Kathmandu to Paro

Welcome to Kathmandu. On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, independently transfer to your hotel.

Kathmandu - Patan - Kathmandu. After breakfast, we drive into the heart of Kathmandu to explore its medieval lanes and the rich culture of the Newari people. You walk through the lively vegetable and spice market at Ason and visit several traditional courtyards that remain central to community life. Continue through the bustling bazaars to the Kumari Temple, home of the Living Goddess, before viewing the exterior of Taleju Temple and stopping at Kal Bhairab.

In the afternoon, we visit Swayambhunath Stupa - a hilltop sanctuary offering wide views across the Kathmandu Valley. Later, we continue to Patan to explore Patan Durbar Square, one of the valley’s three UNESCO-listed royal squares.

Kathmandu - Chitwan. After breakfast, we travel to Chitwan National Park, following the Trishuli River. On a clear day, you can enjoy views of Manaslu, Buddha Himal, Ganesh Himal, and the Annapurna Range. We arrive at the lodge in time for lunch.

In the afternoon, we set out on safari through dense forest and open grasslands in search of the Great Asian One-Horned Rhinoceros, along with deer, monkeys, wild boar, sloth bears, leopards, and an impressive array of birdlife. While the Bengal tiger is usually elusive during daylight, the park’s natural magic sometimes delivers rare sightings.

This morning, you join a canoe trip along the river to observe the park’s aquatic life. Look out for rare water birds and wildlife stopping to drink at the riverbank. At the end of the ride, you will be collected by the riverside and returned to your lodge - or you may explore part of the park on foot if you prefer, an adventurous way to appreciate the forest at close range.

We then walk back to camp for lunch. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax at the lodge.

Chitwan - Pokhara. After breakfast, we drive overland to Pokhara, a peaceful lakeside city considered one of Nepal’s most beautiful destinations. Pollution-free and less crowded, Pokhara offers stunning scenery and a relaxed atmosphere. This afternoon, you enjoy a scenic boat ride on Phewa Lake.

Pokhara - Kathmandu. We start early with a visit to Sarangkot viewpoint for an unforgettable sunrise over the Himalayan peaks. After time to enjoy a warm drink at one of the cafes, we return to Pokhara and then drive back to Kathmandu. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore Kathmandu’s narrow, atmospheric streets.

Kathmandu - Paro (Bhutan) - Thimphu. This morning, you transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight to Paro, Bhutan. On arrival, we continue by road to Thimphu, stopping to view Tamchog Lhakhang iron bridge along the way.

After checking in, we visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in honour of Bhutan’s third king, followed by the Buddha Dordenma Statue - one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in Asia. We then visit the Takin Sanctuary to see Bhutan’s unique national animal, before continuing to Zilukha Nunnery and finally Trashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s central administration (open after 5 pm, Monday to Friday).

Please note: The flight from Kathmandu to Paro is not included in the cost of your tour.

Thimphu - Paro. After breakfast, we visit the Folk Heritage Museum for insights into traditional Bhutanese rural life, followed by the National Painting School to observe the creation of intricate sculptures and paintings. We then stop at the Bhutan Post Office Headquarters where you may create personalised stamps (USD 4 for 12 stamps, payable locally).

After lunch, we drive back to Paro and visit a local farmhouse to meet Bhutanese families and learn about their daily life. You may also sample homemade wine.

Paro - Tigers Nest - Paro. This morning, we hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. Built into a sheer cliff above the Paro Valley, the monastery rewards us with extraordinary views. We stop for a coffee break on the ascent and enjoy lunch at a cafeteria on the descent.

In the afternoon, we visit the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, built to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invasions. Later, enjoy a stroll through Paro’s main street.

After breakfast, independently transfer to the airport for your onward flight.