Druk Path Trek
Walking & Trekking
- Grade:
- ?
Moderate
- Duration: 14 days from the UK
- On trek: 5 days Walks on: 1 day
- Private Departures Available
Flight inclusive from £4410, Land only from £3290
A superb five-day trek through glorious high mountain scenery combined with the many cultural attractions of Paro, Thimphu and Punakha.
Highlights
- Trek one of Bhutanâs oldest trails with wonderfully varied scenery and superb mountain views
- Walk to the fabled Tigerâs Nest Monastery and visit Punakha Dzong
- Explore the key cultural sights of Thimphu and the Paro Valley
- Attend one of Bhutanâs most significant festivals (on selected departures)
- Enjoy first-rate camping and well-appointed hotels
The Druk Path trek takes in the most varied and beautiful sections of an ancient high-level mule trail which winds its way through the mountains between Bhutan’s two main towns of Paro and Thimphu. Combined with opportunities to experience the fascinating culture and sights of the Thunder Dragon Kingdom, it makes the perfect two-week trekking holiday within this unique Himalayan land.
Before stepping out on the Druk Path trail, you stretch your legs with a walk up to Bhutan’s most famous cultural attraction: the soaring Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched, seemingly miraculously,on the side of a sheer cliff-face, and decorated with brightly coloured prayer flags, the striking gold, red and white temple represents the unique culture, architecture and spirituality of Bhutan. If you travel on selected departures you will also attend one of Bhutan's most significant and vibrant festivals - the Paro or Thimphu Tsechu - a highlight of any visit.
Your fully supported, five-day trek along the Druk Path starts in the Paro Valley and follows a tremendously varied route through virgin forest, open yak pastures and along glorious high ridges. There is much cultural interest along the way as you visit sacred mountain lakes, traditional settlements and even a haunted monastery. Each day you’ll be trekking at over 3,000 m/9,842ft and have the 4,210m/13,812ft Simkota La to cross before your final descent to Bhutan’s capital 'city,' Thimphu. En route you enjoy tremendous, panoramic views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks, and each night you camp in picturesque locations where you will enjoy the attentive services of your friendly, efficient trekking crew.
After your trek, you spend time exploring the principal sights of Thimphu and drive eastward to visit the lush Punakha Valley where magnificent Punakha Dzong provides a fitting finale to your time in the Thunder Dragon Kingdom.
Private Departures
Druk Path Trek - Private Departures
If you would prefer to travel just with your partner, friends or family, we can arrange a private departure of this holiday. You follow the same itinerary, but travel on dates that suit you. Alternatively we can include elements of this holiday in a bespoke tailor made itinerary. Contact our friendly team for details and prices, and to make a booking.
At a glance
Moderate
Duration: 14 days from the UK
On trek: 5 days Walks on: 1 day
Max. Altitude: 4,210m/13,812ft, Simkota La, Day 8
Private Departures Available
Guaranteed to run for a minimum of 4 clients
Maximum group size: 12
Accommodation types: Hotels, Camping
Festival:
The March departure attends the Paro Tsechu
Meal arrangements: Bed and Breakfast in Kathmandu, all meals included in hotels and on trek in Bhutan.
Itinerary overview
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1-3 | (Itineraries vary by departure. Detailed itineraries for all departures can be downloaded below). Arrive Kathmandu. Fly to Paro. Visit Dzong Drakha. |
| 4 | Walk to Taktsang Monastery. |
| 5-6 | Trek to Jili Dzong and on to Jangchulhakha. |
| 7-8 | Trek to Jana Tsho via Jimi Langtsho. Trek to Labana across the Simkota La, 4,210m/13,812ft. |
| 9 | End trek. Drive to Thimphu. |
| 10 | Sightseeing in Thimphu. Drive to Punakha. Walk to Drukpa Kunleyâs temple. |
| 11-12 | Visit Punakha Dzong. Drive to Paro. Fly to Kathmandu. |
| 13-14 | Time at leisure. Overnight flight to London. |
Leader: Local leader, Bhutan
You will have an English speaking Bhutanese guide. Mountain Kingdoms have been working with the same partner in Bhutan since 1986. Their guides are some of the best in the Kingdom. They speak fluent English, as this is taught in all Bhutanese schools, and are fully qualified guides. The Tourism Authority of Bhutan insists that a Bhutanese trek or tour leader must pass his/her guiding exams in Thimphu before accompanying groups of foreign visitors. Guides receive regular ‘top-up’ training and 15 of our regular leaders have completed an extended training course run by Mountain Kingdoms in Bhutan.
