This combination of Himalayan landscapes is infused with complementary cultures, beautiful vistas, and a revitalizing trek among the Annapurna mountains.

This epic journey combines the highlights of the Dragon Kingdom, Bhutan, with a five-day trek through the foothills of the Annapurna Mountains of Nepal. While in Bhutan, we explore the monasteries and fortresses of this ancient kingdom, and experience the unique Bhutanese culture that few outsiders are privileged to encounter. In Nepal, epic mountain scenery, terraced hillsides and beautiful forest, and friendly villagers greet us on our cultural trek.

Days 1-2: Fly to Paro, Bhutan and explore the many interesting sites in the capitol city of Thimphu. Reportedly the only Asian capitol without a stoplight.

Days 3-4: A spectacular drive brings us to the Punakha Valley viewing 20,000' Himalayan peaks along the way. We hike though small countryside villages and meet the welcoming locals.

Days 5-6: The Paro Valley is home to Tiger's Nest Monastery and no trip to Bhutan would be complete without the hike to this cliff side marvel.

Day 7: Fly to Pokhara, Nepal via Kathmandu, and the start our trekking adventure.

Days 8-12: Trek through epic scenery amid the highest mountains in the world on our lodge supported Annapurna trek.

Day 13: An optional scenic flight past Mount Everst is the perfect way finish our Himalayan adventure before to departure from Kathmandu.

Our lodge supported trek along the Annapurna route in Nepal provides the most comfortable way to explore this region. Each night we retire to the charming rustic lodges (no camping here), that are at a standard far better than anything else available in the area. The lodges offer private rooms with private baths, are environmentally friendly, and are carefully located for their scenic views. All rooms have en suite bathrooms with running hot water. The lodges are conveniently placed within a reasonable days walk from each other making this itinerary a good choice for a wide range of people. We have designed a fascinating trek based around these lodges where, not only do you get the superb mountain views of the high Himalayan peaks, but also terraced farmland along the trail. There is an option to extend your trip after the trek by visiting Chitwan National Park, home of the Bengal tiger.

THE BOUNDLESS JOURNEYS ADVANTAGE

• A passion for travel. Simply put, we love to travel, and that is woven into every one of our journeys.
• Unique, award-winning itineraries. Our flexible, hand-crafted journeys have received accolades from the world’s most revered travel publications.
• Insider connections. There is simply no substitute for traveling with a knowledgeable insider.
• Small groups. We tread softly, and our average group size is just 6-8 guests.
• Flexibility to suit your travel style. We offer both small-group departures and Private Collection trips.
• Customer service that goes the extra mile. There is no request that is too big – or too small.
• Sustainability. We are committed to traveling responsibly.

Most Convenient Airports: For Arrival: Bangkok (Airport code BKK), For Departure: Kathmandu (Airport code KTM)

Meeting Place and Time:
Your Boundless Journeys guide will meet you at the Paro, Bhutan airport upon the arrival of your flight from Bangkok. Please be sure to be at the Druk Air (national airline of Bhutan) check-in counter at the Bangkok International Airport two hours before your scheduled flight on Day 1 of our trip. The airline tickets for your flight from Bangkok to Bhutan will be purchased for you in advance by Boundless Journeys. 

Departure Place and Time:
Kathmandu airport on the final morning, after breakfast.

What to Expect

Trip Rating
Boundless Journeys’ trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Himalayan Kingdoms is rated 3, moderate, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). The walks and hikes for the first part of this trip are easy to moderate day hikes, generally are from 2-5 hours in length with minimal vehicle support. During the Nepal trekking portion of the trip (days 8-12), hikes are from 3-4 hours in length with no vehicle support. Elevation gains and losses vary from 500-1,700 feet in one day. During the trek we do have one scheduled “rest” day where any hiking will be optional. A few days involve some long drives on narrow, winding roads.

Preparing for this Trip
It is very important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip. The more well prepared you are for the activities on this trip, the more you will enjoy yourself! Please engage in moderate aerobic activities (hiking, jogging, or cycling) for at least 30-45 minutes several times a week for 4-6 weeks before the trip. If you live in a flat area, try to incorporate some stairs into your workout, or use a treadmill with varying incline capability. Consult your doctor before undertaking any new fitness program.

