Nepal Tibet Bhutan Tours

Nepal Hiking Team (NHT) specializes in creating seamless multi-country itineraries that combine the cultural highlights of Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. For this 16-day tour, they manage all complex logistics including Tibet travel permits, Bhutan visa, flights between countries (you book separately, but they coordinate), private ground transportation, and experienced local guides in each destination. Past travelers who have taken multi-country tours with NHT praise the company's organization. One review for a combined Bhutan, Tibet, and Nepal trip stated: "Only 5 stars are not enough to rate the wonderful experience we had with Nepal Hiking Team. From the very beginning, Mr. Ganga was incredibly helpful and gave great advice to create an unforgettable journey. Every detail was perfectly arranged."

NHT manages all the intricate paperwork required for this tour, including Tibet Travel Permits and Visa Fees, and Bhutan Visa fees (both included in the cost). They coordinate private ground transportation in each country, arrange English-speaking local guides, and handle all sightseeing entry fees. The company has established partnerships with local operators in Tibet and Bhutan, ensuring consistent quality across borders. A traveler who did a month-long trip through Bhutan, Tibet, and Nepal with NHT noted: "knowledgeable guides offering insight into these amazing countries, well-located hotels, delicious food, and most importantly, incredible personal support."

Travelers consistently highlight the company's responsiveness, flexibility, and personal care. One review specifically for a trip combining Bhutan, Tibet, and Nepal said: "We are deeply grateful for the care the whole team showed when a serious medical condition arose. Their flexibility, kindness, and support went far beyond anything we could have expected." Another group of six who traveled to Bhutan and Nepal noted: "The tour was excellently organized, incorporating our ideas and special requests, whether cultural interests, health needs, specific visits, or dietary preferences. The close communication with Ganga (CEO) and his brother ensured quick email responses. Just great service from start to finish."

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Nepal Hiking Team representative will welcome you and transfer you privately to your 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu. This airport transfer is included in the package. After check-in, you can rest before the tour begins the next day. You will need to have your Nepal tourist visa arranged either in advance or on arrival (cost not included in package).

For Nepal: You obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport (30 days: US $40, 90 days: US $100) with two passport photos. This is not included in the package cost. For Tibet: NHT arranges Tibet Travel Permits and Visa Fees as part of the package. You will need to provide passport details in advance. For Bhutan: The Bhutan Visa fee is included in the package, and NHT arranges it prior to your departure. You do not need to visit an embassy; the visa is processed electronically and cleared before your flight to Paro.

You will need to provide a clear scan of your passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates) and a passport-sized photo to NHT well in advance of the tour (typically 3–4 weeks). For Tibet, additional permits may be required depending on the travel route. NHT handles all applications and ensures you have the necessary documentation before you depart from Kathmandu to Lhasa. Your Tibet permit will be checked at the airport when boarding the flight to Lhasa.

You can book by filling out the inquiry form on the Nepal Hiking Team website or by contacting them directly via email. Because this tour involves complex permits and visa processing for Tibet and Bhutan, booking at least 2–3 months in advance is recommended. A deposit (typically 20–30% of the total package cost) is required to confirm your booking and initiate the permit process. The minimum group size is 2 persons, so solo travelers may need to join an existing group or pay a single supplement. NHT accepts credit cards, bank transfers, and PayPal.

NHT accepts major credit cards, wire transfers, and online payments. The package includes: all ground transportation by private vehicle with airport transfers; five nights in Kathmandu, two nights in Pokhara, and one night in Nagarkot (all 3-star with breakfast); Tibet Travel Permits and Visa Fees; three nights in Lhasa (3-star, breakfast); four nights in Bhutan (3-star, full board meals); all guided sightseeing tours with entry fees in all three countries; and all government taxes. Exclusions are: international flights to/from Nepal; flights to Lhasa and Paro (these are separate and not included); lunches and dinners in Nepal and Tibet (Bhutan includes all meals); Nepal entry and re-entry visa fees; personal expenses; and tips for guides and drivers.

The package does not include the following flights: your international flight to Kathmandu; the flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa (Tibet) on Day 7; the flight from Lhasa back to Kathmandu on Day 10; and the flight from Kathmandu to Paro (Bhutan) on Day 11. NHT can provide guidance on flight schedules and assist with recommendations, but booking these flights is your responsibility. The Kathmandu–Lhasa and Kathmandu–Paro flights are known for spectacular Himalayan views, including Mount Everest on clear days.

All ground transportation by private vehicle is included in each country. This covers: airport transfers in Kathmandu, all sightseeing drives in Nepal (Kathmandu Valley, Nagarkot, Pokhara), all sightseeing transfers in Tibet (airport to Lhasa and monastery tours), and all transfers in Bhutan (Paro airport to hotels, Thimphu sightseeing, and return to Paro). Inter-country flights between Kathmandu–Lhasa and Kathmandu–Paro are not included and must be booked separately.

The flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa is described in the itinerary as "one of the most beautiful air routes in the world, as it provides sweeping views of Everest (8848m), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8536m) and other Himalayan peaks." The flight from Kathmandu to Paro also offers "spectacular views of the awesome peaks, including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan." The landing at Paro International Airport is noted as "thrilling" as the airport lies in the middle of gigantic mountains. These flights are experiences in themselves and are best booked in the morning for clearer weather.

In Nepal: Kathmandu to Pokhara is a 5–6 hour scenic drive with a stop at Manakamana Temple for a cable car ride. In Tibet: Lhasa Gonggar Airport to Lhasa city is about 1.5 hours. In Bhutan: Paro to Thimphu is 1–1.5 hours; Thimphu to Paro is similar. Roads in all three countries are generally paved but can be winding in mountain regions. Private vehicles with experienced drivers are provided for comfort and safety.

The tour is rated "Easy" overall, but involves two notable hikes: the Tiger's Nest (Taktsang) Monastery hike in Bhutan on Day 12, and the Wangditse Monastery hike in Thimphu on Day 14. The Tiger's Nest hike takes approximately 4–5 hours round trip with a steep ascent to 3,120m (10,400 ft). The Wangditse hike is described as a 4 km (2.5 mile) round trip on a leveled trail through pine forests, taking about 1 hour one way. Both hikes require a reasonable level of fitness. The package notes: "As this trip involves a bit of hiking and walking in high elevations (Tibet and Bhutan), one needs to be reasonably fit to complete this tour."

Yes, but a basic level of fitness is recommended. The Tiger's Nest hike can be challenging due to steep sections, but you can set your own pace, take breaks, and there is a cafeteria halfway where you can rest. Pony service is available for the Tiger's Nest trail (at extra cost, not included). The Wangditse hike is easier on a leveled trail. If you prefer to skip either hike, you can rest at the base or choose alternative sightseeing. The rest of the tour involves walking during sightseeing at temple complexes and monasteries, which is manageable for most travelers.

The highest point is Lhasa, Tibet at 3,650m (12,004 ft). Other elevations: Tiger's Nest Monastery in Bhutan at 3,120m (10,400 ft), Nagarkot in Nepal at 2,175m, and Pokhara at 822m. The itinerary includes gradual acclimatization: you spend several days at lower elevations in Nepal before flying to Lhasa. The package advises upon arrival in Lhasa: "It's advisable to rest and take it easy for the remainder of the day due to Lhasa's altitude." Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity on the first day, and inform your guide if you feel any altitude symptoms.

Upon arrival in Lhasa at 3,650m, your Tibetan guide will advise you to rest and take it easy for the remainder of the day. The itinerary includes a gradual pace with acclimatization days. Your guide will monitor your well-being and recommend drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and walking slowly. The hotels in Lhasa are equipped with oxygen supplies if needed. If you have pre-existing medical conditions, consult your doctor before traveling. Travel insurance covering high-altitude destinations and medical evacuation is strongly recommended.

NHT selects experienced, English-speaking local guides in each country. In Nepal, guides like Bhim, Bibek, Netra, and Nim are praised for their knowledge and care. In Tibet, you will have a Tibetan guide with expertise in Buddhist monasteries and local culture. In Bhutan, licensed Bhutanese guides accompany you (required by Bhutanese tourism regulations). All drivers are experienced on mountain roads. A traveler who experienced a medical emergency on a multi-country tour noted: "Their flexibility, kindness, and support went far beyond anything we could have expected."

You should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation, trip interruption, and high-altitude destinations. Consult your doctor about vaccinations (hepatitis A and B, typhoid, etc.) and medications. Carry any prescription medicines in original packaging. In all three countries, tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or purified water. Your guides can assist with finding medical facilities if needed. The altitude in Lhasa (3,650m) requires acclimatization; avoid overexertion on the first day.

Pack layers to accommodate varying climates: Nepal (Kathmandu and Pokhara) is mild to warm; Tibet (Lhasa) can be cool, especially in spring and autumn, with temperatures dropping at night; Bhutan has a temperate climate but mornings and evenings can be cool. Essentials: comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for the Tiger's Nest hike, a waterproof/windproof jacket, a fleece or mid-layer, a warm jacket for Lhasa and early mornings, modest clothing for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered), a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A daypack (20–30L) for hikes is essential.

For the Tiger's Nest Monastery hike, wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good grip. Trekking poles can be helpful (available for rent at the base). Carry a daypack with water, snacks, a camera, and extra layers. The trail has stone steps and some uneven sections. Pony service is available at extra cost if you prefer not to walk the entire trail. Lunch is provided at the cafeteria halfway up, so you don't need to carry a full meal.

For visiting temples, stupas, and monasteries in Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan, pack modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. A lightweight scarf or shawl can be useful for covering up when entering sacred sites. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring durbar squares, dzongs, and temple complexes. A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for mountain views and architectural details. Some sites (like Gupteshwor Cave in Pokhara) prohibit photography, so respect local rules.