Holiday Itinerary
Day 1 - Depart London.
Depart London on your overnight flight to Kathmandu.
Overnight: In flight
Day 2 - Arrive Kathmandu. Group transfer to hotel.
You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. You might like to venture out to nearby Thamel for your evening meal, or eat in the restaurant if you are tired from your journey.
Overnight: Hotel Shanker Or Similar, Kathmandu
Day 3 - Fly to Paro in Bhutan. Visit Dzong Drakha.
Transfer for the flight to Paro, the country's main airstrip, 2,250m/7,382ft. The flight often gives fantastic views of the Himalaya including Everest, and particularly exciting is the section through the Bhutanese foothills and the thrilling landing. Try to sit on the left hand side of the plane. You will be met on arrival by your Bhutanese guide and then transferred to your hotel.
This afternoon you will take a short drive out from Paro to make a walk up to Dzong Drakha. This is a beautiful cluster of 16th Century cliff temples set above the small village of Bondhey, overlooking the Paro Valley. Although this walk will take little more than a couple of hours it's a good leg stretch and aid to acclimatisation.
Flight schedules permitting, there should also be time to wander along the streets of the small township of Paro; have a peek at the Queen Mother's Winter Palace, then walk up to look at the Dzong.
Overnight: Hotel Olathang Or Similar, Paro
Day 4 - Walk to Taktsang Monastery, 3,110m/10,200ft - 4-5 hours. Sightseeing.
A short drive beyond Paro town takes you to the trail head for the walk up to the famous Tiger's Nest, Taktsang Monastery. The monastery is perched some 600m/2,000ft up on a cliff overlooking the valley and was said to be where the legendary Indian saint, Guru Padma Sambhava, flew from Tibet on the back of a tiger to defeat five demons, who were opposing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan. It's a steep uphill walk through woods, of about 1½-2hrs, to reach a tea house (an ascent of 340m/1,125ft). Apart from offering welcome refreshment this tea house is one of the principle viewpoints of Taktsang and those who prefer not to climb any further can relax here whilst others continue on. If there is a particular religious gathering or VIP visit in progress, you will not be able to enter the monastery, but the further half an hour's ascent is well worth it in any case, as it brings you to another viewpoint directly across from Taktsang. If you are able to make a visit, the final section of the walk takes you from here steeply down 100m/330ft into the gorge that separates you from the monastery and then climbs back up again to reach the monastery gate. You descend back to the valley floor by your outward route and then drive back to Paro. The full walk to Taktsang and back involves approximately 740m/2,440ft of ascent.
There should then be time for further sightseeing in the afternoon. You may visit the ancient temple of Kyichu Lakhang, one of 108 temples built by Songtsen Gampo an important early Tibetan king, to pin down the Bon demon who was thought to hover over the whole of Tibet. Back in town you may visit the Ta Dzong. This 17th century circular watchtower is home to Bhutan's National Museum. Having undergone a major renovation, the museum showcases a wealth of Bhutan's most significant cultural and artistic treasures. The nearby spectacular Paro Dzong is also worth a visit, as is the typical cantilever bridge below the dzong.
There may also be the chance for souvenir shopping in some of the small shops on Paro's main street.
Overnight: Hotel Olathang Or Similar, Paro
Day 5 - Trek to Jili Dzong, 3,450m/11,319ft - 4½ hours.