Our Trek in Nepal
Our trekking route is moderate and we follow a leisurely pace. The route in the foothills of the Annapurnas is carefully planned to take the best advantage of amazing mountain scenery and charming mountain lodges. Each morning after breakfast we set out at about 8:30 a.m., stopping mid-morning for tea, and then continuing on until our midday stop for lunch. The trails are generally in good condition and many are made from inlaid stones, including steep steps at times. Time spent on the trail will average 3-4 hours per day, with plenty of time to stop along the way. Porters will carry our luggage, and all you need to carry is a daypack with extra layers, your camera, water, and lunch.

The Altitude
Bhutan
Our trip begins in Thimphu, which is situated at 7,500 feet, in the foothills of the Himalayas. After our first two nights here we move to the Punakha Valley which offers a relatively low elevation of approximately 4,300 feet. Our third hotel, in Paro is at approximately 7,300 feet. Our walks and hikes in Bhutan will take place at elevations from 4,300 feet to approximately 9,000 feet. There is time to move at a comfortable pace, allowing ourselves to adjust to the mountain air. Keeping well hydrated, avoiding excessive alcohol, eating frequent, light meals, and getting plenty of rest will help with any effects of altitude that you may feel.

Nepal
In spite of being among the highest peaks in the world, we will not be trekking at a high elevation, and the elevations you will experience on this trip are not extreme. Kathmandu is at 4,500 feet, Pokhara about 3,080 feet, and during the trek we will range from 3,000 to 5,500 feet. Keeping well hydrated, avoiding excessive alcohol, eating frequent, light meals, and getting plenty of rest will help with any effects of altitude that you may feel.

Accommodations
This tour includes a variety of accommodations. They range from 5-star hotels to privately run trekking lodges. Accommodations in Bhutan are somewhat rustic but charming, and we’ve chosen some of the country’s most comfortable and beautifully situated hotels for this journey. All with private baths. In Kathmandu and Pokhara we stay in deluxe hotels with TVs, phones, hair dryers, and pleasant public areas. During the trekking portion of our trip we are staying in mountain lodges. These are the very best accommodations on an Annapurna trek. The lodges are simple and rustic but fit well with the environment. They have private bathrooms, two twin beds in each room, and electricity.

Weather
Temperatures in Bhutan and Nepal tend to be quite cool in the mornings and evenings, but heat-up at midday due to the strong direct sunlight at high altitudes. These mountainous areas have pronounced rainy and dry seasons. The dry season lasts from October through May. Days tend to be warm with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly. Any time of year, dressing in layers is a good strategy, so that you can shed or add layers as the day heats and cools.

The following are average temperatures in Thimphu, Bhutan (highest elevation):

                      high    low

March:             63°F    40°F
April:               67°F     41°F
October:          69°F    44°F
November:       64°F    41°F

The following are average temperatures in Pokhara, Nepal and you should expect them to drop by 5°-20° as you ascend into the mountains:

                      high    low

March:             78°F   53°F
April:                86°F   59°F
October:           78°F   62°F
November:        69°F   49°F

When to Go
Bhutan and Nepal are generally delightful for hiking in the spring and fall. The driest weather and clearest skies are typically in October and November. Beautiful flowers are in bloom, and you will encounter fewer travelers in the months of March and April.

When to Reserve
It is important to reserve your trip early, as the Bhutanese national airline has a new ticketing policy and will only accept reservations with the full payment of the ticket. Therefore we are unable to hold group seats in advance of reservations. At this time, seats are available for all of our departures, but they can only be confirmed upon receipt of your deposit, as well as the payment of $770 for these flights. Please contact our office with any questions regarding these important new policies.

Traveler’s Responsibility
Trip participants have certain responsibilities to both Boundless Journeys and your fellow travelers. This includes understanding the conditions described in the trip itinerary and making sure it is appropriate for your interests and abilities, based on a review of the trip ratings, consultation with Boundless Journeys’ staff, and perhaps your doctor. In addition, trip participants are responsible for preparing for a trip by undertaking the proper fitness training. At the guide’s discretion, a participant may be asked to leave the trip if the guide feels that the person’s further participation may be detrimental to the individual or to other trip participants. If you have any questions about the difficulty level of the trip you have chosen, please contact Boundless Journeys to speak with one of our Destination Managers.

