Bhutan and Nepal Tour Package: Visa and Permit Information
Travelling between Bhutan and Nepal involves visa and permit procedures, but there is no need to worry. Our GAT team manages all Bhutan travel documentation and permit arrangements on your behalf.
Nepal Visa
Most travellers can easily get a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Your passport should be valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond your travel date. For faster processing, travelers can also apply online in advance through Nepal’s e-visa system.
Bhutan Visa and Permit Details
Bhutan visas are to be processed and approved before arrival. All international visitors, except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, require a pre-approved Bhutan visa. A one-time visa fee of USD 40 per person applies.
Travelers must also pay Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), currently USD 100 per person per night for international visitors. Indian nationals are subject to an SDF of INR 1,200 per night. Children under 6 years are exempt from SDF charges, while children aged 6 to 12 receive a 50% discount.
A Bhutan visa clearance letter is mandatory before boarding your flight to Bhutan. Travel within Bhutan also requires a licensed guide, and additional permits are needed for the restricted areas beyond standard tourist destinations. Travel insurance is strongly encouraged for all travelers.
Note: Global Adventure Trekking (GAT) handles all visa and processing, Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), visa clearance, permits, and all required travel arrangements.
Best Time to Visit Premium Nepal and Bhutan Tour
If you’re planning to visit Nepal and Bhutan on a combined tour, it depends greatly on the season you choose. The best times to visit are spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November) for this 13-day Nepal and Bhutan holiday package, thanks to stable weather, exceptional Himalayan views, and vibrant festival calendars.
March, April, and May (Spring Season): Best Season for Nepal and Bhutan Tour
Spring is widely regarded as one of the best times to travel to Nepal and Bhutan together. The weather remains mild and comfortable, with blooming rhododendron forests across Nepal’s hillsides and Bhutan’s mountain trails. Pleasant daytime temperatures and consistently clear skies make an ideal season for Kathmandu sightseeing, Pokhara Valley views, and the Tiger’s Nest hike in Paro.
Spring is ideal for:
- Rhododendron blooming landscapes across Nepal and Bhutan.
- The best weather condition to hike in Paro’s Tiger’s Nest is in the spring.
- Paro Tsechu festival in Bhutan.
- Best time for Nepal and Bhutan photography tours.
- Recommended for first-time Himalayan visitors planning a Nepal-Bhutan combined tour.
September, October, and November (Autumn Season): Best Time to Visit Bhutan and Nepal Together
Autumn is best for:
- Autumn is widely regarded as the absolute best season for the following:
- Crystal-clear views of Everest (8,848.86 m), Annapurna (8,091 m), and Bhutan’s Himalayan peaks.
- The Thimphu Tsechu festival offers an impressive experience of Bhutan’s living Buddhist culture.
- Peak season for wildlife and cultural tours in both Nepal and Bhutan.
- Ideal trekking conditions for iconic hikes like the Tiger’s Nest hike.
- Best overall season for booking Nepal-Bhutan tour packages in 2026 and 2027.
December, January, and February (Winter Season): Nepal and Bhutan Tour in Winter
Winter is a great time for travelers looking for an affordable Nepal and Bhutan tour package with fewer crowds and peaceful travel experiences. Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan remain suitable for sightseeing, while Bhutan’s Punakha Valley stays warmer and hosts colorful festivals like Punakha Drubchen and Punakha Tsechu in February.
Winter highlights:
- Lower Nepal and Bhutan tour package prices.
- Fewer tourists and peaceful sightseeing.
- Clear mountain views.
- Better wildlife spotting in Chitwan National Park.
- The best time to visit Punakha Valley and the winter festivals.
June, July, and August (Monsoon Season): Green Season
The monsoon turns Nepal and Bhutan into lush green landscapes with fresh mountain scenery and fewer visitors. While rainfall in Nepal may affect some outdoor activities, Bhutan remains relatively scenic during this season.
Monsoon features:
- Beautiful green atmosphere.
- Fewer crowds at major attractions.
- Peaceful off-season travel experience.
- Less suitable for Tiger’s Nest hikes and Chitwan safaris due to rain conditions.
