Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour – 12 Days

Name: Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour – 12 Days
Brand: Life Himalaya Trekking
SKU: HL306625
Price: 5160 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (100 reviews)

Overview
Itinerary
Includes/Excludes
Trip Info
FAQs

Max. Altitude

3680 m

Best Season

Mar–May & Sep–Nov

Activity

Tours

Start / End Point

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Overview of Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour – 12 Days

Life Himalaya Trekking proudly introduces you to its 12 days fascinating Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour, a tour filled with the magic of Buddhist and Hindu traditions up close.

Our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour is a discovery tour of the three astounding countries that have been closely intertwined with their isolation, cultures, heritage, and traditions.

They are full of similarities and contrasts, magnificent impressions, and sights. Yet they are also changing rapidly with progress, bustle, and development.

And, thus our 12 days Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour is simply about the discovery of these changes, and the traditions that have been kept safe among these changes. In short, this is the journey through time in a slow-paced motion.

In the first phase of our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour, you will see and know about Nepal's architectural treasures and breathtaking landscapes. In Kathmandu, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant and colorful life of the centuries-old bazaar streets.

At the same time, you will see a city in the process of transformation to a new era. In addition to the significant Buddhist and Hindu sites, you will also see the remarkably restored Bhaktapur and the magnificent nature and the Himalayan morning view from Nagarkot.

The second part of our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour will then land you in Bhutan, a truly fairytale Shangri-La. A silence will surround you as you journey to Thimphu, the remarkable capital of the world with only one traffic post.

In Thimphu, the impressive 51.5 m Buddha Dordenma statue at Kuensel Phodrang, Tashichho Dzong, and the National Memorial Chorten await your arrival.

Next, planned on our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package is the tour of the stunning Punakha Valley. On the way, an exciting drive over 3100 m Dochula Pass will occur.

Once in Punakha, you will meet the gaze of the Chimi Lhakhang Fertility Temple, and the 1637 Punakha Dzong, symbolizing Bhutan's triumph over Indian rebels. Finally, Tiger’s Nest Monastery at Paro will bedazzle you with its rich legend and unique age-old art.

Now, the final leg of our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour will lead you to a scenic journey over the eastern Himalayas and plateaus to Lhasa. Once in Lhasa, your touring will continue to the white and red enormous building of Potala Palace, over the Hill of Marpo Ri.

Next, you will visit Jokhang Temple, the oldest and most valued temple that houses a heavily revered statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, along with the sacred circular path of Barkhor Market.

Your journey will then take you to Derapung Monastery, which once stood proud as the largest in the country. It now serves as a primary educational institution for monks.

After a tour of Sera Monastery and watching the monks debate in its courtyard, our Lhasa tour will end. Finally, our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour will end as we once again traverse the blue sky back to Kathmandu.

Our 12 days Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour is thus literally an insight trip that focuses on the beauty, culture, and tradition of all three nations. Between ancient and new, you will be surprised as you explore the priceless heritage of these nations every day.

With the combination of flights and overland trips, our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour accommodates everyone, ideal to take almost every day of the year.

Highlights of Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour – 12 Days

Exciting combination of Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet with their respective attractions
Seeing the remarkable sights of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur
An amazing Himalayan morning view from Nagarkot
Two fantastic panoramic Himalayan flights
Architecturally beautiful Dzongs in Bhutan and a trip to the famous Tiger’s Nest
Lhasa and its mysterious monasteries tour
History of Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple
A beautiful, short, easygoing tour across all three countries

A Life Himalaya Trekking staff member with a display card will respectfully receive you at TIA. A transfer in our private pick-up vehicle will then be followed through the noisy and chaotic streets of Nepal’s capital.

In the evening, you will meet all your accompanying friends and our guide for a traditional welcome dinner. A discussion and explanation about our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour travel itinerary will also take place.

Maximum Altitude

1350

Accomodations

Hotel

Today, a grand Kathmandu excursion is in store for us, but before getting on the tour, we will address the Visa formalities. We have already handled the Bhutan tourist visa, but for the Chinese Group Visa, we must all go in a group to the Chinese Embassy, where we will need to deposit our original passports, fingerprints, and photos.

