Bhutan and Tibet Tour
15 Days / Cross Border Tours
Activity
Difficulty Level
Destinations
Trip Start / End
Max Altitude
Accommodation
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Best time to travel
Personalized Travel Advice
Dev Raj Nepal
+977 9851096523
Personalized Travel Advice
Dev Raj Nepal
+977 9851096523
Detailed Itinerary
01
DAY
01
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you will be greeted by your guide. Upon landing at Bhutan’s picturesque riverside airport, private transfer winds through Paro Valley’s terraced fields towards Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Enroute, visit Tachogang Lhakhang and cross the iron bridge built by the Kagyu Master, Thangtong Gyalpo in the 15th century. Overnight at Thimphu.
Arrival Paro – Thimphu
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you will be greeted by your guide. Upon landing at Bhutan’s picturesque riverside airport, private transfer winds through Paro Valley’s terraced fields towards Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Enroute, visit Tachogang Lhakhang and cross the iron bridge built by the Kagyu Master, Thangtong Gyalpo in the 15th century. Overnight at Thimphu.
02
DAY
02
Bhutan’s culture is a combination of religion, spirituality, art, architecture, customs, traditions. First, make a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of Bhutan’s third king. A focal point for daily prayer and circumambulation, it offers insight into local spiritual life and a quiet moment for personal reflection.
Following that, we drive to Buddha Point (Buddha Dordenma), a monumental bronze Buddha statue overlooking Thimphu Valley. At 51 meters, it ranks among the largest Buddha statues in the world.
Continue to Zorig Chusum, the Institute of Traditional Arts, where students train in the 13 traditional Bhutanese arts, including painting, sculpture, weaving, and woodcarving.
Next, explore the Crafts Bazaar, a vibrant market offering handmade textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. This lively space provides a meaningful opportunity to support Bhutanese creativity and experience the country’s rich artistic traditions firsthand.
In the afternoon, visit the Textile museum where you can see the evolution of Bhutanese garments and how they are still preserved and woven today.
Conclude your day of cultural exploration at Tashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress-monastery housing government offices and monastic quarters. This Dzong is also an administrative center and it is best to visit after 5pm as parking will be unavailable during the office hours.
Thimphu Exploration
Bhutan’s culture is a combination of religion, spirituality, art, architecture, customs, traditions. First, make a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of Bhutan’s third king. A focal point for daily prayer and circumambulation, it offers insight into local spiritual life and a quiet moment for personal reflection.
Following that, we drive to Buddha Point (Buddha Dordenma), a monumental bronze Buddha statue overlooking Thimphu Valley. At 51 meters, it ranks among the largest Buddha statues in the world.
Continue to Zorig Chusum, the Institute of Traditional Arts, where students train in the 13 traditional Bhutanese arts, including painting, sculpture, weaving, and woodcarving.
Next, explore the Crafts Bazaar, a vibrant market offering handmade textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. This lively space provides a meaningful opportunity to support Bhutanese creativity and experience the country’s rich artistic traditions firsthand.
In the afternoon, visit the Textile museum where you can see the evolution of Bhutanese garments and how they are still preserved and woven today.
Conclude your day of cultural exploration at Tashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress-monastery housing government offices and monastic quarters. This Dzong is also an administrative center and it is best to visit after 5pm as parking will be unavailable during the office hours.
03
DAY
03
Scenic drive east over Dochu La Pass (3150m), adorned with 108 chortens, fluttering prayer flags, and staggering Himalayan panoramas on clear days (including Masanggang peaks). Take a walk near the gardens and the beautiful, quiet pine forests.
Descend to subtropical Punakha Valley. When the vechile approaches Lobesa, take a slight detour to reach the village of Sopsokha. From the village, take a 20-minute walk across a village and farmlands to reach Chimi Lhakhang, the famed fertility temple. Adorned with phallic symbols, this is an intriguing temple founded by the eccentric monk Drukpa Kuenly, also known as the divine madman, centuries ago. Continue on your drive to Punakha where you will spend the night.