Today you set off on your 5 day/4 night trek. The route is part of the original mule track that linked Thimphu Valley with Paro Valley and ultimately connected Bhutan to the Indian border. The walk is always done from Paro to Thimphu, as baggage horses are only available in Paro. It is a much more exciting way of reaching Bhutan's capital and after five days' trekking the sense of anticipation is keenly felt. The walk starts appropriately behind Paro Dzong itself. Starting from the watchtower, the path winds its way slowly and evenly upward, through the forest towards the ridgeline of the Himalayan foothills above. As the day passes, the views below of the highly cultivated Paro Valley, the Queen Mother's Winter Palace, and the monastery/fortress itself are wonderful. The walk is firstly through pine, then bamboo, followed by birch and finally rhododendron. You may have lunch near a mani wall. The camp site is just a few hundred feet below Jili Dzong in a clearing. You will see plenty of interesting flora and fauna throughout the day and many interesting birds.
Overnight: Camp
Day 6 - Trek to a large yak herders' camp at Jangchulhakha, 3,770m/12,365ft - 5 hours.
It is a short twenty minute hike from the camp to the dzong. This is a large monastery and supposedly haunted. It contains a huge statue of Padma Sambhava. There are birds nesting in the arrow slits and old Mongol helmets and shields hanging on the walls. The building was until very recently deserted, but has now undergone some renovation and is in use again. It sits astride a ridge, which affords dramatic views of the valleys on both sides and the Himalaya to the north. On a clear day the second highest mountain in Bhutan can be seen, Mt. Chomolhari, 7,314m/23,997ft. The path now follows a ridge for a short while before descending into forest. It then follows a snake-like route on rather magical paths, along mountainsides and through many different types of rhododendron. Occasionally you may meet local yak herdsmen and take in wonderful views of mountains, including another large peak called Kangcheeta. You will see this mountain has two peaks and is split by a straight, pronounced gully - locals believe that Kangcheeta is the brother of Chomolhari (female mountain goddess) who hit him with a stick because he wanted to marry her. To the south, the Dagala range dominates the skyline. Below Mt. Kangcheeta there is a temple, Tshomphu Monastery, where an idol is supposed to float in the air. In the past our guides have said they had visited the temple and it was possible to pass a string underneath the statue, thus proving it floated. Eventually, you pass through a number of yak herder clearings, stopping for the night at the largest of them.
Overnight: Camp
Day 7 - Trek to Jana Tsho via Jimi Langtsho, 3,956m/12,975ft - 7 hours.
From camp the path ascends to gain the ridge and then traverses along it, first one side and then the other, with wonderful mountain views. Eventually you cross a small pass and circle round, until above Jimi Langtsho Lake. This is a large beautiful lake, stocked with trout, with a large chorten (religious obelisk) built at one end. You zigzag down to the lakeside, which is thick with rhododendron and hemmed in by rocky bluffs. The path then leads up from the lake and along cliff paths with massive drops below. Eventually it leads round a succession of ridges until you arrive at the second lake, Jana Tsho, another magical campsite.
Overnight: Camp
Day 8 - Trek to Labana across the Simkota La, 4,210m/13,812ft - 3½ hours.
Again, there is a lovely walk today in glorious high mountain country, crossing the highest pass of your trip, the Simkota La (also known as Phume La) 4,210m/13,812ft. From the lake a wide stone path between rhododendrons leads down to traverse a basin which contains the third lake. Two other lakes are above and out of sight, one male, one female. Collectively they are called Dungkar Tsho. The latter of these has a very strong spirit and if anything 'dirty' is done nearby, a cloud comes down and only goes away with many prayers. The path is a mixture now of small passes and mountain tracks, some of which wander underneath cliffs. It is here you will reach Labana your campsite for tonight. The rest of the day will be free to explore the area.
Overnight: Camp
Day 9 - Trek to Phadjoding and on to the end of the road, 2,350m/7,710ft - 5-7 hours. Drive to Thimphu. Sightseeing.
This morning you may meet monks on their way from Thimphu to visit the sacred lake of Jimi Langtsho, where they meditate for a few days before returning. The rocky mountain next to the highest pass, Thujedraj, used to be used for sky burials in the old days. Lower down there is one smaller pass with a chorten which looks directly down onto Thimphu.