Small group travel affords us the opportunity to seek out the most remote and exotic destinations on the planet. Often we are exploring these locales with just 6-12 guests. The nature of active group travel is such that not all participants have the same ability level or interests. Traveling at a pace that is comfortable for the entire group, with a spirit of flexibility and adventure are all part of this intimate experience.
 

Overview:  Accommodations include simple hotels in Bhutan, deluxe hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and privately run lodges on the Annapurna trek. All with private baths.

Nights 1 & 2: Hotel Migmar (7500')
Thimphu, Bhutan

Hotel Migmar, about 1 km from the center of town, is built with a contemporary theme yet blends Bhutanese architecture with modern amenities.

Nights 3 & 4: Hotel Punatsangchu (4300')
Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan

A comfortable hotel offering a warm Bhutanese welcome, and an excellent base from which to explore the Punakha Valley.

Nights 5 & 6: Janka Resort (7300')
Paro, Bhutan

Set in a quiet location among the ricefields of Paro, the Janka Resort is a new hotel build with traditional Bhutanese character, and is often a favorite of our guests.
 

Night 7: Shangri-La Village Resort
Pokhara

A deluxe hotel located minutes from Pokhara's bustling lakeside. The hotel has a pool, beautiful gardens, and rooms tastefully decorated with Nepali and Tibetan art.

Night 8: Sanctuary Lodge (3470')
Annapurna Trekking Route

The lodge has magnificent views of the sacred and unclimbed Fishtail Mountain, or Machhapuchhre, as it is locally known. While each room is simple, there are touches of style, and each room has private baths.

Nights 9 & 10: Gurung Lodge (4785')
Annapurna Trekking Route

The lodge is built along the lines of a traditional Nepalese village. Every room has spectacular views of the surrounding valley and mountains.

Night 11: Basanta Lodge (5000')
Annapurna Trekking Route

From the lodge, there are sweeping views of the entire Annapurna Range. 

Night 12: Hyatt Regency
Kathmandu

The Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is a beautiful and luxurious 5-star hotel that is conveniently located with many amenities.

DAY 1
Arrival in Bhutan; transfer to Thimphu

Our flight from Bangkok, Thailand into Bhutan provides spectacular views of Bhutan’s landscape as we approach the airport in the Paro Valley. The valley is a green bowl surrounded by jagged Himalayan Mountains and forested hillsides, crossed by beautiful rivers, and dotted with medieval fortresses. The first thing that we notice as we disembark in Bhutan is the absence of noise and a feeling of peacefulness that is rare in most other Asian cities. The Paro Valley has kept its bucolic nature and is one of the most scenic valleys in Bhutan. The houses are considered to be among the most beautiful in the country, and Paro is believed to be one of the first valleys to have received the imprint of Buddhism.

We are greeted with a warm Bhutanese reception and transferred to Thimphu, home of the royal family. Before becoming Bhutan’s official national capitol in 1961, Thimphu was simply a rural farming valley. Small and secluded, Thimphu is unlike any other world capital. The city is quiet and there are still only a few streets, no traffic lights, and none of the traffic problems common to other Asian capitols. Dinner this evening will be Asian-Bhutanese cuisine at one of the finer restaurants in Thimphu.
Hotel Migmar, Thimphu, Bhutan

DAY 2  
Thimphu sites

Easy walking.

Thimphu is a city ideally explored on foot, and our walk today takes us between its many interesting sights. Before the day is through, we may visit the newly built textile museum, the Thimphu Dzong (seat of the government and main monk body), the School of Traditional Arts and Crafts, the Heritage Museum, and the Handicrafts Emporium, displaying the rich traditional crafts of the kingdom. Along the way we stop at a local restaurant for lunch before continuing our walk through the city.  
Hotel Migmar, Thimphu, Bhutan

DAY 3  
Transfer to Punakha (approximately 5 hrs.); Temple of the Divine Madman

Walking – easy, 1-2 hours on local paths.

