Nepal Bhutan Tour with Wildlife Safari -12 days

Trek Difficulty

The Nepal Bhutan tour is of a moderate level and can be undertaken by an average-fitted person. The Nepal part is dedicated to sightseeing in the city of Kathmandu and relaxed walks in the streets of the city, which are, in general, flat with a few hills and valleys. The majority of the visits in Bhutan are to temples and other cultural sites that do not pose difficulties to walk to, making the general speed easy and relaxed.

The revised 12 day Nepal Bhutan tour also includes a drive to Chitwan and wildlife activities, which depend on the confirmed package and park regulations.

The primary physical difficulty is the hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), which is optional. It is not a technical hike but entails slow uphill hiking on the steps of the stones and rocky paths. The round trip may take a number of hours, and it has a higher altitude, hence it may seem exhausting. Nevertheless, common rest and slow speed, as well as the possibility to bring trekking poles, make it manageable for a large number of travellers.

You can hike with families, children, and active seniors, and get through it easily. There is no technical equipment or mountaineering skills required. It will also extend the comfort with regular walking and light jogging before the trip.

The traveller must be assured of the security of walking long distances over rough terrain and adhere to safety advice offered by the guide, and in particular within the areas that are open. This Nepal Bhutantour is attainable with simple preparation and a positive attitude, and this tour has been fulfilling forthe majority of the tourists.

Weather and Best season

The climatic environment in Nepal and Bhutan is Himalayan and has its own pattern of seasons, and this trek can be carried out throughout the year with proper planning. The most favourable season to have a Nepal Bhutan tour is the spring season (March-May) and the autumn season (September-November).

These seasons are characterised by pleasant weather, free mountain views, and pleasant conditions to sightsee and flying. Blooming rhododendrons and landscape mark the beginning of spring, and crisp air, stable weather and excellent visibility mark the fall. Kathmandu and Thimphu have daytime temperatures of between 10 and 25 °C and lower temperatures in the evenings in the high places. Chitwan is generally warmer than Kathmandu and Bhutan, particularly during summer, when temperatures and humidity can be high.

Winter (December-February) is dry, but colder, particularly at night and in mountain passes, where the temperatures can be below 0 C.

Due to clouds or fog, flight delays sometimes can occur in summer and monsoon months (June-August) when it rains, humidity is high, and the delay can be long. During the period, trails may get slippery. The Himalayan weather is also unpredictable, and it is always best to carry warm clothes.

Food & Drink during Nepal Bhutan tour

The food in the Nepal Bhutan tour is multicultural, soothing, and full of local taste. In Nepal, the food typically consists of dal bhat (rice and lentils), curries (either vegetable or meat), momos (dumplings), and local snacks.

Meal arrangements depend on the confirmed package, so check which breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included, particularly during the Chitwan stay.

Kathmandu has restaurants that offer Tibetan and international dishes, and therefore, the meals are flexible and diverse. Bhutanese cuisine is more substantial and tends to be spicier, with ema datshi (chillies cooked in cheese) and red rice being the special menu items.

Hotels in Bhutan may serve local and international dishes, depending on the property and meal arrangements included in the package. There is a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, spice level can be changed on demand.

You should drink bottled water, tea and juices since tap water may not be clean enough to drink. Local beverages are optional, such as butter tea or ara. It is better to inform your guide about allergies or dietary requirements ahead of time to make arrangements.

Altitude Sickness

The elevation is fairly gentle, and the altitude challenge is not common among most of the visitors on this Nepal Bhutan tour. Paro is approximately 2,250 meters high; Kathmandu is approximately 1,400 meters high, and the highest point is approximately 3,120 meters high at Taktsang (Tiger Nest) Monastery. All these heights are usually manageable, particularly the gradual progress that is incorporated in the itinerary.

You might have some mild symptoms beyond the height of 2,500 meters, including headaches, slight fatigue, or breathlessness. They can be generally controlled by walking slowly, consuming adequate fluid and taking breaks.