Thimphu – Punakha
Scenic drive east over Dochu La Pass (3150m), adorned with 108 chortens, fluttering prayer flags, and staggering Himalayan panoramas on clear days (including Masanggang peaks). Take a walk near the gardens and the beautiful, quiet pine forests.
Descend to subtropical Punakha Valley. When the vechile approaches Lobesa, take a slight detour to reach the village of Sopsokha. From the village, take a 20-minute walk across a village and farmlands to reach Chimi Lhakhang, the famed fertility temple. Adorned with phallic symbols, this is an intriguing temple founded by the eccentric monk Drukpa Kuenly, also known as the divine madman, centuries ago. Continue on your drive to Punakha where you will spend the night.
04
DAY
04
After breakfast, drive through the fertile Punakha valley where terraced fields and traditional farmhouses line the riverbanks. The morning begins with a scenic hike to Khamsum Yulley Chorten, a temple built by the Queen Mother for the peace and protection of Bhutan. The trail climbs gently through rice paddies and light forest, passing local farmers and small hamlets.
After descending, visit Punakha Dzong, the most impressive fortress-monastery in Bhutan, set at the meeting point of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. You explore its courtyards, wooden galleries, and traditional artwork that reflects Bhutanese history and Buddhist teachings.
Later, walk across the long Punakha Suspension Bridge, gently swaying above the clear river below. Continue through nearby villages to observe daily rural life.
Punakha Exploration
After breakfast, drive through the fertile Punakha valley where terraced fields and traditional farmhouses line the riverbanks. The morning begins with a scenic hike to Khamsum Yulley Chorten, a temple built by the Queen Mother for the peace and protection of Bhutan. The trail climbs gently through rice paddies and light forest, passing local farmers and small hamlets.
After descending, visit Punakha Dzong, the most impressive fortress-monastery in Bhutan, set at the meeting point of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. You explore its courtyards, wooden galleries, and traditional artwork that reflects Bhutanese history and Buddhist teachings.
Later, walk across the long Punakha Suspension Bridge, gently swaying above the clear river below. Continue through nearby villages to observe daily rural life.
05
DAY
05
After breakfast, drive to Paro. Upon arrival, visit Ta Dzong, the former watchtower above the valley, now the National Museum of Bhutan, housing a fine collection of religious art, thangkas, textiles, and historical artifacts that offer an introduction to Bhutanese culture and history.
Continue to Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of the Heap of Jewels), an impressive monastery-fortress known for its massive white walls, wooden galleries, and cantilevered roofs. Walk through its courtyards and traditional corridors decorated with Buddhist murals and paintings.
In the late afternoon, visit the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century. The temple complex, with its ancient orange trees and twin shrines symbolizing Bhutan’s spiritual unification, offers a peaceful setting.
Punakha – Paro
After breakfast, drive to Paro. Upon arrival, visit Ta Dzong, the former watchtower above the valley, now the National Museum of Bhutan, housing a fine collection of religious art, thangkas, textiles, and historical artifacts that offer an introduction to Bhutanese culture and history.
Continue to Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of the Heap of Jewels), an impressive monastery-fortress known for its massive white walls, wooden galleries, and cantilevered roofs. Walk through its courtyards and traditional corridors decorated with Buddhist murals and paintings.
In the late afternoon, visit the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century. The temple complex, with its ancient orange trees and twin shrines symbolizing Bhutan’s spiritual unification, offers a peaceful setting.
06
DAY
06
After an early breakfast, drive to the trailhead and begin the hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic pilgrimage site. The trail climbs gradually through pine forest scented with juniper and lined with fluttering prayer flags, with viewpoints opening across the Paro valley. The hike takes about 2–3 hours to reach the cafeteria viewpoint, where you rest and enjoy the first close view of the monastery clinging dramatically to the cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor.
From here, continue along a narrower path descending to a waterfall and then climbing a final stone staircase to the monastery. According to tradition, Guru Rinpoche meditated in a cave here in the 8th century, making it one of the holiest places in Bhutan. Inside, you visit the temples and sacred chambers and spend time in quiet reflection.