The path zigzags down to Phadjoding (2½ hours). There will be time to see the temples. There is a recent one, constructed with funds donated by the fourth king's secretary, dedicated to Padma Samb Hava, but the 9th and 16th Jey Khempos (head monks of Bhutan) built the two main ones. These are gorgeous buildings with golden roofs, and acolyte monks will show you the inner temples. Phadjoding is a great meditation centre and there are a number of houses dedicated to retreat. A particular type of branch is put outside the front door, showing that the incumbent is not to be disturbed. High up on the cliff behind Phadjoding is a famous hermit temple, built many hundreds of years ago and still used today.
It takes three or four hours to reach the road, descending through the forest, steeply at times, on a well-worn path. It is worth getting up early for the clear views of the Eastern Himalaya. Seen clearly on the horizon behind the temples is the highest mountain in Bhutan, Gangkar Punsum, at 7,550m/24,770ft now the highest unclimbed peak in the world. There are several paths leading down to Thimphu; perhaps the best is the one leading to the Radio Station, which takes about 3 hours. Quite often the valley below may be filled with cloud, with just the mountains poking up into the clear air. Your vehicle will meet you at the roadhead for the short transfer to your hotel in town. Later there should be time for a little sightseeing.
Overnight: Phuntso Pelri Hotel or Similar, Thimphu
Day 10 - Sightseeing in Thimphu. Drive to Punakha via Drukpa Kunley’s temple.
There will be time this morning to visit some of the sights of Bhutan's capital. Apart from those places not visited on the previous day, possible options include the indigenous hospital specialising in herbal medicine, the School of Painting and Changangkha Lhakhang.
Later, leaving Thimphu the road climbs via a series of zigzags over the Dochu La Pass, 3,140m/10,302ft. On a clear day panoramic views can be had of the eastern Himalaya, including Bhutan's highest mountain, Gangkar Punsum, 7,550m/24,770ft. The road drops down through forest finally emerging into the cultivated Punakha Valley. The drive takes around 3 hours.
Before reaching your overnight hotel there should be time to stop for a short walk (45 minutes - 1 hour round trip) to visit Drukpa Kunley's Temple built in the centre of the Punakha Valley and called Chimi Lhakhang. The 'Divine Madman' built this temple to celebrate his victory over the demoness of the Dochu La. It is famous for the fact that infertile women visit here to pray for children.
Overnight: Zhingkham Resort or Damchen Resort or Similar, Punakha
Day 11 - Visit Punakha Dzong. Drive to Paro - 4½-5 hours.
After breakfast you make the short 10 minute drive up through Punakha to visit Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most celebrated sights. The main monastery/fortress in Punakha was the power base for the old system of reincarnate rulers. The remains of the original ruler of Bhutan, Nawang Namgyal, are kept in a small room at the top of the highest tower; only the King and the head of the Monastic Order are allowed to enter this room. Provided the head of the Monastic Order and his monks are in Thimphu it should be possible to view the inner courtyards of Punakha Dzong. In 1994 there was a major flood in the town as a glacial lake burst up in the Himalaya, causing tremendous havoc in the town and damage to the dzong, which has now been beautifully restored.
After visiting the dzong your transport will meet you for the return journey westward to Paro, taking lunch along the way. If you did not visit Drukpa Kunley's temple yesterday there should be time today. En route for Paro you will doubtless stop once more at the Dochu La Pass for another chance, weather permitting, to take in the vista of eastern Himalayan peaks.
Overnight: Hotel Olathang Or Similar, Paro
Day 12 - Fly to Kathmandu.
This is normally an early morning flight which takes you out and over the Bhutanese mountains and past Kangchenjunga, Makalu and Everest, finally dropping down into Kathmandu Valley. You will be met and transferred to your hotel, after which there will be plenty of time to relax or for some shopping or sightseeing.
Overnight: Hotel Shanker Or Similar, Kathmandu
Day 13 - Time at leisure. Transfer to airport for flight to London.
You have most of the day free to enjoy some final souvenir shopping or sightseeing, or to simply relax and enjoy the facilities at your hotel. Later in the afternoon there will be a group transfer to the airport for your overnight flight back to London.
Overnight: In flight
Day 14 - Arrive London.
