Join me on a unique Himalayan journey, as we spend time in Nepal and Bhutan, two mountain destinations with unique and distinct cultures. We will begin our trip in Nepal, home to Mount Everest, and end in the Kingdom of Bhutan, known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs) and dramatic landscapes. Come along with me and co-guide Michael Clark as we explore and photograph our way through the Himalayas.

Nepal has its soaring ice-topped mountains that shimmer with rainbows of prayer flags and Bhutan has its rich history and untouched culture. Both are considered to be a hiker’s paradise.

The Schedule

January 27, 2026 - Arrive Kathmandu, Nepal

On your arrival in Kathmandu you will be met by our local representative, who will assist you with your bags and will drive you to your hotel for the night, which is about 15 minutes away from the airport. You will be assisted with your check-in, enjoy a nice meal and head out for an afternoon activity. If you have the time we recommend arriving a day early, just to shake off the jet lag and get settled.

In the afternoon we will head out to see Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spiritual home to the Tibetan exile community in Nepal. Considered to be one of the world’s largest and ancient Buddhist stupas, located on the original trade route leading to Lhasa. After circumambulating the Stupa we will head towards Shechen Monastery for evening prayers, located near the Stupa in the alleys. This is a beautiful monastery that is famous for its architecture, founded by the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. Most Buddhist monasteries welcome visitors and entering these atmospheric buildings can be a powerful and evocative experience. During the evening prayers, the lamas (high-ranking Tibetan Buddhist monks) and novices gather to chant Buddhist texts, normally accompanied by a cacophony of crashing cymbals, thumping drums and booming Tibetan horns.

January 28, 2026 - Kathmandu

Following breakfast, we will drive to Swayambhunath, one the most revered Buddhist Stupas in the World. Set majestically high on a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley, popularly known as the monkey temple, after the tribe of monkeys that inhabit the hills. The symbolic all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, 17th Century frescoes helps you understand why Kathmandu is a meeting point of ancient religions and cultures. Later drive to Kathmandu Durbar Square, the epicentre of historic Kathmandu. Explore the ancient temples, palace squares narrow alleyways and the architectural marvels with our guide while witnessing the local people offering libations and prayers to various gods and goddesses.

In the afternoon we will transfer to Patan and stroll the nooks and corners of the Patan Durbar Square and the exquisite Patan Museum, set within the restored royal palaces of the Malla Era. Revel in this ancient city of Patan popular for its astonishing collection of carved temples, palace courtyards, water spouts, public baths and traditional neighbourhoods as well as elaborate wood, stone and metal carvings. A walk through the heritage and culture of the Newari architecture and ancient urban designs.

January 29, 2025 - Kathmandu to Pokhara

Today we will fly to Pokhara, which will take around 25 minutes. Upon arrival we will transfer to Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge. The lodge is located on a hilltop ridge, with the Himalayas as a backdrop. This area offers views of a lifetime and in all directions. Pokhara is the second largest city of Nepal and is situated about 150 miles west of the capital Kathmandu. Three out of the ten highest mountains in the world — Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu - are situated within 30 miles of the city, so that the northern skyline of the city offers a very close view of the Himalayas. Due to its proximity to the Annapurna mountain range, the city is also a base for trekkers undertaking the Annapurna Circuit through the ACAP region of the Annapurna ranges in the Himalayas.

In the afternoon we are at leisure to explore the surroundings or you may opt some quick hikes with the lodge guide to the nearby villages.

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January 30, 2025 - Pokhara

Get ready for some light hiking in the area, as we will walk through farmlands and communities. There are many trails utilized by the local residents, which lead through the villages, passing fields of millet, mustard, potatoes, and other crops, depending on the season.

January 31 - Pokhara to Kathmandu

After breakfast we will head back to the airport to fly back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival we will transfer to Bhaktapur, Kathmandu’s most carefully preserved medieval city. Meander past homes and courtyards that are ancient revel in the sight of Hindu and Buddhist deities at every turn. Visit the Pottery Square to witness local artisans at work before lunch on own and try your hand at traditional local pottery.

