Where the cultural splendours of Nepal and the spiritual wonders of Bhutan meet, blending ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and transformative wilderness experiences
Where the cultural splendours of Nepal and the spiritual wonders of Bhutan meet, blending ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and transformative wilderness experiences
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital. As your exploration unfolds, discover the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Bhaktapur, the Pashupatinath Temple, and the Boudhanath Stupa. Delve into the heart of Kathmandu and Patan, unveiling the intricate architecture and cultural gems that define the region. Transitioning to Chitwan National Park, experience unforgettable wildlife wonders, including sightings of the endangered Asiatic one-horned rhino.
Your journey then takes you to the mystical kingdom of Bhutan, where the capital, Thimphu, seamlessly merges tradition with modernity. Explore landmarks like the National Memorial Chorten and Buddha Dordenma while indulging in enriching yoga sessions with local Bhutanese instructors. Venture deeper into Bhutan’s cultural and natural wonders, visiting the Royal Takin Preserve, Punakha Dzong, and the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Along the way, engage in immersive experiences, including Tshewang ceremonies and interactions with local communities. This transformative 14-day itinerary culminates in Paro leaving you with indescribable memories of a journey that transcends geographical boundaries, unlocking the hidden gems of two Himalaya nations.
2 nights Kathmandu | 3 nights Chitwan National Park | 2 nights Thimphu | 2 nights Punakha | 2 nights Paro
Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake your stay to any of our destinations
25 April 2025 | Dwarika’s Hotel
Kathmandu: Officially Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Kathmandu is the capital and largest urban agglomerate of Nepal. The agglomerate consists of Kathmandu at its core along with its sister cities Patan, Kirtipur, Thimi, and Bhaktapur.
Dwarika’s Hotel: The magnificent Dwarika’s is a heritage hotel showcasing centuries-old intricate carved wood and terracotta work and is celebrated for its intimate and authentic luxury coupled with the unique spirit and warm hospitality of the Nepali people – it is the ideal base from which to explore the city.
26 April 2025 | Dwarika’s Hotel
Bhaktapur: Otherwise known as the ‘City of Devotees’, ‘City of Culture’, ‘Living Heritage’, or ‘Nepal’s Cultural Gem’, Bhaktapur is one of three royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley. Filled with monuments mostly made from terracotta bricks with carved wooden columns as well as palaces and temples with elaborate carvings, gilded roofs, and open courtyards, Bhaktapur is dotted with pagodas and religious shrines. Lying along the ancient trade route between India and Tibet, Bhaktapur is partly surrounded by mountains, boasting magnificent views of the majestic Himalaya.
After lunch, explore the Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa.
Pashupatinath Temple: One of the most significant Hindu temples of Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath Temple is located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River in the eastern part of Kathmandu. The temple serves as the seat of the national deity, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Boudhanath Stupa: Boudhanath Stupa (or Bodhnath Stupa) is the largest stupa in Nepal as well as one of the holiest Tibetan Buddhist shrines outside of Tibet. Dating back to the 6th century, the stupa sits at the centre of Tibetan culture in Kathmandu and is a revered symbol of Buddhism. The stupa is located on the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu.
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, explore the city of Patan for the morning, including the Patan Museum.
Patan City: Patan Durbar Square is located in the heart of the city and was once the palace of the kings of Patan. The square consists of artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples – a display of Newari architecture that had reached its pinnacle during the reign of the Malla kings. The Krishna Temple, built entirely of stone, is said to be the first specimen of Shikhara-style architecture in Nepal.
Patan Museum: Situated in the square, the museum is a big attraction for visitors. The square is full of ancient palaces, temples, and shrines, noted for their exquisite carvings. This is the first public museum in Nepal that has been created as an autonomous institution of this type.
This afternoon, enjoy an interactive presentation and Q&A session with a local mountaineer who has summitted Everest. Sharing their experience, learn about the mountain’s famous Sherpas and their daring deeds as well as more about the might mountain and why so many climbers flock to its daunting slopes every year.