After lunch at the cafeteria (or on return), descend along the same trail to the base and drive back to Paro. Evening at leisure and overnight in Paro.
Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest
After an early breakfast, drive to the trailhead and begin the hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic pilgrimage site. The trail climbs gradually through pine forest scented with juniper and lined with fluttering prayer flags, with viewpoints opening across the Paro valley. The hike takes about 2–3 hours to reach the cafeteria viewpoint, where you rest and enjoy the first close view of the monastery clinging dramatically to the cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor.
From here, continue along a narrower path descending to a waterfall and then climbing a final stone staircase to the monastery. According to tradition, Guru Rinpoche meditated in a cave here in the 8th century, making it one of the holiest places in Bhutan. Inside, you visit the temples and sacred chambers and spend time in quiet reflection.
After lunch at the cafeteria (or on return), descend along the same trail to the base and drive back to Paro. Evening at leisure and overnight in Paro.
07
DAY
07
Morning transfer to the airport for the one-hour flight to Kathmandu, Nepal, with clear-weather views of the Himalayan range along the way. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and proceed to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and an important center of Tibetan Buddhism. Walk the kora path around the stupa alongside pilgrims and monks, visit surrounding monasteries, and experience the calm atmosphere of butter lamps, prayer wheels, and chanting.
Afternoon free to relax or explore Thamel, Kathmandu’s lively traveler district filled with cafés, small shops, handicrafts, bookstores, and restaurants. Evening at leisure and overnight in Kathmandu.
Paro – Kathmandu
Morning transfer to the airport for the one-hour flight to Kathmandu, Nepal, with clear-weather views of the Himalayan range along the way. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and proceed to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and an important center of Tibetan Buddhism. Walk the kora path around the stupa alongside pilgrims and monks, visit surrounding monasteries, and experience the calm atmosphere of butter lamps, prayer wheels, and chanting.
Afternoon free to relax or explore Thamel, Kathmandu’s lively traveler district filled with cafés, small shops, handicrafts, bookstores, and restaurants. Evening at leisure and overnight in Kathmandu.
08
DAY
08
Transfer to airport for 1.5-hour flight to Lhasa Gonggar, crossing the Himalaya with aerial thrills. Private transfer to old town hotel; essential rest for acclimatization at 3650m altitude—hydrate, avoid alcohol. The drive from the airport to the city will take about an hour. Evening gentle orientation stroll along Barkhor Street’s pilgrim crowds, thangka shops, and butter tea stalls.
Kathmandu – Lhasa
Transfer to airport for 1.5-hour flight to Lhasa Gonggar, crossing the Himalaya with aerial thrills. Private transfer to old town hotel; essential rest for acclimatization at 3650m altitude—hydrate, avoid alcohol. The drive from the airport to the city will take about an hour. Evening gentle orientation stroll along Barkhor Street’s pilgrim crowds, thangka shops, and butter tea stalls.
09
DAY
09
After breakfast you visit the Potala Palace and enjoy wide views over Lhasa Old Town. Inside, you learn about the lives of the Dalai Lamas and see the palace’s remarkable treasures, including the gilded burial stupas of past Dalai Lamas and the meditation cave of Tibet’s 33rd great king.
Afterward you walk to Longwangtan Park at the base of the palace, where the Potala can be admired from another angle while locals gather for music, dance, and daily leisure activities.
In the afternoon you continue to the Jokhang Temple, the religious heart of Tibet. Within the temple stands the revered statue of twelve-year-old Buddha Shakyamuni, while outside pilgrims perform prostrations in devotion. Surrounding the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can join the kora with pilgrims and browse the traditional market.
You then visit a lively indoor Tibetan tea house. Over cups of sweet Tibetan tea, your guide explains local customs, social life, and everyday traditions. Overnight in Lhasa.
