Dragon & Stupa Journey

  • Duration 6
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Easy
  • Starts at Kathmandu
  • Ends at kathmandu
  • Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation 3 star Hotel
  • Max. Altitude 1,300 Meters
  • Activity Tour
  • Group Type private or Group
  • Group Size 01-12
  • Best Season All Time
Highlights
  • Immerse in Bhutan’s culture and traditions, including visits to sacred monasteries and vibrant festivals.
  • Witness stunning Himalayan landscapes, serene valleys, and unspoiled natural beauty.
  • Explore the pristine valleys of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, each offering stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
  • Experience traditional Bhutanese cuisine and the country’s warm hospitality.
  • Discover Bhutan’s commitment to Gross National Happiness and sustainable living practices.

Dragon & Stupa Journey Overview

Bhutan tours offer a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. On our 6-day journey, you’ll experience a glimpse of Nepal while spending most of your time in the land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan. Before flying to Paro, Bhutan, we will explore several UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu. During your Thimphu sightseeing, you will visit the National Memorial Chorten, a prominent stupa used for daily worship, the Textile Museum showcasing Bhutanese weaving and traditional costumes, and the Heritage Museum, which displays local history and artifacts. You will also see a traditional school of arts and crafts, where students learn Bhutanese art skills, and Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-monastery that serves as the seat of the government and a center for religious ceremonies.

The journey also includes crossing the high Dochu La Pass and hiking to the enchanting Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery. Aarohi Holiday is dedicated to bringing you closer to the fascinating cultural events, people, and unique places that make Nepal and Bhutan exceptional.

Route to Dragon & Stupa Journey

The Dragon & Stupa Journey begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, followed by a day of sightseeing around the Kathmandu Valley, visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites. You then fly to Paro, Bhutan, and travel to Thimphu for sightseeing, including the National Memorial Chorten, Textile Museum, Heritage Museum, a traditional school of arts and crafts, and Tashichho Dzong. The next day is spent exploring Paro and its cultural attractions, before completing the trip with your final departure. This itinerary offers a mix of Nepalese heritage and Bhutanese culture, providing a memorable and balanced experience.

Why Choose Us for Your Dragon & Stupa Journey

The Dragon & Stupa Journey is a captivating tour that blends the rich cultural heritage of Nepal with the unique traditions and scenic beauty of Bhutan. With our experienced team, comfortable accommodations, and well-planned itinerary, we make sure your journey is safe, enriching, and truly memorable.

  • The Dragon & Stupa Journey combines Nepalese heritage and Bhutanese culture, including UNESCO World Heritage sites and iconic landmarks like Tashichho Dzong.
  • We are a trusted, government-registered local company with over 10 years of experience in tours across Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.
  • Licensed Nepali and Bhutanese guides provide deep knowledge of history, culture, and significance of each site.
  • Safety is a priority; our guides carry first aid kits and offer full support throughout your trip.
  • Pre-trip online briefing covers itinerary, preparation tips, and gear checklist.
  • Hassle-free booking with secure payments and transparent pricing, no hidden costs.
  • Private airport pick-up and drop-off are included in both Nepal and Bhutan.
  • Comfortable 3-star hotel accommodations in Kathmandu, Paro, and Thimphu.
  • We support sustainable tourism by working with local guides, staff, and service providers.
  • A well-paced itinerary allows you to enjoy cultural sites, scenic views, and local experiences at a comfortable pace.

Alternative Dragon & Stupa Journey

Looking for alternatives to the Dragon & Stupa Journey? You can try the Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike for a cultural and spiritual walk to one of Bhutan’s most iconic monasteries, the Druk Path Trek (9 days, 4,210m) for a scenic trek connecting Paro and Thimphu through alpine lakes and high passes, or the Gangtey Valley Trek (10 days, 2,900m) for a gentle hike through forests, villages, and the winter home of black-necked cranes. Each option offers a unique blend of Bhutan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, providing a memorable alternative to the Dragon & Stupa Journey.

Day to Day Itinerary
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Arrival in Kathmandu at any time. Our office representative will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel. Simply enjoy the drive and relax. There will be a short briefing about the trip after transferring you to the hotel. Enjoy your overnight stay in the hotel.

