Bhutan 7 Days Tour
Bhutan Druk Yul Tour 7 Days From kathmandu

Bhutan Druk Yul Tour 7 Days From kathmandu

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Trip at a Glance
Duration7 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryBhutan
Maximum Altitude3,120m (10,240ft) at Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
Group Size1-15
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesBhutan and Kathmandu Sightseeing
Best TimeAutumn and Spring

Introduction to Bhutan Druk Yul Tour 7 Days 

7 days in Bhutan is a great way to get a glimpse of the "Land of the Thunder Dragon" to see Paro, Thimphu, diving deep into golden-roofed monasteries (Dzongs). Incredible cultural experience including museums and markets; charming valleys for sightseeing, hiking "tiger's nest monastery" hike and much more that this mysterious Himalayan Kingdom country you can get. It offers a mix of classic Himalaya scenery and Buddhist culture, along with their distinctive lifestyle, within seven days.

This 7-day Nepal &andBhutan tour is created for those who wish to experience the unique religious and cultural contrast of the Himalayas but do not have a month to spend.

This 7-Day Bhutan Nepal tour is exclusively designed for those traveling to the Himalaya, who cannot take a long break from their work and family chores, but still crave to restore their well-being in the land of spiritual sensation. You begin your trip in chaotic Kathmandu and start experiencing old Nepal. Here, the ancient Durbar Squares bustle with daily life and the great white dome of Boudhanath Stupa reverberates with the chants of pilgrims. It's not just a matter of seeing the sights; it's about feeling the pulse of a city where medieval traditions mingle with contemporary energy.

The trip takes a sublime turn on Day 3, when you fly over the world's highest mountain range to Bhutan. As you land in paro airport, all the noises vanish and are replaced by pine forests and flapping prayer flags. You will first explore the next three nights around Thimphu, home of its orderly, fort-like Dzongs and a town with hiking trails running to that epic Tiger's Nest Monastery, which clings to its precarious cliffside location. This is not merely a sightseeing trip it offers the contrast experience from the Kathmandu's Hindu shrines to Bhutan's meditative monastic valleys.

Here at View Nepal Treks, we take care of every difficult logistics detail, from getting the "double-entry" Nepal visa to booking those airplane seats with a view of Everest. Whether you are a culture seeker or trekker in need of relaxing extensions, this seven-day journey is a harmonious blend of adventure and healing that combines your daily walk with rejuvenating spiritual practices -and it includes an easy return to Kathmandu.

Bhutan Druk Yul Tour 6 Nights 7 Days Highlights

  • Discover UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu, such as Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and the extensive Boudhanath Stupa.
  • From taking a walk along the bustling streets of Thamel to experiencing the exotic blend of Hinduism and Buddhism in Kathmandu, this city will have plenty to offer.
  • Take one of the most spectacular flights in the world, from Kathmandu to Paro, viewing Mt Everest and Kanchenjunga (subject to weather).
  • Drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and visit the massive Tashichho Dzong, which houses the seat of the government and monastic body.
  • Stand in front of the giant Buddha Dordenma statue in Thimphu, that is visible from a wide area, giving a panoramic view of the entire valley below.
  • Trek through the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), a cliffhanging structure suspended at 900 meters above Paro valley.
  • Head to the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro - one of the holiest ancient sites in the Himalayas.

Why Is Your Visit to Bhutan Different and so Meaningful in 2026, 2027?

You will hear talk of something called “Gross National Happiness” and it’s not just a slogan. Here’s what that means in practice for your visit:

  • You’re a Beloved Guest, Not a Tourist crowd. Bhutan restricts visitors with a “High Value, Low Impact” policy. That means you won’t find crowded mass tourism. You have a more real, peaceful experience.
  • Your daily fee is an investment in the country of Bhutan. The mandatory Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is not a tax. It finances the nation’s free health care, education and environment. You are helping to save the culture and nature you came to see.
  • It’s About Conscious Travel. This model is the balance between development and well-being. By going, you’re supporting a country that values the happiness of its people and the well-being of its environment over unchecked tourist arrivals.
  • The Result? Untouched jungles, colourful living traditions and a ride like no other. You’re not just sightseeing; you’re investing in a nation’s sustainable future.

Bhutan Druk Yul Tour 2026/27 Cost and Dates

Looking ahead to 2026 or 2027? You are smart. Bhutan’s tourist restrictions and airfare vary from one year to the next. Although many owners are still listing 2025 rates that should have been updated, we’ve gone ahead and done so to provide you with tough pricing.

The Bhutanese government’s SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) remains the same for now; however, flight fares are increasing approximately 5-10% every year.

2026/27 Package Cost (Per Person)

Group Size

Price Per Person (USD)

Solo Traveler (1 Pax)

$1,700

Couple / Duo (2-3 Pax)

$1,600

Small Group (4-7 Pax)

$1,550

Large Group (8-15 Pax)

$1,500

Note on Flights:

  • Rates above cover the following:- All land arrangements ( Hotels, Guide, Meals, Permits) SDF.
  • Estimated Flight Cost: Add about $480-520 USD for the round-trip KTM-Paro flight. We reserve this at airline price and do not mark up.