In the late afternoon visit the abode of the Shiva, Pashupatinath, the oldest and most holy Hindu temple in Nepal. This sacred Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, sits on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. The river plays a significant role the life of the Nepalese as rituals centre around this holy river that flows into the river Ganges. Witness the Arati, an elaborate Hindu lighting ritual which is performed every evening by a Hindu priest. The priests perform the Aarati by taking oil lamps and moving them in circular motion and dedicating their act to the Divine. This is a ritual that allows everyone to be a part of it and creates an environment of union of God and the devotees.

February 1 - Kathmandu to Paro and Thimphu, Bhutan

The flight to Paro stands as one of the most breathtaking experiences in the entire Himalayan region. This journey treats you to captivating vistas and an exhilarating descent into the Kingdom of Bhutan. As you step off the aircraft, Bhutan's first welcome gift to you is the refreshingly cool and pristine mountain air. Once you've completed immigration procedures and collected your luggage, our representative will extend a warm welcome, presenting you with a traditional 'tashi khaddar' – a white scarf symbolizing an auspicious reception for guests.

Following this heartfelt greeting, we will embark on a road journey to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital town. The road takes us through the picturesque Paro valley, eventually leading to the convergence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers at a place called Chuzom.

Later in afternoon walk around and National Memorial Chorten, a large white structure crowned with a golden spire. It is located close to the center of Thimphu city and is one of its most iconic monuments. This is the most ideal spot to interact with locals who throng in large numbers to circumambulate the chorten, whirl the large red prayer wheels and pray at a small shrine inside the gate. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.

Explore Trashichhoedzong, ‘fortress of the glorious religion’. This is the center of government and religion, site of monarch’s throne room and seat of Je Khenpo or Chief Abbot. Built in 1641 by the political and religious unifier of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was reconstructed in 1960s in traditional Bhutanese manner, without nails or architectural plans.

Before returning to the hotel, subject to time, we may explore Centenary Farmers Market & Ka Ja Thom (local market). Centenary Farmers Market, popularly known as Weekend market, is a bustling and colorful market center where farmers from different parts of the country gather to sell their farm products. With its wide assortment of products including handicrafts and its picturesque and colourful setting, the Farmer’s Market is a favourite spot for many.

February 2 - Thimphu to Gangtey

This morning take a short drive to the north of town to Buddha Dordenma, located atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park. The statue fulfills an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th century A.D that was discovered and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. This massive statue of Shakyamuni made of bronze and is gilded in gold, measures 51.5 meters in height, making it one of the largest statues, in Bhutan. 125,000 smaller Buddha statues have been placed within the Buddha Dordenma statue, each of these also have been cast in bronze and gilded.

Bhutan has gained recognition for its inventive postage stamps, and The Postal Museum offers a glimpse into the evolution of postal services and, to some extent, the communication system within the country. Afterwards drive to Punakha (Approx. 5 hrs) across Dochu-la pass (3,088m/ 10,130 ft) stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (23,484ft), Tsendagang (22,835ft), Terigang (23,163ft), Jejegangphugang (23,484ft), Kangphugang (23,524ft), Zongphugang (23,163ft) and Gangkar puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 24,836ft.

At Dochula Pass, 108 chortens or stupas known as Druk Wangyal Chortens have been built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother. These chortens are built in three layers, the first lowest level layer has forty-five chortens, the second has thirty-six and the top layer has twenty-seven, built around the main chorten.

Prayer Flag Hoisting at Dochula pass:

Prayer flags are an integral part of Bhutanese landscape and also the cultural and religious heritage of the country especially the textile and weaving craft. They are ubiquitous in Bhutan; in and around monasteries, chortens or stupas, dzongs, lhakhangs, homes, on the railing of bridges and mountain roads, and invariably on or near the summit of the mighty peaks that preside over the country. Red, blue, green, yellow and white, they add a splash of rainbow colours to the rugged landscape. Deeply religious, the people of Bhutan believe that with each flutter, a flag releases the prayer printed on it into the air which in turn carries it to the heavens.

