As you approach Bhutan, you'll be greeted with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival at the airport, a representative from the Alpine Club of Himalaya will warmly welcome you. After settling into our hotel, you'll begin your journey to Paro. In Paro, you'll explore notable sites including Dungste Lhakang, a 15th-century temple, with views of Ugyen Perli Palace through its fence. You'll also visit Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery, the national museum, and Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in Bhutan. You'll stay overnight in Paro.
Itinerary
Explore on the unforgettable 14-day journey through three mystical nations: Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. This trip offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, insights into exotic cultures, breathtaking landscapes, ancient architecture, and rich religious traditions. Although these countries share similarities, each provides unique and spectacular experiences.
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal, with visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, followed by a sunrise view of the Himalayas. You'll then drive to Pokhara, a beautiful lake city renowned for its serene ambiance and stunning mountain vistas.
In Tibet, the Lhasa Tour offers a brief but captivating exploration of the city, a popular destination among international travelers. This tour provides an opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Lhasa and learn about the ancient culture and traditions of its people. Lhasa, meaning "place of gods," is situated at an elevation of 3,600 meters on the central Tibetan Plateau, surrounded by mountains reaching 5,500 meters. It is a pilgrimage destination and the heart and soul of Tibet, known for its timeless wonders and rich cultural heritage, despite modern Chinese influences.
The Lhasa tour includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Dalai Lama’s Potala and Norbulingka Palaces, the Tibet Museum, and Barkhor Bazaar.
Note: Due to current restrictions, flights to and from Lhasa are not available. The tour will instead be conducted overland, meaning travel will be by road.
This journey promises a rich tapestry of experiences, each destination offering its unique charm and beauty, making it an ideal adventure for explorers and cultural enthusiasts alike
Important Note
Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary, when deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full co-operation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.
Tour program
Arrival and sightseeing in Paro (2,250m/7,382ft)
Start point
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) त्रिभुवन विमानस्थल, त्रिभुवन विमानस्थल, Kathmandu, Bagmati Zone, Nepal
Hike to Taktsang Monastery, drive to Thimphu (2,320m/7,610ft)
After breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic 4-5 hour hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. This sacred site, perched on a steep cliff, offers breathtaking views of the Paro valley. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava, who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, meditated here for three years, three months, three weeks, three days, and three hours in the 8th century. You'll enjoy lunch at a restaurant halfway up the mountain before hiking back down to the valley. Then, you'll drive to Thimphu, where you'll spend the night.
Thimphu to Punakha (1,250m/4,100ft)
After breakfast, we will drive to Dochula Pass (3,100 meters) in Punakha, a mountain pass adorned with 108 memorial chortens known as “Druk Wangyal Chortens,” built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother. From the pass, we can enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, including Mt. Masanggang (7,158 meters or 23,484 feet), the highest peak in Bhutan. The descent from the pass takes us through a beautiful rhododendron garden, fir and hemlock forests, rice fields, and rivers, all while enjoying stunning views of the Bhutanese Himalayas. After lunch, we will visit Punakha Dzong, the second oldest and largest dzong in Bhutan, constructed between 1637 and 1638. We will stay overnight in Punakha.
Punakha to Paro (2250m/7382ft)
After breakfast, we drive to Paro via the Dochu La pass (3,100 meters). This mountain pass is renowned for its 108 memorial chortens, known as the “Druk Wangyal Chortens,” built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother. From the pass, the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas, including Bhutan's highest peak, Mt. Masanggang (7,158 meters or 23,484 feet), are prominently visible. After touring the monastery, we continue our journey, stopping in Thimphu for lunch. We will spend the night in Paro.
Fly to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
As you approach Kathmandu, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival at the airport, a representative from the Alpine Club of Himalaya will welcome you and assist with obtaining your visa for Tibet. We'll begin with a short tour of the Pashupatinath Temple, a renowned 5th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Next, we'll visit Boudhnath, one of the most sacred Buddhist stupas in Kathmandu. In the evening, you'll enjoy a delicious authentic Nepalese meal, giving you a taste of the country's rich culinary culture. You'll spend the night in Kathmandu.
Drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan
We head to Chitwan, the fifth largest city in Nepal, located at the foot of the Churia range and renowned for its Chitwan National Park (CNP). Established in 1973, CNP is Nepal's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, you can choose between a jungle safari or a nature walk, depending on the time available. The safari takes you deep into the jungle, where you may spot deer, the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, and other wildlife. With some luck, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. During the nature walk, you'll enjoy the diverse flora and fauna and have the opportunity for bird watching. In the evening, there will be a presentation on the park's rich biodiversity, including over 700 species of wildlife, a yet-to-be-fully-surveyed number of butterflies, moths, and insects, and reptiles like the king cobra, rock python, 17 other snake species, starred tortoise, and monitor lizards. We will spend the night in Chitwan.
Chitwan National Park
Early in the morning, we'll explore a jungle safari, riding on elephant backs through dense grasslands to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. After breakfast, we'll visit the elephant stables and have the opportunity to bathe the elephants. In the afternoon, you can choose between a jungle drive followed by a canoe ride down the Rapti River, where you'll get an up-close view of Gharial and Mugger crocodiles, as well as freshwater dolphins, otters, and birds. Alternatively, you can opt for bird watching or nature walks. We'll spend the night in Chitwan.
Drive to Pokhara (910m/2986ft)
After breakfast, we depart for Pokhara, Nepal's second-largest city, located 200 km west of Kathmandu and close to the Annapurna mountain range. The city's elevation ranges from 827 m in the south to 1,740 m in the north within a span of 30 km. Known as "The Lake City" due to its numerous lakes, Pokhara offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m/26,794ft), Manaslu (8,156m/26,759ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993m/22,943ft), the five peaks of Annapurna, and more. We'll stay overnight in Pokhara.
Sightseeing in Pokhara and sunrise at Sarangkot Hill, Fly to Kathmandu
Early in the morning, we head to Sarangkot, a hill that offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges to the north and Pokhara city to the south. It's the perfect spot to catch a breathtaking sunrise over the mighty Himalayas. After returning to Pokhara, we tour the city, starting with Davis Falls, a unique waterfall that flows directly into a narrow and deep canal. We then visit the Shiva Cave, which houses a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Next, we enjoy boating on Phewa Lake, the largest lake in Pokhara, and visit the Bindyabasini Temple located in the lake's center. From the lake, and even from your hotel room, you can enjoy clear views of the snow-capped mountains, just twenty or so kilometers away. We also visit the famous International Mountain Museum (IMM), which documents the history and development of mountaineering activities worldwide and particularly in the Himalayas. Finally, we fly to Kathmandu and stay overnight there.Early in the morning, we head to Sarangkot, a hill that offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges to the north and Pokhara city to the south. It's the perfect spot to catch a breathtaking sunrise over the mighty Himalayas. After returning to Pokhara, we tour the city, starting with Davis Falls, a unique waterfall that flows directly into a narrow and deep canal. We then visit the Shiva Cave, which houses a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Next, we enjoy boating on Phewa Lake, the largest lake in Pokhara, and visit the Bindyabasini Temple located in the lake's center. From the lake, and even from your hotel room, you can enjoy clear views of the snow-capped mountains, just twenty or so kilometers away. We also visit the famous International Mountain Museum (IMM), which documents the history and development of mountaineering activities worldwide and particularly in the Himalayas. Finally, we fly to Kathmandu and stay overnight there.
