Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA: Visa, Itinerary, Costs & Tips

: 2025-02-12

Last Updated : 2025-02-12

Nepal and Bhutan hold the distinction as two of the most magnificent cultural treasures in South Asia. People who enjoy nature experiences and history exploration with adventurous activities should choose a Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA. 

The birthplace of Buddha alongside Mount Everest helps to make Nepal one of the world’s most picturesque countries with its exciting hiking trails, exciting cities, and welcoming atmosphere.  

Kathmandu has numerous UNESCO heritage sites in its capital city, but visitors can also find enchanting wildlife in Chitwan and breathtaking panoramas in Pokhara. 

Hidden within the Himalayas stands small Bhutan, which locals refer to as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” The monarchy of this nation exists in power because it places importance on happiness instead of materialistic success while protecting its traditional Buddhist heritage since ancient times. 

The must-see locations in Bhutan include Paro along with Thimphu and Punakha which display beautiful dzongs and monasteries within picturesque valleys. 

Nepal and Bhutan provide travellers the chance to see everything the Himalayas have to offer, including the view of mountains alongside spiritual spaces and cultural heritages.  

Best Time to Visit Nepal and Bhutan 

Visitors should plan their Nepal and Bhutan tours based on their personal preferences because they have different weather conditions throughout the year.  

The best time to visit Nepal and Bhutan is during spring from March through May and autumn from September until November. 

Spring in Nepal and Bhutan

During spring months, from March to May, Nepal displays warm temperatures alongside scenic beauty because rhododendron flowers bloom across all trekking paths.  

Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Valley
Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Valley

Visitors for the Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA find the celebration of Paro Tsechu, alongside other vital religious festivals in Bhutan during this season, to be an exceptional time to explore the country. 

Autumn in Nepal and Bhutan

Autumn stands as the best travel period for Bhutan and Nepal from USA because it attracts the highest numbers of visitors between September and November.  

The atmosphere provides clear skies, which deliver optimal mountain peak visibility, while the current weather enables ideal conditions for mountain trekking tours. Nepal celebrates its biggest festivals, known as Dashain and Tihar, throughout this time frame.  

Winter in Nepal and Bhutan

People who enjoy cold weather should visit Bhutan during the winter months between December and February because the number of tourists stays low.  

The Punakha Festival takes place in February in Bhutan, alongside pleasant winter conditions in the Chitwan and Lumbini areas of Nepal. Visitors need to prepare for extreme cold conditions in areas of high elevation. 

Summer in Nepal and Bhutan

Summer monsoons (June to August) represent the least favoured travel period because the rainy conditions in Nepal and Bhutan produce landslides and road obstructions.  

The rain shadow climate is maintained because Bhutan presents itself with lush greenery while Nepal’s Mustang and Dolpo regions display their dryness. 

You can also choose the Kailash Mansarovar Tour from USA.

Nepal and Bhutan Visa Requirements for US Citizens 

US citizens require distinct visas to enter Nepal and Bhutan because the entry protocols of these two countries differ for American passport holders. 

Obtaining a visa as a visitor in Nepal proves to be simple. Those who want to visit Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA can obtain a visa through the e-Visa system of Nepal or by getting an arrivals visa at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. 

United States citizens who want to stay in Nepal must pay different visa expenses according to their desired time period, which ranges from $30 for 15 days to $50 for 30 days and $125 for 90 days. 

International visitors need to have a passport that stays valid for at least six months combined with one passport photo size. The trekking areas of Upper Mustang and Manaslu require individual permits on top of the standard permits for visitors. 

For Bhutan, things are different. The government in Bhutan forbids both visa issuance at traveler arrival and unguided travel activity. All US citizens travelling to Bhutan must use either a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or travel agency to organize their visit. 

Travel agencies like Himalayan Trekking and Tours will provide your visa processing service after you receive payment of the current Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100 per day, which is equivalent to about $40.  

Bhutan has implemented strict touristic regulations as part of its management for maintaining controlled and sustainable travel thus becoming an elite travel destination. 

The electronic visa becomes available for display when you need to present it before taking your flight to Bhutan after approval is granted. 

How to travel to Bhutan from USA?

Visitors travelling for Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA need to schedule multiple flights because direct air routes between these countries and the United States do not exist. A minimum of one or two stopovers must be made during the travel. 

International travellers from the USA usually start their journey to Nepal by arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), located in Kathmandu. 

Major scheduled airlines enabling USA-Nepal and USA-Bhutan travel include Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and Singapore Airlines, with stops at airports in Doha, Istanbul, Dubai and Singapore.  