The $100 Daily Fee with 6 Nights, 7 Days Bhutan Tour

We feel you have the right to know exactly what it is you are purchasing. A large part of the cost of the trip is actually your compulsory “Sustainable Development Fee” (SDF), which the Bhutanese government levies on all tourists to pay for free healthcare and education for its people.

Here’s a breakdown of your $1,700 package (for solo travelers):

Bhutan SDF and Other costs Calculation
Bhutan SDF and Other costs Calculation
  • Government Tax (SDF): $300, which is paid directly to the government ($100 per day multiply by 3 days per nights).
  • Real Services: The remainder goes to your hotels, private car, guide, meals and permits in Nepal and Bhutan.

Breakdown of your travel cost: What you pay the Bhutan Government (SDF Tax) Vs. Services Received (Hotels, Guide, Meals, Transport)

Compared to the typical 100% money for services in some other locations, and in Bhutan, you support the country just by going there. You are not just a tourist but also an investor in their sustainable future.

Is the Tiger's Nest Hike for You?

The trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery is the main challenge. Here’s what you can actually expect, so you can decide if it’s for you or not:

  • The Basics: This is a 4-5 hour round-trip hike. You’ll gain roughly 300 meters (1,000 feet) in elevation on a rough and uneven trail to an altitude of 3,120 meters (10,240 feet).
  • Fitness Check: You don’t have to be an athlete, but you should be ready for 2plus hours of steady uphill walking. If you can power-walk briskly over hilly ground for an hour, you should be able to do this with breaks.
  • Worth Alternatives: If the full hike seems like too much, you can still do a nice half-day hike to the amazing main viewpoint (about 60% of the way) and take some incredible photos without having to make that final steep descent down to the monastery itself. You can get someone to have a horse for part of the uphill.
  • Our Advice: Go at your own pace, take lots of breaks and drink water. The summit rush is a memorable feeling, and it has options suitable for any level of fitness.

The Everest Seat Guarantee For Bhutan Druk Yul Tour from Kathmandu

While the flight from Kathmandu to Paro is not just transportation, the most stunning mountain flight in all of traveling, but only half of the plane has views of mountains.

Sitting on the wrong side, you gape at clouds while your neighbor gasps before Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and Makalu. Most simply book your plane and hope for the best. We don't rely on the chance of this once-in-a-lifetime view.

Your Booking Includes: Our Best-Seat aircraft seat request service

We know precisely how to maximize your odds.

  • Flying KTM to Paro: We aim for Left-Side Window seats, so you see the entire Himalayas.
  • Flights: Paro to KTM: We aim for (Right-Side Window) seats so we can be on the 'right' side going back.

Unlike normal bookings, our View Treks Nepal Team is watching the check-in window for these (which opens 72 hours prior) to secure one of these best seats before anyone else. Although airline operational change can also be changed, for our part, fighting to keep your own vantage point in the sky gives you the best chance at witnessing the "Roof of the World" from 30,000 feet.

Your Experiences in Nepal and Bhutan in 2026/ 27

With guided tours of Kathmandu (Day 2) and Thimphu/Paro (Day 4 and 5) on your itinerary, you have a rare opportunity to view two very different Himalayan cultures back-to-back. Most travelers assume they’re the same, but you can tell so much by the difference there. Here’s what you’ll see on this journey:

The Architecture

  • Kathmandu (Day 2): You stroll into ancient Durbar Squares where temples seem thrown together in chaotic, kaleidoscopic beauty. The wood carvings are complex and dark, centuries-old structures that crackle with local markets and open shrines.
  • In Bhutan (Day 4): You visit the Tashichho Dzong. Dzongs, unlike the airy open squares of Nepal, are great brooding fortress-like administrative centers with high white walls and an overall air of order and discipline. It’s grand, orderly and immaculate, the total opposite to Kathmandu’s.

The Buddhism: Stupa vs. Lhakhang

  • In Kathmandu: Boudhanath Stupa, where you’re one of thousands of pilgrims going around the huge white dome. It is a community center with butter lamps and chanting.
  • In Bhutan, You trek to Tiger’s Nest (Day 5). Here, attention turns to Lhakhangs (temples) precariously balanced on implausible cliffs. It’s not so much about community as it is about seclusion, meditation and the sheer force of nature.

The Vibe: Vibrant Noise vs. Peaceful Silence

  • Kathmandu is a cacophony of bells, incense, rickshaws and color.
  • Thimphu and Paro are a deep breath. No traffic lights, no honking and the air is sharp pine.

Is This 7 Day Bhutan Druk Yul Tour Right For You?

You'll Love This Trip If

Consider Another Trip If

You dream of seeing Tiger's Nest Monastery and visiting dzongs.

You want to do a challenging, multiday high-altitude trek (like the Snowman Trek).

You are interested in Buddhist culture, history and ancient architecture.

You care more about the nightlife, shopping and hanging out on the beach than immersing yourself in local culture.