This morning, after an early breakfast, we say goodbye to Thimphu and transfer to Punakha, our home for the next two nights. The road to Punakha offers great views of the eastern Himalayan mountains, and allows us to anticipate our Himalayan trek to come. Along the way, our road descends through magnificent pine and rhododendron forests and wanders through some of Bhutan’s most picturesque countryside. We stop in a small village where a short walk brings us to Chime Lhakang, a temple dedicated to the Lama Drukpa Kunley. Drukpa Kunley is one of Bhutan’s favorite saints, and is more commonly known as the “Divine Madman.” He traveled throughout Bhutan and Tibet using songs, humor and outrageous behavior to dramatize his teachings, believing that the stiffness of the clergy and social conventions were keeping people from learning the true Buddhist teachings. This site is still believed to hold fertility powers for women wanting to conceive.
Hotel Punatsangchu, Wangduephodrang, Bhutan

DAY 4  
Khamsung Yuely Namgyel temple to Punakha Dzong

Hiking – easy to moderate, 3-4 hours on dirt roads and trails.

Following breakfast and a drive through the Punakha Valley, we begin our walk by first ascending a series of switchbacks to the Namgyel Khamsum Yuely Temple. From the viewpoint at this modern temple we are afforded grand views of the Mo Chu River Valley below. We descend from the temple and follow a well-worn path down the valley through rice fields and small villages. Along the way we are rewarded with stunning views, the terraced rice paddies providing an exotic backdrop to the river below. After enjoying a picnic lunch alongside the river, we continue our walk to the Punakha Dzong. Constructed in 1637, the Punakha Dzong was the second of Bhutan’s dzongs and for many years it served as the seat of the government. Today it is the home to Bhutan’s spiritual leader, the chief abbot Je Khempo, who resides here with 1,000 monks during the winter months due to Punakha’s relatively low altitude by Himalayan standards (4,000 feet). From this spectacular dzong we can look back to see the Namgyel Khamsum Yuely Temple perched on the hillside far in the distance. A short walk from the dzong takes us to our vans, waiting to shuttle us back to our hotel for the evening.
Hotel Punatsangchu, Wangduephodrang, Bhutan

DAY 5  
Transfer to Paro (approximately five hours); Visit to Bhutan’s National Museum, the Paro Dzong, and Drukgyel Dzong

This morning we drive to Paro, where we will visit the National Museum, housed in the round multi-storied Ta Dzong, built in 1775. The Ta Dzong was once the watch tower for the massive Paro Dzong, built in the 17th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The museum’s collection includes ancient artifacts, weapons, a collection of antique thangkha (painted or embroidered religious pictures), textiles, and stamps. We walk from the museum to the Paro Dzong, the religious and secular center of Paro, and certainly the most dominant feature in the valley. The dzong was first conceived in the 15th-century, and finally consecrated in 1646.

Next we complete a short walk to Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago. This dzong was built in 1649 to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders, and sits at the point where the trail from Tibet enters the Paro valley. Bhutan’s dzongs are perhaps the most visibly striking aspect of the kingdom and these huge citadels dominate the landscape of the major towns and act as the administrative headquarters for their respective regions. If we are lucky and the weather is clear, we may have the opportunity to view the sacred Mt. Jhomolhari (23,977 ft), which lies along the border of Tibet and Bhutan.
Janka Resort, Paro, Bhutan

DAY 6  
Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monestary.

Hiking – moderate, 3-4 hours on hiking trails; approximate elevation gain of 1,650 feet.

This morning we enjoy a hike to the famous cliff-hermitage called Taktsang, the “Tiger’s Nest.” This monastic retreat is built into a sheer cliff face high above the Paro valley. Legend has it that the Tibetan Buddhist saint Padmasambhava flew across the Himalayas on the back of a tiger and landed here, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan. Entry into the monastery is now permitted, and we may be allowed to visit this sacred site. We enjoy a hot picnic lunch and the views of the valley below before descending to the valley floor.
Janka Resort, Paro, Bhutan

DAY 7
Fly from Paro, Bhutan to Pokhara, Nepal (via Kathmandu)

An early morning departure from Paro brings us to Kathmandu where we begin the second half of our epic journey. Upon landing in Kathmandu we clear customs and prepare for our flight to Pokhara (3,080 feet), the rural capital of western Nepal. Pokhara is one of the most popular destinations in the country, and for good reason. It is a place to view snow-capped mountains, and the ideal location to start trekking expeditions to the Himalayas.

Our evening is spent in comfort at the Shangri-La Village Resort. The rooms at the Shangri-La are filled with ethnic touches evoking the deep cultural heritage of the area. Surrounding the resort are spacious, landscaped gardens, a swimming pool, and stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains.
Shangri-La Village Resort, Pokhara, Nepal

DAY 8
Pokhara to Birethanti

Hiking – moderate, 3-4 hours on hiking trails; approximate overall elevation gain of 400 feet. Optional additional hiking.