Now, we can advance with the Kathmandu tour where our guide will lead your way through the glided white stupa of Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and the Pashupatinath Shiva Temple.

You will also experience the old charm of the Kathmandu Durbar Square, after which you will be driven towards the green Hill of Nagarkot. A marvelous sunset can already be seen from your hotel window.

Maximum Altitude

2175

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodations

Hotel

We will see one of the enticing nature of our 12 days Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour. Before the first light of the sun streams, we will already be at the Lookout Tower of Nagarkot.

Look at the ineffable magnificence of Everest, Manaslu, Langtang, and Gaurishankar. Now, we will head to have a pleasing heart breakfast, after which we will ride on towards Bhaktapur.

Touring through its very old cobbled street, we will see around what Bhaktapur Durbar Square has hidden in its bosom. The Palace with the 55 Windows, the exquisite Nyatpole Temple, the Golden Gate, Peacock Window, and its exotic carvings, the Pottery Square are some of the attractions that will bewilder our minds.

Then, we will also not miss the opportunity to taste the Juju Dhau, the royal curd of Nepal. By the early evening, we will already be in Kathmandu, where you can walk through the backpacker town of Thamel in the evening.

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodations

Hotel

The first fascinating segment of our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour will commence with approximately one-hour splendid flight towards Paro from Kathmandu.

At first, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Everest will fascinate your sight, and at Paro, Jichu Drake and Chomolhari will impress you at first sight. At Paro, our humble local guide and driver follow our reception, after which we will continue our journey directly to Thimphu.

Driving along the wide Bhutanese 1985 Highway, we will travel through Chunzom, where we can behold the site of Paro River converging with Thimphu River.

Further journey will allow us to have the pleasure of looking at Tachog Lhakhang Monastery and Gyalpo Thangthong Monastery. A checkpoint will meet our 4WD, where, after registration, we will proceed via 2250 m Simtokha Dzong.

Finally, our eyes will meet the marvelous Thimphu City, where we will take a moment to breathe and settle in. Now, we will advance to see what Thimphu has to offer us.

Through the main town, the Clocktower can be seen, after which we can also spend a moment at the archery stadium. Then, there is Guru Rinpoche’s Zangto Pelri Lhakhang existed since 1990 thanks to Dasho Aku Tongmi.

There is also Tashichho Dzong, standing since 1952 as a Bhutan Government office. We may not be able to look at the government and the King’s offices, but we can certainly roam around the temples and see the marvelous artwork.

The National Memorial Chorten, standing proudly since 1974 thanks to the third Bhutanese King His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk’s mother, is another fascinating treasure to see in Thimphu.

The time-honored books and scriptures of the National Library, the Taking Sanctuary, the Folklore Museum, and the Zorig Chusum art and craft institute also deserve our attention.

Then a 2600 m hill of Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Point) bearing the 51.5 m tall Buddha Dordenma statue will also be a location must see. An evening among the people and the bazaars will be a grand ending to our Thimphu excursion.

Maximum Altitude

2400

Meals

B L D

Accomodations

Hotel

Today, our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package will lead us to one of the most gorgeous Bhutanese natural landscapes called Punakha. From Thimphu, the eastern Highway will direct us to Hongtso (2850 m) known for the production of original Bhutanese brewery.

Now, an exciting drive over the Dochu La Pass 3100 m awaits us. This pass is marked by 108 chorten called the Druk Wangyel Chorten. All these signify the success of Bhutan in 2003 against the Assamese troops.

We will get out of our 4WD to momentarily glance at the Eastern Himalayas of Kangphugang (7,170 m), Tsendagang (6,960 m), Jejegangphugang (7,158 m), Terigang (7,060 m), Zongphugang (7,060 m), Masagang (7,158 m), and of course the fearsome Gangkhar Puensum (7570 m), the tallest Himalayan summit of Bhutan.

The way down the pass will be very gradual till we are at Punakha. Here we will visit one of the most magical complexes in the kingdom – the Punakha Dzong, around 400 years old, erected in 1637/38 under the Royal command of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.

This palace of supreme joy and glory was previously called Pungthang Dechen Phodrang and had served as the political seat till the 1950s. We will also take a tour to the viewpoint at Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.

