Which is the Best Kathmandu to Bhutan Tours in 2025 and 2026?
Bhutan Tour From Kathmandu 4 Days
Duration: 4 days
Destinations: Paro, Thimphu
Highlights: Thimphu sightseeing, Tiger's Nest monastery
the interesting 4-day flight to Bhutan from Kathmandu which is considered as not only a place for the world of Buddhism but also the great Himalayan sky, a breathtaking expanse. Once you land in Paro, drive the beautifully scenic road to Thimphu town. The next day of the tour will involve sightseeing around the town and enjoy its rich cultural heritage. You will go back to Paro, where you will visit Tiger Monastery located at the cliff. Finally, your journey will end by returning to Paro.
Bhutan Tour from Kathmandu 4 Days Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Paro (2,200m) and drive to Thimphu (2,320m)- 1.5 hours.
Day 2: Full day of sightseeing in Thimphu (2,320m)
Day 3: Travel from Thimphu (2,320m) back to Paro (2,200m)- 1.5/ 3 hours
Day 4: Depart from Paro (2,200m)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Paro, Drive to Thimphu
Your Bhutan experience starts as soon as you board the flight in Paro International Airport; you will not spend much time waiting in line to clear customs and immigration as you will have arranged your visa in advance.
After picking you up from the exit of the airport/terminal, you will be taken on a one-and-half an hour drive to Thimphu, the beautiful capital city of Bhutan. This city is located in the Himalayas and is a great example of a city that is developing but still has lots of traditional traits. To start your tour, it may be useful to take a stroll around the city choosing the sights that appeal to you most during a leisurely self-guided walking tour.
Day 2: Thimphu (B/L/D) Full Day Sightseeing to Thimphu
The second day is again fully packed with sightseeing in Thimphu. This covers several sites including the Memorial Chorten, the stupa that has been constructed to commemorate the third King of Bhutan and the Zilukha Nunnery which provides a view of how the nuns live.
Takin Sanctuary where National Animal of Bhutan is found and Indigenous Hospital for Bhutanese Traditional Treatment are also included in the tour. You will also go for a tour at the Textile Museum as well as the Heritage Museum that will give you a feel of the Bhutan cultural background. Other attractions are the Traditional School of Arts & Crafts were young people of Bhutan are trained in traditional art and craft; Tashichho Dzong – the fortress and monastery which houses the office of the King and the seat of the government.
The last places to visit if there is time will be the Zangdopelri temple and a paper factory to make the day one filled with cultural experiences.
Day 3: Thimphu to Paro
After breakfast on the third day, you will have to revisit the same route to Paro. The main attraction of the day is a stunning flight to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery or Taktsang Monastery which is painted on a cliff. This place is one of the most holy places and perhaps one of the most photographed in the kingdom of Bhutan.
Following this spiritually fulfilling tour, you will be guided to one of the typical Bhutanese farm houses to familiarize yourself with the lifestyle of the people of Bhutan. The day proceeds to the National Museum which was formerly a watchtower and now a rich storehouse of Bhutanese art, relics and historical pieces. Last but not least, a visit to the local market will give you an opportunity to feel the everyday life of Paro people and see bright colored stalls.
Day 4: Depart Paro
Your tour comes to an end on the fourth day with a hotel breakfast in Paro before your departure to the airport. Your guide will help you to check out and will help you to leave the place easily. When you say goodbye to Bhutan, you will be fully prepared to leave a beautiful country with marvelous views and friendly people behind you.
Duration: 6 days
Destinations: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha
Highlights: Simtokha Dzong, Tiger's Nest monastery
The 6 Day Bhutan Tour takes you to extraordinary places where you experience the great cultural richness typical of Bhutan, a Himalayan kingdom with mesmerizing landscapes. This tour initiates from Paro, taking you to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, which is quite known for many attractions to include the historic Simtokha Dzong that houses the oldest fort in Bhutan. The trip proceeds to Punakha, taking in a good diversity of scenery, from plains to high mountains. Of course, without visiting the most iconic Paro, the trip is never complete, and therefore, the Tiger's Nest monastery is included, magnificently perched.