Map
Map Key
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Day walk in this area
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Optional supplements
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Single room supplement
From £285 -
Single Tent
From £125
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No surcharges will be applied to your holiday after you book. Prices on this website are updated regularly. The Flight Inclusive holiday price, or Land Only holiday price, will be confirmed to you at the time you make your booking. There will be no surcharges after your booking has been confirmed.
Flight inclusive holidays
The 'flight inclusive' holiday prices shown on this website are based upon our preferred airlines and the best priced economy class fares we are able to secure at the time of publication.
We will be able to advise on fares with alternative airlines, upgrades to Business Class, and the options for flights from regional UK airports, please contact us for more details.
Booking your holiday
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Deposit
From £400.00
For the majority of our holidays, a deposit payment of £400.00 per person is required to secure your place(s), however a small number of holidays require a higher deposit - please refer to the holiday itinerary for more details. If the holiday departs within 60 days, a deposit of £1,000.00 per person is required.
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- Book your small group holiday securely online – click the ‘Book’ button next to your chosen departure or visit our How to Book page
- Complete and return a Booking Form available to download here.
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What’s included
- An English-speaking Bhutanese leader
- Flights between Kathmandu and Paro and hotel/airport transfers
- Good quality hotel in Kathmandu, on a twin share, bed & breakfast basis
- In Bhutan, good standard hotel accommodation in main towns and best available hotels in outlying towns, on a twin share, full board basis
- Economy class return air fares from the UK & UK Departure Tax (flight inclusive only)
- Single, timed group airport transfers for international flights on arrival and departure
- Bhutan visa and Bhutan departure tax
- The use of a good quality down jacket and sleeping bag (when travelling to Bhutan via Kathmandu).
- All camping facilities (twin share tents) and all meals on trek
- Camp staff to carry out all camp work
- Sightseeing where specified
- Carbon offsetting with the Ecoan Tree Planting Project (for clients taking our flight inclusive option)
- A free high-quality Mountain Kingdoms kit bag
What’s not included
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees for Nepal
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
- Tips
Read holiday reviews by Mountain Kingdoms travellers.
Overall score: 4.8148148148148 (Based on 27 reviews)
We loved the Bhutan experience: the people, the scenery, the trekking, the culture.
An unforgettable experience on many levels that exceeded already high expectations. The cultural history is fascinating, monasteries and dzongs providing exquisite settings in which to learn about this unique country. The trek was extraordinary, taking us through forests humming with cicadas, up rivers, along ridges with views of the verdant valleys far below, boulders, lakes, a yak. All enhanced by our truly exceptional guide, Ugyen and his crew. So grateful to have made this trip.
I loved Bhutan - everything about it. Our guide, Ugyen was really excellent. The hotels were all good quality. The trek was good - the views and food were suberb. We enjoyed our second visit to Nepal - the Dwarika's hotel (out of Kathmandu) and our meal at the Dwarika's in Kathmandu on our extension.
Bhutan only opened post-covid a week before our trip and we had waited over 2 years to be able to go so our expectations were very high and we were not disappointed. Amazing scenery and sights with the most hospitable people you're ever likely to meet. Our guide was superb and all the camp crew were great. The Druk Path trek may be a short trek but the altitude makes it more challenging as most of it is over 3500m, we were well looked after and the food was amazing on the camp.
The whole trip was very well organised by Mountain Kingdoms and our guide in Bhutan, Karma, was brilliant - he was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and its culture. He also went out of his way to help me with my interest in birds, going out with me early one morning along the river in Punakha. He made a memorable trip even better.
Extend your holiday
- Jungle activities including an elephant experience, bird watching, rafting and nature walks
- See wild elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, deer, wild boar and if you are lucky, the famous Royal Bengal Tiger
- Stay at the delightful Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge situated on the edge of the park
After your adventurous time in the Himalaya why not add a relaxing Jungle Safari to your trip? The Royal Bardia National Park is situated in the west of Nepal. We use Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge, which is acknowledged to be the best lodge in the area. Bardia’s remote geographic location and the fact that the lodge has only 12 rooms, lends a degree of exclusivity to the experience, in comparison to other more popular parks. From the lodge you will be able to participate in safaris and have the chance of seeing some of the country’s wonderful wildlife, for instance, wild elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, deer, wild boar and if you are lucky, the famous Royal Bengal Tiger. There is also the possibility of visiting the villages of the Tharu tribal people that surround the lodge. With its abundant wildlife, relaxing lodge and first class service, our Bardia extension is an experience you will savour!
