Exploring Bhutan and Nepal | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Exploring Bhutan and Nepal

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PRIVATE TOUR - 15 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 7544

Private Tour Highlights

  • Embrace Nepal’s intrinsic beauty
  • Learn more about the meaning of religious iconography
  • Enjoy some of the region’s best cuisine
  • Take a ride through a private jungle area on the back of an elephant
  • Interact with locals in bustling markets
  • Meet other trekkers at some of the local tea houses
  • See how spirituality has profoundly influenced the region
  • Marvel at the countless amazing feats of architecture
  • Go on a spiritual journey and learn more bout Buddhism
  • View ancient Tibetan texts at the National Library
  • Hike to the renowned Taktsang Monastery overlooking the Paro valley
  • Visit Nepal’s oldest and holiest Hindu temple
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

This tour highlights the must-see cities and attractions throughout India, Bhutan and Nepal. Ride a rickshaw through Delhi’s old city, stroll through the Taj Mahal and look on in awe at the magnitude of the Amber Fort. In Bhutan, visit the stunning Takstang Monastery, soak up the culture in Thimphu and enjoy the Hindu and Buddhist pagoda-styled temples scattered throughout Kathmandu.

As the main point of entry for the country, Paro offers a great introduction to Bhutan, but also hosts an array of must-see sites for any visitor. Among its impressive collection of sacred buildings are the Rimpung Dzong, Ta Dzong, Kiyuchu Lhakang and the Drukgyel Dzong; but perhaps the most impressive of all is the famous Taktsang Monastery, or Tiger’s Nest, that is impressively built into a sheer cliff wall. On a clear day, flying into Paro you will be able to see the towering mountains that jut out of its lush valley floor.

As the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu is the country’s center of government, religion and commerce. With an intriguing mixture of tradition and modernity, this city is home to many Buddhist monks, businessmen, politicians, expatriates, civil servants and most importantly the Kings and Royal Family members. You will be taken to many significant cultural sites including temples, chortens, museums, the National Library, the Painting school and much more.

This tour will let you explore Kathmandu, the capital city of the Himalayan state of Nepal. A spiritual center for Hindus and Buddhists alike, Kathmandu is an intensely urban area woven with narrow alleys, colorful markets and countless temples and shrines. This brief tour is an introduction to Nepal’s intrinsic beauty and proud heritage. Beginning with a tour of Kathmandu City’s best sites, this trip also includes an excursion to the nearby medieval city of Bhaktapur.

Inclusions
Price Includes:
One way domestic and regional airfare from Jaipur to New Delhi, New Delhi to Paro and Paro to Kathmandu, all accommodations with continental or buffet breakfast, service of chauffeured air-conditioned vehicle, one time entrance fees at all monuments, all specified activities, services of English speaking local guide for excursions, all currently applicable taxes including service tax.

Notes:
* The Red Fort in Delhi remains closed on every Monday

* The Taj Mahal in Agra remains closed on every Friday

* Additional supplements may apply between 1 – 20 November, 20 December – 10 January and 1 – 28 February. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more details.
Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 7544

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

International flight to New Delhi

Overnight international flight to New Delhi.

Overnight international flight to New Delhi.

Day
2

Arrival in New Delhi

Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Delhi-India-Gate
Day
3

Tour of New Delhi

Begin a morning tour of Old Delhi with a cycle rickshaw ride through the streets. Make a panoramic visit to the Red Fort, which was the most affluent fort and palace of the once reigning Mughal Empire. Then it’s on to Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. The final stop in Old Delhi will lead to Chandni Chowk (closed on Sunday), a lively and colorful market that was once the commercial center of the city.
Then drive to New Delhi, which will provide a stark contrast between the old and the new; a recurring theme throughout India. In New Delhi visit the India Gate monument, followed by the grounds of the Parliament House and other extravagant government buildings. Then continue to Humayun’s Tomb, built in honor of India’s second Mughal emperor. Later visit the world’s tallest brick minaret, Qutub Minar.