This program will give a total overview of the culture, history, and natural beauty of Bhutan, with a view of the towering peaks and dzongs, and all its natural beauty: Jomolhari. It tells how from one point of arrival to the next departure, each day is a different experience to go by during the unforgettable tour of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Bhutan Tour Simtokha Dzong Trip Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro, travel to Thimphu
Arriving at Paro airport (2,200 m / 7,218 ft)
Transfer to Thimphu (2,334 m / 7,657 ft) - drive of about 1.5 hours.
Thimphu hotel check-in.
Day 2: Tour Thimphu City (2,334 m / 7,657 ft)
Full day tour in Thimphu.
Visit important places and landmarks.
Day 3: Touring From Thimphu To Punakha
Travel from Thimphu (2,334 m / 7,657 ft) to Punakha (1,242 m / 4,074 ft)
Cross Dochula Pass (3,100 m / 10,171 ft) on the way
Sightseeing on the way or upon reaching Punakha.
Day 4: From Punakha To Paro
Morning engagements in Punakha (1 242 m / 4074 ft)
Travel from Punakha to Paro (2 200 m / 7,218 ft)
Paro bedtime pleasures.
Day 5: Full Day In Paro ( 2,200m/7,218ft)
A full day of looking around the town of Paro
Visit beautiful sites and places with local artifacts.
Day 6: Leaving Paro
Check out of your hotel
Transfer to Paro airport
Board your flight out of bhutan
Duration: 5 Days
Destinations: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangduephodrang
Highlights: Thimphu's cultural sites, Punakha Dzong, Tiger's Nest Monastery
Head into the magical Thimphu Valley on this impressive 5-day Bhutan tour. Reach to the capital city of Thimphu from Paro upon arrival. Get a flavor of the cultural sites and colorful markets that pepper the capital city of Thimphu. Drive to Punakha and Wangduephodrang for visits to historic dzongs amidst scenic backdrops. Afterwards,drive back to Paro and dramatically hike up to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery perched on a cliff. There are many attractions of a cultural nature: museums, temples, and centers for local crafts. On the last day, bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon by departing from Paro with many unforgettable memories of Bhutan's unique beauty and traditions.
Bhutan Tour Thimphu Valley Trip Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Paro (2200m) and drive to Thimphu (2350m)
On arrival at Paro International Airport.
Welcome at the airport.
Drive to Thimphu (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes).
Check-in at the hotel in Thimphu.
Enjoy your evening at leisure while adjusting to the altitude.
Day 2: Explore Thimphu (2350m)
Spend the whole day touring Thimphu.
Places to visit include the Buddha Dordenma statue as well as Tashichho Dzong.
Spend the night at a Thimphu hotel.
Day 3: Punakha (1250m) - Wangdue Phodrang (1310m) – Paro (2200m)
Leave for early morning from Punakha
Visit Wangduephodrang enroute.
Continue to arrive at Paro
Check in the hotel upon arrival at Landside Paro
Evening free time in Paro.
Day 4: Visit Paro (2200m) and Paro Taktsang (3120m)
Full day exploring Paro.
Go to Tiger’s Nest Monastery or Paro Taktsang (in Dzongkha)
Other places include (for instance) Rinpung Dzong, National Museum etc.
Day 5: Depart Paro (2200m)
Check out from the hotel.
Transfer to Paro International Airport.
Departure flight.