You like picturesque mountain roads, with some lookouts and local villages on the way.

You are an extremely budget backpacker. Bhutan's tourism model is premium.

You want a well-paced, guided tour that takes care of logistics and provides comfortable accommodations.

You would rather travel by yourself with no clear-cut plans or guide.

You want a trip that benefits local people and the environment (SDF fee).

You're looking for a classic budget-friendly, no-hassles Southeast Asian backpacking trip.

Entrance Fees During Kathmandu Sightseeing

We also don’t include attraction entrance fees in the base rate, so you have flexibility as to your package cost. Because certain guests may choose to skip some museums or spend more time at one location. You are billed only for what you visit. But we don’t want you to have to rely on guesswork. Here’s the exact budget you need to allocate in your itinerary for the main sites detailed on this list:

Estimated Entry Fees (Payable on Site)

Country

Site Name

Approx. Cost

Nepal

Kathmandu Durbar Square

~$8 USD (1000 NPR)

Nepal

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

~$2 USD (200 NPR)

Nepal

Boudhanath Stupa

~$3 USD (400 NPR)

Bhutan

Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang)

~$12 USD (1000 Nu)

Bhutan

Punakha Dzong / Memorial Chorten

~$6 - $12 USD

TOTAL

Recommended Cash Budget

~$40 – $50 USD per person

Pro Tip: A guide will assist you with purchasing these tickets at the entrance. For smooth entry, carry local currency (NPR for Nepal, Nu/INR for Bhutan).

No Hidden Costs: Your Real Budget Breakdown

Zero surprises in your wallet is what we believe in. Many list vague prices, but we want you to see what the total investment is before you even press “book” on us.

The flight between Kathmandu and Paro is one of the most striking in the world, but it’s also a big expense that many don’t mention until late in the game. Since the price of flights is determined by the airlines (Drukair/Bhutan Airlines) and not our package cost, we’ll do some math for you now.

Below is a completely transparent, candid breakdown of what your overall trip investment as a solo traveler is:

Expense Item

Cost (USD)

What This Covers

7-Day Package

$1,770

Hotels, All Meals, Guide, Transport, Permits, SDF ($100/day).

Flight Ticket

~$480

Roundtrip Flight (Kathmandu – Paro – Kathmandu).

The $1,770 is what you pay us for the service. The $480 represents the airline's fee for the seat. We split them for you so that you can see exactly where every dollar goes, but we will help get both booked.

Solo Travelers: Why the Price is Different?

If you are traveling by yourself, the package price is going to be higher ($1700) than as something of a group ($1500). We want to clarify exactly why that is so you can trust that you are getting fair value for your contribution.

  • Logistics are shared in both Nepal and Bhutan. When traveling solo, you pay the full fare for three items that two people typically share:
  • Private Hotel Room: You will have your own private hotel room for all 6 nights (not sharing a room with anyone else, so you pay the full cost of the room).
  • Private vehicles and drivers are available for all transfers and sightseeing, with the freedom to go at your own pace.
  • Bhutan Solo Surcharge: Your package includes the solo surcharge levied by the Bhutanese government (part of their tourism policy).

Check with us for "Group Joining" group departures instead. We may be able to match you with another solo traveler of the same gender or place you in a small group and therefore, realize the lower per-person rate. 

Visa for Bhutan Himalayan Kingdom Tour from Kathmandu

One of the most common questions we receive is  "Is getting a Bhutan visa complicated?" The answer is not for you.

Unlike in some other countries where you need to physically go to embassies or send away your passport, Bhutan does it all digitally via your tour operator (View Nepal Treks). You don't lift a finger.

Here's the step  by step of how we get you Cleared to Fly:

Step 1: Booking (Day 0): When you book the trip, please email us a clear scan or picture of your passport photo page.

Step 2: Processing (1 Week before trip): We will process your application, which we submit directly to the Tourism Council of Bhutan in Thimphu.

Step 3: Acceptance (4-6 Days Before Trip ): We get the official Visa Clearance Letter from you through email.

Step 4: Delivery: We send you this PDF letter (or take a print-out for you if you are already in Kathmandu).

Step 5: Fly, You just present this letter at the DrukAir / Bhutan Airlines check-in. Your real visa is stamped into the page of your passport when you land in Paro.

Important Note: You cannot receive a visa on arrival if you have not obtained this clearance letter. We guarantee you to have it in your hand well before you even start packing your bags.

Festival Highlights for Bhutan Druk Yul Tour (2026/27)

Tshechus in Bhutan are colorful religious festivals with masked dances, music and rituals dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. They are religious occasions, yes , but also great social affairs with many locals dressing up in their best clothes. For visitors, a Tshechu helps to give your trip a sense of cultural authenticity and spiritual depth. Below are some of the most suitable festivals that could suit your 7‑day Kathmandu-Bhutan itinerary:

Festival

Location

Typical Timing

How It Fits Your Itinerary

Paro Tshechu

Paro

March/April (in 2026: March 28–April 1

In 2027: March 17–21)

Great pairing with Day 5 (Tiger's Nest Paro tour). Guests will be able to see masked dances after their hike.