Fly to Lhasa (3,650m/11,972ft)
Upon arriving at Gonggar Airport in Lhasa, the administrative capital of Tibet and one of the highest cities in the world, you'll be treated to an hour of breathtaking views of the Himalayas on one of the most beautiful air routes. A representative from the Alpine Club of Himalaya will greet you at the airport. Due to Lhasa's elevation of approximately 3,600 meters (11,800 feet), with surrounding mountains reaching up to 5,500 meters (18,000 feet), it's recommended that you rest for the remainder of the day to acclimate to the altitude and minimize the risk of altitude sickness. The air here contains only 68 percent of the oxygen found at sea level. Overnight stay in Lhasa.
Sightseeing in Lhasa 5 – 6 hours
Sightseeing in Lhasa begins with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace and the serene Norbulingka Palace. The Potala Palace, built in the 17th century, offers stunning views of the city and contains the private quarters of the Dalai Lama, along with numerous grand state rooms and chapels. The Norbulingka Palace, serving as the Dalai Lama's summer residence, is renowned for its vast, man-made garden, the largest in Tibet. We will also explore the Tibet Museum, which holds a permanent collection of around 1,000 artifacts showcasing Tibet's rich cultural history. We will stay overnight in Lhasa.
Sightseeing in Lhasa 5 – 6 hours
After breakfast, we visit the Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Bazaar. The Drepung Monastery, built in the 14th century, once sheltered around 10,000 monks and is a key site for understanding the history, culture, and religious beliefs of the Tibetan people. The Sera Monastery, known for its white-washed walls and golden roofs, is another preserved and important monastery. Jokhang Temple, a significant sacred site, offers deeper insights into Tibetan Buddhism. Finally, we stroll through Barkhor Bazaar, the bustling epicenter of Lhasa, with its open-air stalls, shops, and throngs of pilgrims. We stay overnight in Lhasa.
Excursion to Ganden Monastery and Drayerpa Cave
In the morning, we will drive to Ganden Monastery, one of the "great three" Gelug university monasteries in Tibet, perched atop Wangbur Mountain at an altitude of 4,300 meters. Ganden Monastery is renowned for its intricate murals and sculptures, and it boasts over two dozen major chapels featuring large Buddha statues. The monastery also preserves artifacts that belonged to Tsongkhapa, including his tomb. Among its treasures is a suit of armor adorned with gems, which was a gift from Emperor Qianlong as an offering to Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug sect. After exploring the monastery, we will proceed to Drayerpa Cave, set in a picturesque valley with breathtaking landscapes. The site includes more than 30 caves used by Lamas for meditation. In the evening, we will return to Lhasa and spend the night there.
Fly to Kathmandu
Today is the last day in Lhasa so after our breakfast, we get ready to transfer to airport for final departure. . Representatives of Alpine Club of Himalaya will transport you to the airport.
End point
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) त्रिभुवन विमानस्थल, त्रिभुवन विमानस्थल, Kathmandu, Bagmati Zone, Nepal
Cancellation Policy
Terms and Conditions
Alpine Club of Himalaya is a trusted trekking and tour operator in Nepal (Registration No: 66893/066/067) dedicated to providing exceptional travel experiences. Our goal is to ensure your satisfaction with our travel and adventure services. Please review the following terms and conditions for booking with us.
General Booking Conditions
Deposit Policy
For trips to Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan, a photocopy of your passport and a 35% deposit of the total trip cost are required to confirm your booking.
This 35% deposit is non-refundable and is used to secure hotel reservations, transportation, trekking permits, and other advance arrangements.
The remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Kathmandu, prior to the commencement of the tour.
Booking a Trip
* A 'trip' encompasses any itinerary or activities, including trekking, tours, expeditions, and other adventure programs that you purchase from us.
* The contract between Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. and the client is established only when we send a confirmation invoice or email to the customer.
* We reserve the right to adjust the prices of trips or tours before the booking is confirmed and the contract is finalized.
Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. will not be responsible for any warranties, collateral agreements, prior agreements, or descriptions of services or conditions beyond those explicitly stated in this agreement.
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel your booking with the Alpine Club of Himalaya, please provide us with written notice. We will confirm the receipt of your cancellation request. The amount you will be charged for canceling will depend on how close to the departure date you make your request:
• 60 days or more before departure:
A non-refundable cancellation fee of 35% of the total tour cost will apply.