Duration: 7 days
Destinations: Paro, Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha, Wangdue
Highlights: Dochula Pass panoramic view, Thimphu's cultural sites, Gangtey Valley, Punakha Dzong, Tiger's Nest Monastery
A 7-day tour starts in Paro and covers all the cultural wonders Thimphu has in store. The tour then drives across Gangtey, vaunted for its beautiful valley and black-necked cranes, and further on to Punakha/Wangdue that boasts the mighty Punakha Dzong. Drive to Paro over the iconic Dochula Pass, promising spectacular Himalayan vistas. Approach the precariously set legendary Tiger Nest Monastery. Continue experiencing Bhutan's rich culture and age-old tradition amidst the awesomely beautiful nature, leaving from Paro with memories of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Day 1: Arrive at Paro (2,200m), drive to Thimphu (2,320m)
Airport arrival in Paro
Fabulous journey to Thimphu via car
Evening acclimatization
Day 2: Thimphu (2,320m) - Full-day sightseeing
Visit key attractions
Study local culture
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu (2,320m) to Gangtey (2,900m)
Mountain drive through Dochula Pass (3,100m)
Arrival at Gangtey Valley
Evening walk in Phobjikha Valley
Day 4: Gangtey (2,900m) to Punakha/Wangdue (1,250m)
Morning nature walk
Descend into subtropical Punakha valley
Evening by Mo Chhu
Day 5: Punakha/Wangdue (1,250m) to Paro (2,200m)
Visit Punakha Dzong
Drive back to Paro
Evening in Paro town
Day 6: Paro (2,200m) to Taktshang Monastery (3,120m)
Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Explore the sacred site
Descend and relax in Paro
Day 7: Depart Paro (2,200m)
Last minute shopping
Transfer to airport
Departure
Duration: 8 days
Destinations: Paro, Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha, Wangdue
Highlights: Dochula Pass panoramic view, Thimphu's cultural sites, Gangtey Valley, Punakha Dzong, Tiger's Nest Monastery
This panoramic private 7-day tour covering Dochula Pass offers breathtaking scenery. Starting in Paro, visit the explore Thimphu and then proceed to Gangtey for its beautiful valley and famous black-necked cranes, followed by Punakha/Wangdue, home to the magnificent Punakha Dzong; back across the iconic Dochula Pass with spectacular Himalayan views, ending up in Paro. Hanging on the cliff with dramatic views, Tiger Nest Monastery lies with rich culture and ancient tradition amidst awe-inspiring natural beauty, greeting you before leaving Paro with lifelong memories in the land of Thunder Dragon.
Bhutan Tour Cheri Monastery - 8 Days Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Paro (2200m), commence a drive to Thimphu (2320m).
At Paro airport.
Drive to Thimphu.
Evening acclimatization.
Day 2: Thimphu (2,320m)- Full day sightseeing
Visit to important attractions of local history
spend the night in Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city.
Day 3: Thimphu (2,320m) to Gangtey (2,900m).
An exciting trip through Dochula Pass
Reach the Gangtey Valley later today.
In the evening we’ll have a look at the area.
Day 4: From Gangtey (2,900m) to Trongsa (2,200 m).
Enjoy Morning Breakfast In Gangtey
Proceed to Trongsa town.
Spend an evening in Troongsa.
Day 5: From Trongsa to Punakha (1 250 m).
Go towards Punakha Valley.
A night spent at the palace under a golden
Day 6: From Punakha/Wangdue (1 250 m) to Paro (2 200 m).
Visiting the vicinity of Punakha.
Drive back to Paro town in the evening.
Spend the Evening in Paro.
Day 7: Paro (2,200m)
Spend the whole day around Paro town.
Visit Tiger’s Nest monastery, located on a mountain above Paro at an altitude of 3,120m.
Explore the sacred site.
Day 8: Depart from Paro
Last-minute activities around Paro
Departure From Country
What Is The Best Time For Kathmandu to Bhutan Tours?
Kathmandu to Bhutan Tour In Spring (March to June)
The best season to plan a Kathmandu to Bhutan tour is spring because of the favorable climate and the blooming beauty of the natural environment. These are the months that have relatively low temperatures, which are between 10°C to 25°C ideal for traveling and tours. The weather is relatively constant; there are no complications of clouds which makes the flight from Kathmandu to Bhutan very smooth. There are very few chances of cancellation or delay in this season as the rainfall is very low during this time. Moreover, beautiful flowers, particularly rhododendrons, and beautiful greenery around complete the beauty of the valleys and mountains of Bhutan. This is also the time of cultural fests in Bhutan making your tour a more cultural one.