This morning, we meet our trekking guide and drive to our local office for a briefing. Afterwards, we depart with our guide and porters for the starting point of our trek (about one hour driving). Today’s hike follows a ridgeline in the lower foothills of the Annapurnas with surrounding views of the Pokhara Valley. Early this afternoon, we descend into the Modi River valley, and our home for the night (3,470 feet). The lodge has magnificent views of the sacred and still unclimbed Fishtail Mountain, or Machhapuchhre, as it is locally known. We enjoy lunch at the lodge followed by an optional walk to the nearby village of Birethanti. Those who prefer can independently explore the river valley surrounding the lodge.
Sanctuary Lodge, Birethanti, Nepal

Day 9
Birethanti to Majgaun and Patleket

Hiking – moderate, 3-4 hours; optional additional village exploration.

After a leisurely breakfast, we leave Sanctuary Lodge following along the river until arriving at a cable bridge about 20 minutes upriver. After crossing the bridge, we ascend partly on well-paved steps and partly on switchbacks, until reaching the welcome sign for our lodge. After settling in, we spend the rest of the day exploring the picturesque nearby villages of Majgaun and Patleket.
Gurung Lodge, Chandrakot, Nepal

Day 10
Gurung Hill and local village

Hiking – moderate, 3-4 hours.

After breakfast at the lodge, we walk through the surrounding forests to Gurung Hill, a special viewpoint known only to a few. Here we enjoy a break for tea and biscuits, and magnificent views of Annapurna South and the surrounding mountains. We then return to the lodge via a different route, where our lunch is waiting on arrival. This afternoon after a short walk to the local school, we meet with the headmaster for a discussion about the local education system. If you wish, a small gift of school supplies or a small donation to the school is always greatly appreciated.
Gurung Lodge, Chandrakot, Nepal

Day 11
Majgaun and Patleket to Dhampus

Hiking – moderate, 3 hours; optional additional hiking and village exploration.

This morning we pass through the unspoiled village of Tanchok before entering a sub-tropical forest full of magnificent flora, including tree orchids, rhododendrons and magnolias. Upon reaching the ridgeline, we pass through the village of Pothana, where many Tibetan traders live and sell their souvenirs. We arrive at Basanta Lodge, our home for tonight, in time for lunch. This afternoon, we have the option to hike to the old village of Dhampus (5,000 feet). From our lodge, sweeping views of the entire Annapurna Range are ours to enjoy.
Basanta Lodge, Dhampus, Nepal

DAY 12  
Dhampus to Pokhara; fly to Kathmandu

Hiking – moderate, 2 hours.

The trekking portion of our journey ends this morning as we depart along the ridge, descending through wooded hillside and terraced farmland to the valley floor. Upon reaching the valley floor, we meet our vehicle for the drive to Pokhara, and our flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu we are transferred to our luxury five-star hotel. Following time to refresh in our rooms, we venture into the city and to the Boudhanath stupa. Tonight we enjoy a celebratory dinner at our hotel.
Hyatt Regency, Kathmandu, Nepal

DAY 13
Departure from Kathmandu

Mt. Everest Flight (optional).

After an early morning breakfast, we will have the optional opportunity to experience one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world. Our plane departs Kathmandu and flies east along the Himalayas, giving us eye-level views of the highest peaks on earth, including Mt. Everest. After the flight, we return to the hotel where we say goodbye before continuing to the airport for our homeward journey.

PLEASE NOTE: Druk Air, the National Airline of Bhutan does not typically release their flight schedules until a few months prior to departures. Our dates have been set to coincide with the historical schedule for the flights from Bhutan to Nepal. While we do not anticipate any change to this schedule from year to year, it does ocassionally occur. In the event that the schedule changes in such a way to affect our itinerary, we will adjust our trip accordingly. The first and last days of the trip will remain the same; however, it will most likely mean that we will be required to stay either one more or less day in Bhutan.

$4,995 per person

• All accommodations
• All meals
• All transportation during the tour
• Experts guides
• All activities as noted in the itinerary
• Expert leadership and services of camp and lodge staff
• Bhutanese visa fees