Thimphu Tshechu

Thimphu

September/October (in 2026: Sept 25–27

In 2027: Oct 14–16

Matches with Day 4 (sightseeing in Thimphu). Travelers can join them and a whole bunch of locals, too, on the festival grounds.

Punakha Drubchen/Tshechu

Punakha

February/March

The itinerary can be modified to include the Punakha festival on Days 3–4 when returning to Paro.

Black‑Necked Crane Festival

Phobjikha Valley

November

Not on your current itinerary, but it's something that could definitely be considered as a great add-on for Wildlife /nature-lovers.

Paro Domchoe

Paro

November

Can combine with Day 5 Paro sightseeing for later‑year travelers.

Itinerary

Our Nepal and Bhutan Tour: 7 Days from Kathmandu is a local expert-designed itinerary that brings Nepal and the world of Bhutan perfectly together. While we’ve drawn up a structured itinerary that hits all the highlights, including Kathmandu’s Durbar Squares to the Tiger’s Nest hike, flexibility is essential in the Himalayas.

Actual timings will depend on local festivals, weather, and flights, but the itinerary follows a workable cycle. We take care of all logistics (including the crucial double-entry visa for Nepal) so you can concentrate on adventuring.

Costs range from $1,500 to $1,700 a person based on group size. As mountain weather can be quite unpredictable, we suggest you add one day to your trip as a buffer for ultimate peace of mind.

Trip PlanExpand all

The first day of the 7-Day Bhutan Tour starts in Kathmandu, Nepal. As land at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our staff will welcome you. You step out into the welcoming, warm Nepali air after landing, and your guide welcomes you with a traditional khada scarf. While our staff escorts you to your hotel, you will traverse past bustling city streets of Kathmandu, where you’ll see ancient temples mixed with new businesses and vendors selling fruit, incense and bright garlands.

You will spend the first hour checking into your hotel and taking some rest. In the evening, your tour leader will take you on a brief orientation walk in Thamel or Durbar Square (depending on flight arrival time). You will wander down narrow alleys crowded with craft shops, prayer flags and local cafés. You’ll witness the devout praying at miniature wayside shrines in the night, giving it a lulled spiritual feel.

You have a warm Nepali dinner as the night sets in. The smell of lentil soup, spiced vegetables and steamed rice wafts through the air. (Your guide acquaints you with the adventure that lies ahead in Bhutan, going over cultural etiquette, such as greeting people with respect and taking off your shoes inside temples.) It’s time to return to your hotel for the night, lulled to sleep by the chiming of far-off temple bells.

Max Altitude: 1400 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: Airport arrival and hotel transfer (2–3 hours)Distance: Approx. 5–7km airport to hotel

Awake early on day 2, have breakfast and head out with your guide to discover some of the cultural sights of Kathmandu. After breakfast, you will first visit Swayambhunath (the monkey temple).

You ascend mild stone steps spruced with prayer wheels and are graced with views of the entire valley shrouded in morning mist. The temple is located at the top of the hill, where you can witness monks reciting chants within monasteries and colorful prayer flags flutter in the breeze overhead. You will encounter local devotees spinning prayer wheels and lighting butter lamps, a window into the devotional life of Nepal.

Then, you drive to Pashupatinath, the most sacred Shiva temple in Nepal. Pashupatinath lies on the banks of the Bagmati River. Here, sadhus perform Hindu rites and you can also observe the local traditions as Hindu devotees conduct prayers and rituals that have remained for centuries. Your guide will share insight into the significance of the temples and what beliefs influence daily life in Nepal.

After lunch, will you head to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world. In the background, barely audible, are Buddhist chants playing, and Tibetan monks are walking around the stupa in a clockwise direction. The air in narrow alleys of handicraft stores and rooftop cafés is heavy with the aroma of incense and Tibetan bread.

In the afternoon, you will visit the Patan Durbar Square. Here, you’ll see centuries-old palaces, stone water spouts and golden temples with Newari workmanship that goes back 1,000 years. You return to your hotel in the evening after a day spent visiting Kathmandu's heritage.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: Full Day GuidedDistance: 15–25km

This morning, you will rise early for your flight to Bhutan. After you prepare, our staff will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport from where you begin a scenic flight to Bhutan. 

As your flight nears Paro in Bhutan, you can see beautiful snow-capped peaks, such as Jomolhari and other mountain ranges rising sharply beneath the clouds.

The Paro Valley comes close with its bright green expanse of forests, tiny villages with traditional Bhutanese houses with wooden windows and carved patterns.

And when you arrive, your Bhutanese guide will already be there to meet you with a big smile. You sense the slower rhythm of life here as you make your way through this serene airport adorned with traditional art. You will drive from Paro to Thimphu along the Paro River. During the journey, you will pass through productive farmland, rice terraces and families toiling in fields with wooden implements. The air is crisp and clean, and prayer flags decorate the sides of village homes that line hillsides.