Then our tour will drive us to the 1499 temple of Fertility called Chimi Lakhang and the 2008 Temple of Druk Wangyal Lhakhang.

After all this tour, we will journey back to Thimphu again to await the next day’s adventure in our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour.

Meals

B L D

Accomodations

Hotel

Early morning will commence with a drive past the enchanting 1629 Simtokha Dzong, the school of Buddhist studies. Once at Paro, it is worth looking forward to the famous Taktshang Monastery/Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

The 3120 m altitude of this unique monastery is around 900 m above the Paro Valley. Our 4WD will stop us at the assigned parking lot, after which we can begin journeying on foot or horseback (around 20 to 50 US Dollars).

After about an hour, we will reach a cafeteria inviting us for a short tea or coffee. Get ready for 700 sharp vertical unpaved stony trail till we are at the periphery of this amazing wonder.

Due to a legend about the tantric Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) flying on a tigress back, landing here, and meditating in a cave nearby after defeating demons, the monastery has a great place in the heart of the local populace.

This 1692 structure houses the mythical tigress statue along with the mystical Hall of Thousand Buddhas. Once we are over this tour, we will move on with the rest of the Paro Valley tour.

Paro Valley offers numerous remarkable sightings to see such as the 7th-century-old Kyichu Lhakhang Temple, built after the royal command of King Songtsen Gampo.

The 1649 Dzong of Drukgyel stands as a testament to Bhutan’s victory over Tibet. The watch tower of Ta Dzong lies very tall over the valley of Paro, which houses the National Museum of Bhutan since 1967.

Inside, we can see multitudes of age-old textiles, the weapons and armors confiscated from the enemies, the thangka paintings, and many handcrafted statues.

Paro/Rinphung Dzong beneath the Ta Dzong will be our next stop, where multitudes of murals displaying the Kanlop Chusum, the Six Realms of Reincarnation, and the Four Heavenly Kings can be admired. We can also directly look at the central temple of the tower called Utse.

Our evening should be fully rewarding and rejuvenating with the hot stone bath in the natural atmosphere of the traditional farmhouse of Paro.

Maximum Altitude

3210

Meals

B L D

Trek Duration

2-3 hrs

Accomodations

Hotel

Today signifies the completion of the first wonderful touring section of our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour with a panoramic flight back to Kathmandu. Once we are in the hotel, we will prepare for the second exciting phase of our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour, to Tibet.

By this time, the Life Himalaya trekking team will have already collected our Chinese Group Visa. So we advise you to get enough sleep and rest as the Tibetan climate and terrain need proper acclimatization for an easy journey.

Accomodations

Hotel

A remarkable flight over the entire Eastern Tibetan plateau will land us at Gonggar International Airport of Lhasa. After a kind reception from our Tibetan guide and driver, a rough one-hour transfer will occur along the 90 km long Tibetan Highway to our hotel in the central part of the capital.

Already, our eyes will meet the Potala Palace in the sky and the Brahmaputra River/Yarlung Tsangpo by our side. From today onwards, you should always have a bottle of mineral water within reach during every activity. Drinking regularly will greatly aid your body’s acclimatization to the altitude.

We don’t have any touring activities planned, so please get plenty of rest in the hotel.

Maximum Altitude

3680

Meals

B L D

Accomodations

Hotel

Transportation

1hr 20min

Today we will visit the Potala Palace, once the official residence and seat of government of the Dalai Lama. Its construction was initiated over the Red hill of Marpo Ri in 1649 under the high command of the fifth Dalai Lama.

The first building of the palace was painted all white, and later, the red one was added in 1690. The white building of Potala Palace in Tibet is called the Potrang Karpo, and the red one the Potrang Marpo.

Altogether, there are one thousand rooms inside, and some of them used to be the private sleeping and working rooms of Dalai Lamas. Inside, we can look at around ten thousand scrolls, several large colorful mandalas, around 698 exquisite wall paintings, and many more.

Encircling the palace is the Dragon Lake Park, aka Zongjiao Lukang Park, worthy of a peaceful stroll. Next, the Jokhang Temple and its Barkhor Market await our touring.

