A Joyous Journey through Bhutan & Nepal

The core trip doesn't start until Sunday, October 24, but if you'd like to spend more time in beautiful Nepal, join our 3-Day Pre-Trip Extension. 

Fly into Kathmandu, where your adventure begins with a warm welcome from Tribhuvan International Airport. Your private guide will escort you to the Kavya Resort & Spa, a hilltop oasis that combines modern luxury with a deep philosophy rooted in wellness. 

Relax and unwind in this stunning setting. You have enough time to enjoy the hotel's spa (an optional jet lag treatment is available at an extra cost) or simply bask in the serene mountain atmosphere. Let our concierge know if you would like to book a spa treatment. 

In the evening, we'll gather for a celebratory welcome dinner at the hotel’s Weavers & Potters, where the flavors of Nepal come alive, setting the tone for the unforgettable days ahead.

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll join a meditation and sound-healing session to foster our mental clarity and emotional harmony. 

If you've purchased the helicopter flight add-on, we'll head off for our morning flight to Syangboche, a remote village with jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas (elevation ~13,000 feet). 

From the air, we’ll see towering peaks, including Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku, as well as picturesque villages, serene lakes, and ancient monasteries. We’ll enjoy a memorable breakfast at the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest hotels in the world, returning to Nagarkot when we've completed this once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

If you aren't joining us for the helicopter ride, enjoy a slow, relaxing morning at the resort. Lunch will be at your leisure in the on-site restaurant. Don't forget to round out your meal with a delicious cup of masala chai or lassi. 

This afternoon, each guest will enjoy the resort's gorgeous spa. What better way to ease into our Himalayan adventure than with a soothing treatment at our mountaintop haven?

Enjoy a stunning sunset from one of the many balconies at our resort; it's an unforgettable experience. For our last pre-trip night, we'll gather and share stories of the day over a hearty Nepalese meal paired with curated wines. 

After a delicious breakfast, take some time to relax and pack your bags. Soak in the lush surroundings of Nagarkot one last time.

After we check out, we'll head down the hill to visit a local home in Kathmandu for an immersive cooking class. Learn the secrets of Nepali cuisine and prepare a traditional meal with fresh, local ingredients. Once our culinary creations are ready, we’ll feast on our delicious spread together.

Stroll through vibrant markets in the afternoon and shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

As the day winds down, we’ll head to Dwarika’s Hotel to freshen up before gathering for a special welcome dinner to kick off the core trip. This dinner marks the beginning of our exciting journey through Bhutan and Nepal, filled with new friendships, unforgettable experiences, and stunning destinations!

The core trip officially starts today. If you haven't joined the Pre-Trip Extension, fly into the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where our representative will welcome you and take you to The Dwarika’s Hotel. 

Check in and enjoy a refreshing welcome drink. Relax and recuperate from your travels for the rest of the day. The hotel spa can arrange a jet lag treatment for you at an extra cost. 

Later this evening, we'll meet for our welcome dinner at the hotel's Krisharpan Restaurant and discuss our plans for the next ten days as we adventure through these beautiful countries.

We'll awaken refreshed and ready to begin our adventure. After breakfast, we'll head to the airport for our flight to Paro, Bhutan. The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in the Himalayas, so be sure to take a peek out the window for beautiful views.

A guide will give us a traditional Bhutanese welcome at the Paro Airport once we touchdown, and we'll begin our transfer through the Thimphu River Valley to Bhutan's capital city.

Along the way, we’ll stop at two of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks, beginning with Buddha Point (Kuenselphodrang), home to the world’s tallest sitting Buddha and sweeping views over the peaceful valley. 

We’ll continue to Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-monastery that serves as the seat of Bhutan’s king and government, where traditional architecture, vibrant courtyards, and fluttering prayer flags offer an introduction to the country’s spiritual and political heritage. 

Our final stop is Chuzom, the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers. Three styles of stupas, Tibetan, Nepalese, and Bhutanese, adorn this confluence. 

Once we reach the capital, we'll check into the 5-star Le Méridien Thimphu. Thimphu is the capital town of Bhutan and the center of government, religion, and commerce. It's a city with an unusual mixture of modern development and ancient traditions. With a population of about 90,000, it is perhaps the world’s only capital city without a traffic light. 