It is highly recommended that youavoid alcohol during the initial days at elevated altitudes. In case you are not feeling well, report to your guide to make the necessary changes.

Paro and Thimphu have hospitals and clinics that are prepared to address altitude issues. Any traveller with heart, lung or past altitude concerns should contact a physician before travel. Altitude sometimes stands in the way of having fun on the tour, given some sensible precautions.

Preparation and Fitness

The Nepal Bhutan tour is recommended to travellers who are at a basic level of fitness and have an adventurous mind. Most of the activities are quite mild; however, the walk to Tiger’s Nest takes several hours of walking steadily on rocky slopes.

It will be much more comfortable to get ready before the Nepal Bhutan with frequent brisk walks, climb up stairs, ride a bicycle, or swim. It is strongly suggested to strengthen and build up the legs a few weeks before departure.

Good hiking shoes that are broken in and have good grips are necessary. Prepare a small daypack with water, sunscreen, a hat, and layered clothing since mountain weather is prone to change. Trekking poles may also prove useful, particularly during the downward steps. Casual wear will be suitable in cities; however, modest wear will be needed in temples.

No hiking experience is required, and the majority of healthy people can cope with the tour. Consult us about any medical issues pre-emptively. It is an easy trek to go to with the right equipment, a good mindset, and a little preparation.

Visa and Permits for Nepal Bhutan tour

Nepal and Bhutan have separate visa requirements, both of which are easily acquired with sufficient preparation.

Nepal Bhutan Tour

In Nepal, a tourist visa can be obtained by most travelers at Kathmandu International Airport. A 15-day multiple-entry visa costs USD 30, and a 30-day visa costs USD 50; both must be paid in cash (USD preferred). Carry passport-sized photographs, and get a passport that is at least six months old with blank pages.

Bhutan does not permit individual travel; therefore, visas must be pre-booked through a tour operator. Your documents are sent to the Bhutanese authorities, and once permission is granted, you receive a visa clearance letter.

My Everest Trip can advise you on the required visa arrangements and documents for your trip. Present your visa clearance documents on arrival in Paro as required. Confirm with My Everest Trip whether Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee and visa processing charges are included in the revised 12 day package. Keep copies of your passport, visa approval, and other required travel documents throughout the trip.

Health & Safety

Nepal and Bhutan are secure tourist spots for those with normal health and safety concerns. Keep routine vaccinations like the MMR, tetanus, polio, Hepatitis A vaccinations, and Typhoid ones are usually up-to-date.

In both nations, do not drink straight from the tap, but drink bottled or purified water.

The large cities such as Kathmandu and Thimphu have well-developed healthcare facilities, and minor problems can be treated in the pharmacies. Pack essential medicines, hand sanitizer and insect repellent.

The risk of mosquito-borne diseases is low in elevated levels. Road travel is in the form of winding mountain roads, which are done with experienced drivers and well-maintained vehicles. Adhere to the guide directions on ascents and sightseeing. Medical coverage and emergency services are highly recommended to be covered by travel insurance.

Transportation

The 12 day Nepal Bhutan Tour includes road travel, sightseeing transfers, and flights according to the confirmed itinerary. In Nepal, the journey includes transportation from Kathmandu to Chitwan and back to Kathmandu.

On Day 06, you will fly from Kathmandu to Paro, Bhutan, and on Day 11, you will fly from Paro back to Kathmandu. In Bhutan, road transfers connect Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha according to the itinerary.

The type of vehicle, flight arrangements, and services included in the package should be confirmed with My Everest Trip before booking. Weather, road conditions, and flight schedules may affect travel times.

Travel Insurance

This Nepal Bhutan tour requires travel insurance, which should be obtainedon your own. Your policy must include medical treatment, emergency evacuation, including helicopter rescue at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters, cancellation of trips, and disappearance or theft of property.