On reaching Thimphu, you will be welcomed and escorted to visit the important places, depending on the time of your arrival. Then you will visit the Memorial Chorten, where old Bhutanese people walk around a shrine and circumambulate while chanting prayers. You also drop in on the Buddha Dordenma, a giant gold-tiered statue that looks out over the valley. View from The Mount of the entire city set within forested mountains.

In the late afternoon, you will wander the central streets of Thimphu. There are no signals—only a traffic cop directing the flow of cars with balletic hand gestures. Shops offer handcrafted goods, yak wool scarves and local snacks. You are treated to a Bhutanese dinner of red rice, chili cheese and thick soups before you bunk down for the night.

Max Altitude: 2,334m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 1–1.5 hour flight + 1.5–2 hour driveDistance: 400–500km

You will start your day by visiting the cultural treasures of Thimphu. Your guide will pick you up after breakfast and brings you to the National Folk Heritage Museum, where you enter a typical Bhutanese house made of stone and timber. It is a museum that demonstrates how families have lived for hundreds of years — with simple tools, wooden granary bins to store grains and mud stoves to cook. 

Then off, you will go to the Textile Museum, where you watch women weaving riotously colorful designs on a backstrap loom. The Bhutanese textiles are the expression and the identity of pride in every district.

Next, you will visit Tashichho Dzong, the administrative and monastic center of Bhutan. The pine-clad hills contrast with the whitewashed walls, red roofs and gilded spires. Monks in maroon robes shuffle silently across the courtyard, and you learn about Bhutan’s unusual set-up of monarchy and religion hand in hand.

Then, you will drive back to Paro, leaving around midday. The road meanders through forests of blue pine and small villages, and children play outside their homes. Farmers till the land alongside pure rivers and prayer flags.

In the afternoon, you will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. There’s something holy and commanding in the air as locals circle the temple, spinning prayer wheels. 

Later, you pass through Paro town with its antique shops on lazy streets filled with thangka paintings and carved wooden masks. As night falls, you recline in your inn and savor a leisurely dinner before turning in for the evening in anticipation of the following days walk.

Max Altitude: 2,200m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: Half-day sightseeing (4–5 hours) + 1.5–2 hour driveDistance: 50–55km by road

The journey today begins early in the morning. You will prepare yourself for one of the most famous walks in the world. After breakfast, you will drive to the trailhead of Taktsang Monastery (or Tiger’s Nest), which is perched on the side of a cliff. The monastery is perched dramatically on a 3,120-meter cliff. 

You will begin your hike through pine forests pungent with juniper and rhododendron. Along the way, you’ll pass prayer flags and tiny rest houses and locals on ponies. The sun rising over the valley illuminates the sweeping view of Paro below.

You will start next to exploring Tiger’s Nest, nestled on its cliff like a gemstone. Inside, you can see monks chanting in dark rooms filled with sacred statues and butter lamps. Your guide will tell you the legend of Guru Rinpoche, who meditated in this cave hundreds of years ago.

After descending, you will drive back to Paro. You can get a chance to see the Paro Dzong (fortress), one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture. You can easily walk across the old wooden bridge that locals even today wear everyday costumes. You will also visit the National Museum, where masks, old artifacts and thang-ka art are on exhibition.

In the evening, you will walk through Paro town. You can explore local cafés, handicraft stores and the quiet streets in Paro. After all activities, you will spend your night at a hotel.

Max Altitude: 3,120m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 5–6 hours hiking + 2–3 hours local touringDistance: 6–8km round trip

You will begin today's journey with a serene breakfast as the Paro Valley comes to life. After checking out from the hotel, the guide will escort you to the airport and bid you farewell with warm Bhutanese hospitality.

There will be another opportunity to view the great mountain peaks during the flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our Nepali guide will welcome and transfer you back to the hotel. This afternoon is yours to unwind or choose an optional tour of proximity markets. The streets are buzzing with activity, there are spice sellers flogging spices and singing bowls and jewellery. You can take a break at a relaxing cafe, or you can shop for some souvenirs.

You have your farewell dinner with the guide tonight and will have a final night in Nepal at your hotel.

Max Altitude: 1,400m Meals: Breakfast- LunchAccommodation: HotelDuration: 1–1.5 hour flightDistance: 400–500km

On your last morning, you will enjoy a warm breakfast while the city of Kathmandu awakens to the sound of temple bells and the aroma of fresh tea. You can make a short walk around your hotel or do some last-minute shopping, like Nepali tea, handicrafts, and incense, depending on your flight time. Your guide is ready to help you with departure procedures.

As you drive to the airport, you will see lively markets, temples and mom-and-pop shops starting their day. You might find yourself a confusing jumble of inner peace and yearning as achingly sweet memories of Nepal and Bhutan flash back.