Afterwards, enjoy an afternoon tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Like its counterpart in Patan, Kathmandu Durbar Square, is located in the heart of the city, and is a significant historical landmark surrounded by magnificent architectural marvels, unique temples, and an ancient palace. There are three main temple complexes in the square. The entrance to the Old Royal Palace is located on the square’s north side. The Makhan street is a pedestrian street that passes through the northeast part of the city. The Kastamandap, Ashok Binayak, Kumari Bahal, Trilokya Mohan, and the Hanuman Dhoka – the old Royal palace is among the prominent displays in the northern section of the square.
28 April 2025 | Meghauli Serai
This morning after breakfast, you will be escorted to the domestic airport your 20-minute flight to Bharatpur, Chitwan.
Upon arrival you will be met by a Meghauli Serai representative and transferred to Meghauli Serai (an approximate 1 hour and 15-minute drive).
Enjoy the next three nights at Meghauli Serai, swimming in the lodge pool and revelling in breathtaking river views from the deck. The lodge’s chef specialise in traditional Newari and Tharu cuisine, making for an immersive foodie experience. The lodge also organises daily safaris, walking safaris and canoeing excursions.
Meghauli Serai: Meghauli Serai is set on the banks of the Rapti River, offering excellent sightings of rhino, gharial (fish eating crocodile), and birds from the lodge. Viewing decks overlooking the river and park are made for the guests to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The spectacular sunset view is something you do not want to miss.
This afternoon, you will go on your first safari adventure.
29 and 30 April 2025 | Meghauli Serai
Today the choice is yours; choose from an array of wildlife experiences and your naturalist guide will organise your safari outings accordingly:
01 May 2025 | Dwarika’s Hotel
After breakfast, you are escorted to Bharatpur airport for your flight to Kathmandu.
Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to check in at your Hotel Dwarika’s where you will be staying the night.
This afternoon, you will have the incredible experience to interact with the only non-Tibetan Rinpoche, Vidyadhara Acharya Mahayogi Sridhar Rana Rinpoche.
Vidyadhara Acharya Mahayogi Sridhar Rana Rinpoche began exploring Hindu Tantra under the guidance of his granduncle, Dhana Shumsher Junga Bahadur Rana. However, after failing to find spiritual fulfilment after nine years of intense practice, he began to practise under the famous Vedantic master, Khaptad Baba. However, here too he failed to find the answers to his questions, and this led him to seek them in the Buddhadharma.
02 May 2025 | Postcard Dewa
Today, wave a fond farewell to Nepal as you make your way to the international airport for your onward flight to Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport.
The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalaya, offering dazzling scenic views of some of the world’s highest glacial peaks. As you enter the Paro Valley, you will pass forested hills with the silvery Paro Chu River glistening below, the Paro Dzong and the Ta Dzong on a hill above the town.
As you exit from the arrival hall of Paro airport, you will be met by your guide and chauffeured to your hotel in Thimphu (an approximate one-hour drive).
En route stop to visit the Tamchog Lhakhang.
Tamchog Lhakhang: The Lhanhang was originally built by Thangtong Gyalpo, a pioneering engineer who introduced the construction of suspension bridges to Bhutan and Tibet. It is believed that more than 58 bridges were built across the country however only two have survived. One of these bridges still stands strong at the base of the Tamchog Lhakhang. Marvel at the iron bridge reconstructed using original chain links.
From here you will continue onto Thimphu to check into your hotel, Postcard Dewa and enjoy a delicious lunch.
Thimphu: As the capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, Thimphu is a stronghold of traditional Bhutanese art, architecture, and culture. Situated at 2,320 m (7,656 ft) above sea level, it is home to over 100,000 inhabitants, including the Royal family. A crucible for urbanisation – this is where you will see modern-day Bhutan infused with more traditional aspects of living. Fun fact, Thimphu is the only national capital city in the world to not have any traffic lights.
Later that afternoon, visit the National Memorial Chorten, followed by the National Institute for Zorig Chusum and onwards to the Buddha Dordenma.
National Memorial Chorten: This well-known landmark was built in 1974 in the memory of the third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is popularly regarded as the Father of Modern Bhutan. This four-storey structure was built to be seen as the most visible religious landmark in the kingdom of Bhutan. It serves as an important place of worship for Thimphu residents, as well as devotees from other parts of the country. Within are carvings of mandalas, statues, and religious teachings.