Altitude-related illness and international travel coverage are needed, and COVID-related coverage might be necessary based on the existing regulations.

There is a shortage of medical centres in the remote parts of Bhutan, and evacuation insurance is therefore very crucial. We advise that you should buy insurance once you have made your booking, so that you are secure by the time you leave.

Always have a copy of your policy, both digital and printed, and contact numbers of emergencies. The tour price does not include insurance, but it gives important peace of mind during the trip.

Your extra expenses during the Nepal Bhutan tour

Although the Nepal Bhutan Tour takes care of the majority of big expenditures, tourists would need to spend more money on personal expenses. The meals in Kathmandu, snacks on the road, bottled water, soft drinks and alcoholic drinks are charged individually.

Additional activities, like a horse ride halfway to the Tiger nest, the traditional hot stone baths, cultural entertainment or drinks, will be extra expenses. The shopping part is also a regular attraction, particularly of handicraft, pashmina shawls, thangka paintings, and local souvenirs, which differ in price significantly.

Tips for guides and drivers, which tend to be USD 5-10 a day per person and restaurant tips of 10-15% as a token of good service is also your personal expenses. Hotels and larger shops accept credit cards, whereas small vendors accept cash. In Nepal, local SIM cards are optional and cheap, whereas data SIMs are expensive in Bhutan.

Your additional spending will depend on meals not included in the package, drinks, tips, shopping, and optional activities. Confirm which expenses are covered before departure and carry some local currency for personal purchases.

Language & Communication

A Nepal Bhutan tour is usually not very demanding when it comes to language and communication. Nepal is a Nepali-speaking country, whereas Bhutan is a Dzongkha-speaking country, but English is an important language spoken in both countries, particularly in hotels, restaurants and among the guides and tour staff.

The tourists can easily use English in their day-to-day communication. Nepal Locals are very welcoming, and it helps to learn the basic phrases in Nepal, like Namaste or in Bhutan, like Tashi Delek or Kadrinchey (thank you).

Major cities such as Kathmandu, Paro, and Thimphu have good internet connectivity; however, in the rural or mountainous regions, the internet connectivity becomes slow. There are local SIM cards, which are cheap and 3G/4G coverage in towns.

Power supply in both countries is 220 V. It is advisable to have a universal plug adapter and a power bank with one, since there is no guarantee that the hotel rooms will have USB outlets.

Mobile Network, Internet & Charging Facilities

Mobile coverage is safe in Nepal, but in Bhutan, it is becoming better, but is still limited in some of the remote valleys. Nepal has low-cost SIM cards available at the airport or at the city shops, which include NTC or Ncell. SIM cards of Bhutan Telecom or TashiCell can only be purchased in Thimphu and Paro in Bhutan and must be registered with a passport.

Both countries have 3G/4G in the towns, but the speeds can slow down in the rural areas. Wi-Fi is available in most of the hotels, but the connection might be slow. The power bank can be carried on hikes.

Mobile coverage and internet access may be limited around Chitwan National Park, so download important travel documents and maps before visiting.

Don’ts on this trip

When travelling in Nepal and Bhutan, one has to respect local customs. In Nepal, one should take off shoes and hats prior to entering a temple and wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees.

Do not touch the heads of people, do not point at your feet, and do not step over religious objects. In Hindu places like the Pashupatinath, photography is prohibited, and the worshipers are to be kept at a decent distance at all times.

The conduct in the dzongs and monasteries is supposed to be silent and with reverence in Bhutan. Circumnavigate stupas and prayer wheels clockwise, talk in low tones, and obey your guide.

Give and take with your right hand, and do not step over thresholds and sacred signs or door frames. Affectionate gestures, loudness and use of fingers are not encouraged.

Always seek permission before taking pictures of people, monks and religious areas and never flash in temples.

