Go on an Epic Journey from Bhutan to Nepal with Boundless Journeys

Welcome to Bhutan! We land in Paro at Bhutan's only international airport. We are met by our local guide and transferred to Thimphu, home of the royal family. Before becoming Bhutan's official national capital in 1961, Thimphu was a simple, rural farming valley. Small and secluded, it is unlike any other world capital. The city is quiet, and may be the only capital in the world without a traffic light.

Our exploration of Thimphu depends on flight arrival times and we may visit the National Textile Museum, the Heritage Museum, or the Giant Buddha above town, giving us some excellent views of the Thimphu Valley.

Accommodations

Hotel Druk
Thimpu, Bhutan

Hotel Druk is located in the center of the city’s landmarks, near the famous Thimphu clock tower and within walking distance of the main markets. Constructed in traditional Bhutanese style, this distinctive, four-star deluxe hotel is relaxed yet elegant, with all the necessary comforts and amenities. Hotel Druk offers newly refurbished, modern guestrooms with spacious accommodations; a soothing spa; and a stylish bar and restaurant.

Our hike today begins at a small village near the boundary of Jigme Dorji Wildlife Sanctuary, the largest protected area in the country. The area is home to several endangered species, including: the takin, snow leopard, blue sheep, tiger, red panda, and the Himalayan black bear. The trail climbs steadily to Cheri Gompa, a small monastery perched on the hill with a view of the Thimphu Valley. After touring the monastery, we descend on the same route back to our tour vehicle where we drive home of the Choki School of Arts. The Choki School provides free, skills-related education in the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan to Bhutanese children who are unable to complete their formal education.

Before dinner, we speak with a local expert to learn more about Bhutan's unique culture and its remarkable Gross National Happiness concept.

Accommodations

Hotel Druk
Thimpu, Bhutan

Hotel Druk is located in the center of the city’s landmarks, near the famous Thimphu clock tower and within walking distance of the main markets. Constructed in traditional Bhutanese style, this distinctive, four-star deluxe hotel is relaxed yet elegant, with all the necessary comforts and amenities. Hotel Druk offers newly refurbished, modern guestrooms with spacious accommodations; a soothing spa; and a stylish bar and restaurant.

Today we transfer to the Punakha Valley, our home for the next two nights. The road to Punakha crosses the Dochula Pass (10,230'), offering a great view of the eastern Himalayan mountains.

On the road to Punakha, 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 formality of the clergy and social conventions were keeping people from understanding true Buddhism.

Accommodations

Dhumra Farm Resort
Punakha, Bhutan

Nestled amidst the green hills with an enviable view of the Punakha Dzong, Dhumra Farm Resort has been built with nature in mind, from the local building materials to the farm’s organic produce cooked in the traditional earthen oven. This small, boutique hotel is committed to providing guests with an extroadinary and authentic Bhutanese experience.

We begin today's hike by first ascending a series of switchbacks to the Khamsung Yuley Namgyel Temple. From this modern temple, we are afforded grand views of the Mo Chu River Valley below. We then 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 along 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.

Following our hike, we have the special opportunity to visit the Nalanda Buddhist Institute, where we meet the resident monks and learn about their lives.

Accommodations

Dhumra Farm Resort
Punakha, Bhutan

Nestled amidst the green hills with an enviable view of the Punakha Dzong, Dhumra Farm Resort has been built with nature in mind, from the local building materials to the farm’s organic produce cooked in the traditional earthen oven. This small, boutique hotel is committed to providing guests with an extroadinary and authentic Bhutanese experience.

Today we return to Paro, catching another glimpse of the mighty Himalayas over the Dochula Pass. Upon our arrival in Paro, we visit Kyichu Lhakhang. Kyichu Lhakhang, meaning "twin temples," is believed to have been built in 659 AD by King Songtsen of Tibet, and reflects the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. The temple is one of 108 that were built throughout the Himalayas in one day in an effort to subdue a mighty ogress; it is still believed to hold her left foot in place.

We then make our way to the National Museum. The museum's collection includes ancient artifacts, weapons, antique thangkha (painted or embroidered religious pictures), textiles, and stamps.

Finally, we head to the valley's magnificent Rinpung Dzong. If we are fortunate, we may have the opportunity to explore within the dzong's mighty walls. However, if the Administrative Body is in session, we must admire from the outside.

Accommodations

Rema Resort
Paro, Bhutan

Rema Hotel is situated along the banks of the Paro River with rooms enjoying scenic views of the rice paddies and farm fields of the tranquil Paro Valley. The hotel features stunning traditional Bhutanese architecture, yet provides modern amenities for a comfortable stay.

This morning, we hike to the famous cliff-side hermitage called Taktsang — "Tiger's Nest" — a monastic retreat built into a sheer cliff face high above the Paro Valley. Our hike begins on the valley floor and is a steady uphill climb on a wide hiking trail that switchbacks through pine forests, with glimpses of Tiger's Nest along the way. We pass water-powered prayer wheels and mani stones, as well as a shrine where a high lama was supposedly born — all reminders that for many, this is not just a hike, but a spiritual pilgrimage. 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.

We return to the valley floor, where we enjoy a trail side picnic lunch before heading back to our hotel. We have some time this afternoon to unwind and relax after our hike, or perhaps stroll the Paro market before dinner.

Accommodations

Rema Resort
Paro, Bhutan

Rema Hotel is situated along the banks of the Paro River with rooms enjoying scenic views of the rice paddies and farm fields of the tranquil Paro Valley. The hotel features stunning traditional Bhutanese architecture, yet provides modern amenities for a comfortable stay.