What Are The Festivals That Occur in Spring 2025?
Paro Tshechu
Date: 8th – 12th April 2025
Location: The courtyard of Rinpung dzong in Paro district
This five-day festival is one of Bhutan's most popular and significant events. A magnificent spectacle is held in the courtyard of Rinpung dzong, Paro district illustrates the elaborate mask dance, traditional music, and the unveiling of a gigantic thangka. (A religious painting).
Gomphukora Tshechu
Date: April 5-7,2025
It is a three-day festival dedicated to the arrival of the Guru Rinpoche in Bhutan. The celebration takes place in the eastern part of the country and attracts the pilgrims from the neighboring countries.
Rhododendron Festival
Date: 22 – 24th April 2025
Location: Royal botanical park, Lam Pelri, Punakha district
Nature combines with culture during this three-week-long Rhododendron Festival in Bhutan, with guided walks around parks that are full of rhododendrons, cultural performances of traditional dances and music, and educative programs on the conservation of biodiversity. Communities also join in through the display of crafts and food items. Events such as watching birds with adventure activities are part of the festival program, where the guest meets very attractive nature and rich culture.
Ura Yakchoe
Date: 9th – 13th May 2025
Location: Ura Lhakhang, Ura valley (Bumthang)
The Urakchoe is the Bhutan festival of the Chador Vajrapani manifestation. Events take place to merit and bless all viewers and the community by showing the statue of Chador, moved from Gaden to Ura. According to their belief, Guru Rinpoche gives the statue to the people of Ura. Deep spiritual links attached to this place's rich cultural heritage draw hundreds of participants to participate in the event.
Domkhar Tshechu
Date: 9th – 13th May 2025
Location: Ura Lhakhang, Ura valley (Bumthang)
Domkhar Tshechu is a three-day annual colorful festival normally held in the month of the tenth Bhutanese month in the village of Domkhar in Chumig Gewog, Bumthang District, Bhutan. Masked dances in different colors, religious rituals, and traditional performances are shown to portray Bhutanese culture and Buddhist teachings. People come together for the view of these spectacular displays and to receive blessings upon attending this event. Tshechu is one of the most important ways to keep alive and promote Bhutan's rich spiritual heritage.
Nimalung Tshechu
Date: 3rd – 5th July 2025
Location: Nimalung & Kurjey monastery, Bumthang
The Nimalung Tshechu is one of Bhutan's most famous Buddhist festivals that takes place every year at Nimalung Monastery, Chumey Valley, Bumthang district. Held for three days, this ceremony falls in June or July depending upon the year and usually coincides with Guru Rinpoche’s birthday. The festival epitomizes mask dances or cham by both monks and lay people. These dances depict various Buddhist teachings and legends. People come from every part of Bhutan to gain merit, to seek blessings, and simply for the joy of it all. Finally, a giant thangka-a religious painting-of Guru Rinpoche is unrolled in order to conclude Tshechu.
Kathmandu to Bhutan Tour In Autumn (September till November)
Autumn is the other favorable season to start Kathmandu to Bhutan tours. As the weather is clear, the surrounding condition has a moderate temperature variation from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. The refreshing weather displays clear skies with a beautiful view of the Himalayas and terrains of Bhutan. The post-monsoon flowers and yellow paddy fields reveal themselves. It gives an eye-popping feel against the backdrop of the mountains. Festivals like Thimphu Tshechu and Jambay Lhakhang Drup also fall during this time of the year, though even tourists show interest in coming to Bhutan for these dates.
What Are The Festivals That Occur in Autumn 2025?
Thimphu Tshechu
Date: October 2-4, 2025
Location: Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu
In the fall of Bhutan, a festival is held that lasts three days called Thimphu Tshechu. It takes place every year in October. People come to see bright mask dances and spiritual shows. The stories told by the dances are old and said to bring good luck to those who watch. Monks will perform rituals and show a large thangka painting. Both locals and tourists enjoy the fun atmosphere, tasty food, and the opportunity to meet others. This is a great way to experience Bhutanese culture and its customs.