The Jokhang Temple stands with over 700 years of heritage and has now become the country’s oldest temple. King Songtsen Gampo, to respect his two beautiful brides, Princess Bhrikuti from Nepal and Princess Wencheng from China, initiated its construction.

Inside the temple, we can see several gorgeous artworks and statues, but what steals our attention is the large, heavy statue of 12-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha.

Once outside, we will meet countless devoted pilgrims with prayer wheels in their hands walking along the Barkhor Street. However, the atmosphere will change by the late afternoon with several market stalls selling Tibetan handicrafts, herbs, clothes, and delicacies.

Meals

B L D

Accomodations

Hotel

Our Lhasa capital tour is not over yet, and today we will have the guided excursion around the Drepung and Sera Monasteries.

The Drepung Monastery has stood over Lhasa since 1416 AD, thanks to the wide heart and devotion of Chojey Tashi Palden. After its establishment, it soon flourished as the largest monastic educational ground and community, hosting over 10,000 monks at a time.

Thus, this remarkable sanctuary is also called the Three Pillars in Tibet. However, after the Chinese invasion and Potala Palace construction, its charm was reduced, and now it accommodates only around 500 monks. It is a significant site to know about the life of young student monks.

Sera Monastery will then come on our day tour next splendidly built at the tail of the Phurba Chok Ri ridge, established in 1419 by Sakya Yeshe. Between 3 to 5 PM every day on weekdays, the monks debate in the monastery courtyard.

The monastery belongs to the Gelukpa Yellow Hat Order and was formerly renowned throughout Central and Northeast Asia as a Buddhist university. Directly behind the monastery, we will then take an easy hike along an old pilgrimage route.

An evening in Lhasa markets and bars will be a pleasurable ending to our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour.

Meals

B L D

Accomodations

Hotel

With a final glance at Potala Palace, we will journey back to Kathmandu, where we will have another chance to meet our delightful Nepali team. You will have some more opportunities to see Kathmandu on your own.

Patan, Khokana, or the Garden of Dreams in Thamel can be some of the tours you can take. If you like, you can also engage in an optional tour and trip booked through us.

Accomodations

Hotel

The Life Himalaya team will once again drop you at TIA to journey back home.

Equipment Checklist

Required Equipments for Trekking in Nepal

Breathable Underwear
Sports Bra
Base Layers
Trekking Shirts
Trekking Trousers and Shorts
Fleece Jacket
Down jacket (insulated jacket)
Windcheater (water proof)
Sun protection Hat
Headband or Beanie
Scarf or neckband
Gloves (inner and outer )
Hiking Boots
Trekking Shoes
Hiking Socks
Thermal Socks
Gaiters
Duffel Bag
Day pack
Sleeping Bag
Trekking poles
Sunglasses
Hydration bladder or Water bottle
Head Lamps
Batteries
Personal towel
Swiss army knife
Sun lotion
Medical & first-aid kit
Woolen socks
Waterproof jacket
Lip Guard
Insulated pants
Baby wipers

Required Equipments for Climbing in Nepal

Water bottle
Batteries and bulbs
Flashlight
Personal towel
Swiss army knife
Rucksack
Sun lotion
Medical & first-aid kit
Sewing kit
Polypropylene/wool socks
Other required equipment
Sleeping bag
Down Jacket
Waterproof jacket
Trekking shoes/boots
Camp shoes
Jumperorpile jacket
Hiking pants
Hiking shirts
Full–sleeves shirt
T-shirts
Sun hat
Gloves
Woolen hat
Long underwear
Goggles or sun glasses
Gaiters
Sun block for lips
Light cotton socks
Mountain trekking boots
Woolen socks to wear with boots
Nylon wind breaker
Insulated pants
Nylon wind pants
Long sleeved cotton/woolen shirts
Sun hat
Long cotton hiking shorts
Fleece/wool for climbing
Lightweight fleece
Sleeping pad (karri mat) or thermarest
Down high altitude sleeping bag
Down jacket/trousers/vest
Light cotton athletic socks and wool socks
Water proof climbing jacket
Head torch/batteries/bulbs
Climbing sunglasses
Lightweight thermal/insulated ski gloves
Sun screen
Warm climbing trousers
Wool long underwear
Other required equipment
Climbing boots
Gaiters
Ice axe
Harness
Crampons
Karabiners
Tapes/slings
Snow bars
Ice screws
Rock pegs
Deadmen
Crash hat
Day bag
Rucksack
Lip salve
T-shirts
Ascenders
Ascenders
Kit bag