Once we're settled in, we'll head out to visit the National Memorial Chorten, a beautifully intricate living center of devotion that honors the Third King.

We'll explore Thimphu's main streets and the market area in the evening, including a local crafts bazaar to see examples of Bhutan's fine traditional arts. What a perfect place to buy souvenirs of hand-woven textiles, Thangka paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewelry, and other interesting items made from local materials!

Dinner will be at the hotel's restaurant tonight: Sese Shamu. This highly regarded eatery serves Pan Asian cuisine and is a beautiful way to end a spirited first day.

After breakfast, we’ll begin our day with a stunning drive over Dochula Pass (elevation of 10,170 feet), where 108 white stupas and sweeping Himalayan views offer one of Bhutan’s most unforgettable panoramas.

By late morning, we’ll arrive at Chimi Lhakhang, the famed Fertility Temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” surrounded by peaceful farmland and village paths.

Lunch will be in a local restaurant, where we can enjoy authentic Bhutanese dishes in a warm, convivial setting. Take some free time afterward to wander Thimphu at your leisure. 

In the evening, a special photoshoot awaits us! We'll wear Kira, a traditional women's dress consisting of a long, ankle-length gown made of beautiful fabrics and adorned with intricate patterns that showcase Bhutanese textile art. Thimphu is a beautiful place to capture a few memories of our time together in this unique country.

Dinner is at the hotel tonight. 

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll check out and meet with a local woman to gain insight into daily life in Bhutan. She'll talk about topics such as birth, naming, marriage, and death rituals, illustrating how spirituality shapes daily practices.

We'll thank our new friend for a morning full of cultural connection before making our scenic return to Paro Valley, following winding mountain roads framed by forests and quiet villages.

We’ll check into the Hotel Dawa at Hill Top by Heeton, a warm, contemporary retreat with sweeping views, cozy rooms, and an inviting atmosphere perfect for unwinding later after our day of exploring.

After settling in, our first stop is Rinpung Dzong, the iconic fortress-monastery that watches over the Paro Valley. We’ll explore its serene courtyards and admire traditional Bhutanese architecture.

This evening, take the opportunity to meet a local monk or to participate in a traditional dying and weaving workshop. We'll update you on what our plan is based on availability. 

Back at our hilltop haven, dinner will be at Cypress. This Bhutanese restaurant strikes a balance between local delicacies and international inspiration in a stunning space with panoramic views over the valley.

After breakfast, we'll take an excursion to Taktshang Monastery, and if you're up for it, we'll start the 5-hour round-trip hike to the Tiger’s Nest.  It's one of Bhutan's most famous monasteries, perched on a cliff 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley floor. 

Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived on the back of a tigress and meditated at a monastery called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site is recognized as a most sacred place and was visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646. It is now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. 

If you've joined us for the hike, treat yourself to refreshments at Taktsang Café, a welcome stop on the way down from our adventure. 

As we make our way back to the hotel, we'll stop at Kyichu Lhakhang and Drukgyel Dzong, key cultural landmarks in the valley.

We'll return to the hotel for a peaceful evening, where you can relax with an optional traditional hot-stone treatment to soothe your tired muscles from the hike. 

We won't have to go far for dinner tonight. Let's enjoy a meal together at the hotel's restaurant.

Enjoy breakfast and prepare to check out. Today, we're traveling to Pokhara. We'll fly to Paro International Airport for a scenic 40-minute flight to Kathmandu, followed by a 30-minute domestic flight to Pokhara. 

Once we touchdown, we’ll sit down for lunch on the shores of the shimmering Phewa Lake to recoup after our morning of travel. 

We'll pay a visit to the local Tibetan Camp to learn about this vibrant diaspora community and its traditions. Nearby, the iconic World Peace Stupa is perched on scenic Anadu Hill, offering panoramic views of the lake. We'll visit to soak in the scenery and pay homage to this revered monument. 

Our hotel tonight is one of the oldest establishments in town and has hosted many notable guests over the years. We'll take a short boat transfer to check in at the Fishtail Lodge and drop our bags off. 

Just before 6 pm, we'll board another boat to the island temple of Tal Barahi to watch their evening Aarti ritual. This ceremony involves priests, lamps, hymns played with instruments, and chanting to honor Goddess Durga (as Barahi). It's a heartfelt cultural experience that offers a better understanding of Nepalese traditions. 