Jambay Lhakhang Drup
Date: November 5 (evening) to 8, 2025
Location: Jambay Lhakhang, Bumthang
People have been drawn to this amazing festival for the fire ceremony alone and, of course, the midnight dance. This event is to mark the consecrations of Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built back in the 7th century.
Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu
Date: September 30 - October 2, 2025
Location: Wangdue Phodrang Dzong
This festival exhibits the historical side of Bhutan by using masks while the religious figures perform solemn prayers. The highlight of the festival is the silk painting depicting Guru Rinpoche.
Black-Necked Crane Festival
Date: November 11, 2025
Location: Gangtey Gonpa, Phobjikha Valley
The arrival of the black-necked cranes in their winter home stage for the festival. Also, the event will include crane-based folklore songs and dances and environmental education programs throughout.
Jakar Tshechu
Date: October 29-31, 2025
Location: Jakar Dzong, Bumthang
This festival is carried out in the central part of Bhutan, where traditional mask dances and religious rituals are shown. It is a beautiful opportunity to witness Bhutanese culture in the heartland of the country, where the country's spiritual atmosphere prevails.
Prakhar Duchhoed
Date: November 6-8, 2025
Location: Prakhar Lhakhang, Bumthang
This festival offers more of a one-on-one encounter with Bhutan's religious creeds, covering even the unique mask dances and rituals particular to the Prakhar monastery.
Gangtey Tshechu
Date: October 5-7, 2025
Location: Gangtey Monastery, Phobjikha Valley
It falls in the most panoramic Phobjikha Valley and is a mix of religious ceremonies and cultural performances, allowing a peep into Bhutanese customs and traditions amidst beautiful surroundings.
Tamzing Phala Choedpa
Date: October 2 to 4, 2025
Location: Tamzhing Lhündrup Monastery, Bumthang
Tsephala Choedpa of Bhutan tributes to the tertön Pema Lingpa, founder of the hidden spiritual treasures. Special nature mask dances give one a vivid scene during this festival. Sacred relics, thought deeply spiritual, are displayed during the event. The colorful festival gives one an idea of how deep Buddhist traditions are rooted in this nation. It draws many locals and visitors alike to see the color and the spiritual atmosphere that so beholds it.
Thangbi Mani
Date: October 6 (evening) to 8, 2025
Location: Thangbi Lhakhang, Bumthang
This festival is celebrated at Thangbi Lhakhang in Bumthang, Falling with Tamzing Phala Choedpa. This festival is known for fire blessing rituals and Mask dances. This event shows a fine understanding of Bhutanese Buddhist conventions. Hoards of locals and tourists often visit the country to feel its spiritual waves.
Jhomolhari Mountain Festival
Date: October 15, 2025
Location: Soe Yutoed, near Mount Jhomolhari
A festival about the culture and environment of Jhomolhari. It is a platform for traditional Bhutanese performances, sporting events and exhibitions of local products. The festival will contribute to the greater environmental and cultural appreciation of the area, a much-needed natural sanctuary within an urban landscape that can drive economic welfare through sustainable tourism on conservation. You get a unique opportunity to experience traditional local celebrations in the most stunning mountainous area it is.
Druk Wangyel Tshechu
Date: December 13, 2025
Location: Dochula Pass
This relatively new festival celebrates Bhutan's victory in 2003 over Indian insurgents. In this relatively new festival, mask dances are performed against the awesome backdrops of the Himalayan Mountains. The event's historical importance is wrapped in the traditional cultural expressions of Bhutan that visualize and bind recent history with old customs.
Chhukha Tshechu
Date: 29th – 31st October
Location: Chhukha Dzong
It falls in Chhukha Dzongkhag, situated in the southwestern part of Bhutan. It presents a very traditional experience with its traditional and religious performances, which play an important role in Bhutanese Buddhism. The events include masked dances of different types and other rituals related to Bhutanese Buddhism. Chhukha Tshechu gives guests a chance to experience Bhutanese culture without the hosts of tourists who congregate at some festivals across the country.