Pick up from from Kathmandu airport private transfers
Bhutan, Tibet arrival departure with private car
3-4* Hotel with breakfasts
private tour avaiable for couple , friends , families
All tour with local tour guides with excellent knowledge and English speaking.
Bhutan vis permits and return flight from Kathmandu
Hotels with breakfast in Bhutan as per itinerary
Tibet visa permits , return flights from kathmandu
All mentioned tour places , monuments entry fees
Dinner last day In Kathmandu at reputed place

Service not mentioned above
Lunch and dinner
Extra tour
personal equipments
Souvenir
Tip for Guide, driver
Donations

Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour – 12 Days Trip Information

Upgrade your stay in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet

For every tour and trip we offer, we aim to meet every desire and wish of our guests. We understand that each guest has unique preferences, and some may prefer a luxurious experience during their stay in these exotic locations, especially when traveling with family.

Keeping this in mind, we therefore present you with our upgrade option for your overnight accommodations in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. Instead of settling for standard three-star hotel accommodation, you can choose to stay in four or five-star hotels in Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet.

With elegant decor, luxurious utilities you can think of, and prime locations surrounded by dazzling scenery, each day, you will be enveloped in luxury.

To request this upgrade, please let us know your preference when buying our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package. For a small additional fee, your wishes can easily come true.

When is the best time to undertake the Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour?

Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet surprisingly share a similar type of weather pattern. All three Kingdoms enjoy the dry and consistent weather in autumn, appearing between mid-September to October, and the fragrant spring between March and May.

Autumn brings the yellowish hue to the landscape of Nepal and Bhutan, while Lhasa immerses itself in the cool temperature occurring between agreeable 15 to 20 degrees Celsius with clear blue sky.

Spring envelops the entire Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet in enchanting greenery with the marvelous eye-catching mountain sights.

Summer in June and the monsoon occurring between July to early September washes Lhasa with occasional mild rain. However, Kathmandu, Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro in Bhutan receive up to 70 cm of rain.

December, January, and February are the coldest months in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, but it is harsher in Lhasa.

Thus, the spring and autumn in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet paint the most beautiful time for the Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour.

Is the 12 Days Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour Hard?

Our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour is a moderate tour that blends the natural landscapes and cultural elements of all three nations. However, you will experience long tours around the cultural sites of these countries, but there will be no hiking involved.

You will also experience many long day drives along winding highways, long walks around historical monuments, and, of course, a rich cultural diversity in all three nations.

This can be a bit overwhelming for those who are not used to the different customs and pace of life. Altitude-wise, all three nations are embraced by the tall elevations of the grand Himalayas.

However, altitude will only be a factor in Lhasa, where altitude sickness can be a bit concern. Our team has carefully come up with this itinerary that emphasizes a great deal of acclimatization in between, and each day’s journey will also proceed at a slow pace.

We have also taken good care of all your sleeping, eating, and traveling arrangements in each nation. You will get a local guide and driver in each nation committed to enhancing your comfort all the time during your Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package.

Who does our Nepal Bhutan Tour Package suit?

Our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour without any hesitation welcomes everyone, offering something for each individual’s interests. The tour’s comfort and simplicity make it a perfect family trip, while its fusion of nature, history, culture, and adventure also makes it an exciting trip for cultural and spiritual enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet display different yet similar cultures, while all three nations boast the grand landscapes and magnificent Himalayas. The panoramic mountain flight and the various passes met on the Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour also offer a thrilling experience. On the other hand, the culture soaked in Hinduism and Buddhism will appeal to those seeking a spiritual journey.

So, if you are in search of the experience of the last Shangri-La, the Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package is the one that you should choose. However, you should be ready for the moderate level of physical activity and some travel logistics.

How high is the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness/AMS in our Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour?