  • 3 Star Hotel
  • Breakfast

Today will be an exhilarating day where you will be introduced to the most pious Hindu and Buddhist religious places listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath Stupa.

  • 3 Star Hotel
  • Breakfast

Fly from Kathmandu International Airport to Paro International Airport, Bhutan, with breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and other famous Himalayan peaks. Our representative will receive you at Paro airport and drive you to Thimphu, the capital, with leisurely stops to admire rice fields, hamlets, mountain villages, and the Thimphu River. Upon arrival, visit Tashi Cho Dzong and stay overnight at the hotel.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast

After breakfast, visit Memorial Chorten, Zorig Chusum (Arts and Crafts School), Phelchey Toenkhyim (Folk Heritage Museum), and Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang). Later, drive to Paro. Overnight stay at a hotel in Paro.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast

After breakfast, hike to the famous cliff-hermitage, Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang), through pine and rhododendron forests. Visit Taktsang Monastery, built in the 1600s, and the oldest monastery built in the 7th century. Stay overnight at the hotel in Paro.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast

After breakfast, drive to the airport for your next destination. Our representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. A representative from Aarohi Holiday Pvt Ltd will pick you up from TIA and drive you to your hotel or departure place.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Cost Includes

  • Pick up and drop off from and to International airport.
  • 3-night hotel in Kathmandu (first two nights and last one night).
  • Everest National Park permit.
  • Khumbu Entrance Fee.
  • One English-speaking government-licensed guide (insurance, experienced, salary, food, and accommodation).
  • One porter for each two people.
  • Accommodation in tea houses twin sharing (private room/ Shared bathroom).
  • 3 Meals a day – breakfast, lunch, Dinner during the trek (Anything from the menu).
  • Flight ticket (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu).
  • Sightseeing tour car A/C with driver and cultural guide.
  • Farewell dinner at Nepalese cultural restaurant after the trek in Kathmandu.
  • All taxes and Company service charges.

Cost Excludes

  • Bar and beverage bills, tea, coffee, Wi-Fi, bottled water, desserts, hot shower, battery charge.
  • Personal expenses, personal clothes, personal insurance for health and evacuation, and tipping.
  • Entrance fees for sightseeing points.
Departure Dates

Useful Info

Accommodation during Dragon & Stupa Journey

  • In Kathmandu we provide comfortable accommodation in 3-star hotels with breakfast on a twin-sharing basis.(Private room accommodation can be arrange at an extra cost)
  • In Bhutan we provide comfortable accommodation in 3-star hotels with breakfast on a twin-sharing basis.(Private room accommodation can be arrange at an extra cost)

Meals during Dragon & Stupa Journey

During this trip, you will have two nights in Kathmandu with breakfast included at your hotel. In Bhutan, the package provides full board meals, meaning breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included each day. Meals are served either at your hotel or in carefully selected local restaurants, giving you a chance to enjoy traditional Bhutanese cuisine along with other options.

Entry Fees for Dragon & Stupa Journey

For the sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, you will need to cover the entry fees at the main heritage sites. These costs are not included in the package and must be paid directly at each location.

  • Patan Durbar Square: NPR 1,000 per person
  • Boudhanath Stupa: NPR 400 per person
  • Swayambhunath Stupa: NPR 200 per person
  • Pashupatinath Temple: NPR 1,000 per person

Entry Fees in Bhutan (Included in the Package)-In Bhutan, all entry fees for sightseeing, including the visit to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, are already covered in the package. You do not need to pay anything extra at the sites.

Best Time for Dragon & Stupa Journey

The best time for the Dragon & Stupa Journey is from March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). Autumn brings clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and excellent views of both Nepalese and Bhutanese landscapes, making it the most popular season. Spring offers warmer weather, blooming flowers, and fresh greenery, adding vibrant colors to your journey.

It is best to avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall, muddy paths, and limited visibility. Winter (December to February) can be cold, especially in the mornings and evenings, but the skies are usually clear. With proper preparation, traveling in late February or early March can still be enjoyable and rewarding.

