Today your Nepal-Bhutan adventure begins: You fly overnight to Kathmandu.

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival, you will receive a warm welcome and, together with your fellow travelers, you will make your way to your first accommodation. Then it's straight into the program: A leisurely stroll through the old town will stretch your legs – a welcome change after your long journey. Your tour guide will welcome you to this exciting metropolis and lead you through the blend of urban and rural elements to the most interesting corners. You'll experience the vibrant atmosphere of the traditional, authentic bazaars, such as the famous Ason Bazaar, one of the oldest and most well-known marketplaces in the city, and immerse yourself in the pulsating ambiance of this Nepalese metropolis. Afterwards, let yourself drift through the lively Thamel district, which is known as the city's nightlife district and also offers a colorful market. After an exciting first day full of new experiences, you'll take a short break at your accommodation before meeting up again in the evening. Use this opportunity to get to know each other better over your first dinner together and to prepare for the exciting adventures of the coming days.

After a hearty breakfast, your journey continues into the fascinating expanses of Chitwan National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled in the southern foothills of the majestic Himalayas, covers 932 square kilometers. As one of Asia's most enchanting national parks, it lies directly on the border with India. Even though the distance isn't far, you should be prepared for a slightly longer journey. Don't worry: the comfort of the minibus and short stops along the way will make the trip as pleasant as possible. Sit back, watch the passing scenery, or chat with your fellow travelers. Around midday, you'll take a break and enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arriving at Chitwan National Park, you'll be immersed in the diverse splendor of this natural paradise, where a rich array of flora and fauna awaits. From lush vegetation to picturesque rivers and fertile alluvial soils, the park will transport you to a world of natural wonders. You'll arrive at your charming jungle lodge in peace and quiet. After a short, informative briefing on the park's rules of conduct, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Take the time to relax in the pool, or simply sit quietly on the terrace and enjoy the view of the adjacent water. You all come together again for dinner and let the evening wind down in a relaxed atmosphere.

Early in the morning, after breakfast, you'll set off to explore the unparalleled beauty of Chitwan National Park. Whether gliding gently by canoe, taking an inspiring nature walk, or embarking on an exciting jeep safari, the diverse wildlife will captivate you. Keep an eye out for majestic cats, imposing rhinos, elegant crocodiles, and playful monkeys, while a variety of birds fill the air with their songs. Encounters with Bengal tigers and Indian rhinos, the jewels of the national park, are especially rare and therefore particularly exciting. Be sure to have your camera ready and trust the local knowledge of your guide and the ranger who will be accompanying you. Over a hearty lunch back at the lodge, you can exchange stories with your fellow travelers about your personal highlights. Chitwan National Park is not only home to animals, but also to the people of the region. In a nearby village, you have the opportunity to experience the traditional life of the Tharu people firsthand. Through cultural performances, observing local crafts, strolling through the narrow streets, and authentic encounters, you'll gain a fascinating insight into the customs, traditions, and way of life of this captivating community. After an exciting day, a special highlight awaits you in the evening: the sunset at a picturesque spot along the Rapti River. Indulge your senses with local snacks and, if you wish, the traditional alcoholic beverage Raksi Pyal. Sit back and enjoy the unique atmosphere. A group dinner will be served back at your accommodation.

After unforgettable experiences in Chitwan National Park, you continue your journey and, after a hearty breakfast, set off for Pokhara. Use the drive to relax or to ask your tour guide any questions you may have about the country and its people. Pokhara, a charming city nestled on the shores of picturesque Phewa Lake, offers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you'll settle into your accommodation and have some time to unwind. In the evening, a special experience awaits: You will enjoy the tranquil beauty of Phewa Lake on a scenic boat tour and be enchanted by the idyllic scenery and the sparkling water as the sun slowly disappears on the horizon.