Max Altitude: 1,400m Meals: BreakfastDuration: 30–60 minutesDistance: 5–7km hotel to airport
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Cost Details
Includes
  • All arrival and departure transportation airport / hotel / airport.
  • Twin sharing accommodation in Bhutan at tourist standard hotels full board (B-L-D).
  • Three Star (Tourist Standard) hotel in Kathmandu with bed / breakfast basis.
  • Airfare Kathmandu / Paro / Kathmandu (if flying back to Nepal after Bhutan trip).
  • A guide who can speak English and government licensed.
  • Food in Bhutan B-L-D
  • Bhutan Visa & Applicable Travel Permit.
  • Sightseeing tour in Bhutan as per itinerary with entrance ticket.
  • Welcome or Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at authentic Nepalese restaurant with cultural programs.
Excludes
  • Nepal Visa-International airfare before and after Nepal, personal travel / medical insurance.
  • Emergency evacuation by any means of transportation
  • Tips for guide and driver
  • Entrance ticket and food while sightseeing in Kathmandu
  • Early return from the trip due to personal / medical problem in this case clients should bear his / her own expenses.
Essential Information

Best Time for Druk Yul Tour 

Bhutan is a place for all seasons, but depending on when you decide to visit, the country will look very different. Spring and Autumn are the two golden windows to catch the clearest mountain views along with the nicest weather.

Spring (March through May): Time for Nomads of Color

It’s considered the most beautiful time to visit. The valleys burst into a riot of rhododendrons, magnolias and wild orchids. The weather is cool (10–20°C), so hiking up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery will be pleasant. It is also the time for the popular Paro Tshechu festival with its lively mask dances in the courtyard of Paro Dzong.

Autumn (September to November): Views Season

If you desire crystal-clear views of the Himalayas and a rosy dawn sky from your flight, this is the time to do it. And the air has just been washed by the monsoon, making for the clearest possible views of peaks like Mt. Jomolhari. It’s high season for trekking and cultural festivals, such as the Thimphu Tshechu.

Winter (Dec–Feb) provides clear skies but very cold nights; summer (Jun–Aug) is lush and wet.

Accommodations

We believe that where you sleep is equally important as what you see. It is against this backdrop that we have selected special places to stay on this tour, combining contemporary comfort with genuine local ambience.

Kathmandu (3 Nights) Stay in a 3-star deluxe hotel situated in the lively Thamel or Lazimpat area. These hotels provide clean, large air-conditioned rooms, hot showers and a calm garden oasis from the sounds of the city.

Stay in Bhutan for 3 Nights. The benchmarks are high here. Your stay will be in 3-star tourist-class government-approved hotels in Thimphu and Paro. These are known for their classic Bhutanese architecture, hand-painted wooden beams, large windows overlooking valleys, and snug heaters for the cool evenings.

Meals Facility

The cuisine is a massive part of the cultural experience and we’ve tailored our meal plan to allow you to make the most of both worlds. In Nepal, that means your package will include a breakfast buffet at your hotel every day with a combination of Western staples like eggs and toast as well as local options. 

Kathmandu has amazing food choices from traditional Nepali Dal Bhat and Tibetan Momos to wood-fired pizza and coffee shops. We want you to have the chance to eat your way through all of it while taking in the culture.

It’s a different process in Bhutan as it is an all-inclusive experience. Your package includes full board i.e breakfast, lunch and dinner. Most of your meals will be eaten at either your hotel or a tourist-class restaurant, which offers buffet-style eating. This generally consists of red seasonal organic vegetables, mild curry and a fabulous national dish, the Ema Datshi (chilies and cheese). The food is healthy and organic, not as spicy as normal Indian or Nepali restaurants (to cater to the international palette), but if you like an authentic dash of chili, there’s extra available on the side.

Handling Your Nepal Re-Entry

One detail all travelers seem to forget as their trip approaches is that you enter Nepal twice on the tour, the first time at the beginning of your arrival into Kathmandu and again on Day 6 after leaving Bhutan. Given that as soon as you leave for Bhutan, your standard single entry is no longer valid, there's a point you need to consider in terms of returning. But don't worry, it's very easy.

The most effortless stress-free method is the Pay as you go. If you're on an international flight to Kathmandu, simply arrive Day 1 and purchase a basic $30 USD 15-Day Tourist Visa for Nepal at the kiosk in the airport. So, when you're flying back from Bhutan on Day 6, you walk up to that same kiosk and purchase a second one 15 day visa at $30 USD. It’s quick, it's usually cheaper than trying to work out complex visas for multiple entries in advance, and both legs of your trip are covered.

In Bhutan we have got your visa completely covered. We obtain your Bhutan visa in advance and send you the clearance by email. You should take $60 USD cash with you (two $30s), and your immigration will be hassle free.

Your Kathmandu Connection With Stress Free Logistics

With other trips, you spend it searching for the Kathmandu logistics, but with us, everything from your arrival to your departure is included in your holiday price. Our team looks after the major connections so that you can traverse these two Himalayan Kingdoms with no fears at all.

Who Books What?

We handle your round-trip flight from Kathmandu to Paro. Our staff then secures these beautiful flights after you make a reservation, includes them in your package rate and issues your e-tickets. The only thing you need to do is book your international flights, which need to arrive in Kathmandu on day 1 of the itinerary.