The AMS, typically called altitude sickness, can be a common issue for travelers visiting Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. The concern of AMS often appears once you exceed 2500 m elevation.

Therefore, during your travel in Nepal and Bhutan, AMS will not be an issue as Kathmandu, Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha all lie below 2500 m altitude.

However, once you cross the threshold of Lhasa, you may be at risk of developing AMS because of its elevation surpassing 3500 m. Yet, some travelers may not even feel AMS, while some can, as each individual’s vulnerability to AMS varies.

It is also very important to be mindful of the very dry climate in Lhasa, where scientifically proven oxygen levels are comparatively lower than those in other global locations.

If AMS manifests in you in Lhasa, it will likely be very mild with a very low chance of turning into a severe condition. You may often experience sleep issues, restlessness, body aches, and headaches, while only a few travelers face breathing difficulties.

Therefore, in our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour itinerary, we have placed a strong emphasis on rest, sleep, and hydration once you reach Lhasa. We also advise each participant to carry a mineral water bottle to maintain hydration during the tour.

If you ask for any medical treatment to help you acclimatize quickly when you are in Lhasa, start taking Diamox orally before departing for Lhasa but only with a doctor’s consultation.

Is any physical training required for the Nepal Bhutan Tour Package?

Our 12 days Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour does not include any hiking excursions, but you will still experience lengthy drives and long walking tours in all three countries.

There is also a short hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan, but reaching it on horseback for part of the way also exists. Thus, our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour does not require athletic ability, but it will be beneficial to engage in moderate training for about a month to get ready for the long day tours we have planned for you.

You should concentrate on enhancing your cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and overall stamina through running, jogging, swimming, cycling, and brisk walking, along with exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups.

Since we will be at a moderate altitude in Lhasa, it will also be helpful if you expose yourself to altitudes between 2500 m to 3000 m during your outdoor routines.

Sleeping, Food, and Travel Arrangements for your Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour Package

Life Himalaya Trekking has taken care of nearly all your logistical costs in its Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package. So you will simply pull out your wallet only to pay for drinks, personal expenses, shopping, and entertainment.

In Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, a double-sharing room of a standard tourist three-star hotel approved by the government has been arranged for you. You can expect cleanliness, an en suite bathroom, hot running water, and WiFi access.

Breakfasts in Kathmandu will be at your table each morning, while lunches and dinners have been left to your choice to give you the liberty to select your own menu from the diverse options.

In Lhasa and Bhutan, three-course meals during breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served at your table excluding drinks and beverages.

You can expect vast culinary choices between local and international flavors in all three countries.

As for transportation, we will cover your flights between Kathmandu-Paro and Kathmandu-Lhasa in economy class. If you would like to upgrade, we can certainly accommodate that for an extra service fee.

As for all the overland transfers, all will occur in large, comfortable 4WD vehicles. Your airport and hotel transfers in all cities of Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, along with the city guided tours, have been arranged with a local guide and private driver.

However, renting or hiring the horse for the trip to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan will have to be negotiated and paid for in situ by yourself.

Formal Guidelines for the Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour

Nepal is very free and liberal to its foreign visitors, while Bhutan and Tibet like to remain somewhat limited and mysterious still. Therefore, while independent touring in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Nagarkot is possible, such traveling will not be permitted in Bhutan and Lhasa.

You can explore around the markets and streets alone, but for the monumental and cultural tours, you must have a booked tour through a certified travel and tour agency like Life Himalaya Trekking.

You must also be followed by the registered local guide and driver at all times, while your travel logistics should also be prepared and approved in advance.

Therefore, you must buy our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package, which covers not only your travel and tour logistics but also permit and visa arrangements.

Kindly buy our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package 15 days to one month in advance so we have adequate time to organize for your visa and travel permit.

We also kindly urge you to go through the travel plan and all details of our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour. Once your details are submitted to our respective travel agencies in Bhutan and Tibet, no alterations will be possible to make.