Dragon & Stupa Journey Difficulties

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike is moderately challenging and involves a steady uphill walk on stone steps and uneven trails. The hike takes about 4 to 6 hours round trip, starting at 2,600 meters and reaching 3,120 meters at the monastery. While the altitude is not very high, some visitors may feel short of breath on the climb. The path can also be slippery during rainy weather, but with good fitness, proper footwear, and a steady pace, most travelers can complete the hike comfortably

Important Notes Dragon & Stupa Journey

  • The journey includes sightseeing in both Nepal and Bhutan, with cultural and scenic highlights.
  • Entry fees for UNESCO sites in Kathmandu are not included, but all Bhutan sightseeing fees are covered.
  • Comfortable 3-star hotels are provided in Kathmandu, Paro, and Thimphu. Upgrades can be arranged on request.
  • This trip can also be done directly from Thailand or India without coming through Nepal.
  • The itinerary can be fully customized to suit your preferences.
  • Carry a water bottle, personal medications, and travel documents.
  • Dress modestly at religious and cultural sites.
  • Weather can vary, so be prepared with layered clothing and sturdy shoes for walking.

Fitness Preparation for the Hike

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike is shorter than multi-day treks, but it still involves a steady uphill climb at altitude. Regular walking, light hiking, and basic cardio exercises such as jogging or cycling can help prepare your body. Building leg strength and stamina will make the ascent more comfortable. With a moderate level of fitness and some preparation, most travelers can complete the hike without difficulty.

Arrival Instruction

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives are stationed to welcome you to the country. We request you to carefully look for your name being held by our representatives following the events upon landing. The representatives are responsible to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will see men offering you to carry luggage and take you to your destination as you exit the airport. We request you pay no attention to these people and follow the designated representatives and follow their instructions. You will also need to keep an eye on your luggage and belongings to avoid any complications

Nepal Visa Entry Procedure

For entry into Nepal, there are visa requirements everyone (except Indian nationals) must complete before being allowed to pass through immigration. This is for air travel as well as overland transportation. Most visitors may obtain a visa to enter Nepal, however, there are exceptions. Three options are available for entry

  • 15-day single entry: US $30
  • 30-day single entry: US $50
  • 90-day multiple entries: US $125

Please have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry, and have cash ready, preferably in US dollars, though there are other currencies Nepal Immigration accepts. If you are entering via overland, you must have US cash and 3 passport photos. For arrival by air, the kiosks at the airport take your picture for you.For the most up to date list of exceptions for visa on arrival or to obtain the most current visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.

Equipment List

Dragon & Stupa Journey Packing Lists

Clothing

  • Comfortable trekking pants and t-shirts
  • Light jacket or fleece for cooler weather
  • Raincoat or windbreaker in case of rain
  • Hat or cap for sun protection
  • Comfortable socks and underwear

Footwear

  • Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip
  • Lightweight sandals or shoes for hotel use

Accessories

  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Water bottle or hydration pack
  • Small backpack for essentials
  • Camera or smartphone for photos

Other Essentials

  • Personal medications and basic first-aid kit
  • Snacks for energy on the trail
  • Travel documents, passport, and permits
  • Cash for souvenirs or additional purchases

FAQs

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  • The trip is 6 days, with sightseeing in both Nepal and Bhutan, including Kathmandu, Thimphu, and Paro.

  • Entry fees for UNESCO sites in Kathmandu are not included, but all entry fees in Bhutan are covered.

  • You will stay in comfortable 3-star hotels in Kathmandu, Thimphu, and Paro. Upgrades can be arranged on request.

  • Nepal requires a visa on arrival for most travelers. A Bhutan visa is arranged in advance by us and included in the package

  • The journey involves light walking and short hikes, such as the visit to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. A moderate level of fitness is sufficient.

  • The best months are March to May and September to November, when weather is clear and pleasant.

  • Yes, the itinerary can be fully customized. You can also start the trip directly from India or Thailand without coming through Nepal.

  • Highlights include the National Memorial Chorten, Textile Museum, Heritage Museum, a traditional school of arts and crafts, Tashichho Dzong, and Tiger’s Nest Monastery.