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 are met by our guide and then transfer to the domestic airport for our flight to Pokhara (2,712 ft), the rural capital of western Nepal. Pokhara is one of the most popular destinations in the country due to being the starting point for many trekking expeditions into the mountains.

Accommodations

Temple Tree Resort
Pokhara, Nepal

A deluxe hotel located within walking distance from Pokhara’s bustling lakeside, this boutique property combines distinctive architecture of the region with western standards and amenities. The hotel has a pool, beautiful gardens, and rooms tastefully decorated with Nepali and Tibetan art. Enjoy intimate dining and contemporary cuisine at the Bay Leaf restaurant, or a cocktail at the casual Island Bar. Temple Tree is a great place to pamper yourself either before or after a trek in the mountains.

In the morning we drive about one hour to the starting point of our trek. Today's hike follows a ridgeline in the lower foothills of the Annapurnas, with surrornding views of the Pokhara Valley.

The trail eventually descends into the Modi River valley, our home for the night (3,470'). The lodge here 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.

Accommodations

Sanctuary Lodge
Birethanti, Nepal

The Sanctuary lodge is situated near the tranquil village of Birethanti along the Modi River, offering stunning views of the sacred Fishtail Mountain, Machupuchure, in the distance. The property features 18 simple rooms with ensuite baths and touches of local style. You may unwind on the open grounds over a cup of Nepali tea, or explore the nearby village on foot.

After breakfast we leave the lodge, walking through outlying farms following the Modi River valley. Soon we begin to ascend out of the valley and up toward the mountains. We take a relaxing pace, stopping for refreshments en route with spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Our trail passes through small hamlets, terraced rice fields and sub-tropical forests, offering glimpses of life in the mountains. We arrive at Himalaya Lodge in Ghandruk (6,600') in time for a late lunch, and have time this afternoon to enjoy the magnificent close-up views of the surrounding mountains.

Accommodations

Himalaya Lodge
Ghandruk, Nepal

Located at the highest point of the tour at approximately 6,600’, this former mountain home is perched over the ancient village of Ghandruk. The Annapurna Range is in full view from each of the 11 rooms, which have ensuite baths and are decorated with local cultural motifs. You may explor Ghandruk by foot or ascend the hills above the lodge to see the impressive terraced fields and towering Himalayan peaks above.

En route along our trek to Landruk, we explore the mountain village of Ghandruk, once a major recruitment center for the famous Gurkha soldiers. The women of Ghandruk maintain a local industry of weaving traditional Nepalese rugs.

Departing from Ghandruk, the trail descends steeply to the banks of the Modi River. Here, you'll be at the base of the cliffs where the famed honey hunters of Nepal climb on ropes to collect the honey from the wild honey bees. You'll then cross a suspension bridge to the opposite banks of the Modi, from where it will take us about an hour to trek up a switchback trail (with steps) to reach the village of Landruk. Landruk affords more glorious views of the Annapurna range.

Following lunch, you may choose to explore Landruk before settling into to La Bee Lodge and enjoying a well-deserved rest.

Accommodations

La Bee Lodge
Landruk, Nepal

La Bee lodge is the newest lodge in the region, located in Landruk, a typical village of the Gurung community who are known as the famous Gurkha soldiers. La Bee has 12 rooms featuring local designs and affords glorious views of the Annapurna range. Explore the nearby cliffs dramatically rising from the Modi River, also known for the famed honey hunters of Nepal.

This morning our trail enters a sub-tropical forest full of magnificent flora, including tree orchids, rhododendrons and magnolias. After approximately an hour, we arrive at the village of Tolka. We then ascend to a ridge, passing through the village of Pothana, where Tibetan traders live and sell their souvenirs. We arrive at Basanta Lodge, our home for the night, in time for lunch.

Later this afternoon, we have the option to hike to the old village of Dhampus (4,920'), or to remain at the lodge, where sweeping views of the entire Annapurna Range are ours to enjoy.

Accommodations

Basanta Lodge
Dhampus, Nepal

This simple lodge is perched on a ridge overlooking the beautiful Phedi and Mardi Valleys and the span of the Annapurna range to the north. The property features 8 rooms with ensuite baths, providing a comfortable respite after trekking. From the lodge you may explore the old village of Dhampus, or simply relax and soak in the tranquility of its location.

The trekking portion of our journey ends this morning, as we depart along the ridge, descending through wooded hillsides and terraced farmland to the valley floor. It is here that we meet our vehicle for the drive to the Pokhara airport to catch our flight to Kathmandu.

Upon arriving in Kathmandu, we are transferred to the five-star Dwarika's Heritage Hotel. This afternoon we have the option to venture to Patan Durbar Square, Boundanath Stuppa or Pashupatinath temple, each significant sites for Buddhists and Hindus residing in the city.  We will conclude our day enjoying a celebratory dinner, bidding a final farewell to Nepal.

Accommodations

Dwarika's Heritage Hotel
Kathmandu, Nepal

Dwarikas is a five-star heritage hotel, espousing Newari-style architecture and Nepalese charm and hospitality. It is well-located near the famous Pashupatinath and Boudanath Temples, as well as the international airport. Unwind over live music at the fusion bar or dine at the famous Krishnapan restaurant, featuring the best in contemporary Nepali cuisine. Choose to relax at the swimming pool or treat yourself to a traditional ayurvedic treatment at the Pancha Kosha Himalayan spa.

After an early morning breakfast, we have the opportunity to experience one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world. An optional flight (not included in cost) 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 good-bye 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 occasionally 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.