Also, understand that all the arrivals and departures as a group must occur on the same date. To forward the visa and permit procedures for Tibet and Bhutan, please provide us with the following:

Passport digital scanned colored copy with a validity period of a minimum of 6 months time after your return from Bhutan and Lhasa
Passport Photos sizing 51 mm by 51 mm for Chinese Visa
Most recent photo with a white plain backdrop, no specs, and no make-up

Visa and Permit are essential for the 12 Days Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour

Nepal and Bhutan each need a tourist visa for getting inside the country, while Lhasa needs two types of visas. Let’s dive into the details:

Nepal Tourist Visa

Getting the Nepal tourist visa is a very convenient process, which you can gain on arrival at TIA or from the consulate or the embassy in your respective countries beforehand.

We suggest that you get the On Arrival Nepal tourist visa, for which you can pre-fill the application online at the Nepal Immigration Department’s official website.

Once you are through with submitting your information and photo, an online form with a personal barcode will be issued, which you have to print and carry to TIA.

You will then make the payment based on your chosen duration of stay in Nepal ($30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, and $125 for 90 days). You will have your Visa stamped on the blank page of your passport.

Two Types of Visas for Lhasa

Tibet Travel Permit/TTP that also known as Tibet Tourism Bureau Permit/TTB, Tibet Visa, Tibet permit, or Tibet Entry Permit along with Chinese Group Visa, are the two mandated documents for the Lhasa entry.

TTB

Please understand that, unlike the Nepal tourist visa, you cannot get the TTB individually or in situ at the airport. In fact, only a government-verified travel agency in Tibet is authorized to apply for this visa.

Life Himalaya Trekking has partnered with one such Tibet travel agency, which, on our behalf, will look after TTB permit processing. We will be handing over your documents to them, who will then show them to the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

After the careful review and verification, an approval letter will then be forwarded to u,s allowing us to apply for the Chinese Group Visa. Your Tibet Visa will be received by the assigned Tibetan guide and present them at the Lhasa Airport on your arrival.

Chinese Group Visa

As stated earlier in our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour itinerary, you with all your fellow travelers visiting Lhasa as a group will go to Chinese Embassy on the second day in Kathmandu.

Your passports will be retained in the embassy for two to four days till the arrival of the Visa. The Chinese Group Visa will be in the form of a single Chinese document for a group, thus necessitating all to arrive and depart all together on the same date.

The cost for the Chinese Group Visa differs based on your country and the duration of processing. Standard and Express methods are basically available:

Standard or Normal Way

When processing a Chinese Group Visa the normal way, the time of four office or work days will be taken by the embassy with a cost set between USD 70 to 170 per person for non-Americans and USD 175 for Americans.

Express Way

When processing a Chinese Group Visa, the express way, time of two to three work days will be taken with a cost set between USD 90 to 180 for non-Americans and USD 185 for Americans.

Bhutan Tourist Visa

Bhutan while allows an easy entry to people from Maldives, India, and Bangladesh; it doesn’t do so for other foreign travelers. Tourist Visa for Bhutan also needs to be applied through a local licensed tour operator with which we have partnered.

After they receive your documents through us, your Bhutan visa processing will carry on, which will be stamped on one of the empty pages of your passport at Paro Airport.

You also have the option for an online application through the official Bhutan immigration department website. Once you are through with the registration and entering details, you will need to pay USD 40 per person for the visa and USD 100 for the Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) fee.

However, it will be easy for you if you choose to process a Bhutan Visa through us. Eventually, a guided tour will be essential, so getting an individual Visa will just add a hassle to your journey.

Entrance Permits for the Monuments Visit in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet

The UNESCO Heritage Site excursion in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet will need certain entrance fees, which have been fully accounted for in your Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package with no hidden fees whatsoever.

Is Travel Insurance mandated for Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour?

Travel insurance is not obligated for our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour, but it is highly recommended. Bhutan does not have advanced medical facilities, and the medical services in Nepal and Lhasa, while advanced, can be very expensive.

When you are in a foreign country, you may sometimes become ill or get injured. Accidents can happen when you are touring around on foot, which can lead to costly medical interventions.

Travel insurance will protect you from these unexpected expenses. Therefore, make sure to get the international travel insurance that includes not only medical coverage but also helicopter rescue up to an altitude of 3700 meters.