Lhasa Exploration
After breakfast you visit the Potala Palace and enjoy wide views over Lhasa Old Town. Inside, you learn about the lives of the Dalai Lamas and see the palace’s remarkable treasures, including the gilded burial stupas of past Dalai Lamas and the meditation cave of Tibet’s 33rd great king.
Afterward you walk to Longwangtan Park at the base of the palace, where the Potala can be admired from another angle while locals gather for music, dance, and daily leisure activities.
In the afternoon you continue to the Jokhang Temple, the religious heart of Tibet. Within the temple stands the revered statue of twelve-year-old Buddha Shakyamuni, while outside pilgrims perform prostrations in devotion. Surrounding the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can join the kora with pilgrims and browse the traditional market.
You then visit a lively indoor Tibetan tea house. Over cups of sweet Tibetan tea, your guide explains local customs, social life, and everyday traditions. Overnight in Lhasa.
10
DAY
10
Begin with a visit to Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monks’ debates where robed scholars passionately discuss Buddhist philosophy with dramatic gestures, bringing the monastery’s courtyards vividly to life.
Continue to Drepung Monastery, once the world’s largest monastic complex, which housed thousands of monks. Wander through its vast halls, explore ancient kitchens and the former quarters of the Dalai Lama, and enjoy gentle climbs to hilltop viewpoints offering panoramic vistas.
Conclude the day at Norbulingka Palace, the Summer Palace of the Dalai Lamas, strolling through its peaceful gardens, colorful chapels, and serene picnic spots where peacocks roam freely.
Lhasa Exploration
Begin with a visit to Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monks’ debates where robed scholars passionately discuss Buddhist philosophy with dramatic gestures, bringing the monastery’s courtyards vividly to life.
Continue to Drepung Monastery, once the world’s largest monastic complex, which housed thousands of monks. Wander through its vast halls, explore ancient kitchens and the former quarters of the Dalai Lama, and enjoy gentle climbs to hilltop viewpoints offering panoramic vistas.
Conclude the day at Norbulingka Palace, the Summer Palace of the Dalai Lamas, strolling through its peaceful gardens, colorful chapels, and serene picnic spots where peacocks roam freely.
11
DAY
11
In the morning you drive toward Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. The road crosses the Gampala Pass (4,790 m) with views over the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake (4,440 m), one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, and distant Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7,191 m). You also pass the impressive Karola Glacier as its ice tongue descends along the mountainside.
At Gyantse, make a visit to the Pelkor Monastery and the multi-tiered Gyantse Kumbum, with views of the Gyantse Fortress above the town.
Continue to Shigatse, where you will spend the night.
Lhasa – Gyantse – Shigatse
In the morning you drive toward Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. The road crosses the Gampala Pass (4,790 m) with views over the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake (4,440 m), one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, and distant Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7,191 m). You also pass the impressive Karola Glacier as its ice tongue descends along the mountainside.
At Gyantse, make a visit to the Pelkor Monastery and the multi-tiered Gyantse Kumbum, with views of the Gyantse Fortress above the town.
Continue to Shigatse, where you will spend the night.
12
DAY
12
In the morning you visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama and the second-largest monastery in Tibet. Explore its golden-roofed halls, see the 26-meter statue of Maitreya Buddha, and follow a hillside kora scented with juniper incense. After a quick momo lunch, you set out on the drive westward.
The road follows the Yarlung Tsangpo River through wide gorges dotted with wildflowers and herders’ tents, leading to Rongbuk Monastery (5,072 m), the world’s highest monastery and the spiritual gateway to Everest Base Camp. Take a short acclimatization walk before settling into your guesthouse for the night.
Shigatse – Rongbuk
In the morning you visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama and the second-largest monastery in Tibet. Explore its golden-roofed halls, see the 26-meter statue of Maitreya Buddha, and follow a hillside kora scented with juniper incense. After a quick momo lunch, you set out on the drive westward.
The road follows the Yarlung Tsangpo River through wide gorges dotted with wildflowers and herders’ tents, leading to Rongbuk Monastery (5,072 m), the world’s highest monastery and the spiritual gateway to Everest Base Camp. Take a short acclimatization walk before settling into your guesthouse for the night.
