Trip Introduction: Bhutan and Nepal Retreat Tour
Bhutan is a landlocked country in Asia that shares its border with China and India and lies in south-central Asia. The country of Bhutan is also known as Druk Yul or “The Land of the Thunder Dragon” due to the wild thunderstorm that strikes the valley from the peaks of the Himalayas. The Himalayan region of Bhutan lies on the southern end with Gangkhar Puensum (7,570m/24,840 ft) being the highest mountain in the country.
The country of Bhutan is marked with beautiful and colorful monasteries, gompa, stupas, and monuments that broadcast the rich cultural and religious practices that have been persisting in Bhutan for a long time. The Bhutanese follow Buddhism, typically Vajrayana Buddhism as the main religion. Similarly, the dominance of Buddhism in Bhutan can be seen through the occasional occurrence of colorful prayer flags, prayer wheels, thanka paintings, costumes, chortens, and statues that showcase the Buddhist culture.
There are various must-visit places in Bhutan including Rinpung Dzong, Paro Taktsang, National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, Punakha, Chimi Lhakhang, and many more.
The Rinpung Dzong is also known as Paro Dzong which is a large Buddhist monastery that has been listed as a tentative site for World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Likewise, the Paro Taktsang is also a Buddhist monastery which is the most popular one all around the world. The Paro Taktsang is also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery where it is believed that Guru Padmasambhava practiced and taught Vajrayana.
Another place of interest is the National Memorial Chorten which is located in Thimphu. The National Memorial Chorten does not have any human enshrines however contains a photo of Druk Gyalpo in a ceremonial dress. Likewise, the Buddha Dordenma is another attraction of Bhutan which is a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue that was built to celebrate the 60th anniversary of fourth king Jigme Singye Wangchuk.
Consequently, the Punakha Dzong which is also known as the Palace of Great Happiness is the second oldest and second largest dzong of Bhutan. The Punakha Dzong also houses the school of Tibetan Buddhism including Rangjung Kharsapani.
Lastly, the Chimi Lhakhang, or Chimi Monastery is located in the Punakha district of Bhutan. It is said that Lama Drukpa Kunley sustained a demon with his magic thunderbolt of wisdom and trapped the demon in a rock.
Similarly, Nepal is another landlocked country that lies between India and China. Nepal is home to the highest mountain of the world Mount Everest which gives it the name the land of Mt Everest. Nepal is a rich country of culture and religion where mainly Hinduism is followed. The country of Nepal is also home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites which are some of the best attractions that showcase the rich cultural and religious background.
The Pashupatinath which is also the oldest Hindu temple is one of the major destinations for sightseeing tours in Nepal. Similarly, the Swayambhunath temple which is also known as the monkey temple is a hilltop location where the blend of Hinduism and Buddhism can be seen. Likewise, the Kathmandu Durbar Square of Hanumandhoka Durbar Square is another top place to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal. The Durbar Square is a Newari architectural site where temples and structures with intricate Newari carvings can be seen. The prominent things of the Kathmandu Durbar Square are the Kal Bhairav stupa, Kumari Ghar, Taleju Bhawani, Nasal Chowk, Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum, Jagannath Temple, Mahendrashwar Temple and many more.
Similarly, the Boudhanath stupa is another UNESCO world heritage site which is a popular stop for those who wish to learn more about Buddhism in Nepal. The white dome-shaped structure of the Boudhanath stupa is marked by colorful prayer flags and prayer wheels carved with mantras.
On the other hand, the Bhutan Nepal tour Package can be done all year round and is suitable for individuals with adequate physical fitness. Similarly, the Bhutan Nepal tour can be done solo or in groups with friends, family, the elderly, or children.
Although various permits are required to enter Bhutan Trekking Planner will help individuals to gain these permits for a hassle-free tour and adventure experience. Similarly, taking a guide during the visit to Bhutan is compulsory which enables one to get full information about the landmark and explain small details.
Likewise, individuals joining Trekking Planner will be accommodated in five-star hotels with full facilities and amenities. These hotels provide good bed and blanket facilities with internet access, hot showers, electricity, and a medium for communication. So, join hands for a wonderful experience in Bhutan and grab this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
How does the Bhutan Nepal Retreat tour start and end?
The Bhutan Nepal Retreat tour starts with the arrival from Paro Airport. After the arrival in Paro head towards Rinpung Dzong. The Rinpung Dzong is a Buddhist monastery that houses the district monastic body as well as the administrative offices of Paro. There are fourteen shrines and chapels inside the Rinpung Dzong including Kungarwa, the Monk’s assembly hall, the protector’s shrine, the clear crystal shrine, the Chapel of Akshobhya, the Chapel of the head lama, and many more.
