Exploring the Himalayan Kingdoms: A Comprehensive Guide to Nepal and Bhutan

Nepal and Bhutan are neighbouring countries. Both countries have their own unique set of cultures and diversely attractive factors that pull in many tourists every year. Both Nepal and Bhutan are Himalayan kingdoms, meaning the countries are both very rich in marvellous and massive mountains. Going on a Nepal and Bhutan tour is possible regardless of where you are in the world. Moreover, there is no prohibition of any sort for visitors in case of any concerns related to the same.

Many of the locations in both Nepal and Bhutan are also parts of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Likewise, visitors will be coming very close to Buddhism and Lord Buddha when they take either a Nepali or Bhutani tour. There is a lot of exploring for a tourist or visitor if he wants to experience not only traditional and religious but also the natural beauty of the small yet stunning Asian countries.

Make sure to read till the end of this article if you want a comprehensive guide as to what you can expect in Nepal and Bhutan tour!

What are the highlights of the Nepal and Bhutan tour?

The following are the highlights of the Nepal and Bhutan tour:

• Visit two of the lesser-known yet most beautiful countries in the world.
• Affordable airfares that lead to heavenly destinations, including mountains, hills, religious sites, etc.
• A close interaction and exploration of the ancient Hindu and Buddhist cultures.
• Visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Discover some of the oldest kingdoms in both the countries.
•  Relish on the most delicious Bhutanese and Nepalese cuisines.
• Experience not only a religious but also a spiritual journey.
• Witness the absolute marvel of architectural gems in both the countries.
• Interaction with people of different cultural, religious, and traditional backgrounds.
• Get to know exactly why Bhutan is known as the country with the highest ‘National Gross Happiness Index’.
• Experience national and international sport events, like archery in Bhutan.

What are the best times to make a Nepal and Bhutan tour?

The best times to make the Nepal and Bhutan tour are spring and fall. Nepal and Bhutan have similar weather conditions throughout the year. The weather in India has a significant impact on both of these nations. Nepal’s weather remains moderate throughout the year, meaning it is neither extremely hot nor too cold during the summer and winter time. This does not necessarily mean that you will have the best time during either winter or summer. Fewer visitors are coming to the country in summer and winter, but on the other hand, fall and spring see many visitors due to the extremely favourable weather conditions.

The clarity in the air makes it possible for visitors to enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains. However, if you are going to visit the mountains, it is suggested that you do that only during spring and fall. Summers might be extremely hot since the mountains are located at a rather higher altitude, which is closer to the sun. And winters are just as extremely cold due to snowfall and, again, higher altitude. The hills are kinder to visitors almost all year round, though. Likewise, if you move to the lower parts of Nepal, the heat can be terrible and might lead to a great level of convenience as well as raise health concerns among travellers.

Bhutan is also quite colder in the mountainous areas during winter. Fall and spring are both favourable for visitors because it becomes possible for visitors to view the beauty of the country without any clouds or bad weather conditions. Bhutan is more influenced by the weather conditions in India. Hence, you may see heavy rainfall during the monsoon season here. Summer is quite pleasant in the central part of the country. But, many other parts of the country see extreme temperature rise and fall during summer and winter, respectively.

What are the main locations you should visit during the Nepal and Bhutan tour?

There are specific locations that you must visit during your Nepal and Bhutan tour. These locations fall under UNESCO World Heritage Sites as well. The following are those places:

Pashupatinath Temple

The Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most religiously significant places, not just in Nepal but in the world, for the followers of Hinduism. The temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. At night, you will get the chance to enjoy the bhajan chants and “Aarati” by the river. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are many interesting stories behind the temple. It is also a famous crematorium site for Hindus.

Krishna Mandir Temple

The Patan Durbar Square is one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley. Krishna Mandir is located inside the durbar square. The temple is believed to have been made with a single rock many centuries ago. Hindu devotees are always seen busily paying visits to the temple while bhajan is chanted every day at certain hours.

Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is the best choice for visitors who want to go on a jungle safari during their time in Nepal. You can tour through the national park in no more than a day. Since it is a protected area, one will be obligated to follow some rules while they are inside the national park. However, this does not limit the visitors from enjoying their tour to the fullest extent. Chitwan National Park is truly a destination that brings out the beauty of fauna and flora in Nepal.

Tiger’s Nest Monastery

The monastery hanging in the cliff face of a famous spot in Bhutan, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, will give you an experience of a lifetime. As much as the location is unique, you will be in for a thrilling adventure during your time here. Additionally, the monastery holds just as big of a religious significance.

Trek into the clouds

You can trek into the clouds, and that too quite literally when you are in Bhutan. With beautiful trekking destinations that are both easy to complete yet serve as an adventurous journey, there is a lot for trekking enthusiasts to explore. If you pay a visit in the right months, you will be able to trek through beautiful rhododendron forests and greenery.

guide to what tourists and visitors might have to remember during their Nepal and Bhutan tour

There are a few things that you have to remember before you pay a visit to Nepal and Bhutan. Some of those important aspects are:

Culture and Language

If you are from the Western part of the world, it might not be the easiest for you to understand the diverse culture that you will experience in both Nepal and Bhutan. There are lots of similarities as well as differences between the two nations. It is always better to educate yourself a bit before you start your journey.

Similarly, the people in both the countries are quite curious when it comes to tourists. One must keep in mind that many of the interactions you make with the locals during your visits are done with friendly and innocent intentions. But it becomes just as important to stay safe and mindful, regardless. You can learn a few words in Bhutanese and Nepalese languages if you want to associate better with the people living in these countries.

Etiquettes

You have to be mindful of the fact that both Nepalese and Bhutanese people are very heavy on etiquette and mannerisms. What may seem normal in another country may not seem normal to the people in Nepal and Bhutan. Therefore, you can get help from those who have visited these countries in the past or simply conduct the necessary research for the same. Also, wear the right clothes, usually modest ones, when you are out touring.

Carry cash instead of only cards

While the urban areas of both countries have plenty of ATMs here and there, you will have a difficult time finding an ATM in rural areas. There is a big likelihood that more often than not during your tour, you will be going to places that aren’t specifically situated in urban areas. Henceforth, always carry cash.

Take guided tours

Consult with a trustworthy agency to be there for their service throughout your tour. Conduct proper research as to what you are getting yourself into. You need to take a guided tour of different locations. Travelling independently in either Nepal or Bhutan might not be the best idea for anyone, especially if they have never visited the countries before. guided tour will save you time and assure you of your safety throughout your journey. Additionally, in Bhutan, it might even become mandatory for you to take guided tours.

Rough roads

Not all the locations you visit during your Nepal and Bhutan tours are going to be smooth and safe. Stay prepared for rather rough roads.

Conclusion

The Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal and Bhutan are glorious despite being some of the smallest nations in the world. There are many aspects of both countries that have to be explored. Touring these countries will not take a long time, and it is possible that you won’t even be spending two weeks touring the countries together. Among all the other tours you can take in the world, if you are looking for a budget-friendly yet heavenly trip, then the Nepal and Bhutan tour is the best option for you.