You stay in 3-star category hotels in all three countries. In Nepal: five nights in Kathmandu, two nights in Pokhara, and one night in Nagarkot (all with breakfast). In Tibet: three nights in Lhasa (breakfast). In Bhutan: four nights (full board meals). Hotels are selected for their location, comfort, and cleanliness. The Bhutanese hotels are government-approved and provide traditional hospitality. In Nagarkot, the hotel offers views of the Himalayas for sunrise and sunset.

Most 3-star hotels in Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan offer free WiFi, though speeds can vary, especially in remote areas. In Lhasa and Bhutan, WiFi is generally reliable. Mobile SIM cards with data can be purchased locally if you need consistent connectivity. Your guide can assist. For the multi-country aspect, consider an international roaming plan or purchasing local SIMs in each country.

Nepal uses 230V, Type C, D, and M plugs. Tibet uses 220V, Type A, C, and I plugs. Bhutan uses 230V, Type D, F, and G plugs. A universal travel adapter is essential. Voltage is similar across countries, so a single adapter will suffice. Power outages are rare in 3-star hotels, but carrying a power bank is useful for long travel days and hikes.

Meal inclusions vary by country: In Nepal and Tibet, only breakfast is included (lunches and dinners are at your own expense). In Bhutan, full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included. The itinerary specifies: "Full board meals plan during the tours in Bhutan." A lunch is also provided on Day 12 during the Tiger's Nest hike at the cafeteria. For Nepal and Tibet, your guide can recommend good local restaurants for other meals.

In Nepal: dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos, noodles, and continental options. In Tibet: Tibetan dishes like thukpa (noodle soup), momos, and tsampa (barley flour), with Chinese and Western options in Lhasa. In Bhutan: Bhutanese cuisine includes ema datshi (chili cheese), red rice, and vegetable curries; hotels typically offer a mix of Bhutanese, Indian, and continental dishes. Vegetarian options are widely available in all three countries. If you have dietary restrictions, inform NHT in advance.

Tap water is not safe to drink in any of the three countries. Bottled water is widely available and is safe. To reduce plastic waste, bring a reusable water bottle and use water purification tablets or a filter. Your guides can direct you to places to refill with purified water where available. Staying hydrated is especially important in Lhasa (high altitude) and during the Tiger's Nest hike.

Yes, the package description states: "If the above Nepal Tibet Bhutan Tours itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences and specifications." You can request modifications such as adding more days in any country, including trekking sections, or focusing on specific interests like Buddhism, photography, or cultural festivals. NHT specializes in tailor-made itineraries for multi-country tours. Contact them with your ideas for a personalized quote.

The tour is available as group joining on scheduled departure dates (which can be more economical) or as a private tour for your party. The cost per person is lower when more travelers share the vehicle and guide fees. The minimum group size is 2 persons, so solo travelers pay a higher rate due to single room occupancy and exclusive vehicle expenses. Contact NHT for specific pricing based on your group size and travel dates.

Tipping is not included in the package and is customary for good service. Guidelines vary by country, but a common practice is US $10–15 per day for the guide and US $5–8 per day for the driver, shared across the group if traveling together. You may have separate guides in each country, so tipping each at the end of their portion is appropriate. Cash in USD or local currency is acceptable. Your tour leader or local guide can advise on local norms.

This 16-day tour allows you to experience the distinct cultural, religious, and natural landscapes of three Himalayan kingdoms in one seamless journey. In Nepal, you explore Hindu and Buddhist UNESCO sites, the lakeside city of Pokhara with Annapurna views, and the hill station Nagarkot. In Tibet (China), you visit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Sera Monastery in Lhasa, experiencing Tibetan Buddhism and culture. In Bhutan, you discover dzongs, the Tiger's Nest Monastery, and the preserved traditions of the last Himalayan Buddhist kingdom. Each country has its own unique visa process, culture, and architecture, yet the tour is designed to showcase their interconnected Himalayan heritage.

Nepal highlights: Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Nagarkot sunrise, Pokhara's Sarangkot viewpoint, and Phewa Lake. Tibet highlights: Potala Palace (winter residence of the Dalai Lama), Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Market, Sera Monastery, Drepung Monastery, and Norbulingka (summer palace). Bhutan highlights: Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang), Paro Rinpung Dzong, Ta Dzong (National Museum), Kichu Lhakhang, Thimphu's Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma statue, and the School of Arts and Crafts.

Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) is Bhutan's most iconic sacred site, perched on a cliff face 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) flew to this location on the back of a tigress in the 8th century and meditated in a cave where the monastery now stands. The hike is a pilgrimage for Bhutanese and a highlight for visitors. The package includes the hike with lunch at the cafeteria halfway up. The experience combines spiritual significance with stunning Himalayan scenery, and is considered a must-do for any Bhutan visit.