As the excursion of Paro completes head towards Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Upon reaching Thimphu, visit the top attractions of Thimphu including Buddha Dordenma and National Memorial Chorten. The Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic statue of Shakyamuni Buddha that houses over one thousand small Buddha statues that resemble the Buddha Dordenma. Similarly, the statues are made with gold and bronze which symbolizes peace and harmony.
On the other hand, the national memorial chorten is a landmark constructed by the mother of Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in his memory. One can settle in the chorten for a guided meditation session or explore the culture around the chorten. They can see intricate architecture, and circumambulate the chorten while spinning the prayer wheels and mumbling the mantras. Likewise, one can have a deeper understanding of the culture, tradition, and significance of the monument.
As a wonderful time in Thimphu, the Bhutan Nepal Tranquil Retreat Package route takes individuals to Punakha which is another beautiful district in Bhutan. Upon arriving at Punakha, the hike to Chimi Lhakhang initiates. The hike to Chimi Lhakhang provides a suitable option to explore the hiking trails of Bhutan with time to admire its natural beauty. The hike also provides an opportunity to see the flora and fauna present in Bhutan. When reaching the hilltop of Chimi Lhakhang explore the premise which is also known as the fertility temple. It is believed that the Chimi Lhakhang was blessed by the Divine Madman so many childless couples visit the Lhakhang to seek blessing from the monk to get the offering of child.
With the completion of a sightseeing tour in Punakha, transfer to Paro to visit Paro Taktsang or the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The Tiger’s Nest monastery is called so because according to the myth, it is believed that Guru Rinpoche flew to the location riding on a tigress for meditation hence giving the name Tiger’s Nest. It is also said that the meditation lasted for three years, three months, three weeks, and three days.
In the Paro Taktsang, one can see breathtaking views with the cliffside being approximately 900 meters off the ground. As well as a visit to Paro Taktsang aims to understand the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of the monastery. While taking photographs inside the monastery is strictly prohibited, the visit is sure to fill one’s heart with peace and sanctity. Likewise, two viewing platforms are surrounded by colorful prayer flags.
After a beautiful time spent in Paro, individuals will fly to Kathmandu, Nepal to further enhance the sightseeing experience. Upon landing in Kathmandu, start the sightseeing tour of some of the top attractions of Kathmandu. The sightseeing tour includes a visit to some of the prestigious places of Kathmandu, Nepal. Begin the tour of Kathmandu from Swayambhunath temple which is also known as Monkey temple. The Swayambhunath stupa is a blend of Hinduism and Buddhism that is portrayed by the paintings, temples, sculptures, and paintings. Similarly, the temple is located on a hilltop location that shows a panoramic view of Kathmandu city. With an excursion of the stupa head onto the Kathmandu Durbar Square is a plaza that is located in the southern side of the Kathmandu Valley. The Durbar Square is also known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square due to the presence of the statue of Hanuman at the entrance. The main attractions of the square are the Kal Bhairav statue, Shiva Parbati temple, Kumari Ghar, Taleju Temple, Jagannath Temple, Nasal Chowk, Narasingha statue, and many more. One can see intricate Newari carvings and architecture here thus listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.
After the visit to Durbar square head onto the Boudhanath stupa which is another UNESCO world heritage site. The Boudhanath stupa is a white dome structure that represents Mount Sumeru (the king of mountains). Similarly, the stupa is of great importance to the Buddhist religion. During the visit, one can circumnutate the structure while spinning the prayer wheels carved with mantras. The premise of Boudhanath also houses many stores for souvenirs and good food. A wide range of Tibetan cuisines are also available here so be sure to taste some.
Later head towards Pashupatinath temple for exploration. The Pashupatinath temple is the oldest Hindu temple that is dedicated to lord Shiva (the destroyer). The temple is of great religious significance to Hindus and non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the main temple. Although the rule forbids non-Hindus from entering the main temple, people can still enjoy the beauty of the Pashupatinath premise. The main attractions beside the primary temple include Mukhalinga, Shiva Parbati Temple, western cremation ghats, Gorakhnath Temple, Guhyeshwari Temple, and many more. Similarly, the temple also hosts Sandhya Aarati which takes place on the banks of the Bagmati River daily between 6 to 7 P.M.
With the sightseeing tour of Kathmandu coming to an end head towards Bhaktapur district. The main attraction of Bhaktapur is the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a royal palace complex situated in the Bhaktapur district of Nepal. The square is considered the museum of medieval art and architecture which consists of various sculptures, paintings, artifacts, temples, and intricate wooden carvings. The top attractions of Bhaktapur Durbar Square are the 55-window palace, Golden Gate, Lions Gate, mini Pashupatinath Temple, Vatsala Temple, Bhairab Nath Temple, and the Nyatapola Temple. One can see all these attractions during the visit to Bhaktapur and click photographs.
