A guide to travel Nepal Tibet and Bhutan in one trip

Encircling the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan present an unparalleled adventure for intrepid travelers. Here, ancient cultures intertwine with spiritual journeys and breathtaking landscapes, inviting you to embark on a transformative experience that shifts your perspective and ignites your wanderlust.

From the towering heights of Mount Everest to sacred monasteries clinging to precipices, every corner of these remarkable kingdoms tells a story. Rich traditions thrive amidst modernity, offering not just a tour but a deep dive into a vibrant tapestry of life that has flourished for centuries.

A journey through these three Himalayan gems promises more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive adventure that feeds your soul and will leave you yearning for more.

How long does the tour take?

There is a lot to see and explore in these three countries. The duration of a tour depends on the places you want to visit and the activities you want to delve into.

However, here are the two most popular itineraries to see the highlights of the three Himalayan countries.

• Short Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour - 16 days

  This is the shortest recommended tour to see the highlights of all three Himalayan countries. We use regional flights to hop from one country to another, and do the cultural sightseeing of major tourist attractions. The tour visits Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lhasa, Paro, and Thimphu, which have stunning history, culture, and nature, with modern amenities. Availability of luxury hotels, transportation, and short flights makes this tour more leisurely.

  • Bhutan (4 days): Visit Thimphu and Paro, including the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
  • Tibet (4 days): Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa and explore Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.
  • Nepal: Use Kathmandu as a hub for visa processing and a short cultural visit while in transit between Tibet and Bhutan.

  21 days Nepal Tibet Bhtuan Tour

  The 21-day tour is a bit more adventurous, which involves a longer overland tour in each country. Drive through the lush Himalayan foothills of Bhutan and Nepal to explore its rich flora and fauna and discover immersive cultural experiences. Traverse high mountain passes of Tibet and drive past stunning turquoise lakes and majestic Himalayan glaciers to charming hidden valleys with Buddhist practices.

  • Tibet: Journey beyond Lhasa to Gyantse, Shigatse, and even the Everest Base Camp (North side).
  • Nepal: Explore Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan National Park—home to Royal Bengal Tigers and the rare one-horned rhinos.
  • Bhutan: Enjoy more immersive cultural encounters and serene mountain drives with additional day driving to Punakha valley..

  Which country can I start the tour from?

  Even though Nepal has been a stable base to start a tour of Tibet and Bhutan for centuries, there are few other options for starting this tour.

  Mainland China : You can fly or take the train from mainland China to Lhasa and start this tour from there also. Even though your Chinese visa will be valid in Tibet, you still need Tibet Travel Permit. Make sure to give the address of your hotel in China before getting into Tibet and the permit will be sent to the address.From India: If you are visiting India, you can either fly to Paro from Delhi or drive to Phuncholing border to start the tour.

  There are five direct flights from Delhi to Paro in a week. Flights are available daily from Kolkata to Paro.

  If you want to drive from Phuncholing border, we will have to send you visa approval letter and permits as per your tour booking. There are also three flights a week from Singapore to Lhasa.

  Best Time to Travel

  The majestic Himalayas create a diverse range of climate zones across Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan, leading to significant weather variations within these three countries.

  The varying altitudes, concealed valleys, arid plateaus, glaciers, and pristine lakes result in unique climate pockets. If you're planning to explore Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan in one journey, be ready for sudden changes in altitude and weather conditions. It’s also essential to know the optimal times to visit all three countries.

  While winter offers the best tour experiences in Nepal and Bhutan, Tibet endures extreme cold with harsh weather during this season. Conversely, summer is a suitable time for Tibet, but monsoon rains can hinder travel in Nepal and Bhutan.

  By late August, the monsoon rains typically lessen, revealing stunning views of the Himalayas in southern Nepal and Bhutan, while Tibet enjoys a pleasant climate.

  For the best overall experience, consider traveling in April-May or September-October, when temperatures are mild and enjoyable in each country.

  Essential Travel Tips

  Planning a Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan tour involves coordination across three different governments and travel systems. Here are important tips to keep in mind:

  • Book the tour Early enough: Flights between these countries are limited and fill up fast during peak season. Also, Tibet travel permits and visa take weeks to process.
  • Group Visa for Tibet: If entering Tibet from Nepal, you must obtain a special Chinese group visa through the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. Don’t apply for a Chinese visa on your own unless you’re entering from mainland China.
  • Currency: Carry USD for exchange at airports and local cities. ATMs are available in major cities like Kathmandu, Lhasa, Paro and Thimphu.
  • Acclimatize Gradually: We start the tour with Bhutan which has moderate altitude to acclimatize gradually before going to Tibet.
  • Respect Local Customs: Learn some basic local phrases and follow cultural etiquette to connect respectfully with locals.
  • Pack for All Climates: Bring layers, comfortable hiking shoes, a good camera, and essentials for both high-altitude and tropical conditions.

  Visa Information

  Each of the three destinations has its own visa policy:

• Nepal: Visas are easy to obtain on arrival at Kathmandu airport or land borders. Bring passport photos and USD for the fee.
• Tibet: A Tibet Travel Permit is required in addition to a Chinese group visa. This must be arranged by a tour agency ahead of time.
• Bhutan: All tourists must book a prearranged tour through a licensed operator. Bhutan issues visas only after confirming your tour booking. The daily tariff covers accommodation, a guide, transport, and meals.

Conclusion

Embarking on a combined Short Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour promises an extraordinary journey through some of the most spiritually enriching and breathtaking landscapes on the planet. From the awe-inspiring Potala Palace to the serene Cliffside monasteries of Bhutan, and the glorious sunrises over Nepal’s towering peaks, each moment invites deep reflection and transformation.

As you start to chart this incredible adventure, consider partnering with a reliable travel operator that specializes in comprehensive tours of this majestic region.

The call of the Himalayas is strong—is you ready to embark on this journey of a lifetime?

I am Rabindra, a seasoned explorer and storyteller with roots in the majestic Himalayas. Join me on this incredible journey as I explore and write, sharing the beauty of the Himalayas and beyond!