Then drive onto Gangtey, with lunch en-route at Wangduephodrang.

The valley of Gangtey is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled places in Bhutan. The surprise of finding such a wide, flat valley without any trees after the hard climb through dense forests is augmented by an impression of vast space and is an extremely rare experience in Bhutan where most of the valleys are tightly enclosed. A few kilometers beyond the Gangtey Monastery, on the valley floor lies the village of Phobjikha.

Evening witness prayer ceremony at Gangtey monastery.

February 3 - Gangtey
After breakfast visit Gangtey Goempa monastery. Perched on a small hill that rises from the valley floor, the Gangtey Monastery is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountain’s and also the biggest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan. The Monastery is surrounded by a large village inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens who take care of the Monastery. Gangtey was founded by Pema Trinley, the grandson of Pema Lingpa, the famous Nyingmapa saint of Bhutan. In 1613, Pema Trinley establish the monastery and became the first Gangtey Tulku. The religious traditions of Pema Lingpa still taught there.

Then embark on a walking excursion to Gangtey Nature Trail. This pleasurable walk will give you a nice feel of Phobjikha valley. From the small hilltop overlooking Gangtey Goemba, you head downhill through flower meadows to Semchubara village and from here through beautiful forests and into the open valley. The trail ends at local community school after passing a chorten and Khewa Lhakhang. (approx. 5.5km, 2 hours walk).

Blessing & Butter lamp lighting ceremony at Khewang Lhakhang:

The traditional blessing and butter lamp ceremony in Bhutan is a sacred and deeply spiritual practice that holds significant importance in the country's Buddhist culture. Such ceremonies are often conducted in monasteries, temples, and sacred sites, attracting devotees seeking blessings, protection, and spiritual guidance. During the blessing ceremony, Buddhist monks, adorned in their vibrant robes, recite powerful prayers and mantras, invoking the blessings of Buddha and other enlightened beings. While lighting of butter lamps is a symbolic act representing the illumination of wisdom and dispelling darkness or ignorance. These lamps are traditionally made of yak butter and have a wick, which emits a gentle and flickering light, signifying the inner light of enlightenment that can guide one on the path to liberation.

Afternoon explore fascinating Phobjikha valley. This place is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in milder and lower climate. The valley boasts two beautiful meandering rivers, Nakay Chhu (Chhu Naap-black water) and Gay Chhu (Chhu Karp-white water).

Evening participate in meditation class at Shedra, the institute where monks learn about Buddhist philosophy, poetry, logic, mediation and debate. This meditation practice will help you overcome stress, develop a peaceful mind and to generate kindness.

February 4 - Gangtey to Punakha

After breakfast, drive onward to Punakha (Approx. 03 hrs).

Before entering Punakha town, on the way visit Wangduephodrang Dzong. Founded by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1638, on the top of high ridge between Punak Tsang Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers, offering fantastic of the valley below, Wangdue Dzong holds special place in Bhutan’s history. The strategic location of the dzong, provided Penlop (Governor) of Wangduephodrang, chance to protect the routes to Trongsa, Punakha, Dagana and Thimphu making him the third most powerful ruler after Governors of Paro and Trongsa. The Dzong had been damaged by fire in 2012 and restored to its original grandeur and splendour recently (in 2022).

Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan and seat of government until 1955 and still it is the winter seat of Je Khenpo (the chief abbot). Blessed with temperate climate and owing to its natural drainage from Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers, the fertile Punakha valley produces abundant crops and fruits. Located at an elevation of 1300m above sea level, Punakha enjoys mild winters and is popular year-round destination.

In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong or (Palace of Great Happiness), built at the junction of the Phochu and Mochu rivers in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This majestic dzong served as both the religious and the administrative centre of Bhutan in the past. It measures some 600 by 240 feet and has a six-story, gold-domed tower. Inside are courtyards and religious statuary that hint at the depth of history and spiritual tradition embodied here. Your guide will illuminate your understanding of this intricate culture that is exotic to us, though long established here.