Accommodation
Accommodation During Kathmandu to Bhutan Tour
The kind of places to stay en-route from Kathmandu to Bhutan also range from luxurious lodges to simple lodges depending on the taste and budget of the travelers. When it comes to options in lodging, Kathmandu offers a variety of options from cheap guest houses to luxurious five star hotels. These facilities include; Internet, hot water, and airport transfers. A large number of them are owned by families which are a guarantee of a homely atmosphere and individual approach. Being the capital city, there is always something to do and see as well as the hospitable people of this city will make your stay enjoyable.
When arriving in Bhutan, the concept of lodgings and guest houses transition from the typical contemporary style to a combination of both modern and traditional. Most hotels and guest houses in Bhutan are standard, beautiful and situated in scenic areas with attractive views of the Himalayas from the rooms. Such establishments are associated with home-cooked meals, as well as the use of local products, but also the oriental menu. The design and location of these accommodations make them special; they contribute to the overall traveling experience and give you a chance to appreciate the Bhutanese culture and scenery to the utmost extent.
Accommodation in Kathmandu
While planning your Kathmandu to Bhutan tour, you need to keep it in mind that accommodation in Kathmandu lies outside the package deal. You would need to look after your accommodation in the city, but again, there is no dearth of accommodations—the options range from really cheap hostels to luxury hotels.
Luxury hotels in the Thamel area are some of the best in the world and have the most appropriate service standards, but there are also cheaper guesthouses in quieter areas of the city. Tents are cheaper when hired in bulk, and the costs also depend on the period of the year, that is, the tourist season and the specified region.
Our team is dedicated to serving you in the best way possible; hence, we are more than willing to help with any accommodations reservations that you may require. From advice on where you could eat to where you might get a room, we are more than available to do so. Further, we assist with any other travel information that you might need while you’re in Nepal. In this way, our goal is to improve your trip as you find a comfortable place to stay in Kathmandu before proceeding to Bhutan.
What Food Options During Kathmandu to Bhutan Tour?
Food in Kathmandu
The food in Kathmandu particularly proves to be very diverse and unique reflecting the culture and the history of the place. The city has countless restaurants and eating places, ranging from local Nepalese food to any type of food from around the world. Some of the dishes that one must try include steamed momos, dal bhat, and food originating from Newari culture Yomari, a sweet dumpling, and bara, which is a type of lentil patty.
In Thamel, the central part of Kathmandu, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes where different types of the meals are served, Indian, Chinese, Italian and Continental. Street food also plays a role in that people are able to purchase samosas, chatpate which is puffed rice that is spicy, and sel roti which is a rice doughnut. From fancy eating joints to road-side stalls, tourists are assured of good and remarkable meals when in Kathmandu.
Food in Bhutan
While planning for a tour starting from Kathmandu going to Bhutan, visitors will realize that there is a lot of variety of foods that they will be able to taste. Till date, Bhutanese food shares many similarities with the foods of its neighboring countries, but at the same time has its own unique identity. One of the most common local dishes that is widely used in cookery is Ema Datshi which is a spicy dish prepared from chilies and cheese and generally regarded as a national dish. Red rice served as a side dish has a nutty taste and is eaten with most dishes.
The staples that possess spiciness and the dishes like Phaksha Paa (pork with red chilies) and Jasha Maru (spicy minced chicken) reveal the spicy nature of the people of Bhutan. Many dishes cater to vegetarians, Hoentoe being buckwheat dumplings, and Jaju being a Bhutanese soup. Suja (butter tea) is one of the tea experiences Bhutan presents to its visitor. The Bhutanese food is rich in its taste and is a perfect combination of fresh vegetables and spices ensuring the tourists a delicious and memorable meal.
Following are the detailed lists of some major food options:
Ema Datshi: A dish often considered the national dish of Bhutan, it is made entirely of chilies-either fresh green ones or dried red ones-that are cooked in a mixture of datshi, a kind of traditionally processed Bhutanese cheese, combined with butter. Normally, chilies are cut up lengthwise and stewed with cheese to turn it into a very tasty, rich-flavored preparation. No two ema datshis ever taste alike because each cook has her own version.