- Activities include; bird watching, elephant washing, canoe ride, elephant experience, landrover safari and jungle walks
- Choice of accommodation from budget to luxury
- Suitable to add to any holiday flying in/out of Kathmandu
Why not extend your adventure in Nepal by visiting Nepal’s jungle region for a complete contrast to the high mountains and the Kathmandu Valley. Chitwan is home to a rich and varied wildlife. Here are found wild elephant, rhinos, leopard, sambar, chital (spotted) deer, wild boar and arguably the most magnificent of cats, the Royal Bengal Tiger. You may even see sloth bear, gaur (wild cattle) and crocodiles. Chitwan is also wonderful for birdlife especially in the spring, when the jungle rings day and night to the calls of several kinds of Asian cuckoo.
- Escape the crowds and hustle and bustle of Kathmandu
- Walks available from the cottage - explore the nearby countryside
- Single and double rooms available, or exclusive hire of the entire cottage
- Breakfast and dinner included, plus unlimited tea and coffee
While in Kathmandu, why not experience an exclusive, private, home away from home? Shivapuri Heights Cottage is a “home-stay-style” property that offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the City. It is located in 2 acres of land at an altitude of 6,000ft /1,830m on the edge of the protected Shivapuri Reserve, with beautiful views looking down into the Kathmandu Valley.
- Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara in the Annapurna range of Nepal
- The lodge is an ideal base for you to relax in a rural mountain setting
- Beautiful outdoor swimming pool reflecting view of the Annapurna range
- Delicious Nepali dishes & continental specialities made from local fresh ingredients, home-grown herbs & garden salads
Why not extend your adventure in Nepal by visiting the beautiful Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge. Tiger Mountain Pokhara lodge is a lovely place, situated on a ridge half an hour outside Pokhara and enjoying the most stunning mountain views over the Annapurna range of mountains.
The lodge is an ideal base for you to relax in a rural mountain setting, away from the bustle of town. With a central lodge, bar and dining room, the comfortable rooms are arranged in clusters of cottages resembling a Nepali village. All have attached bathrooms, private verandas and Himalayan views. Daily menus feature a range of Nepali dishes as well as continental specialities made from local fresh ingredients and home-grown herbs and garden salads. You may enjoy lovely walks through the forests and villages of the lovely countryside surrounding the lodge, escorted by trained local guides. The beautiful swimming pool reflects the distant white peaks of the Annapurna range. The lodge also offers a range of Ayurvedic and shiatsu therapy and yoga and meditation sessions are also available (at additional cost). You may also venture further afield to visit Pokhara, Nepal’s second city located on a lovely lake and also enjoying spectacular views.
- Extend your Bhutan visit to Bumthang, often thought of as the cultural heartland of the country.
- Home to some of Bhutan's most important and spectacular temples and fortresses
The region of Bumthang in central Bhutan is often thought of as the cultural heartland of the country. If your trip to Bhutan does not include a visit to Bumthang, domestic flights now enable us to offer a 3 night visit to see the best of what the region has to offer. Here are found some of the country’s most important and spectacular temples and fortresses. The region is also of great cultural importance and is a center for Bhutanese weaving.
Bumthang encompasses four major valleys, Chokhor, Ura, Chumey and Tang. The township of Jakar where you stay is located in the main valley called Chokhor. The other valleys are the Ura Valley which is to the east, the Tang valley which is slightly more off the beaten track to the northeast and the Chumey Valley which is west of Jakar.
- Visit some of Tibet's most important historical and cultural sites and monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism.
- Offers a scenery completely different to that of Bhutan and Nepal.
- Suitable to add to any holiday flying in/out of Kathmandu.