13
DAY
13
Before dawn you hike or drive 8 km to Everest Base Camp (5,200 m), where prayer flags stand against the immense North Face of Everest under the stars. Spend about an hour there to watch the mountains glow at sunrise, with an optional short ridge walk if conditions allow.
You then return to Rongbuk for breakfast and begin the scenic drive back across the Lhatse plains, with distant views of Everest along the way. Arrive in Shigatse by evening and relax, with an opportunity to sample traditional barley wine. Overnight in Shigatse.
Everest Base Camp – Shigatse
Before dawn you hike or drive 8 km to Everest Base Camp (5,200 m), where prayer flags stand against the immense North Face of Everest under the stars. Spend about an hour there to watch the mountains glow at sunrise, with an optional short ridge walk if conditions allow.
You then return to Rongbuk for breakfast and begin the scenic drive back across the Lhatse plains, with distant views of Everest along the way. Arrive in Shigatse by evening and relax, with an opportunity to sample traditional barley wine. Overnight in Shigatse.
14
DAY
14
The morning is free to wander through Shigatse market, where stalls display spices, turquoise jewelry, and local goods. You then drive toward Lhasa, passing the ruins of the Gyantse Dzong overlooking the valley.
By evening you arrive in Lhasa. Relax at your hotel after many days of adventure. Overnight in Lhasa.
Shigatse – Lhasa
The morning is free to wander through Shigatse market, where stalls display spices, turquoise jewelry, and local goods. You then drive toward Lhasa, passing the ruins of the Gyantse Dzong overlooking the valley.
By evening you arrive in Lhasa. Relax at your hotel after many days of adventure. Overnight in Lhasa.
15
DAY
15
After breakfast, conclude your journey through Tibet and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Take a final look at the city’s unique blend of ancient monasteries, vibrant streets, and Himalayan vistas, carrying memories of your spiritual and cultural adventure.
Lhasa – Departure
After breakfast, conclude your journey through Tibet and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Take a final look at the city’s unique blend of ancient monasteries, vibrant streets, and Himalayan vistas, carrying memories of your spiritual and cultural adventure.
Tour Cost
At High Asia Tours, we know that understanding tour costs is essential for planning your trip. Due to variables such as accommodation choices, meal plans, transportation options, group size, and seasonal demand, providing an exact price upfront is challenging.
To assist you, we offer a starting price to give a general idea of the cost:
The starting cost for this tour is
Includes / Excludes
Inclusions
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All Accommodations on the Twin/Double Sharing Basis
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Meals Specified in the itinerary
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Bhutan Visa Fee
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Tibet Travel Permit
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All Domestic transportation by private vehicle
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Experienced English-speaking guides.
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Entrance fees to all monasteries, palaces, and sightseeing sites.
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Trekking and hiking activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
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Everest Base Camp visit, including pre-dawn jeep/hike transport.
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All Cultural Experiences mentioned in the itinerary
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Bottled water during sightseeing and trekking days.
Exclusions
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International flights to Bhutan and from Lhasa.
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Inter-destination flights – Paro – Kathmandu & Kathmandu – Lhasa
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Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
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Chinese Visa
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Personal travel insurance, including emergency evacuation.
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Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and staff.
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Beverages other than bottled water.
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Personal expenses: souvenirs, laundry, phone/internet charges.
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Optional activities not specified in the itinerary.
Trip Info
Bhutan and Tibet Tour
A journey through Bhutan and Tibet reveals two remarkable Himalayan cultures that carry the same spiritual heritage. Both lands follow the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and both are home to monasteries, sacred mountains, and communities where faith remains an intrinsic part everyday life.
Traveling through them together gives visitors the opportunity to see how a shared tradition can take different forms across the Himalayas. The experience offers insight into history, culture, traditions, religion, and landscape while creating a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most fascinating regions.