Dinner tonight is at the lodge's elegant multi-cuisine restaurant, rounding out a beautiful first day in Nepal.

Wake up early and watch as the sun peaks over the horizon of the lake. After breakfast, pack your bags, we're off to Dhampus! 

This charming Gurung village is nestled in the Himalayan foothills and known for its intimate mountain views and rich local culture. 

Upon arrival, we’ll be welcomed with the joyful sounds of a traditional Panche Baja, setting a festive and heartfelt tone. We’ll then enjoy a leisurely garden picnic lunch, taking in the fresh mountain air and sweeping Himalayan scenery. 

In the afternoon, we’ll stroll through the village alongside local mothers, gaining a glimpse into daily life, followed by an exclusive cultural dance that brings Gurung traditions beautifully to life.

As the day winds down, we’ll settle into Nana Mountain Resort, a cozy mountain lodge celebrated for its warm hospitality, simplicity, and unforgettable sunset views. We’ll end the evening with a relaxed dinner and overnight stay, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the mountains.

After breakfast, we’ll pack up, check out, and make our way to Chitwan National Park. It's about a 4-hour trip, with stops along the way for refreshments. 

Upon arrival, we’ll head to the Barahi Jungle Lodge, our home in the wilderness of the park. After settling into your room, you’ll have time to unwind and explore the resort’s peaceful surroundings.

Later in the day, we'll take a village walk to explore the area. During this guided exploration, we'll learn about and engage with the local Tharu people and their rich cultural heritage. The Tharu community will display their traditions, culture, and cuisine, providing a distinctive and enriching experience. 

Back at the lodge, settle in with a riverside sundowner cocktail as we each have traditional henna designs applied by local artists. It’s a relaxed moment to decompress by the water and take in the natural setting of this gorgeous national park.

Dinner tonight is at the lodge.

Today is all about immersing ourselves in the wild beauty of Chitwan National Park. We’ll set out this morning for an exciting Jeep safari in search of local wildlife. This park hosts a diverse array of animals, including one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, elephants, sloth bears, and a remarkable variety of bird species.

Lunch will be served back at the lodge so we can recharge between adventures.

We'll board a traditional dugout canoe for a peaceful ride along the Rapti River, passing through lush forests and spotting various birds, mugger crocodiles, and rhinos along the riverbanks.

This evening, let's gather for a Tharu Cultural Program, a lively showcase of music and dance celebrating the region's heritage. 

Dinner will follow on the banks of the river in the glow of candlelight, offering a relaxed end to a full day of exploration.

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll check out and transfer to Bharatpur Domestic Airport for our flight to Kathmandu. Enjoy a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, where our guide will pick us up at the airport for our final day in the city.

We simply must see more of this beautiful capital, so let's set off on a guided tour that will introduce us to some of the city’s most iconic sites, including the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, the grand stupa of Boudhanath, and the historic Bhaktapur Durbar Square. 

Along the way, we’ll gain insight into the rich culture, history, and architecture that make Kathmandu Valley so remarkable, with a stop for lunch to refuel during our explorations.

Afterwards, we'll return to the familiar Dwarika’s Hotel to rest and refresh before a farewell dinner at Toran Garden Terrace. This typical Nepali restaurant serves authentic local cuisine, the perfect way to cap off a wonderful trip. 

Enjoy one last breakfast with new friends before departing for your onward flights home. We have arranged private transportation for everyone based on their flight times from Tribhuvan International Airport. 

We hope this journey through Bhutan and Nepal has been the adventure of a lifetime, complete with new friends and memories that will last forever. Until we meet again...

If you are joining us for the optional post-trip ayurvedic and yoga extension, we'll savor breakfast before heading off to the retreat.

After breakfast, we'll head to a five-day Ayurvedic retreat offering the rare chance to truly pause and reconnect - with yourself, your body, and the natural rhythms that so often get lost in everyday life. 

Over just a few days, personalized treatments, nourishing meals, and mindful practices like yoga and meditation will help restore balance to your mind and body. Guided by ancient Ayurvedic principles, you’ll learn how to align with your unique constitution, release stress, and cultivate sustainable wellness. 

The gentle pace, healing therapies, and serene setting make it more than a getaway - it’s a reset that leaves you feeling lighter, calmer, and deeply renewed.