Your Recommended Arrival

We highly recommend arriving in Kathmandu at least one day earlier than your trip departure date to avoid any problems with delayed or lost luggage and to acclimatize. This allows sufficient latitude for possible international dateline rules, time changes and the usual international travel vagaries, getting you adjusted and ready to commence with your Kathmandu city tour on day 2. We are more than happy to provide a recommendation and make a reservation in a hotel for this pre-tour stay.

The Seamless Handover

Our guide will come to pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu on the morning of your departure flight to Bhutan. We'll help to transfer you to the airport and check in for your flight bound to Bhutan, and assist you through this process. At Paro, your Bhutanese guide will be on hand at the airport to greet you with your visa issued and begin a rejuvenating and inspiring trip across the last truly unspoilt Shangri-La

The Guide Handover from Kathmandu to Bhutan

Another question we often get is “Does my Nepali guide fly with me to Bhutan?" The short answer is no, and why that's actually good for you.

For the most authentic experience, we work with local experts in each country.

In Kathmandu, A Nepali culture expert leads you around the hidden alleys of the Durbar Squares.

In Bhutan, you will be accompanied by a certified Bhutanese guide who is well versed in the extensive spiritual history of the Dzongs and local customs.

How the Handover Works (Zero Stress)

We've worked on this to make the transition seamless.

  • Departure from Kathmandu: Our Nepal team will be with you until the airport and will see you off at the airport terminal, ensuring you have checked in.
  • The Flight: You can either do the scenic 1-hour flight solo (or with your group).
  • Paro Arrival: Once you come out of the airport terminal in Paro, you will see our Bhutanese guide with your board name and company logo.

They already know your itinerary, your preferences and when exactly you landed. You step off the plane, and your Bhutanese host takes charge immediately. It's like a relay race, and we pass the baton: smooth, professional and all done by us.

Travel Light to Bhutan: We'll Watch Your Luggage

Many of our clients join with this Bhutan travel itinerary as soon as they've completed a big trek like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna. We at View Nepal Treks understand that the last thing you want to do is drag your heavy, mucky trekking boots and zero-degree sleeping bag on a one-way trip cross-country to a hotel in Thimphu.

Bhutan is casual when it comes to culture, you don't need much except regular clothes and a camera. So what are you supposed to do with 15kg of trekking gear?

Leave it with us for free

We provide secure luggage storage at our home in Kathmandu for the use of our clients.

  • Drop it off: On Day 3, you can leave your heavy duffel bags in the morning before we go to the airport.
  • Lock it up: Your bag is tagged, then stowed in our locked, 24/7 monitored facility.
  • Take it: It will be there for you when we touch back down in Kathmandu on Day 6.

Our Luggage Logistics Service Includes

  • Secured Storage: Leave your heavy trekking duffels and extra gear in our locked, 24/7 staffed store room in Kathmandu.
  • Complimentary: Our package guests enjoy 100% free service.
  • Ready on Return: Your bags will be labeled and waiting for you when you return to Kathmandu on day six.

How delightful it is to fly to Paro with nothing more than a light suitcase. Its heavy gear is safe while its back takes a break.

What Currency to Carry On Bhutan Dragon Tour from Kathmandu?

Because you're visiting two countries, money is confusing. Here's the basic rulebook to avoid becoming stranded with worthless money.

In Nepal (Days 1 to 3 &and 6 to 7)

  • Currency: Nepali Rupee (NPR).
  • Best Practice: Change a small amount of USD/Euro at Kathmandu airport for taxi/tips. There are plenty of ATM's in Kathmandu.
  • Note: Nepali Rupees (NPR) are not accepted currency in Bhutan. Exchange them, or spend them before you fly to Paro.

In Bhutan (Days 3 to 6)

  • Currency: Ngultrum (Nu).
  • The Indian Rupee (INR) Hack: The Bhutanese Ngultrum is pegged to the Indian Rupee at 1:1.
  • Annexed: ₹100, ₹200and ₹500 notes in Indian Rupees are also widely accepted in Bhutan.
  • Not Accepted: ₹2000 INR notes are usually not accepted - high denominations.
  • USD: US Dollars for souvenirs and tips, just make sure the bills are crispy and new (no rips).

We recommend to bring USD (cash) as your backup at the very least. You will be able to change $50­–$100 at Paro Airport for local currency (snacks/souvenirs). You won't need too much money, because the Bhutan package caters to all of your main meals and hotels.

Your Smart Packing List for Bhutan

Pack for layers. Bhutan's climate varies with altitude and time of day. This list is categorized by what you will be doing.

Useful for Temple and Dzong Visits (Cultural Respect\Cover Comfort)

  • Clothing: Shoulder-covering tops and long pants or skirts (past the knee) are necessary in most religious sites.
  • NeedleLightweight Scarf or Shawl: Good for some additional modesty – will also serve as a sun cover-up and layer.
  • Easy Take-Off Shoes: You'll have to remove your shoes often (before entering temple inner sanctuaries). Wear slip-on shoes or open-toed sandals.