Bhutan and Nepal Trip Difficulty and Fitness Level
The 13-day Bhutan and Nepal trip package is graded as easy to moderate and is suitable for most travelers, including families, couples, solo travelers, and first-time visitors to the Himalayas. No trekking experience, technical skills, or special training is required. The journey focuses on cultural sightseeing, scenic drives, wildlife experiences, and light walking activities.
Overall Trip Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Most days involved easy sightseeing, comfortable travel, and short walks around cultural and natural attractions. The only moderately challenging activity is the hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan.
Activities during the tour include:
- Kathmandu and Pokhara sightseeing with easy walking.
- Chitwan jungle safari and nature activities.
- Cultural tours in Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro.
- Scenic viewpoints and monastery visits.
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike in Bhutan.
Tiger’s Nest Hike: The Most Active Day
The hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) is the most physically challenging part of the trip.
- Duration: Approx. 5 to 6 hours round trip
- Elevation gain: Around 900 meters.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Altitude: 3,120 meters
Pony rides (horse riding) are available at the halfway point for easier access.
Most of the travelers with average fitness complete the hike comfortably with regular rest breaks.
Altitude Information:
This Bhutan-Nepal combined tour does not involve high-altitude trekking. The highest points reached are:
- Dochula Pass: 3,100 meters
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery: 3,120 Meters
Altitude sickness is uncommon, but staying hydrated and maintaining a relaxed pace is recommended.
Fitness Preparation:
No intensive preparation is necessary. To enjoy your Nepal Bhutan holiday comfortably:
- Walk 30 to 45 minutes regularly before travel.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Stay hydrated.
- Rest properly before the hike to Tiger’s Nest.
Luxury Food and Dining Experience in Nepal and Bhutan
A Nepal and Bhutan vacation is not just about a destination; it is thoughtfully arranged to provide both comfort and an authentic cultural experience. Throughout your journey to Nepal and Bhutan, you’ll enjoy a combination of local Himalayan cuisine and popular international foods.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, accommodation is provided on a Modified American Plan (MAP plan), which includes daily breakfast and one meal (either lunch or dinner).
In Chitwan and Bhutan, the package operates on an American Plan (AP plan) with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included daily. Chitwan meals are served in the jungle resorts, and Bhutan meals are provided throughout your stay as part of the mandatory tourism package arrangements.
During the trip, you can enjoy a variety of local and international cuisine:
- Traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and achar), momo, Newari foods, and continental, Asian, and Western options are in Kathmandu.
- Traditional, typical Thakali meals (rice, lentil soup, vegetables, curry, achar, papad, hot butter, curd, and salad) and continental, Asian, and Western options in Pokhara.
- Traditional Tharu food, like sticky rice wrapped in a banana leaf, vegetables, non-veg curry (chicken, mutton, or fish), achar, and continental, Asian, and Western menus are available in Chitwan.
- Bhutan featured local specialties, including red rice, ema datshi, fresh vegetables, noodles, soups, and traditional Bhutanese dishes prepared with regional flavors.
- Vegetarian meals available.
- Vegan and special dietary requests available with advance notice.
Meals are served in carefully selected hotels and restaurants that maintain good hygiene and quality standards. Call our GAT expert!
Premium Accommodation in Bhutan and Nepal Himalayan Holiday Trip
Premium accommodation is an important part of this 13-day Nepal and Bhutan Himalayan holiday trip. Throughout the journey, Global Adventure Trekking carefully selects well-rated 4-star superior hotels, boutique resorts, and comfortable lodges that offer an indulgent and enjoyable stay across both countries.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will stay in elegantly appointed 4-star hotels with spacious superior rooms, premium in-room amenities, high-speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning, climate control, and easy access to major sightseeing areas, restaurants, and local markets. Many hotels also feature mountain or city views, peaceful garden areas, and quality in-house dining.
During your Chitwan National Park stay, accommodation is provided in a stellar jungle resort surrounded by nature. These resorts offer generously sized rooms, lush garden settings, swimming pools, a spa, wellness facilities, and easy access to safari activities and cultural programs.
