Mountains & Monasteries: Nepal & Bhutan

Discover Kathmandu’s spiritual centre and an ancient city deeper within the Kathmandu Valley. Take time to drink in the reality of being face-to-face with those legendary Himalayan horizons, and connect with local people through community home stays in a part of the world renowned for its remote beauty. Fly through the clouds to Bhutan (perhaps catching a glimpse of Everest on the way) and explore a world of sweeping valleys, crisp air, winding trails and tranquil monasteries. Surround yourself with history, culture and cuisine, watch prayer flags fluttering over mountain trails, and discover the depths and richness of the region’s Buddhist heritage.

Each stage of your journey is carefully considered and curated by specialists to bring these incredible countries closer, giving you a local view with a lighter footstep. Take it slow as you acclimatise to new heights, and discover a deeper sense of tranquillity as you walk towards the top of the world…

Temple tranquillity

Something changes as you enter a sacred space; a kind of stillness that has built up over hundreds of years wraps around you, and the memories of thousands of previous pilgrims creates a sense of calm, even among the crowds. Both Nepal and Bhutan have spiritual structures at their core, and taking time to visit a few of the finest gives you time and space to appreciate each without getting over-templed.

Admire Kathmandu’s UNESCO-listed Boudhanath Stupa - the largest in Nepal - which buzzes with visitors from dawn to dusk, watched over by the iconic pair of eyes that stare out from the base of the gilded spire. Further south, watch from a respectful distance as Hindu pilgrims enter the holy grounds of Pashupatinath Temple, or head out of Kathmandu to wander through the narrow streets of Bhaktapur’s ancient city, watching the past meet the present as craftspeople work amongst buildings frozen in time.

In Bhutan, discover the ‘unusual’ murals at Chimi Lhakhang - the Temple of the Divine Madman - that reflect the site’s fertility focus. Marvel at the spectacle of the impressive Punakha Dzong, soak up panoramic views over the Phobjikha Valley from the intricately-decorated Gangtey Goemba, and take on the challenging trek to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (more commonly known as the Tiger’s Nest) that clings to the cliffside over Paro.

Cultural kaleidoscopes

The region’s cities burst with culture, tradition and the ordinary bustle of daily life. Kathmandu has to be one of the world’s most myth-enrobed capitals, full of history and legends that stretch back centuries. Head into the streets for a walking tour around Durbar Square, where kings were once crowned, to admire the architecture in the heart of the city. See shrines and temples, pop into teahouses and markets, lose yourself in the alleyways, and soak up the historic sights of Kathmandu’s Royal Palace.

Although we might not stay in Thimphu for too long, as the vibes are relatively ‘big city’, the highlights of Bhutan’s capital are well worth a stop. The Tibetan-style National Memorial Chorten is still the main focus of daily local worship, and the jaw-dropping 51-metre-high bronze Buddha Dordenma hides 125,000 smaller bronze Buddha statues in its base!

Further east, discover the treasures of Paro’s National Museum, also known as the Taa Dzong, and look out on the Rinpung Dzong - a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture - before connecting with a local farming family to prepare a traditional meal of ema datse, Bhutan’s cheese-and-chilli answer to comfort food.

Climb higher

The call of the clear mountain air in both Nepal and Bhutan is utterly irresistible, and heading for the hills is a given.

In Kathmandu, step away from the Bhaktapur sightseers to find a tranquil spot at a nearby view point, and enjoy a picnic breakfast whilst taking in the incredible Himalayan horizon. Just south of the city, hike to historic Panauti via orchards and the quiet village of Balthali, following a rural dirt road past small villages, terraced fields, and of course, more crystal-sharp mountain views.

Bhutan is one of the ultimate hiking destinations, with trails to suit every level. Ramble around Zuri Dzong for breathtaking views of the Paro valley and surrounding peaks; explore the valley by bicycle, taking in lush greenery, traditional villages and terraced fields; or - for those seeking a steeper challenge - take on the Bumdra Trek, ascending 4,000 metres in one day for spectacular views of the Himalayas and a night under canvas.

Natural wonder

In Punakha, hike through pine forests to enjoy a cuppa at Dochu Pass, and follow trails through fields of rice, chillies and beans to look out over the Mo Chhu river. Drive to the village of Talo, on a high ridge, to wander past traditional houses and picturesque flower gardens.

Phobjikha’s Black-necked Cranes are an instantly-recognisable emblem of Bhutan, and you can learn more about these beautiful birds, and the conservation projects dedicated to protecting them, at the excellent Black-Necked Crane information centre. If you happen to be in the region between late-October and the end of February, the centre has powerful telescopes through which you can observe the cranes themselves as they land gracefully in the valley.

Community connections

Include a night or two with Nepal’s superb Community Homestay Network to put the sweet icing on your mountainscape trip cake! We’re big champions of this inspiring organisation, who embody our philosophy that local connections create the very best travel experiences for everyone, and there’s no better way to really get to know the daily rhythms and way of life in the region. Find a warm welcome in the homes of your local hosts in places that are a little aside from the usual travellers’ trail. Prepare and enjoy home-cooked meals together, try your hand at artisan crafts, and feel part of the comings and goings of ordinary, small-town Nepalese life.