For Mountain Pass, Drives and Nights (Fluctuating Season)

  • Light Down Jacket/Fleece: A must for chilly mornings, evenings and high passes like Dochula (3,100m).
  • Packable Rain Jacket / Windbreaker: You're likely to encounter some pop-up showers; a lightweight shell layer is essential.
  • Hat and Thin Gloves: Good for cold early starts, or if you tend to be chilly.

For The Tiger's Nest Hike (Safety and Fitness)

  • Sturdy, Broken-in Hiking Shoes: The trail is rough and uneven. The most important thing you can bring with you is a pair of good shoes.
  • Moisture-Wicking T-Shirts: Not cotton, which becomes cold when damp.
  • Daypack: For water, your jacket, camera and snacks.
  • Walking Poles (Optional): Great for giving your joints a bit of support on the steep walk down.

Pro-Tip: The secret is all in the layers. You could begin a day in a T-shirt, put on a fleece at the pass and find yourself back in just your shirtsleeves by afternoon. Packing cubes are a great option to help separate these various groups in your suitcase.

SIM Cards and Wi-Fi

It is not as hard to stay online in the Himalayas as you might think, but no one SIM card will work for your entire trip. Your Nepali SIM card (both Ncell and Namaste) will not work in Bhutan, and international roaming can cost a fortune. The smartest answer is to buy a local SIM in each country.

You can get a tourist SIM in Nepal from the arrival hall of the Kathmandu airport, and it will cost you about $5–$10 USD. In Bhutan, it's not much more difficult. Once you land at Paro International Airport, your guide will assist you in buying a SIM card for either Bhutan Telecom or TashiCell. For about $10–$15 USD, you can get a healthy data package that will serve you well in Thimphu and Paro.

Most hotels in both countries provide free Wi-Fi, but a local SIM will allow you to upload your Tiger's Nest photos immediately and keep in touch with family during the drives. All you need is to have with you an unlocked phone.

Related Blogs and Information

Getting Bhutan Visa for US Citizens

Bhutan Tour from USA 2026

FAQs

Yes. You should apply for a Nepal Tourist Visa (on arrival) for approximately US$25 and obtain a Bhutan Visa from us.

Nepal: You come in and out of Nepal 2 times (Day 1 & Day 6). We suggest that you get a 15-Day Visa upon arrival ($30, twice, i.e., this means spending $60).

Bhutan: We pre-process your Bhutan visa here. You just need to print the clearance letter we sent you by email.

Yes, a professional Kathmandu city guide will be provided on your sightseeing day in Kathmandu (Day 2). But in your free time and evenings while you're in Thamel, you are very welcome to venture out yourself.

No. You'll be accompanied by a local cultural expert guide in Nepal and an accredited Bhutanese guide in Bhutan. When you land, your Bhutanese guide will greet you at Paro Airport with a name placard.

As the entrance fees are excluded to provide you with maximum flexibility, we suggest budgeting around $40-50 USD per person. This includes access to most sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath and the Tiger's Nest monastery.

Bhutanese currency (Ngultrum) and Indian rupees are at a 1:1 ratio. But usually they refuse to accept high-denomination notes (like ₹500 and ₹2000). Small bills (₹100) work best. NOTE: NPR (Nepalese Rupee) is not accepted in Bhutan.

Himalayan weather can be unpredictable. We'll assist you in rescheduling your connection if a flight is canceled. Please note that we highly recommend you purchase travel insurance that covers Trip interruption to cover any extra hotel expenses if you get stuck in Kathmandu or Paro.

You probably won't see Everest at ground level in Kathmandu or Bhutan, but you will likely glimpse it from the plane during your Kathmandu-Paro flight. It's one of the mountains closest in flight line to Everest on earth.

Yes, this is mostly a cultural and sightseeing tour, with relatively little strenuous activity other than the hike to Tiger's Nest; this hike can be skipped (you can view it from the café beneath). It is very family-friendly.

Type D, F and G plugs are usually used in Bhutan. If you're going on a long-term trip, then I'd suggest getting a world travel adapter. Hotels will often have multi-plug sockets, though it would be safer to take your own.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. Forget about the extra day's delay; it has to extend to medical emergencies and repatriation. We also advise you to add flight cancellation protection, since mountain weather conditions can lead to delays.

Call to our expert 24/7
Bhupendra Adhikari
+977 9851029611
travelers choice
Seamless Combo of Two Worlds

I was concerned about the logistics of doing two countries in a week, but View Nepal Treks executed it seamlessly. Coming from Kathmandu's chaos into Bhutan's order was such a magical experience....

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August 20, 2025
S
Sarah J
- Brazil
This was a wonderful service

Solo visiting Bhutan sounded like a scary and expensive idea, but I got a fair price in a solo package from View Nepal. I felt safe the entire time. The free...

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September 18, 2024
E
Elena R.
- Germany
Honest Pricing and Great Guides

We selected this agency as the quote was clear on the SDF and flight cost, unlike others we were in contact with. No hidden fees. The 3-star hotels were above standard-...

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March 22, 2023
M
Mark C.
- United Kingdom
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