In Bhutan, accommodation includes exclusively selected 4-star hotels and traditional Bhutanese-style boutique resorts in Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Bhutan hotels combine contemporary luxury with authentic local architecture (hand-painted woodwork, timber-framed interiors), warm hospitality, peaceful surroundings, and scenic valley views, creating a memorable Himalayan cultural experience.
| Travel Destination |
Accommodation Category |
Hotels |
| Kathmandu, Nepal |
Luxury 4-star Hotel |
Ramada Hotel/Aarya Hotel |
| Pokhara, Nepal |
Luxury 4-star Hotel |
Mount Kailash Resort/Hotel Landmark |
| Chitwan National Park, Nepal |
Luxury 4-star Jungle Resort |
Green Park Resort/Landmark Forest Park |
| Thimphu, Bhutan |
Luxury 4-star Bhutanese Hotel |
Termalinca Resort/Norkhil Boutique |
| Punakha, Bhutan |
Luxury 4-star Bhutanese Hotel |
Dhensa Boutique/RKPO Resort |
| Paro, Bhutan |
Luxury 4-star Resort |
Naksel Boutique/Termalinca Resort |
All accommodations included in this Nepal and Bhutan holiday package are chosen for:
- Cleanliness and hygiene standards
- Elegantly selected rooms with premium bedding
- Friendly hospitality and professional service
- Convenient sightseeing locations
- Secure, serene, and exclusive environments
- Quality food and dining experience
Note: For travelers seeking additional comfort and exclusivity, luxury 5-star hotel upgrades are available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and Bhutan upon request. Luxury upgrades may include premium suites, spa facilities, wellness centers, luxury resorts, private balconies, and upgraded mountain-view rooms.
Whether you choose the standard 3-star and 4-star option or a 5-star luxury Nepal and Bhutan tour upgrade, every accommodation is selected to provide comfort, relaxation, and the best travel experience throughout your Himalayan journey.
First-Class Transportation and Travel Information in Nepal and Bhutan Tour
International Flight: Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu
The flight between Kathmandu and Paro is a mesmerizing scenic mountain flight experience. Operated by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, this journey offers spectacular aerial views of Himalayan peaks, including Everest (8,848.86 m), Makalu (8,485 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), and Jomolhari (7,326 m).
- Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
- Included: Kathmandu-Paro and Paro-Kathmandu flights
- Airlines: Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines
- Travel Tip: A left-side window seat is perfect for the best Himalayan views from Kathmandu to Bhutan.
Domestic Flights in Nepal
- Domestic flights are included within Nepal.
- Kathmandu to Pokhara: Approx. 25 minutes
- Chitwan (Bharatpur) to Kathmandu: Approx. 25 minutes
Road Trip in Nepal
- Pokhara to Chitwan: Scenic road trip via Prithvi Highway: Approx. 4 to 5 hours.
Note: You can upgrade your road trip from Pokhara to Chitwan to a first-class flight with an add-on option.
Private Transportation in Nepal
All overland transportation in Nepal is arranged by private tourist vehicles according to group size. Travel between destinations passes through river valleys, hills, villages, and scenic countryside.
- Airport transfers are included in Kathmandu (domestic airport), Pokhara (domestic airport), and Chitwan (Bharatpur domestic airport).
- Comfortable cars, jeeps, or minivans, according to group size.
- Experienced professional and government-licensed drivers.
- No public transportation was used.
Private Transportation in Bhutan
Transportation in Bhutan is provided by a private vehicle with a licensed local guide and driver throughout the tour. Journeys between Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha are scenic and comfortable.
- Airport transfers are included from Bhutan International Airport (Paro).
- Private transport throughout the Bhutan journey.
- Experienced local driver and guide
- Scenic mountain drives and valley routes
- Stops at viewpoints, monasteries, and cultural sites
Walking and Hiking Information
Most sightseeing involves easy walking with regular vehicle support. The main active day is the hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery in Paro.
- Tiger's Nest hike: Five to six hours round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Pony rides are available to the halfway point
Travel Rules and Regulations
Nepal Travel Rules and Regulations
- Most international travelers require a Nepal visa, which can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.
- Travelers should carry a copy of their passport, visa, and travel insurance during the trip.
- Respect local culture, traditions, and religious customs while visiting temples and heritage sites.
- Modest clothing is recommended when entering temples, monasteries, and sacred places.
- Always remove shoes before entering sacred areas, like Hindu and Buddhist temples.
- In certain temples and monasteries, photography may be restricted; listen to your guide.