Note: Yampu recommends an optional tour (price not included) to enjoy a fine dinner at the Veda Restaurant, a lavishly designed nouvelle cuisine curry house that offers a fusion of traditional Indian food with a modern spin. A second option is a visit to Akshardham, a unique, yet stunning monument that boasts 234 elaborately carved pillars, 9 decorative domes, 20 quadrangled shikhars (towers of Hindu architecture), stone elephants sculptures, and 20,000 murtis (Hindu images portraying Divine spirits). Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more information.
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Day
4

New Delhi – Agra

Begin with a drive to Agra that will take approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Then proceed for a sightseeing tour of the stunning Taj Mahal, India’s most picture perfect work of architecture and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Driving through the city to the Agra Fort, there will be a great photo op of the local scene and bazaars and the everyday buzz of India. Once at the Agra Fort, stroll through its regal chambers that were once home to some of India’s most powerful Mughal emperors

Note: Yampu recommends an optional tour (cost not included) to a showing of Mohhabbat The Taj, a live show with a touch of Bollywood. This 80 minute presentation is a charming way to top off the day at the Kalakriti Auditorium. Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more details.
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Day
5

Agra – Jaipur

Drive approximately 4-5 hours to Jaipur. En route, stop to enjoy an excursion to the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, the once imperial city of the Mughal dynasty that was mysteriously deserted years after its inception. This ornate city was built with such grandeur that words do not do justice to the glorious atmosphere created by its buildings. Once arrived, check in and have some time to relax before a sound and light show at the city’s Amber Fort.

Drive approximately 4-5 hours to Jaipur. En route, stop to enjoy an excursion to the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, the once imperial city of the Mughal dynasty that was mysteriously deserted years after its inception. This ornate city was built with such grandeur that words do not do justice to the glorious atmosphere created by its buildings. Once arrived, check in and have some time to relax before a sound and light show at the city’s Amber Fort.

Fatehpur-Sikri-India-tour
Day
6

Tour of the Amber Fort

This morning return to the Amber Fort for a half day excursion. Strolling through the magnificent rooms and chambers, observe the various intricate ivory, mirror and glass work. In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour that will begin at the City Palace Museum, followed by a visit to Jantar Mantar (an accurate observatory built in 1726), and great photographic opportunity at the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds – a spectacular five storied, honeycomb styled building exemplifying superb Rajput artistry.

Note: Yampu recommends an optional tour (price not included) of an evening elephant safari. After a chance to feed these gentle creatures, ride upon their backs through a private jungle area, passing many villages, fields and a medieval fortress as the sun sets. Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more information.
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amber-fort-full-size-India
Day
7

New Delhi – Paro

Transfer read more...

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Paro, via New Delhi. In clear weather, the flight into Paro is a befitting introduction to Bhutan, as there are stunning aerial views of the highest mountain peaks in the world that rise out of the lush green Paro Valley. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to Thimphu (55 kms, approx. hours). Spend the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Note: Due to a limited flight schedule into Bhutan, a night in New Delhi might need to be added. Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more details.
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bhutan-paro
Day
8

Tour of Paro

Visit several sites around the city today, beginning with the National Memorial Chorten. Erected in 1974 to honor His Late Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, this large Tibetan styled chorten (or stupa) exhibits many religious paintings and tantric statues that reflect several aspects of Buddhist Deities.
Carry on to Changangkha Lhakhang, an old fortress styled temple. Also the site of a monastic school, this temple offers excellent views of Thimphu as it is perched on a ridge above the city. From here, a brief trip to the mini zoo (essentially a large fenced in area) is in order, where one can see the Takin – the national animal of Bhutan.
Then, go to Thimphu’s telecommunication tower, which is situated on a hillside (2865m) offering great photographic scenes of Thimphu Valley. Covered in prayer flags, the complex houses the Bhutan TV studio and although it cannot be photographed, the views of the valley are definitely worth the trip. With the remaining time in the day, enjoy a visit to the Paper Factory, where traditional Bhutanese paper is produced from the Daphne plant.
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national-memorial-chorten-tourism-council-bhutan
Day
9

Tour of the National Library & Zorig Chusum

Today, begin with a visit to the National Library, which was founded in 1967 and preserves many ancient Dzongkha and Tibetan texts. On the upper floor, one can see traditional Tibetan styled books that are written on long strips of handmade paper, stacked between pieces of wood and wrapped in silken cloth. Several wooden blocks that are used for printing books and prayer flags as well as a collection of more contemporary books can also be seen.
Next, visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Thimphu’s popular painting school that offers a six year course with teachings of traditional Bhutanese arts. Beginning with drawing, the students follow a curriculum that progresses to painting, woodcarving, embroidery and statue making.
Also on the list for the day is the National Institute for Traditional Medicine, which is an impressively large lab that dispenses herbal and other medicines. Follow this with a leisurely visit to the National Textile Museum to learn about the national art of weaving. The Folk Heritage Museum is also worth a visit, as it is a unique three story mud and timber building that acts as a living museum to give visitors insight into the ancient Bhutanese lifestyles.
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Day
10

Tour of Paro’s Monasteries

Morning read more...