Monastic institutions remain influential, and grand fortress monasteries known as dzongs stand as symbols of both religious and civic life. In Tibet, the cultural landscape unfolds across the immense plateau where great monastic centers and sacred cities have perfectly transformed the spiritual history of the region.
This Bhutan and Tibet tour also presents a remarkable panorama of Himalayan landscapes. Bhutan’s valleys are filled with forests, rivers, and terraced fields that surround villages and monasteries. Tibet introduces travelers to vast high-altitude plains and dramatic mountain horizons that stretch across the plateau.
This combined Bhutan and Tibet tour gives one a deeper appreciation of Himalayan civilization, where spiritual traditions, dramatic landscapes, fascinating culture and eons of history come together to create a memorable travel experience.
This journey is ideal for travelers who are curious about culture, history, and spirituality in the Himalayas. This Bhutan and Tibet tour is designed for those who want to explore ancient monasteries, enigmatic cultures, historic cities, and sacred landscapes while learning about the traditions that shape life in these remote regions. If you enjoy visiting temples, meeting local in far-flung regions, walking through historic towns, and experiencing places where religion and daily life remain closely connected, this tour offers a rewarding and meaningful experience.
This Bhutan and Tibet tour is also well suited for travelers who wish to see the diversity of the Himalayas without undertaking a demanding trek. The itinerary includes comfortable travel between destinations, guided visits to important cultural sites, and gentle walks such as the famous hike to Paro Taktsang in Paro. Travelers explore the peaceful valleys of Bhutan before continuing to the historic cities and vast landscapes of Tibet, including the sacred city of Lhasa.
This is particularly appealing for those who want to witness some of the most important spiritual landmarks in the Himalayan world. Sites such as the magnificent Potala Palace, the revered Jokhang Temple, and the remote views of Mount Everest North Base Camp offer powerful moments that connect travelers with the history and devotion of the region.
If you are looking for a journey that combines cultural discovery, remarkable landscapes, and meaningful encounters with Himalayan traditions, this Bhutan and Tibet Tour provides a rich and memorable travel experience.
The best time to enjoy a Bhutan and Tibet Tour is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to early November).
Spring: During this season, valleys in Bhutan become green and fresh, with flowering trees and pleasant daytime weather. In places such as Paro and Thimphu, daytime temperatures usually range between 12°C and 22°C, while evenings can cool to 5°C to 10°C. When the journey continues to the higher elevations of Tibet, including Lhasa, daytime temperatures are often 10°C to 18°C, with nights dropping close to 0°C to 5°C.
Autumn: This is considered one of the finest seasons for this journey. The skies are typically very clear, making it an excellent time to enjoy views of the Himalayan peaks and the vast Tibetan Plateau. Temperatures in Bhutan remain comfortable, usually 10°C to 20°C during the day, while nights are cooler. In Tibet, cities such as Lhasa and Shigatse see daytime temperatures around 8°C to 16°C, while higher areas near Mount Everest North Base Camp can range from -5°C to 10°C depending on the time of day.
Winter travel between December and February is possible but colder, particularly in Tibet where temperatures can drop well below freezing at night. The summer months (July and August) bring warmer temperatures but also occasional rain in Bhutan.
Throughout your Bhutan and Tibet tour, your comfort and rest are a priority. In cities like Thimphu, Paro, Lhasa, and Shigatse, you will stay in 3 ★ hotels offering modern amenities, cozy rooms, and a harmonious blend of local charm with contemporary comfort.
In more remote or rural areas and high-altitude trekking regions — accommodations are simpler, ranging from guesthouses to basic lodges or tented camps. These choices emphasize practicality and proximity to cultural, spiritual, and scenic sites, allowing you to immerse yourself in authentic landscapes and local life while maintaining safety and comfort.
All accommodations are selected to ensure warmth, cleanliness, safety and security, while offering convenient access to different regions in Bhutan and Tibet.