- Always ask for permission before photographing.
- Drones require special government permission in Nepal and are restricted in many heritage and mountain areas.
- Carry Nepalese rupees for local purchases, as small shops may not accept cards or foreign currency.
- Follow wildlife safety rules during jungle activities in Chitwan National Park.
- Public display of affection is discouraged in religious and rural areas.
- Always follow your guide’s instructions during sightseeing, wildlife activities, and mountain travel
Bhutan Travel Rules and Regulations
- Bhutan follows a regulated tourism policy to protect its culture, traditions, and environment.
- All international travelers, except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, are required to obtain a Bhutan visa before arrival.
- Bhutan visas must be arranged through a licensed tour operator, and Global Adventure Trekking is one.
- A passport with at least 6 months’ validity is mandatory for travel to Bhutan.
- Visitors must receive a Bhutan visa clearance letter before boarding their flight to Bhutan.
- A licensed Bhutanese guide is compulsory throughout the trip.
- Independent backpacking and self-guided travel are not permitted in Bhutan.
- Additional permits are required for restricted regions beyond standard tourist routes.
- Visitors should dress modestly when visiting monasteries, dzongs, and religious sites.
- Shoes must be removed before entering temples and sacred buildings.
- Always walk clockwise around stupas, monasteries, prayer wheels, and religious monuments.
- Plastic bags are banned nationwide to support environmental conservation efforts.
- Smoking and tobacco use are strictly regulated in most of the areas in Bhutan.
- Restricted area permits and travel paperwork are arranged by GAT as part of your Bhutan tour package.
Packing List for the Luxurious Bhutan and Nepal Trip
Clothing
- Lightweight clothing for Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
- Warm jacket or fleece for Bhutan evenings and mountain areas.
- Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking footwear.
- A rain jacket or waterproof layer during the monsoon season.
- A hat, sunglasses, gloves, and a scarf, depending on the season.
Travel Essentials
- A passport with a minimum of 6 months’ validity.
- Travel insurance documents.
- Copies of visa and flight documents.
- Personal medications and toiletries.
- Sunscreen, lip balm, and a reusable water bottle.
- Power bank and universal travel adapter.
Optional Items
- Camera or binoculars for wildlife and mountain photography
- Small daypack for sightseeing.
Nepal Bhutan Tour Insurance Requirements: Dual-Country Trip
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all guests joining the Nepal and Bhutan holiday trip. Although this is an easy-to-moderate cultural tour, weather conditions, flight delays, or unexpected medical situations can occasionally occur in the Himalayan regions.
Your insurance policy should ideally cover:
- Medical treatment and emergency evacuation
- Flight delays or trip cancellations
- Lost or delayed baggage
- Personal accidents and emergency assistance
Traveling guests with pre-existing medical conditions should consult their physician before travel and ensure adequate insurance coverage for both Nepal and Bhutan.
Solo Traveler Information
Solo travelers will find this Nepal and Bhutan tour package very friendly. The trip is safe, well-organized, and perfect for people who want a cultural Himalayan adventure without the hassle of arranging their own travel.
Solo travel is not allowed under the Bhutanese government regulations without a licensed guide. But Global Adventure Trekking takes care of all permits, accommodation, transportation, and guide services so the experience is smooth and stress-free.
Solo travellers have the option to
- Twin bedroom shared
- Cost of a private single room supplement
- Tailor-made private tour arrangements
This tour is very popular among solo female travelers, senior travelers, and first-time visitors to Nepal and Bhutan.
Nepal and Bhutan: Group vs Private Tour
Global Adventure Trekking provides group-joining and private tour options for the Nepal and Bhutan tour package so that travellers can choose the travel style that suits their budget, comfort level, and personal interests. Both options include the same thoughtfully crafted itinerary, experienced local guides, comfortable accommodations, and seamless travel arrangements throughout Nepal and Bhutan, whether you choose to join a social group adventure or a fully customized private Himalayan adventure.
Group-Joining Tour Option:
This group tour combining Nepal and Bhutan is great for solo travelers, friends, and budget travelers who want to meet people from around the world while sharing transportation and guided experiences. Our small-group departures run in the main travel seasons and are a cost-effective way to see Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro without scrimping on comfort or quality.