A visit to Tibet offers an exciting extension to a visit to Nepal or Bhutan. Regular flights to Lhasa from Kathmandu make it possible to visit most of the major sights in and around Lhasa on an 8 day itinerary and a visit to Tibet will provide an exhilarating contrast to your trek or tour in Nepal or Bhutan. Tibet’s high plateau offers totally different and starker scenery to that of the other Himalayan countries. Here you will see some of the most important historical and cultural sites and monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism – the Potala Palace and Samye, Ganden and Drepung Monasteries.
If taking this extension you will need to spend an extra day beforehand in Kathmandu while our agents there process your Tibet visa. They will need your passport for the day for this purpose. You need to let us know in good time if you wish to take this extension as we need to put this process in hand and send your details to the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu well before your departure date.
- Koshi Tappu is home to over 500 species of birds
- Look out for exciting wildlife like jungle cats, crocodiles and rare water buffalo
- Explore the park by foot, raft and jeep
- Stay in the pleasantly located Koshi Camp
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is one of the finest birdwatching and wildlife areas in all Asia. Located in south-east Nepal, the reserve covers 175 square kilometres with large expanses of open water created by the Koshi barrage, with marshes, lagoons, sandbanks and mudflats offering an outstanding wetland habitat. The reserve is home to over 500 species of birds, with the resident inhabitants being joined by large numbers of migratory species from Siberia and Tibet, which take up residence from November to February. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve provides one of the best places in Nepal to view migratory water fowl, waders and shore birds with many species seen here which are not recorded elsewhere in the region.
There is also much wildlife to be seen in Koshi Tappu including blue bull, golden jackal, Bengal fox, fishing cat, jungle cat, mongoose, civet cat, porcupine, Indian flying foxes and rare Gangetic dolphins as well as rare Marsh Mugger crocodiles. In addition, Koshi Tappu is the last habitat of the endangered Arna, a type of wild water buffalo.
During your visit you will explore the park with bird and animal spotting from a raft trip on the Koshi River, birdwatching walks, jungle walks and jeep trips. You will also have the opportunity to visit a family in one of the very interesting nearby local villages for a taste of rural Nepalese life. The Koshi Camp offers simple but comfortable accommodation and an expert staff of naturalists and birdwatchers to give you a comprehensive introduction to this wonderful area.
- Observe traditional crafts such as pottery, woodcarving and thangka painting
- Choose from a selection of full and half day guided tours
- Travel in a private car with a driver and an English-speaking guide
The Kathmandu Valley has a long and rich history and a vibrant culture and there is much that is worthwhile to see there - crowded bazaars, ancient temples, Buddhist stupas, crumbling shrines and picturesque palaces. The Malla kings who ruled in the valley created three major cities in the valley, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan and each of these cities has buildings that are showpieces for the art and architecture of local Newari craftsmen. We offer a selection of half day trips and full day trips to these sites the valley.
- Spend two or more tranquil nights in rural Pokhara
- Sample the organic and locally sourced Nepali cuisine
- Idyllic setting with mountain views
- The resorts offers a swimming pool, spa and gym
- Eco-friendly
We are delighted to offer this new luxury stay in a rural location just outside Pokhara. We are sure this is set to become a favourite with our clients.
The Pavilions Himalayas is a luxury resort set in beautiful farmland amid paddy fields in a tranquil rural location approximately 5km outside Pokhara. There are dramatic mountain views from the resort as well as Pokhara’s famous Peace Pagoda seen on top of a nearby ridge.
The beautiful rooms are set in individual villas and are large and comfortable, all having whirlpool baths, separate rain shower cubicles, enormous beds and offering wonderful hand made soaps and shampoos made with herbs from their garden.
All facilities at the resort are top of the range and include a lovely swimming pool and spa. From the resort it is just a short drive to explore Pokhara or there are pleasant walks from the hotel or you can just chill at the resort, have a massage and enjoy the facilities.
- Upgrade your accommodation for your trip in Bhutan.
- Choose from boutique and spa hotels in various destinations.
- Stay in luxurious properties with first rate service and facilities
- Enjoy fine dining and indulgent rooms
For our brochure trips to Bhutan we offer good standard tourist hotels and lodges, however, Bhutan also offers some lovely boutique and spa hotels which we are pleased to offer as upgrades on your trip. We offer a range of properties in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and other towns all of which provide excellent facilities and service as well as attractive locations.