Unspoken Traveling Rules inside Bhutan and Tibet

Knowing about some guidelines when traveling outside your comfort zone will be very helpful. Thus, we have listed here some particular protocols that you should be aware of when touring inside Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet:

Smoking only in designated areas of the cities
No smoking in the monumental localities
Airport customs will allow up to 200 cigarettes tax-free
Bringing more than this limit will incur a fine
Always keep the custom receipt safely
Airport customs will allow you to bring one liter of alcoholic beverage
Alcoholic drinks are permitted in bars, restaurants, and hotels, but no DUI (Driving under the Influence)
No declaration is required for carrying foreign currency under five thousand US dollars in Nepal and Tibet, and under ten thousand US dollars in Bhutan
No photography of military personnel in Lhasa and Bhutan
Photography of monasteries is only allowed after permission from the monks
Modest and appropriate attire during monastery and temple visits
Show respect to local customs, culture, people, and environment
No mention of the exiled Dalai Lama inside Tibet

How can I get mobile service in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet?

To get mobile communication in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, you can choose to buy the eSIM or the physical SIM Cards of their respective local mobile networks, which are NCELL or NTC in Nepal, China Telecom, China Unicom, and China Mobile in Lhasa, and Tashi Cell or Bhutan Telecom in Bhutan. If you are getting the eSIM, make sure it works in your mobile device.

How can I get internet/WiFi in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet?

Free WiFi will be available on your mobile in the major tourist centers, hotels, and towns of Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. When there is no WiFi, use a 5G connection in Bhutan and Lhasa and a 4G connection in Nepal.

Can I surf Instagram and WhatsApp in Bhutan and Lhasa?

In Bhutan and Nepal, you can surf any Western site unrestrictedly, but in Lhasa, get a VPN on your phone as they are banned for the public by the Chinese administration.

What is the simplest method to change my national currency into the official currencies of Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet?

The simplest and cost-effective method to change your money will be to convert it in the national banks of Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. Rastra Banijya Bank, Nepal Rastra Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Himalayan Bank, Nabil Bank, and many more offer currency exchange at minimal service charges in Kathmandu.

You can even opt to change them not only into Nepali Rupee but also to Chinese Renminbi Yuan (CNY). For converting into Bhutan Ngultrum (BTN), choose the money exchange counter at Paro Airport or banks such as Bank of Thimphu, Bhutan National Bank, Tashi Bank, Druk PNB, Bank of Bhutan Limited, or Citibank.

Are my credit cards acceptable in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet?

Yes, the Diner, MasterCard, and Visa Cards are acceptable in big markets and hotels.

Are there any online digital wallets that I can use conveniently in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet?

Yes, in Nepal, Khalti and Esewa are the popular and mostly used digital wallets, in Lhasa are WeChat Pay, AliPay, and Apple Pay, and in Bhutan is Google Pay.

Can cryptocurrencies be used for transactions in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet?

Cryptocurrencies can only be used in Bhutan and not in Nepal or Tibet.

Have you included the monuments and monasteries entry fee in your Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package cost?

Yes, Life Himalaya Trekking has covered all the entrance fees in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.

Are direct flights occur every day to Paro and Lhasa from Kathmandu?

Every day, flights are available for Paro from Kathmandu and four days (Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays) for Lhasa.

Are all age groups accepted in your Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour?

Yes, any age can take part in our Nepal Bhutan, and Tibet tour.

Are there any extra formal procedures for Indian people to tour to Lhasa?

No, the same visa and permits like to other nationals are applicable for Indian people traveling to Lhasa.

Why is the Bhutan tour planned for the initial leg in your Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour?

Because the Bhutan visa application procedure is simpler, takes fewer days as compared to the Chinese group and Tibet Visas, and can be processed in advance. Plus, the Chinese group visa requires the obligatory personal presence of all travelers, while the Bhutan visa can be applied for beforehand by presenting only your documents.

Do I need to pay the SDF separately when touring in Bhutan?

No, the USD 100 SDF fee is also part of our Nepal Bhutan Tibet tour package cost.

Will there be any difficulty communicating during your Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour?

No, first of all, an English-speaking local guide and driver will be with you all the time. And, people in Nepal, Bhutan, and Lhasa are well educated and comprehend English very well.