Kewa Datshi: Kewa means potato, hence the dish is made of thinly sliced potatoes that get sautéed with datshi cheese and butter. Some cooks may add a few chilies or tomatoes, but generally it is a mild dish focused more on potatoes and cheese.
Shamu Datshi: Another variation of the cheese-based dishes, Shamu Datshi consists of mushrooms (various local Himalayan varieties) cooked into a cheesy, buttery stew. It's eaten along with red rice like other Datshi dishes.
Shakam Ema Datshi: This dish features Shakam (dried beef) that is cut into pieces and simmered with cheese, butter, and chilies. The dried beef has a chewy, jerky-like texture.
Shakam Paa: Shakam Paa is dried beef cooked with whole dried red chilies and sometimes slices of radish. The beef is slightly chewy from being dried and preserved.
Phaksha Paa: Slices of pork are stir-fried with whole dried red chilies and sometimes mountain vegetables like beans, spinach or radish. It's a staple Bhutanese dish eaten with rice and Datshi.
Gondo Datshi: Essentially scrambled eggs taken to the next level, Gondo Datshi is made by scrambling eggs with Datshi cheese and a generous amount of butter. Some cooks may add bits of dried chili.
Jasha Maru: This is a Bhutanese chicken stew or curry, flavored prominently with ginger along with other spices. It's usually served with red rice.
Is Altitude Sickness A Problem During Kathmandu to Bhutan Tour?
The risk of altitude sickness is also ever present when on the Kathmandu to Bhutan tour particularly when passing through high altitude terrains. Altitude sickness is non-discriminative where anyone at any age, sex, or level of fitness can experience this condition, especially when at altitudes above 3000 meters. One should not ignore the signs of the disease and, if needed, take the necessary measures to avoid complications during the trip.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
AMS is the most frequent type of high altitude illness and manifests as a clinical syndrome. Some reactions are normally observed among travelers and may include; headaches, loss of appetite, and disturbed sleep. These are some of the symptoms if you experience these you should not climb further. Hence, it is recommended that you maintain your same altitude or even reduce it to adjust to the new conditions. There are certain recommendations that are important to be followed so as not to aggravate the given condition.
HACE [High Altitude Cerebral Edema]
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) is a severe kind of altitude sickness resulting from swelling of the brain. Symptoms include and consist of severe and persistent headaches, confusion, difficulty in walking, and changes in mental status. HACE is a medical emergency and the only treatment available is to get down to a lower altitude as soon as possible. This condition if not treated could be deadly.
HAPE [High Altitude Pulmonary Edema]
Another severe condition that occurs from fluid build up is High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). It’s likely to have shortness of breath, fast breathing or breathlessness even at rest, chest pain or discomfort, coughing up frothy, pink or brown sputum or white sputum and crackles or bubbling sounds in the chest. HAPE similarly needs medical intervention and immediate descent to reduce the risk of severe manifestations.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Persistent severe headache
Difficulty breathing or breathlessness at rest
Confusion or difficulty walking
Loss of appetite
Vomiting
Coughing up sputum
Blue lips or face
Severe lethargy
Rapid heart rate (over 110 per minute)
Safety and Prevention Advice
You should follow these tips if you want to remain safe from altitude sickness:
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding any type of alcohol will help.
The best possible nutrition combined with a lot of fruits is advisable.
Get yourself in shape, and always consult your physician before you depart.
Prior to your journey, some light walking exercises should be done to condition the body for hiking.
In this way, the body gets an opportunity to acclimatize itself while ascending slowly.
kathmandu to Bhutan Tour: Ultimate Packing List Travel Documents and Essentials
Passport
Visa
Flight Tickets
Travel Insurance
Detailed itinerary plan of your tour with contact numbers of guides and accommodations.
Cash and Credit Cards: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) and US dollars are widely accepted.
Clothing
T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and light sweaters for layering.
