth a visit. If you’re there on a weekend, immerse yourself in the dynamic farmers’ market.
You’re also likely to stumble across a local archery tournament! Thimphu is also the perfect place to delve into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. Your guide will introduce you to the country’s traditional arts and crafts (there are 13 of them) and take you to see skilled artists at work. If you’re feeling creative, there’s even an opportunity to try your hand at crafting your own Thanka (a traditional Buddhist fabric painting), under expert guidance.
Day 11
Punakha via Dochula Pass
Set off on the scenic drive to Punakha with your guide and driver, winding through the pine forests and over the Dochula Pass. At the pass, stop to stretch your legs and take a look at the 108 stupas built in honour of fallen Bhutanese soldiers. Have a bite to eat or sip a warm Yak milk tea at the cafe, and on a clear day, you’ll want to take the time to marvel at the Himalayan vistas. You’ll then descend to your destination, the fertile Punakha valley, with a detour into the paddy fields to visit the very memorable Temple of Fertility.
Days 12 -13
Punakha
Punakha has quite a different feel to Thimphu valley as its lush landscape has hues of green and blue. The Giligang Trail is the best way to immerse yourself in the scenery and a lovely way to link the highlights together. Start your day with a picnic breakfast in the serene gardens of the intricate Khamsum Chorten (before the temple’s visitors start to arrive). Then, set off on a 4-5 hour walk through picturesque rice paddies and fragrant pine forests, accompanied by your expert guide, who’ll share insights into the region along the way. The trail leads you to the magnificent Punakha Dzong, arguably Bhutan’s most beautiful and intricate fortress. With a name that means “the palace of great happiness,” you’re bound to finish the day in good cheer.
For a different perspective, consider adding white-water rafting to your itinerary, so you can experience Punakha from the thrilling confluence of its two rivers.
Days 14 -15
Paro and Tiger's Nest
This morning, you’ll take the 4-hour drive back to Paro, where you’ll settle in for a two-night stay. In the afternoon, enjoy an orientation tour of this historic town with your local guide. As the day winds down, enjoy tea and local wine at a traditional farmhouse, where you can have a go at archery – the national sport.
End your trip on a high with a hike to the renowned Tiger’s Nest Monastery. You’ll have ample time here to explore its peaceful interior, a camera-free zone that lets you fully absorb the atmosphere. Once you’ve satisfied your curiosity, climb down into the Paro valley where your driver will bring you back to your cosy hotel. Wrap up your adventure with a final drink and a delicious meal – a perfect moment to reflect on your journey and the most memorable moments.
Day 16
Fly home
Wave goodbye to Bhutan and catch your flight back home.
Experience in Nepal
Our itinerary was stimulating and varied. It coincided with the festival of Tihaa or Diwali and therefore allowed us to experience a special family time of year. Our guide, Anup, was charming and knowledgeable. He invited us to join his family for their special Diwali celebrations ,which was such a memorable experience and also a privilege. Trekking in the Annapurna foothills was a significant part of our two week visit. The chance to trek from Lodge to Lodge, and to see the village way of life was fascinating. We would thoroughly recommend ETG for their attention to detail in creating a perfect holiday.
Bob Williams
Excellent
850 Reviews
850 Reviews
What’s included:
With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.
Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:
All flights (unless you’ve booked your own!)
Expert guides and drivers
All accommodation
Many meals and snacks
Immersive experiences throughout
All regional transfers
Tips
24/7 In-Country support
Personal travel consultant throughout
Pricing:
As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:
Bespoke Holidays £4,500 - £8,500pp
Bespoke Luxury Holidays £8,500 - £14,500pp
Bespoke Family Holidays from £4,000 - £7,500pp
Meet Our Nepal Experts
Sara has a deep love for both Bhutan and Nepal’s mix of mountains, culture, and calm. She knows how to craft trips that balance adventure with moments of pure stillness and serious charm.
“Combining Nepal and Bhutan means you’ll fuse cultures, adventures and spiritual encounters all together. From cycling backstreets and experiencing homestays in Nepal to hiking Punakha’s trails and climbing to Tiger’s Nest, this trip immerses you in the essence of both countries.“
Sara
Regional Expert
Explore Our Hotels & Villas
Wherever you go, and whatever you do, at the end of every day you can always be sure of a comfortable rest. Every location on our list of hotels is handpicked, and in its own way, shares the history, the hospitality, and the fabric of the destination. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use.
The ETG Guarantee
We guarantee you an experience no one else has ever had.
The travel magic you’ll remember won’t be found on a well-trodden – or over-Instagrammed – itinerary. It will be the surprises, discoveries and secrets that you’ll uncover along the way with us.
Do you ever feel like people aren’t listening to you?
We get it. And we will – that’s a promise. Your holiday starts with with a proper, no-pressure call to understand what you want, what you don’t want, and what matters to you.. From there, we create a completely unique adventure, inspired by our conversation together.
And because of our long-standing relationships with trusted partners across Asia, you’ll have access to experiences you can’t find on Google. The kind of special experiences that are literally impossible to find on your own.
Experiences of Nepal & Bhutan
Crafting bespoke packages is the heart of what we do. Each holiday is specially designed to confound preconceptions and share magical, memorable, and truly exceptional experiences.
Important FAQs about Nepal
Nepal is a land of awe-inspiring peaks, ancient traditions, and warm hospitality. Travelling with ETG means experiencing this remarkable country with the insight of expert local and mountain guides who bring the landscapes and culture to life.
Whether it’s walking through quiet Himalayan villages, exploring the temples and markets of Kathmandu, or spotting wildlife in Chitwan National Park, we ensure your Nepal experience is rich, authentic, and stress-free. Our carefully planned routes and knowledgeable guides help you uncover Nepal’s beauty without the rush of standard tourist trails.
The best seasons for Nepal are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the skies are clear, mountain views are at their best, and trekking conditions are ideal. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons across the hills, while autumn brings crisp, cool weather after the summer rains. Winter (December to February) can be cold at higher altitudes but is perfect for cultural exploration and lowland regions, while summer (June to August) is monsoon season, with fewer visitors and lush, green landscapes.
Bhutan offers a rare glimpse into a deeply spiritual way of life, with dramatic Himalayan landscapes, dzongs, and monasteries seemingly untouched by time. Travelling with ETG means experiencing Bhutan through the eyes of our expert guides, who not only know the history and legends of this remarkable kingdom but also share insights into daily life and traditions. From the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery to exploring rural valleys and vibrant markets, we ensure your visit is meaningful, immersive, and carefully planned to uncover the country’s unique charm.
The best times to visit Bhutan are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the skies are clear, the Himalayan peaks are at their most striking, and festivals such as Paro Tsechu and Thimphu Tsechu take place, offering a vibrant window into Bhutanese culture. Winter (December to February) brings crisp weather, fewer visitors, and snow-capped views, while summer (June to August) sees lush green landscapes but also heavier monsoon rains.
Every ETG holiday to Nepal is carefully designed to be seamless, immersive, and stress-free. Your journey typically includes international flights (if requested), guide throughout and accommodation in hand-picked, characterful hotels or homestays.
You’ll enjoy incredible, immersive experiences unique to you, all planned by dedicated Nepal specialists, with the added reassurance of 24/7 in-country support from our local team.