This Bhutan and Tibet tour is also a rich culinary adventure. In Tibet, enjoy traditional dishes such as momos (dumplings), thenthuk (hand-pulled noodle soup), tsampa (roasted barley flour), yak meat, yak butter tea, and hearty yak hotpot. Meals often include seasonal vegetables, dried fruits, and local dairy products, providing nourishment during sightseeing and trekking.
In Bhutan, taste local specialties like ema datshi (chili and cheese stew), red rice, phaksha paa (pork with chili), and buckwheat pancakes. Traditional butter tea, fresh dairy, and seasonal vegetables are commonly served, reflecting the country’s culinary heritage.
Western food is available in Thimphu, Paro, Lhasa, Shigatse, and larger towns, with cafés and restaurants offering pasta, sandwiches, and other familiar dishes. In remote villages, monasteries, or trekking regions, meals are simple but wholesome, often served in guesthouses or camps, allowing you to experience authentic flavors, local hospitality, and the highland ingredients that sustain Himalayan life.
For your Bhutan and Tibet Tour, private vehicles are provided for all transfers and sightseeing throughout both countries. For 2 travelers, a comfortable SUV is arranged, allowing flexibility and convenience to explore at your own pace. For groups of 3 or more travelers, a Mini-Bus is provided, ensuring extra space while maintaining comfort during the journey.
All vehicles are well-maintained and driven by experienced drivers who are familiar with both Bhutanese and Tibetan roads. They are skilled at handling high-altitude routes safely while providing smooth rides and scenic views along the way.
Bhutan
Bhutan requires advance visa approval before you travel. Once you book your tour with us, we will arrange the visa formalities for you. There is no need to visit an embassy or consulate. We apply for your Bhutan visa through the Tourism Council of Bhutan, and approval usually takes 10–14 working days. You will receive a Visa Clearance Letter, which is required to board the flight to Bhutan, and the visa will be stamped on arrival.
For more information, visit Official Bhutan Immigration Site
Tibet
Travel to Tibet requires a Chinese visa and several local permits:
Chinese Visa (L-tourist type): Must be obtained by the traveler at their local Chinese embassy or consulate 1–3 months in advance. Passport must have at least six months validity.
Tibet Travel Permit (TTP): Required for all travelers to Tibet. We will arrange and obtain this for you.
PSB Alien Travel Permit: Needed for areas outside Lhasa, including Shigatse, Shalu, and Samye. We will obtain this on your behalf in Lhasa.
Military Permit: Required to access the Everest Base Camp border zone. We will pre-arrange this for you.
For more information, Visit Visa for China
Packing List for Bhutan and Tibet Tour
Clothing
- Lightweight T-shirts and base layers
- Warm fleece or down jacket
- Long-sleeved shirt for sun and temples
- Comfortable trekking pants or jeans
- Thermal innerwear for cold mornings/evenings
- Waterproof/windproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Flip-flops or sandals for hotels
- Warm hat and gloves
- Scarf/buff for dust and wind
Travel Essentials
- Passport and extra photocopies
- Visa/entry permits for all three countries
- Cash in small denominations and credit cards
- Universal travel adapter
- Small daypack
- Water bottle (refillable)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Lip balm and moisturizer
- Hygiene & Personal Care
- Toiletries (travel size)
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Quick-dry towel
- Basic medications and prescriptions
Electronics
- Phone + charger
- Camera and memory cards
- Power bank
Extras for Comfort
- Snacks for long drives/flights
- Earplugs and sleep mask
- Lightweight travel blanket or shawl
Road conditions across Bhutan and Tibet have improved significantly in recent years, making travel comfortable and scenic. In Bhutan, highways connecting Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha are mostly paved and well-maintained, suitable for private 4WD vehicles, with winding valley roads and occasional mountain hairpins offering spectacular views of terraced fields, rivers, and dzongs.
In Tibet, major tourist routes — including Lhasa–Shigatse, Lhasa–Gyantse–Yamdrok, and Shigatse–Rongbuk–Everest Base Camp — feature wide, asphalt highways in good condition, ideal for guided tours. Daily drives of 5–8 hours include regular scenic stops, while occasional high-altitude wind or dust may occur. Only the final remote stretches, such as the last 5–10 km to Everest Base Camp, are on gravel and slightly bumpy.