• 45 to 59 days before departure:
40% of the total tour cost will be charged.
• 30 to 44 days before departure:
50% of the total tour cost will be charged.
• 15 to 29 days before departure:
70% of the total tour cost will be charged.
• 7 to 14 days before departure:
85% of the total tour cost will be charged.
• Less than 7 days before departure:
100% of the total tour cost will be charged.
Please note, no refunds will be provided if you voluntarily drop out once the trip has begun or if you do not use any pre-paid services such as accommodation, transportation, or meals.
Cancellation by Alpine Club Of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd.
Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. reserves the right to cancel any trip, including those guaranteed to operate, before departure due to circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, flight cancellations, strikes, industrial action, wars, riots, illness, quarantine, government restrictions, adverse weather, or other unforeseen events. In such cases, we will provide a refund of the trip price only. If a guaranteed trip is canceled, you will have the option to either receive a full refund or choose an alternative trip of equal value.
Significant alterations do not include changes to airline carriers, flight schedules, or itineraries, as long as departure and arrival dates remain the same. Changes in cabin category or hotel accommodation will be within the same category.
Please be aware that Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. is not liable for any incidental expenses or consequential losses incurred by the client as a result of the booking. This includes costs such as visa fees, vaccinations, non-refundable flights or rail fares, parking fees, loss of earnings, or loss of enjoyment.
Additionally, no refunds will be given if you choose to withdraw from the trip after it has commenced, or if you do not utilize any pre-paid services, including accommodation, transportation, or meals.
Last-Minute Booking
Last-minute bookings for Nepal trips are accepted up to one day before departure. Full payment is required immediately. Last-minute bookings for Bhutan and Tibet trips are not accepted.
Trip Postponement
If you need to postpone your trip, notify us in writing with your new departure date. We will transfer your reservations to the new date at no additional cost, unless there are changes in rates for the new date.
Medical Conditions and Special Requirements
If you have any medical conditions or special requirements, please inform Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. at the time of booking. This includes physical disabilities or any other conditions that may affect your ability to travel. Failure to disclose such conditions may lead to refusal of travel and potential forfeiture of your deposit or even the full trip cost.
Certain trips may not be suitable for clients based on age, physical conditions (such as mobility issues or pregnancy), or mental health. It is your responsibility to verify suitability before booking. Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. will not provide special accommodations unless explicitly agreed upon in writing. We will make every effort to accommodate special requests, including dietary preferences, but such requests are not guaranteed and do not form part of the contractual agreement.
Medical facilities and standards vary by country, and Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. makes no representations or warranties regarding the quality of medical treatment available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for all clients. It should cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation, helicopter rescue, and other relevant risks. We recommend purchasing insurance from a reputable provider in your country.
Passport and Visa
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Nepalese visas can be obtained at the Nepalese Consulate or on arrival at Kathmandu Airport. Visa costs are the client’s responsibility.
Flight Delays and Changes in Itinerary
Please be aware that mountain adventures are subject to unpredictable weather conditions. Bad weather in mountainous regions can lead to delays or cancellations of domestic flights. In such cases, Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. will arrange accommodation (guesthouse) and provide meals (lunch and breakfast) if requested by the client. However, clients are responsible for covering any additional expenses, including those for extra food and accommodation. If you opt for alternative arrangements, such as a helicopter flight to bypass delays, you will be responsible for all associated costs.
Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. is not liable for missed international flights. We will make every effort to assist with alternative arrangements where possible. Additionally, please note that changes to the itinerary may be necessary due to adverse weather conditions or other factors beyond our control during outdoor activities.
Payment Methods
Payments can be made via wire transfer or credit card.
Credit Card Payment
To pay by credit card (Mastercard or Visa), select your trip package, complete the required information on the “BOOK THIS TRIP” form, and pay the specified advance amount. You will receive an invoice and further instructions via email.