Respect for the environment is also important. Be on established paths, never litter, and do not damage or kill wildlife or plants. There is a strict enforcement of laws, particularly in terms of drugs and the general behaviour of people. Respect for religious traditions and the royal family of Bhutan should guarantee a good and culturally sensitive experience in the country of travel.

Photography and Drone Rules for the Nepal Bhutan Tour

In Nepal and Bhutan, photography is accepted in the majority of attractions, but one must be very culturally sensitive. Visitors can take pictures of temples and stupas in Nepal, but not within inner sanctums, like the Pashupatinath Temple.

In Bhutan, photography is only allowed inthe exterior of the dzongs and monasteries, but not in the interior, monk quarters, and personal rituals. Never take a snapshot without noticing signs that say no photography, and never take a snapshot without asking permission before capturing a photograph of the local individuals. Flash photography should be avoided around prayer wheels, mirrors or holy objects.

The application of drones is very limited. In Bhutan, drones are prohibited unless a tourist has special government permission, which is hardly given to tourists. Unofficial drone flights carry penalties of huge fines.

Drone technology is also regulated in Nepal, and it must not be used without any official permit from the Civil Aviation Authority of the country.

Early mornings provide the best photography of places that are considered iconic, such as the Tiger Nests. Photography can be allowed during festivals.

Currency & Money

The currency of Nepal is Nepalese Rupee (NPR), and that of Bhutan is Ngultrum (BTN). Bhutan accepts Indian Rupees except the 2000 notes. At the big hotels, restaurants, and stores in Kathmandu and the major towns of Bhutan, credit cards are accepted; however, small purchases, cabs, and local markets only accept cash. You will find enough ATMs in both Nepal and Bhutan.

You must exchange the money at banks or in approved exchange counters and never at street exchangers. In Nepal, visa fees are paid in cash, and the Bhutan government fees, such as the sustainable development fee, are included as part of the tour package.

It is normal to tip in both Nepal and Bhutan. Carry enough small bills so that you can use them when it’s necessary.

Accommodation

In this Nepal Bhutan Tour, accommodation is chosen according to its comfort, cleanliness and local character. In Kathmandu, you will be staying in 3-star or above hotels, which are rated well and most of the time in the central places near the restaurants and shopping centres. The rooms are equipped with a private bathroom, hot water, Wi-Fi, daily breakfast and twin or double beds.

Bhutan is not luxurious with accommodation, but more traditional and in the form of lodges. Hotels are neat and comfortable with western-type toilets, hot water supply and traditional Bhutanese decor, wooden interior and handcrafted details.

During the Chitwan stay, accommodation will be arranged at a hotel or jungle lodge, depending on the confirmed package. Check the property type, room facilities, meals, and included activities with My Everest Trip before booking.

Standard power is 220 V, and the backups run on generators. Washing services are normally provided at anextracharge and on availability. Upgrades and single rooms can be requested in advance.

Group Size & Tour Style

This tour is offered in small groups with an average of 4-12 visitors, and this makes it personal and relaxing. We, MY Everest Trip, have a professional English-speaking guide who is with the group the whole time, dealing with logistics and offering cultural insight.

Transportation is via private vehicle just for your group, which stops to sightsee, take photos and have a rest. Everything is done by the fully guided format, which makes the group environment friendly, with the flexibility to change plans when necessary.

Local Culture and Etiquette

Spirituality, respect and warm hospitality are deep-rooted cultures in Nepal and Bhutan. Politeness and cultural sensitivity are greatly valued in the two nations. Namaste in Nepal or Kuzuzangpo / Tashi Delek in Bhutan, a simple greeting immediately works magic and goodwill is established.

The Nepalese culture is a combination of Hindu and Buddhist ideals, whereas the society of Bhutan is heavily Buddhist and respects the royalty. Dressing modestly is important, particularly when walking in temples, monasteries and dzongs, covering shoulders and covering knees at all times.