Travel along these routes combines comfort, safety, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, ensuring smooth journeys between cultural, spiritual, and natural highlights.
Tibet is a high-altitude destination, with most destinations ranging from 3,500 m in Lhasa to over 5,200 m at Everest Base Camp. Altitude affects everyone differently, so proper acclimatization is key to enjoying the journey safely.
Your itinerary is designed with gradual ascents, rest days, and gentle activities in the first few days to help your body adjust. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and pacing yourself during sightseeing and treks are important. Light walks, moderate hikes, and short drives allow your body to adapt while still enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and cultural sites.
Symptoms of altitude may include mild headaches, shortness of breath, or fatigue. Our experienced guides and drivers are trained to monitor guests and provide assistance if needed, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey across the Tibetan Plateau.
Scenic Landscapes
On a Bhutan and Tibet Tour, travelers will experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas. In Bhutan, peaceful valleys, flowing rivers, and terraced fields set the stage for exploration. You will walk along village paths, cross forested mountain passes, and visit hilltop monasteries, including the iconic sites.
Cultural and Spiritual Immersion
Travelers can expect deep cultural and spiritual experiences throughout the tour. In Bhutan, majestic dzongs, colorful temples, and village rituals reveal a living Buddhist tradition. In Tibet, historic cities like Lhasa showcase iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.
Comfortable Travel
Your Bhutan and Tibet Tour includes private vehicles for all transfers and sightseeing. An SUV is provided for 2 travelers, while groups of 3 or more enjoy a mini bus, ensuring comfort and flexibility. All vehicles are well-maintained and driven by experienced Bhutanese and Tibetan drivers who are skilled at navigating high-altitude roads safely.
Gentle Exploration
This tour is designed for cultural and spiritual discovery rather than strenuous trekking. Expect gentle hikes, walks around historic towns, and easy access to temples and monasteries. Highlights like the Tiger’s Nest hike in Bhutan are manageable for most travelers, while Tibetan plains and high-altitude towns are explored at a relaxed pace, making the journey suitable for a wide range of travelers.
A Complete Himalayan Experience
Overall, the Bhutan and Tibet Tour combines scenic landscapes, cultural immersion, and spiritual encounters to create a balanced and unforgettable Himalayan adventure. Travelers return with a deeper appreciation for the traditions, history, and natural beauty of these extraordinary regions.
Local Expertise
Choosing a local operator like us for your Bhutan and Tibet Tour means traveling with guides who know the region intimately. We provide insider access to authentic experiences. Our deep understanding of local culture, traditions, and religious practices ensures your Bhutan and Tibet Tour is immersive, meaningful, and uniquely Himalayan.
Safety
Travel in the Himalayas can be challenging, but choosing a local operator like us guarantees peace of mind. For your Bhutan and Tibet Tour, our experienced drivers and guides are familiar with both Bhutanese and Tibetan roads, high-altitude conditions, and the safest routes.
Affordability
Choosing a local operator like us also means better value for your Bhutan and Tibet Tour. We manage all permits, accommodations, and transfers directly, keeping costs fair while offering personalized itineraries. This approach lets you enjoy a rich and tailored Bhutan and Tibet Tour experience without unnecessary expenses.
Authentic and Seamless Experience
When you choose a local operator like us, every aspect of your Bhutan and Tibet Tour is handled seamlessly. From private vehicles and comfortable stays to guided visits and cultural insights, we take care of the logistics so you can fully enjoy your adventure. Supporting a local operator also benefits the communities you visit.
For more information, read Experience & Expertise
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Dev Raj Nepal
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Travelers’ Reviews
Highly recommended
Great tour operator DMC for Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan
Highly recommend High Asia Tours
I can’t say enough positive things…
Fantastic experience!
The Perfect Trek, Thanks to High Asia Tours’ Outstanding Team