Morning transfer back to Paro. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the Ta Dzong – a uniquely round building that is said to be built in the shape of a conch shell. Within its interior is the National Museum of the Kingdom, which displays a remarkable collection of Thangkhas, an extensive philatelic collection, ancient bronze and stone objects, statues as well as a variety of ancient weapons and shields.
Also visit the Paro Dzong also referred to as the Rimpung Dzong. Constructed in 1644, today it encompasses a monastic school and several government offices, including that of the local governor. Afterwards, enjoy a short walk down the nearby hill, where a traditional cantilever bridge over the beautifully flowing Paro River will be crossed.
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Paro's-Dzong-bhutan
Day
11

Hike to Taktsang Monastery & Kyichu Lhakhang

In the morning hike to the renowned Taktsang Monastery (3100m), which literally translates to Tiger’s Nest. Built in the 1600s, this monastery impressively clings to a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters to the valley floor. According to ancient legend, the Buddhist Guru Rinpoche flew to this site on the back of a tigress to subdue the eight evil spirits that were preventing to spread of Buddhism into the area. Tragically, the original monastery was destroyed by a fire in 1998, however it has been recently built in its original form. After an hour and a half walk up the hill, enjoy lunch at this magnificent spot.
After lunch, walk back to the base to embark on a short drive north to the Drukgyel Dzong, which was built in 1649 to commemorate Bhutan’s many victories over the Tibetan invaders. Sadly, this Dzong also fell victim to an accidental fire, yet its ancient ruins remain. However, on a clear day, the amazing 7314m (24,000 ft) sacred Mount Jomolhari can be clearly seen.
Lastly, visit one of the two oldest lhakhangs (or monasteries) in the county, the Kyichu Lhakhang. This building was constructed in the year 659 CE by the Tibetan King Songsten Gyampo. One of the 108 temples built by this king, it is said to hold down the left foot of an ancient demoness.
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Taktsang-Monastery
Day
12

Paro – Kathmandu

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

stupa-kathmandu-nepal
Day
13

Tour of Kathmandu City

Enjoy a guided tour of Kathmandu City beginning with Kumari Ghar – home to Nepal’s most important living goddess, and the Hanuman Dhoka Palace. Then, proceed to the Kal Brairab shrine, a colorful memorial to the Hindu God of destruction, followed by a visit to Taleju Temple, the city’s most magnificent temple.

Afterwards, embark on a sightseeing tour of the Swayambhunath Stupa. Celebrated as one of the oldest Buddhist stupas in the world, this majestic structure sits highly on a nearby hilltop overlooking Kathmandu Valley (The April 2015 earthquake caused major damage to this Heritage Site and reconstruction is currently taking place). In the afternoon, travel through Patan, the “City of Fine Arts”. Stroll through the famous Durbar Square, where Krishna Mandir, a temple built in honor of Lord Krishna that is considered to be the world’s finest example of stone architecture, can be seen. While walking around, enjoy the many traditional artists and sculptors throughout the streets (Due to the April 2015 earthquake, some of the temples here have been damaged and reconstruction is under process.)

Note: Yampu recommends and optional one hour mountain flight for unforgettable aerial views of the Himalayas. Experience the thrill of seeing Mount Everest up close, as the plane flies two aeronautical miles in front of the Natural Wonder. Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more details.
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kathmandu-nepal-monks
Day
14

Tour of Pashupatinath, Boudhanath & Bhaktapur

Morning read more...

Morning visit to Pashupatinath, Nepal’s oldest and most holy Hindu temple. Situated upon the banks of the Bagmati River, this is an important ritual and cremation site, as the water flows into the Ganges. Proceed to Bouddhanath, one of Asia’s largest stupas that has earned the nickname of “Little Tibet”, as it has become a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism. Standing tall at thirty-six meters (118 ft), this white mandala-shaped structure is a symbol of the universe that facilitates meditation for the local Tibetan Buddhists (The top portion of the Stupa was slightly damaged by the April 2015 earthquake. Currently renovation is under process.)

In the afternoon, go on an excursion to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, located about an hour’s drive outside of Kathmandu. In this “City of Devotees”, wander through the winding lanes lined with old homes and temples that date back to the 13th century. Beginning in the city’s Durbar Square, marvel at the intricately carved deities and monsters of the richly molded Golden Gate before entering the Palace of 55 Windows that incorporates exquisite wood carvings into its medieval design. (Bhaktapur is one of the most affected areas of the April 2015 earthquake. Renovation is currently under process.)