Physical Fitness
Good health is essential for a successful Himalayan adventure. Ensure you are physically and mentally prepared to tackle the demands of the trip. We prioritize your well-being and aim to make your journey with us unforgettable and enjoyable.
Guaranteed Departures
Once your trip is booked, we guarantee departure on the scheduled date, regardless of group size. Even if fewer participants join, we will proceed with the trip as planned. Our team at Alpine Club of Himalaya is committed to adhering to your schedule and ensuring a seamless experience.
Risk and Liability
We strive to provide exceptional service and a pleasant holiday experience. However, Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. and its affiliates are not responsible for itinerary changes due to unforeseen circumstances such as government restrictions, natural disasters, political unrest, flight cancellations, or other events beyond our control. Adventure trips inherently involve risks, and clients accept responsibility for any personal injuries, damages, or additional expenses that may arise.
Cost Adjustments
Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. reserves the right to adjust prices posted on our website due to unforeseen factors like exchange rate fluctuations or government actions. We strive to keep published prices accurate and offer seasonal discounts to match your budget and schedule.
Injuries and Evacuations
Our package costs do not include personal insurance. Alpine Club of Himalaya is not liable for injuries or health issues during the trip. Clients should have their own insurance coverage.
Client Responsibilities
Our tour/trek leader has full authority during the trip. Any unlawful behavior may result in immediate removal from the tour, with no refund.
Publicity
We may use photos and videos of clients for promotional purposes on our website, but we respect privacy and will not disclose personal information.
Personal Belongings
While we take measures to ensure the safety of your belongings, Alpine Club of Himalaya is not responsible for lost or damaged luggage or personal items during the trip.
Privacy
The information collected during the booking process is used solely for arranging permits and organizing your trip. We do not share or use your personal details for any other purposes or disclose them to third parties.
Missed or Unused Services
No discounts or refunds will be provided for missed or unused services. This includes situations such as voluntary or involuntary departure from the tour due to illness, family emergencies, late arrivals, or early departures, whether voluntary or involuntary.
Updating of Terms and Conditions
Alpine Club Of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. reserves the right to update and amend these terms and conditions at any time. Clients are responsible for staying informed about any changes. The most current version of the terms and conditions will be available on our website at www.alpineclubofhimalaya.com and will be applicable in the event of any disputes.
For any questions or further clarification, please contact us. We look forward to assisting you with your travel plans!
Tour Details
Additional Services
Cost Includes
All airport pick-ups and drops
All ground transportation by comfortable private vehicles in Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet
All meals in Bhutan ( Breakfast. Lunch and dinner )
Twin-shared hotel accommodation in Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet
Sightseeing in Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet by an experienced English speaking local tour guide
City tour as per the itinerary
Sightseeing entrance fees for museums and monuments as per the itinerary
Welcome dinner with cultural shows in Kathmandu
Chinese Visa and Tibet Permit
Bhutan Visa and Permit
Breakfast in Kathmandu, Pokhara
Breakfast Only during the trip to Tibet/Lhasa
2 Nights 3 Days Full board in Chitwan National Park, where all meals, activities and accommodation are also includes
Driver, Salary, meals and accommodation
Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park By Private Car
Chitwan National park to Pokhara By Private Car
Pokhara Valley sightseeing By Private Car
Pokhara to Kathmandu by Flight with airport departure taxes
Kathmandu valley sightseeing by Private Car
Entrance Fees in Kathmandu. And Pokhara
Kathmandu to Paro and Return by Flight
Kathmandu to Lhasa and Return by Flight
Fuel, Road Taxes and Parking Fees
Government taxes and Service Charges
Additional Services
Cost Exclude
All personal expenses (personal gear, telephone calls, beverages, internet, laundry etc.)
Lunch and dinner in Tibet
Personal expenses
Bar and Drinks Bills
Tips
Good to know
Currency
Ngultrum
Bhutan
Plugs and adapters