Day 1 · May 5
Arrive in Kathmandu
Explore a city alive with temples, monasteries, courtyards and the traditions of the Kathmandu Valley.
Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu
Featured journey · with Abercrombie & Kent
Nepal & Bhutan
The Himalayas · May 5–16, 2027
Ask Sue for current detailsA 12-day small-group journey
Find perspective in the stillness of the Himalayas.
The Himalayas have a way of quieting the noise of the world. Their vastness, stillness, and ancient presence invite a kind of inner grounding that’s hard to find in everyday life. Traveling through Nepal is more than seeing extraordinary landscapes; it’s an opportunity to connect with places shaped by centuries of resilience, spirituality, and community.
The journey begins in Kathmandu. Expert guides lead you to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, through Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, and to a meal shared with a local Nepali family.
A few of the journey’s highlights
- Venture to Punakha, where crimson-robed monks move through hand-painted courtyards.
- Hike to the revered Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high in the Himalayas of Bhutan.
- Join a guided meditation at Kopan Monastery or Nunnery near Kathmandu’s storied Durbar Square.
- Meet a Mount Everest summiteer and hear about the challenges of reaching the world’s highest peak.
- Share an authentic meal prepared by a local Nepali family in their home.
The itinerary
Twelve days across Nepal and Bhutan
Day 2 · May 6
Bhaktapur and its five-tiered temple
Discover Bhaktapur’s historic palace and Nyatapola temple, visit Pashupatinath and Boudhanath, and hear from a Mount Everest summiteer.
Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu · Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3 · May 7
Historic Durbar Square
Visit Swayambhunath, ride by rickshaw to Kathmandu Durbar Square, and wander the old city and its bazaar.
Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu · Breakfast, lunch
Day 4 · May 8
Thimphu, Bhutan
Fly to Paro and travel to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, surrounded by mountain scenery and rich spiritual traditions.
Pemako Thimphu · Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 5 · May 9
Punakha and Chimi Lhakhang
Cross Dochula Pass into Punakha Valley, walk through its landscape of rice paddies and visit Chimi Lhakhang and Punakha Dzong.
Pemako Thimphu · Breakfast, lunch
Day 6 · May 10
Thimphu discoveries
Visit Buddha Point, the takin sanctuary, Bhutan Postal Museum, Simtokha Dzong and the Central Farmer’s Market.
Pemako Thimphu · Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 7 · May 11
Paro, rivers and relics
Meet local farmers, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, and explore the National Museum of Bhutan.
Zhiwa Ling Heritage · Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 8 · May 12
Ascent to Tiger’s Nest
Hike to the renowned monastery perched high above the valley, then toast the ascent with Champagne and try Bhutan’s national sport, archery.
Zhiwa Ling Heritage · Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 9 · May 13
Chitwan National Park
Travel to your lodge, float along the Rapti River, and enjoy a traditional folk dance performance.
Barahi Jungle Lodge · Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 10 · May 14
Where rhinos roam
Track one-horned rhinos with an expert naturalist, take a walking safari, or visit a local village.
Barahi Jungle Lodge · Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 11 · May 15
Kathmandu flavours
Return to Kathmandu and visit Patan’s Durbar Square and former royal palace, then share a Nepali cooking experience with a local family.
Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu · Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 12 · May 16
Depart Kathmandu
After breakfast, take a private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
Breakfast
Thoughtfully arranged
What the source itinerary includes
- English-speaking Resident Tour Director and local guides
- Airport meet-and-greet with private transfers
- Travelling Bell Boy luggage service between hotels
- Mid-journey Traveller’s Valet laundry service and internet access
- Entrance fees, taxes, and gratuities (except the Resident Tour Director)
- Round-the-clock on-call support from Abercrombie & Kent experts
- Daily breakfast and many meals; internal economy air as listed
Where you’ll stay
The published itinerary lists Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu, Pemako Thimphu in Bhutan’s capital, Zhiwa Ling Heritage near Paro’s Tiger’s Nest, and Barahi Jungle Lodge by the Rapti River near Chitwan National Park. Contact Sue for current hotel and itinerary confirmation.