After a hearty breakfast, you'll be active today, exploring the breathtaking surrounding mountains on foot. You'll embark on a moderate hike to Kande at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters. From there, you'll ascend slightly to 2,200 meters to the Australian Base Camp, where spectacular views await. Your route then leads you downhill to Pothana. You'll traverse densely forested areas until you reach the village of Damphu, where you can relax and unwind. Together with your fellow travelers, you will be welcomed at a friendly local guesthouse. The Gurung ethnic farming community is very hospitable and will prepare a traditional lunch for you. You will learn firsthand about daily life in the small mountain village and visit a local school (closed on Saturdays and public holidays). Refreshed and full of new impressions, you begin your descent with magnificent views of the Annapurna massif until you reach Phedi. Your transfer will be waiting there to take you back to your accommodation. For those who prefer a less strenuous option, the route can also be covered by jeep (optional, at an additional cost). Back at your accommodation, you can unwind, freshen up, and relax a bit. In the late afternoon, you'll meet up again with your fellow travelers and guide for a visit to the city's old bazaar, where locals offer a wide variety of regional foods, as well as handcrafted cosmetics and clothing. Perhaps you'd like to chat with the vendors and pick up a souvenir or two.

In the morning you set off towards Kurintar. During the journey you can chat with your fellow travelers about the highlights of the trip so far or simply close your eyes for a while. You'll arrive around midday and settle into your lovely accommodation. The lodge is practically a small ecological oasis, nestled in idyllic surroundings halfway between Pokhara and Kathmandu. The surrounding nature is perfect for relaxing and ideal for a pleasant stroll on your own. In the evening you will meet up with your fellow travelers again and end the day in a relaxed atmosphere with a traditional dinner and pleasant conversation.

After breakfast in Kurintar, you will make your way back to the Kathmandu Valley. A truly special experience awaits you there: a ride on a modern cable car up to the Chandragiri Hills Resort. From this exclusive resort, you'll enjoy unforgettable views of the majestic Himalayas. On a clear day, you can even admire Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain, from the observation deck. Enjoy this special view during your free afternoon. Let yourself be enchanted by the beauty and tranquility of the surrounding nature and simply take the time to savor this experience. You end the day with a shared dinner at the accommodation.

Today you embark on the second part of your tour: your journey to Bhutan. Early this morning you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the airport. Here you will say goodbye to your Nepalese tour guide and fly over the majestic Himalayas to Paro. The pure, cool mountain air of Bhutan greets you as soon as you step off the plane. After collecting your luggage and completing immigration formalities, your new tour guide will be waiting to take you to the charming capital city of Thimphu. After settling into your accommodation, you'll have the opportunity to explore this fascinating city, known as the center of Bhutan's government, its state religion (Buddhism), and its domestic trade. Immerse yourself in the blend of modern development and ancient traditions that makes Thimphu a unique travel destination. After experiencing traditional cuisine at a local lunch in a restaurant, the exploration program really gets underway in the afternoon. You will visit the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa and popular meeting place for locals. Here, people of all ages gather to pray or simply spend time together. The stupa was built in 1974 by the mother of the third king and commemorates her son, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. Finally, you'll explore the vibrant and colorful craft market, where you can admire local handicrafts and perhaps purchase a souvenir or two. Over a group dinner, your tour guide will provide further insights into the region's history and culture.

Today, a day full of fascinating discoveries awaits you in Thimphu's city center, with most of your journeys undertaken in a comfortable minibus. Your tour begins at the impressive National Library, where you can admire an extensive collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts. Next, we'll visit the Zorig Chusum Institute, a renowned arts and crafts school, where you'll gain insight into the traditional arts being learned by the students. Discover the exquisite craftsmanship passed down through generations in Bhutan and admire the skill of these young artists. At the Folklore Museum you will then get a vivid insight into the former rural life of Bhutan, the traditional way of life, the customs and the culture of the Bhutanese. After lunch, the afternoon takes you to the Takin Sanctuary, where you'll encounter the takin, a unique crossbreed of cow and goat. Immerse yourself in the fascinating legend of this animal, said to have been created by the great Buddhist yogi Drupa Kunley, and found only in Bhutan and the surrounding areas. Next, we'll visit the picturesque Pangri Zampa, one of Bhutan's oldest monasteries, built in the 16th century. Here you'll learn more about Lamaism and the Buddhist philosophy taught at this site. Your journey then takes you to the imposing Trashichhoe Dzong, a majestic monastery-fortress and seat of government that has been the heart of Bhutan's religious and political life for centuries. To conclude the day, you'll visit the lively Centenary Farmers Market and Buddha Point Kuenselphodrang, where you can admire the largest Buddha statue in the country. A group dinner at your accommodation will round off the day.