Private Tour Option:
For more flexibility and privacy during your trip, the private Nepal and Bhutan tour is the way to go. This is a more personalized tour where you will have your own private guide, vehicle, driver, and flexible departure dates. Private tours are especially popular with couples, families with children, senior travelers, photographers, and those who want to take it slow or have a customized itinerary. Luxury hotel upgrades, Everest scenic flights, additional trekking days, or tailor-made cultural experiences are all easily added according to interests.
Both are professionally run by Global Adventure Trekking and, for 2026 and 2027, promise a smooth, safe, and memorable Himalayan holiday experience. Global Adventure Trekking is ready to assist you in planning every detail, whether you choose to join a group Nepal Bhutan tour or a completely private Himalayan journey. Contact Us.
Nepal and Bhutan Cultural Tour for Family and Children
The Nepal and Bhutan trip is perfect for families and children looking for a laid-back cultural adventure in the Himalayas. The itinerary involves a mix of sightseeing, wildlife viewing, short walks, and scenic drives, with no strenuous physical activity needed.
Highlights for families are the following:
- Phewa Lake Boating, Pokhara,
- Chitwan National Park Jungle Safari Activities
- Traditional festivals and cultural experiences
- Spectacular Himalayan flights and mountain views
- Bhutan Monastery Tour and Valley Sightseeing
According to the regulations of Bhutan tourism, children below the age of 6 years are exempted from paying Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), whereas children between the ages of 6 and 12 years are provided with discounted SDF rates.
Families can also ask:
- Family rooms or connecting accommodation
- Variable sightseeing tempo
- Private cars and tailor-made programmes
- Child-friendly meal arrangements
This tour provides a safe, educational, and memorable Himalayan travel experience for travelers of all ages.
Nepal and Bhutan Tour Booking Details
You can easily book your 13-day Nepal Bhutan tour package with Global Adventure Trekking, which is secure and flexible. Our team is on hand to help you from start to finish with the booking process, including Bhutan visa arrangements, permits, flights, accommodations, and tour logistics.
How to Book the Package of the Nepal and Bhutan Tour?
To confirm your Nepal and Bhutan tour booking, we require a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost in advance. Once your deposit is received, Global Adventure Trekking takes care of your Bhutan visa clearance, permits, international flights to Bhutan, hotels, guides, and transportation services.
The rest of the balance can be paid beforehand or on arrival in Kathmandu before the tour begins.
Payment Methods
We provide a range of secure payment solutions for your convenience:
- Bank transfer
- Credit card or debit card
Pay cash when you arrive in Nepal.
If you are a traveler paying by card, please note that banks charge another 5% transaction fee for international card payments.
A lot of travellers prefer to pay the remaining balance in cash when they arrive to avoid extra bank charges. We accept cash in major currencies, including US Dollars (USD), Euro (EUR), Pound Sterling (GBP), Australian Dollars (AUD), and Canadian Dollars (CAD); and credit or debit cards.
Processing Bhutanese Visa and Permits
Before your arrival, travel permits and visa clearance for Bhutan must be approved. We highly recommend booking far in advance, especially during the high travel seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (Sept-Nov). After the visa clearance is approved by the Bhutan Tourism Authority, the flight tickets to Bhutan are usually confirmed.
The flight tickets to Bhutan are usually confirmed only after the visa clearance is approved by the Bhutan Tourism Authority.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
If you wish to cancel your Nepal and Bhutan holiday package, there may be cancellation charges depending on the time of cancellation and the Bhutanese government rules related to visas, permits, Sustainable Development Fees (SDF), and flight bookings.
Some payments related to Bhutan, such as visa fees and some government charges, are non-refundable once processing has commenced.
We highly recommend that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance, which includes trip cancellation, medical emergencies, flight delays, and unforeseen travel disruptions.
Important Booking Notes:
- We highly recommend that you book early during festival seasons and the high season.
- All reservations are subject to hotel and flight availability at the time of confirmation.
- Bhutan Visa Process: Passport copies required.
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
- A single supplement applies to solo travelers requesting private rooms.
- Luxury hotel upgrades and customized itineraries can be arranged upon request.
Contact Global Adventure Trekking today to check the availability, get a personalized quotation, and book your Nepal and Bhutan tour package for 2026 and 2027.