Warm Jacket for the evenings and higher altitudes.
Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and pants.
Trekking pants for daily wear.
Thermal Underwear
Scarf/Gloves/Hat
Comfortable Walking Shoes for city exploration and light trekking.
Walking shoes
Health and Hygiene
Personal Medication
First-Aid Kit *
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, and soap.
Wet Wipe.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm
Miscellaneous
Daypack/backpack
Reusable Water Bottle
Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits for long travels.
Binoculars for observing birds and to enjoy far views.
Is Wifi and Network Available During Kathmandu to Bhutan Tour?
During Kathmandu to Bhutan tours, the availability of WiFi and networks has gone way better; however, usually, it connects based on geographical areas. Tourists can access the internet mostly from Hotel WiFi or by purchasing a local SIM card in major towns and cities.
Bhutan has two mobile network operators: B-Mobile and TashiCell. Many guests purchase a local SIM card, as roaming is very expensive. 3G and 4G local SIMs are available and cost about 200 Ngultrum (€2.50). Data packs are also available and relatively cheap. Only regular-size SIM cards are available, though; travelers will want to ensure their phones have normal-size SIM cards before arrival in Bhutan.
Most hotels in Bhutan offer complimentary WiFi, although coverage is also limited to the lobby and restaurants of most. Internet cafes are also widely available in the more developed towns. A local SIM card acts as a proper backup, especially when traveling to areas where connectivity is even thinner; this comes with notably slower speeds.
Steps to Purchase Sim Card in Bhutan
Make a photocopy of your passport.
Attach a current passport-sized photo.
Choose whether to buy upon arrival at the airport or along shops in Thimphu or Paro.
Choose: B-Mobile and TashiCell are the service providers.
Go to your favorite location and find the counter of the service provider.
Request a tourist SIM card - 3G or 4G.
Submit your passport photocopy and photograph.
Fill out the tourist SIM card application form.
Choose an appropriate data plan.
Pay for your SIM card and the selected plan, usually about US$4 - 6.
Wait for the staff at the store to activate your SIM.
Put a new SIM card into your device.
Change advanced device settings if necessary, to work with the new network.
Test the SIM card to show that it works correctly.
Download any essential information or maps before traveling into the backcountry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Bhutan from Kathmandu?
Spring and autumn would be the best visiting times for the Bhutan Tour From Kathmandu. The temperatures are moderate, and the festivals are in full swing, so it would be perfect for sightseeing and trekking.
How can I travel from Kathmandu to Bhutan?
The easiest and fastest way would be by air, from Kathmandu to Bhutan Tour. More precisely, direct flights at Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines fly from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to Paro International Airport in Bhutan. This will take 1 hour and 20 minutes in flight.
Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan from Kathmandu?
Yes, a visa is required for all visitors to Bhutan. This has to be processed through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or one of its international partners. The tour operators will make the visa arrangements.
What are the accommodation options during the Kathmandu to Bhutan tour?
The accommodation types in Bhutan range from super-luxurious hotels to homely guesthouses, including farmhouse stays. Of this kind available in the country are Aman Kora Resorts and COMO Uma Paro, the leading local guest houses for unique experiences in the local culture.
What should I pack for a tour from Kathmandu to Bhutan?
Pack comfortable clothes for all weather conditions, good hiking boots, warm jackets, rain gear, personal medicines, and all the important toiletries. The most obvious, not-to-be-forgotten items: take your camera with you, a power bank, and an adapter.
What kind of food can I expect during my tour in Bhutan?
Bhutan is a place well characterized by spicy food, with high usage of cheese. The meals mainly used are Ema Datshi, Phaksha Paa, and Jasha Maru: chili cheese stew, pork with red chilies, and spicy chicken stew. There is also good vegetarian and international food available in big towns.
Is travel insurance necessary for a Kathmandu to Bhutan tour?
Yes, to travel in Bhutan, it is highly advisable that you take out travel insurance. The insurance bought must cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and other unexpected eventualities. Make sure the activity you are about to get into, say, trekking, is covered in the policy.
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