Similarly, when the visit to the Bhaktapur Durbar Square concludes, individuals will head on to their destination and prepare to leave Kathmandu, Nepal which ends the Bhutan Nepal Tranquil Retreat package with Trekking Planner Nepal. We bid farewell and wish to meet again in the future. Best wishes.
What is the best season for Nepal and Bhutan Tour Package?
The best season for Nepal and Bhutan Tour is all year round. This means the Bhutan and Nepal tours can be done all around the year with ease. Similarly, the best time to travel to Nepal and Bhutan depends upon the choice of the individual at which time they are free or want to visit the nation. However, based on weather conditions, the best recommended season to visit Bhutan and Nepal are spring and autumn. The spring season in Nepal lasts from March to May and autumn in Nepal lasts from September to November. Whereas, the spring season in Bhutan lasts from March to April, and autumn in Bhutan lasts from September to October.
So, within these seasons the weather and climate are most favorable for comfortable tour conditions. Likewise, the winter and summer are also seasons where visitors can have Bhutan and Nepal trips. However, the winter season is marked by extremely cold temperatures, and the summer season is marked by heavy rainfall and extremely hot temperatures. So, during these periods temperature and climate may cause some problems during the tour or else, they are also quite favorable for the tour.
Tour in Spring
The Bhutan and Nepal tour in spring is one of the best seasons to embark on the multi-country journey. The temperature is moderate with longer days that allow longer time for exploration. Similarly, spring days in both Bhutan and Nepal have clear skies that portray unobstructed views of mountains thus allowing visitors to see panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains.
Visiting prominent places in Bhutan and Nepal including the monasteries and Durbar Square during the springtime provides a fantastic experience. The springtime is when the flowers come to full bloom which adds an extra touch of beauty during the tour. Similarly, the Paro Tshechu one of the most significant festivals of Bhutan falls during spring. So, visitors get to see traditional and masked dances while getting a deep understanding of the culture and traditions of Bhutan.
Tour in Autumn
The Bhutan and Nepal tour in autumn is another best season to embark on this multi-country journey. The temperature in autumn is moderate with clear skies where the mountains and landscapes are visible. There are chances of early rainfall in the higher elevation, however, nothing that is drastic to obstruct the tour. Likewise, during the autumn season both Nepal and Bhutan have grand festivals where in Nepal, Dashain and Tihar are celebrated and in Bhutan Thangbi Mani, Jhomolhari Mountain festival, and Chhukka Teschu are celebrated. So autumn season provides an opportunity to immerse in these festivals.
Accommodation during Nepal and Bhutan retreat tour
There are several accommodation options offered by Trekking Planner Nepal while on a tour to Bhutan and Nepal. The accommodation option ranges from luxury resorts to traditional houses. The accommodation in the Nepal and Bhutan tour package depends upon the budget of the individual, which means the accommodation can be arranged as per the individual's wish on how much they want to spend for the night. Those who want to spend on luxury can be accommodated in the highest level of hotels with premium rooms and facilities while those who want to spend in a budget-friendly manner are accommodated in traditional houses. Similarly, there is also the option for medium-range accommodation option for the suitability of all kinds of travelers.
The accommodation options during the stay in Nepal and Bhutan are explained below:
- Luxury houses: These are the most expensive type of accommodation option during the Tour of Bhutan and Nepal. Visitors to Nepal and Bhutan are accommodated in 3-star to 4-star hotels with premium amenities. Attach bathrooms, hot showers, internet access, and quality room service are some of the facilities in luxury hotels. The ambiance, comfort, safety, and cleanliness are top-notch with little to no room for complaint. Similarly, we can also arrange additional luxury facilities like a spa, sauna, yoga, and meditation during your stay.
- Adventure lodges: Adventure lodges are another type of accommodation option available on the Bhutan and Nepal tour map. While the stay in adventure lodges provides comfort, they also add an extra sense of adventure during the travel. However, such lodges are only available in some strategic locations in both Bhutan and Nepal. The adventure lodges are available in national parks, recreational areas, and trekking trails in Nepal. Similarly, such lodges provide opportunities for adventure activities like campfire, camping, sunset viewing, and BBQ.
- Guesthouses: They are the medium-range accommodation option during the travel. Those who wish to spend the night in guesthouses have the opportunity to taste local traditional cuisines and interact with the locals to get an understanding of their culture, tradition, and way of life. Likewise, the reasonably priced guesthouses aid in sustainable travel and provide an authentic experience.