Then, see the Lion’s Gate, with its huge guarding lion statues, before continuing to the Nyatpola Temple, a beautiful five-storied, 17th century pagoda. The last stop of the day will lead to the splendorous Bhairab Temple, which is dedicated to the Lord Buddha. Before returning to Kathmandu, take some time to watch the skill of the traditional potters as they work at the Pottery Centre and the Dattratraya Temple.
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bhaktapur
Day
15

International flight home

Depending on departure time, spend the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.

Depending on departure time, spend the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.

New Delhi, Delhi, India

Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

paro, Bihar, India

Taktsang Lhakhang, Paro, Bhutan

Kathmandu, Central Region, Nepal

Kathmandu, Central Region, Nepal

Pashupatinath, Kathmandu, Central Region, Nepal

Places You'll See

  • Jama-Masjid-India

    Delhi

    Home to India’s largest mosque, the Red Fort, Delhi is abundant in historical artifacts and cultural events. Visit the Baha’i Lotus Temple, a beautiful building in the shape of a lotus bud, or the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art. To get a real taste of area, take a food tour to experience the local cuisine. Or take a peaceful morning walk in the Lodhi Garden.

  • for-agra-India

    Agra

    Visit the famous Taj Mahal, one of the New 7 Wonders of the world, in Agra. Take a guided tour through the immense, white marble mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife, a true monument of love. While in Agra, also visit the Agra Fort, mainly constructed from sandstone, it’s more of a palace than a defense structure.

  • Amber-Fort-Jaipur-India

    Jaipur

    Nicknames the Pink City, Jaipur is home to several enticing attractions. Visit the Amber Fort, once the royal palace for the Kachwahas, and see the impressive evening light show. Explore the massive City Palace inside the old city. Take a peaceful stroll through one of the many gardens, or purchase some unique souvenirs at the city center bazaar.

  • paro-valley-bhutan

    Paro

    Visit the many historical sites scattered throughout the small, yet exquisite town of Paro. Hike up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, precariously perched on the edge of a cliff, or see the display of Bhutan’s historical artifacts at the National Museum of Bhutan. Walk along the streets lined with traditional architecture and beautifully decorated buildings housing shops and restaurants.

  • Thimpu-street-Bhutan

    Thimphu

    This ever developing small village is the heart of Bhutan. Monks in traditional dress lining the streets beside camera wielding tourists is part of Thimphu’s small town charm. Buy traditional and modern goods from the quaint stores and markets, or visit Trashi Chhoe dzong, admiring the red-and-gold, triple-tiered roofs.

  • kathmandu-nepal-silhouette

    Kathmandu

    As the largest city and capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is a great place for exciting adventures and amazing sightseeing opportunities. Visit the Monkey Temple, a sacred Buddhist site, or the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, once a royal palace. Or simply roam the streets, mingling with the locals.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Delhi : Justa Greater Kailash

Agra : Hotel Amar

Jaipur : Alsisar Haveli

4 Star Properties

Delhi : The Royal Plaza

Agra : Agra Trident Oberoi

Jaipur : Jaipur Trident Oberoi

Paro : Olathang Hotel

Thimphu : Hotel Druk

Thimphu : Hotel Galingkha

Thimphu : Phuntsho Pelri

Kathmandu : Hotel Himalaya

5 Star Properties

Delhi : The Claridges

Agra : ITC Mughal Agra

Jaipur : Jaimahal Palace

Kathmandu : Hotel Yak & Yeti

Kathmandu : Hotel Dwarika

Luxury Properties

Delhi : The Oberoi

Agra : Amarvilas

Jaipur : Oberoi Rajvilas,

Jaipur : Taj Rambagh Palace

Jaipur : Sujan Rajmahal Palace

Paro : Amankora Paro

Thimphu : Amankora Thimphu

Testimonials

Don

Traveled December, 2012

Everything was great and I have no complaints

Everything was great and I have no complaints. I’ve been the Delhi before but never Varanasi. Truly the toilet bowl of the world. Dirtier than my own mouth, if you can believe it. However, at the same time it was an amazing experience.

Traveled To

Barbara

Traveled December, 2014

The trip was fantastic

From a travel agent: They were thrilled with the trip, so thank you very much for taking such good care of them. From the client: The trip was fantastic. The one comment which we all repeated over and over was how well it was planned and that everything was perfection.

Traveled To


Jim

Traveled November, 2016

Trip has been great!

Trip has been great!

Traveled To

Let Us Customize This Trip For You

Our World Experts offer full support and dedication to customizing this tour to fit your wishlist - We can mix and match experiences, hotels and highlights to fit your budget and taste.

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