National Institute for Zorig Chusum: This institute offers courses on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan, all ranging between four to six intensive years of training. Zorig Chusum plays an important role in the ‘Preservation and Promotion of our Cultural heritage’, which is one of the four main pillars of the Gross National Happiness philosophy which Bhutan is known globally for. Students learn art forms such as painting, stitching, and carving; it is fascinating to see the skill and discipline imbibed in them as well as the spectacular art created.
Buddha Dordenma: This gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue is filled with over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues, each like the Buddha Dordenma itself, made of bronze and gilded in gold. At a height of 51.5 m (169 ft), it is one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world. The statue fulfils an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th century CE, discovered by Terton Pema Lingpa, the Religious Treasure Discoverer of the time. It is said to bring peace and happiness to the entire world.
Yoga time: Return to your hotel in time to freshen up for your six-course welcome dinner. During this time, you will meet your local Bhutanese yoga instructors, Yangchen Lhamo and Leki Wangdi, who will guide you through your yoga and meditation sessions on your second and last day in Bhutan.
You will be staying at Postcard Dewa for the next two nights.
More about your yoga instructors: Yangchen Lhamo, more famously known as Yoga Yangchen, is an experienced yoga teacher from Bhutan. She received her yoga teacher training (200-hours YTTC and 300-hours YTTC) in the birthplace of yoga, Rishikesh, India. Yangchen was the first Bhutanese yoga teacher to become a member of the Yoga Alliance. Over the years she has taught over 600 students, both Bhutanese and foreign, with a total of more than 2,000 hours of teaching. Her passion in life is creating and improving the wellbeing of all sentient beings, animals, and people alike. Yoga Yangchen’s main social cause is Doghouse Bhutan, a not-for-profit building doghouse for the many free-roaming dogs in Bhutan. Her partner, Leki Wangdi, also completed his yoga training in India. Leki mainly teaches hatha yoga, ashtanga yoga, vinyasa yoga, pranayama, meditation yoga nidra and NSDR (non-sleep-deep-rest).
03 May 2025 | Postcard Dewa
After an early morning breakfast, you will drive to the starting point of your hike to Wangditse Monastery. This is an easy one-and-a-half-hour hike through oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. The trail offers views of the Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma and Thimphu Valley.
Upon reaching the monastery grounds, Yangchen will begin a one-hour hatha yoga session, focusing on the breath, controlled movements and stretching. This will then be followed by pranayama to wind down and ease you into your activity-filled day.
Afterwards, head back to your hotel to freshen up and enjoy lunch at a lovely private orchard before visiting the Royal Takin Preserve in Motithang.
Royal Takin Preserve: Bhutan’s national animal is the takin. This large, shaggy, and hoofed mammal has a bit of mythology tied to it. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley or ‘the Divine Madman’.
This species of takin is found only in Bhutan and western Arunachal Pradesh. The Royal Takin Preserve is located 10 minutes from Thimphu. Originally a zoo, the fourth king decided to disband it since keeping animals in cages did not align with Bhutan’s environmental and religious beliefs. The animals were released into the wild, however the takin was too tame to survive, and wandered around the streets of Thimphu. This led to the making of the Royal Takin Preserve. Now the animals are kept in a large enclosure where visitors can safely observe them.
From here, enjoy exploring the local farmers’ market. Drawing in most of Thimphu’s warm and friendly residents, marketplace teems with both local and imported goods over a range of industry and commerce. The experience is more than the items to be bought, but rather about taking the chance to socialise with colourfully dressed local people of Bhutan, all full of Bhutanese fun, fare, and flare. The upper floor of the market boasts a variety of fresh organic vegetables, ready to be transformed into delicious traditional and contemporary Bhutanese dishes, while the lower floor of the market promises a plethora of produce imported from India.
Stop to watch a game of archery at the Changlimithang stadium if there is any underway before returning to the hotel.
This evening head down to the 16th century monastery located just below the hotel where you will participate in a heating short pranayama session. This will be followed by yoga nidra to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. End the session with lighting of butter lamps.
Enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure with dinner at the hotel.