- Budget accommodation: They are the cheapest accommodation option available during the Bhutan and Nepal tour. Similarly, the budget accommodation provides cost-effective bed and blanket facilities with minimum amenities. So, visitors should keep an open mind if they wish to continue the journey through such accommodation. Such accommodation is available in Bhutan and Nepal, cities, and towns for convenience.
Electricity, Communication, Internet, and Bathroom facilities during the Nepal and Bhutan Tour
The electricity, communication, internet, and bathroom facilities are some of the most crucial aspects of a multinational tour. So, a proper understanding of how these facilities persist in Nepal and Bhutan must be thoroughly developed. To know about such amenities during the Nepal and Bhutan Tranquil retreat package Trekking Planner Pvt. Ltd has brought a brief description.
Electricity: During the visit to Bhutan and Nepal, electricity is not a problem. All the hotels and cafes are well equipped with uninterrupted power supply. However, if there are electricity shortages that are minimal in occurrence, then all the hotels have a backup power supply. Similarly, hotels and lodges do not charge an additional amount for electricity and such hotels have round hole two-pin and three-pin outlets that run on 220/240 volts.
While on the tour if the battery is running low on the electric devices charging can be arranged upon request in restaurants. However, it is recommended to carry additional batteries or a power bank for recharging the electric devices. However, during the flight to Bhutan, the airplane isn’t allowed to carry a power bank and lithium batteries in the checked baggage which must be kept in hand carry. The power bank should not exceed 27000 mAh storage.
Communication: The international calls during the Bhutan and Nepal tours can be done via the Internet. These countries have a good network of telecommunication facilities with internet café and IDD calling booths. Likewise, Trekking Planner Pvt. Ltd provides Nepalese SIM card facilities to customers to ease communication facility during their stay in Nepal. Similarly, the SIM card of Bhutan is also available which should be purchased after landing in the country. This sim card allows individuals to make international phone calls and surf the internet at a minimum price. However, international calls can be a little expensive.
Internet and Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi and the Internet are widely accessible in Bhutan and Nepal. Major towns and cities are well equipped with internet facilities however places with free wi-fi are limited. Uninterrupted Wi-Fi is available in hotels and lodges as well as in café and restaurants. The SIM card for Nepal, as well as Bhutan, can also offer cheap data packs for easy and accessible internet browsing.
Bathroom and Showers: The hotel rooms provided by Trekking Planner are all equipped with attached bathroom facilities. The water supply in the bathroom is uninterrupted with the availability of both hot and cold water. Similarly, the source of hot water is mainly solar studded or geezer. However, it is difficult to find hot water for showers during camping or in adventure lodges.
What are the documents necessary to enter Nepal?
The Himalayan country of Nepal is accessible through aero planes from various parts of the world. Once associated with Trekking Planner, the company can help to arrange flights to Nepal. however, certain documents are required to enter Nepal which is as follows:
- A passport with six months or more validity remaining at the time of entry
- One blank page in the passport for visa
- Visa appropriate purpose of travel
- Vaccinations suggested but not mandatory
- Nepalese currency
- Two copies of the passport-size photo
What are the documents required to enter Bhutan?
As one is associated with Trekking Planner Pvt. Ltd the flight ticket to Bhutan can be arranged. However, the following documents should be brought to enter the country of Bhutan.
- Passport validity: Six months from date of arrival
- Blank Passport pages: One page is required for entry stamp
- Vaccinations: Suggested but not mandatory
- Currency restrictions for entry: USD 10,000 only
- Currency restrictions for exit: USD 10,000 only
- Passport size photo: Two copies or more
Is Travel Insurance Required for Bhutan and Nepal Tranquil Retreat Tour?
Although Nepal and Bhutan are safe countries it is always better to be prepared for a worst-case scenario. So even though travel insurance is not mandatory, purchasing travel insurance can help to safeguard against such unforeseen circumstances. However, it is necessary to understand that Trekking Planner Pvt Ltd doesn’t provide a travel insurance facility and should be purchased from an authorized insurance company. To select the insurance policy be sure to purchase the insurance that compensates against:
- Flight cancelation and delays
- Medical emergencies and evacuation
- Loss of baggage or theft
- Adventure sports
- Personal liability
- Equipment coverage
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Paro-Visit to Rinpung Dzong
Day 2: Transfer to Thimphu-Visit Buddha Dordenma and National Memorial Chorten
Day 3: Transfer to Punakha-Hike to Chimi Lhakhang
Day 4: Hike to Paro Taktsang-Fly to Kathmandu
Day 5: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu
Day 6: Day trip to Bhaktapur
Day 7: Depart from Kathmandu