Today you depart from Thimphu and embark on an unforgettable journey to the breathtaking Dochu La mountain pass, which takes you along winding roads to an altitude of 3,088 meters. Along the way, you'll pass 108 small chortens, surrounded by colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. At the pass, you'll witness a prayer flag ceremony firsthand: the vibrant flags are raised to spread blessings and good fortune – a truly spiritual experience. On a clear day, you can also admire the snow-capped peaks of the eastern Himalayas. Upon arrival at your accommodation, you will visit the imposing Punakha Dzong, a massive structure at the confluence of two rivers, which now serves as the administrative center of the district. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and architecture of this cultural landmark of Bhutan. After lunch at a local restaurant, you'll spend the afternoon exploring Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility, an important pilgrimage destination for childless couples. The walk through the picturesque village of Pana, near the temple, offers unique insights into the daily life and way of life of the local villagers. Back at your accommodation, you wind down the day and enjoy a shared dinner featuring some classic dishes from the region.

The morning begins with an exciting drive to Paro, as you descend from the majestic Dochu La pass. On the return journey through the picturesque river valleys of the Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu, you'll be captivated by the powerful waterways that originate in the southern Himalayas south of the Jichu-Drake Glacier. Keep your camera handy for a few quick photo stops along the way. Before reaching the charming town of Paro, you will visit the historic Simtokha Dzong, a place of profound tantric teachings. Today, this dzong houses a school where the traditional Dzongkha language is taught. Around midday, you'll stop at a traditional farmhouse or village house located in a charming little town near Paro. Here you'll have the opportunity to sample authentic Bhutanese cuisine and experience the hospitality of the locals. A traditional Bhutanese alcoholic beverage, Ara, perfectly complements the lunch. After arriving at your accommodation, the rest of the afternoon is yours to relax. Enjoy the peace and beauty of the surroundings and let the day's experiences sink in. If you'd like to be more active, your tour guide will be happy to recommend some activities before you all come together for a group dinner.

Today you'll immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Paro District in western Bhutan. If you're feeling adventurous, there's an optional early morning visit to the famous Taktsang Monastery, affectionately known as the Tiger's Nest. This breathtaking monastery seems to cling to the cliff face like an eagle's nest, 800 meters above the valley floor, offering a dizzying view of the Paro Valley. The climb requires good physical condition; alternatively, you can reach the monastery on horseback. Taktsang Monastery is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas and is home to thirteen sacred shrines. If you don't want to attempt the climb, you can use the morning to relax at your accommodation – after the exciting last few days, that's certainly not a bad choice. After lunch together, you continue your explorations and visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse built without a single nail. This fascinating construction method is a testament to the craftsmanship and skill of the local people. On the way back to the city, you will visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and holiest shrines in the kingdom, dating back to the 7th century, which still plays an important role in the religious life of Bhutan. During dinner together, you exchange stories about the day's experiences, which may have been slightly different for some.

Today it's time to say goodbye to the treasures of Bhutan, as you'll begin your journey back to Kathmandu this morning. Your tour guide from Bhutan will take you to the airport and bid you farewell. After landing in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your accommodation, where you will check in for your final night. Together with your fellow travelers and tour guide, you will embark on a discovery tour of the famous Durbar Square, where you will once again experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Nepalese capital. Next, you'll visit Kathmandu's landmark and one of the country's holiest sites: the majestic Swayambhunath stupa complex. From this "Monkey Temple," as it's known because of the monkeys on the hill, you'll enjoy breathtaking views over the Kathmandu Valley. Before the final item on the agenda, you will enjoy a final lunch together, where you can review the experiences of the past few days. In the afternoon, you will explore the Mona Museum of Nepalese Art together with the group and immerse yourself once again in the rich culture and history of the country.

After a final breakfast, it's time to say goodbye. Your transfer will take you to Kathmandu airport. As you bid farewell to the captivating impressions of Nepal, you'll carry with you the memories of your adventure in the heart of the Himalayas. If your flight departs early the next morning, you'll arrive back in Germany the same day.

Welcome back!