Shake hands, receive anything with your right hand, or use both hands. Do not touch the head of anybody, or place altars or sacred things at your feet.

The monks in Bhutan are accustomed to walking on the left, hence a visitor must be on the right. During tours of stupas or prayer places, one must walk clockwise and spin clockwise prayer wheels without omitting a single one. Photography is not allowed in religious places.

When you are welcomed in a local house or served tea or food or blessed sweets, it is respectful and thankful to accept politely. During meals, one should wait before others get to eat.

Publicly, do not criticise religion, royalty or government, particularly in Bhutan. Your guide will also describe the local norms and guide you through the etiquette to ensure that you become a respectful and valued participant in the life of the locals.

Packing List

The smart way to pack is to have a comfortable Nepal Bhutan tour. Carry light and breathable garments that are easy to wear. A pair of strong walking shoes or light hiking boots is necessary when walking around the city, visiting the temples, and making short hikes.

Full-length pants and long-sleeve shirts are favoured to guard against the sun, bugs and chilly nights. A warm fleece or down jacket would be a good option in the early mornings and evenings, especially in Bhutan.

Speedy drying dresses are perfect because they can take one to two days to dry your laundry. Given the unpredictable weather in the mountains, it will be necessary to wear a waterproof jacket or poncho. For Chitwan, pack lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes for wildlife activities.

In higher altitudes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are useful in protecting against intense sun. Bring warm socks, underclothing, sleepwear and at least one set of conservative clothing to religious places.

You will have a small daypack to carry daily sightseeing and a reusable water bottle. Small personal hygiene items, medicine, and a small first-aid kit (bandages, blister care, painkillers, and personal prescriptions) are highly suggested, as some of them might not be easily located.

Electronics must have a camera, spare batteries or memory cards, a smartphone with offline maps and a universal power adaptor.

Carry a carry-on bag: it is just one bag, which you will be carrying yourself. Carry duplicates of travel documents, prescriptions, and a few local currencies in a money pouch or in a concealed pocket.

Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Bhutan charges most international adult visitors a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$100 per person per night. Applicable concessions and exemptions depend on the visitor’s eligibility. Confirm the fee for your travel dates and whether it is included in the Nepal Bhutan Tour package price.

The SDF is a compulsory government tax intended to help in the development of the infrastructure, healthcare, education, environmental conservation, and cultural protection of Bhutan.

By keeping visitors to a minimum, Bhutan can preserve its sceneries, monasteries and traditional lifestyle and at the same time guarantee a premium experience to tourists. The SDF is a system that has substituted the previous system of royalty on tourism and applies to all foreigners except the citizens of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives.

Before booking, confirm with My Everest Trip which Bhutan government charges are included in the package, including the Sustainable Development Fee and visa processing fee. Any charges not included should be clearly listed in the tour exclusions.

Responsible Travel

In both Nepal and Bhutan, responsible travel is highly appreciated, and preservation of the culture and nature is a common agenda. Using the philosophy of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan anticipates its visitors to be environmentally conscious travellers.

Refrain from using single-use plastics by bringing a refillable water bottle with you, and a small bag to store any trash you produce. Plastic bags are prohibited in Bhutan, and smoking on the streets is forbidden; adhere to local laws.

The trekking areas in Nepal have been under environmental pressure, and as such, responsible behaviour is a must. Never cut trees, stay on marked trails, and clean up your rubbish. Reuse recycling containers wherever possible and dispose of batteries and plastic waste materials. In mountain lodges, use less water and power, since there is no abundance of it.

Use environmentally friendly toiletries and avoid the pollution of rivers and streams. By buying local handicrafts or services, one will be supporting the local communities to maintain their livelihoods and promote cultural preservation.

Bhutan has stringent laws to preserve forests, wildlife- never hunt, disturb animals or set up fires outside the designated places. Through responsible travel, you are also contributing towards the protection of the natural beauty, culture and delicate ecosystems of both nations for the descendants.