04 May 2025 | Punakha River Lodge
Begin your day early with a 45-minute yoga sun salutation (surya namaskar) session outside.
After breakfast, you will be chauffeured to Punakha Valley (an approximate two-hour drive).
The road climbs steeply through a scenic forest of pine and cedar trees, to Dochu La. An incredible Bhutanese mountain pass sitting at 3,140 m (10,301 ft) above sea level, it presents exceptional views of the snow-capped eastern Himalaya range in the winter along its path, linking the city of Thimphu and Punakha.
Head on over to the Druk Wangyal Chortens, where 108 memorial stupas and chortens stand in honour, built as atonement for the loss of Bhutanese life caused by insurgents.
Well before reaching Punakha, stop en route and hike to Chimi Lhakhang.
Chimi Lhakhang: Perched on a hill in the centre of the valley, Chimi Lhakhang is a temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley. Also known as the ‘Divine Madman’, he used humour, song, and dramatic reenactment to disperse his teachings back in the 15th century. Chimi Lhakhang is widely known as the temple of fertility; local people come here to receive blessings from the lama. They pray and ask to be blessed with a child. The Bhutanese also bring their newborns to be named here. The Lhakhang is about a 30-minute walk through fields from the main road.
Afterwards, you will be driven to the &Beyond Punakha River Lodge to check-in and enjoy a delicious lunch. You will be staying at Punakha River Lodge for the next two nights.
Later in the afternoon, drive to visit the Punakha Dzong.
Punakha Dzong: Constructed in 1637, this was the second Dzong to be built in Bhutan, and for many years served as its seat of government. Widely referred to as the most beautiful Dzong in the country, the towering white walls form a lovely contrast to the surrounding greens and blues. It is the winter residence of the central monastic body and holds a very important relic over which many wars were fought with the Tibetans. All of Bhutan’s kings are crowned here before they can take their throne in Thimphu.
Enjoy the rest for your day at leisure. This evening is the ideal time to book and indulge in a complimentary wellness spa treatment at the lodge.
05 May 2025 | Punakha River Lodge
Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten: This three storey Lhakhang is a recent addition to Bhutan’s string of architecturally splendid buildings. Built by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon, it houses representations of the tantric form of Buddhist deities that subjugate enemies and ward off harmful influences on the people of Bhutan. Built for the protection of the country and the present king, Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten also offers impressive views of the valley below.
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery: Perched on a ridge amongst the pine trees gleams the magnificent structure of the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang. This temple houses a 14 ft (4.2 m) bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara, made by local Bhutanese artisans. Other statutes include those of The Buddha, Guru Rinpoche, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, Tsela Namsum, and the 21 Taras. The temple complex also houses a permanent school of higher learning and a meditation centre for nuns where, apart from religious training, provides vocational training such as tailoring, embroidery, statue making and thangka painting.
06 May 2025 | COMO Uma
Paro: A historic town, situated at 2,250 m (7,382 ft) with many sacred sites and historical buildings scattered through the area, Paro is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, the National Museum and the country’s only airport. Mt Jhomolhari (7,326 m / 24,035 ft) reigns in its white glory at the northern end of the valley. Its roaring glacial water plunges through deep gorges to form the Paro Chu River. Paro is one of the most fertile valleys in Bhutan, producing a bulk of the locally famous red rice from its terraced fields.
Ta Dzong: A watch tower originally built to defend Rinpung Dzong during the inter-valley wars of the 17th century, since 1967, the Ta Dzong has served as the National Museum of the country. It holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangka paintings, natural history, and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. The building’s circular shape comes from its defensive origin.
07 May 2025 | COMO Uma
Tiger’s Nest: Built on a sheer cliff face at a height of 2,950 m (9,678 ft), the four-hour trek offers spectacular views. The trail climbs through a beautiful pine forest, many of the trees decorated with Spanish moss and an occasional grove of fluttering prayer flags. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, founder of Buddhism in Bhutan flew from eastern Bhutan on a tigress, bringing Buddhist teachings and meditation here to this cliff. This is one of the most honoured and sacred of all Buddhist sights around the world. This hike takes about five hours with a 900 m (2,952 ft) approximate gain in altitude.
8 May 2025
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