The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning ‘field’. A walk through the village near the temple will give you rare glimpses into the daily life and lifestyle of the villagers.

February 5 - Punakha

Morning, embark on a scenic hike leading to the majestic Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten (approx. 2-hour round trip nature walk). This remarkable structure was erected with the intention of dispelling negative energies and fostering peace, stability, and harmony in a world marked by constant change. The chorten stands as a commanding presence in the upper Punakha Valley, offering breathtaking panoramas that sweep over the Mo Chhu River and extend towards the towering peaks of Gasa and the surrounding landscape.

Next, stroll across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, gracefully suspended over the rushing waters of the Mo Chhu River. A marvel of engineering, this bridge provides a thrilling experience for visitors. Spanning approximately 160 meters, it ranks among Bhutan's longest suspension bridges, offering a unique perspective of the picturesque Punakha Valley. With prayer flags fluttering in the wind and the river's roar below, crossing this bridge provides an exhilarating blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

Post lunch, excursion to Talo village, which is scattered along the hill slopes and known for its cleanliness and hygiene among Punakha villages. Talo is the seat of the mind incarnations of the Zhabdrung. Talo Sangnacholing Dzong is built on a plateau and has majestic view of surrounding villages. The beautiful farmhouses of the village have its own flower gardens and on the hill slope corns and sweet peas are grown in abundance. Spend time at Nobgang and Talo villages visiting farmhouses and meeting families, experiencing Bhutanese rural life.

Later in afternoon visit to Nalanda Buddhist Institute. Locals call this place ‘Dalayna’ and the monks call it Nalanda Buddhist College. The Nalanda Buddhist Institute is a monastic school near the village of Talo, above the Punatsangchu river. Here you’ve opportunity to interact with monks, for knowledge on Buddhism, process of meditation.

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February 6 - Punakha to Paro

After breakfast drive to Paro (Approx. 4 hours) along scenic highway and on arrival, check into the hotel.

The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates within itself a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, National Museum and country’s only international airport. Mount. Chomolhari (7,314m) reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley and its glacial water plunge through deep gorges to form Pa Chhu (Paro River). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the Kingdom producing a bulk of the locally famous red rice from its terraced fields.

Afternoon proceed to visit Ta Dzong, originally built as watchtower, which now houses National Museum. The extensive collection includes antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons & armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts.

Ta Dzong visit immediately followed by a short walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), meaning (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore such as four friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount. Sumeru and cosmic Mandala.

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February 7 - Paro
After breakfast, embark on a fascinating excursion to Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest (approx. 5 – 6 hours round trip walk). It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 3000ft above the Paro valley floor. Legends say that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognized as a most sacred place and visited by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime.

Later in the afternoon visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple that forms part of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas under the reign of Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. The establishment of this temple marked the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. Evening at leisure to experience hotel facilities or to explore Paro local market.

February 8 - Fly Home

Today we will transfer you to the airport in time for your international flight back home. The most common airports to connect through will be Delhi or Bangkok.

NOTE: Customized extensions to this tripi, including a tiger safari, the Taj Mahal or other locations throughout India can be arranged for you.

The Cost

The cost of this all-inclusive safari is $17,900 per person. This fee includes all in-country ground and air transportation as well as hotel accommodation (double occupancy) and all meals.

Due to the limited number of spaces available, if a solo guest is willing to share a room and we can match with another guest of the same gender, we will do so. If a solo guest is unwilling to share, then a single supplement will be charged $3,800.

Please note: We will attempt to adhere to this itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, cultural, or wildlife migrations) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. We reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. We will attempt to notify participants of changes as far in advance as possible. Costs incurred by such changes will be the responsibility of the participant.

What Do I Do Next?
This group will be super small so space is limited. If this exciting trip has your name on it; if you're excited by the thought of becoming a member of this trip, then now is the time to register. Remember, there will be limited space available for this workshop. When they're spoken for, that's it. If you have any questions before registering, send us an e-mail with any inquiries to hello@andybiggs.com.

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Bhutan and Nepal, The Himalayan Kingdoms, January 2026

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