Travellers need to book flights through adjacent nations first since Bhutan maintains only one international airport, Paro International Airport (PBH), which operates flight services from specific carriers. 

Beautiful Town in Bhutan
Beautiful Town in Bhutan

International access to Bhutan is limited to Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, which conduct flight operations. The airlines conduct their journeys starting from Kathmandu (Nepal), New Delhi (India), and Bangkok (Thailand). 

US travellers typically choose to start their journey in Kathmandu, Nepal, before flying directly to Paro Bhutan. An aerial journey between Kathmandu in Nepal and Paro in Bhutan lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, during which passengers can see Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks. 

Travellers should allocate at least one or two spare days in Nepal before their Bhutan flight in case their schedules become interrupted. 

Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA Packages  

Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA are people’s ideal travel destination because it presents memorable cultural experiences combined with awe-inspiring vistas.  

You can find packages for Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA that match any length of stay duration from a short few days to a longer weeklong stay.  

The following four tour packages in Bhutan provide special opportunities for memorable exploration.  

1. Best Bhutan Tour – 8 Days  

The Best Bhutan tour takes visitors to visit the famous sites between Paro, Punakha, and Thimphu and includes the Tiger’s Nest Monastery as one of its highlights. 

Visitors can explore ancient dzongs (fortresses) together with monasteries as well as local markets to experience the true traditional culture of the country. Those seeking a complete Bhutanese cultural experience during five days of vacation should reserve this tour. 

2. First Time Bhutan Tour – 6 Days 

With minimal time available, this First Time Bhutan Tour guides visitors to the crucial landmarks of Bhutan, which are between Paro and Thimphu. 

You will have the chance to see both the Buddha Dordenma Statue and National Memorial Chorten, as well as Taikatang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).

Tiger's Nest Monastery Bhutan
Tiger’s Nest Monastery Bhutan

The compact journey provides visitors with full exposure to Bhutan’s serene culture and sacred religious sites, together with its sensational landscape views. 

3. Bhutan Highlights Tour – 7 Days 

The 7-day Bhutan Highlights Tour includes visits to the cities of Paro and Thimphu alongside Punakha and Wangdue while enabling guests to experience tradition, historic sites of worship and festivals held by local residents. 

A standout among all activities is travelling to Dochula Pass for spectacular Himalayan views. The Bhutan Highlights Tour Package provides an excellent opportunity for visitors who desire an experience that blends cultural exploration with natural exploration and exhilarating adventures. 

4. Nepal Bhutan Tour – 12 Days 

People who want to experience Nepal and Bhutan’s lively cultural events should select this tour. The itinerary centres on Bhutan’s well-known Tsechu festivals so visitors can view traditional masked performances and spiritual and musical events. 

The cultural and historical landmarks of Nepal and Bhutan are accessible through this festival tour while the journey includes stops at Bumthang Punakha Paro and Thimphu. 

People who desire an authentic discovery of Bhutan’s traditional heritage through its vibrant festivals should consider this Nepal Bhutan Tour Package.  

How to travel to Bhutan from Nepal?  

The travel from Nepal to Bhutan can be planned in many ways. Planned transportation forms an essential part of Bhutan travel since the country has strict tourism control measures through limited access points. You have multiple options to cross between Nepal and Bhutan. 

1. Flight from Kathmandu to Paro (Best and Easiest Option) 

Travellers can reach Bhutan effortlessly by flight between Nepal and Bhutan. The only international airport of Bhutan at Paro accepts daily flights operated by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines which depart from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.  

Travelers can enjoy 1 hour 15 minutes of Himalayan Mountain views while experiencing the Paro International Airport flight. 

Limited flight options, together with quick ticket sell-outs, become challenges when trying to visit Bhutan, specifically during peak travel times. The most reliable way to get tickets for your flight happens through Bhutanese tour operators together with travel agencies. 

2. India to Bhutan by land transportation  

One can also travel from India to Bhutan by land. Different stops combined with longer travel time are necessary when choosing this travel option. The most common route to travel from India to Bhutan is:  

  • You can reach Bhadrapur by flying from Kathmandu in 40 minutes, or you can get there in 12 to 14 hours by bus between Kathmandu and Kakarbhitta along the Nepal-India border.  
  • Kakarbhitta to Siliguri, India – A short drive of about 1-2 hours.  
  • A journey between Siliguri and Phuentsholing (the border joining Bhutan to India) is possible through Hasimara train service (3 hours) with either direct taxi service or bus service (4-5 hours).  
  • Travelling from Phuentsholing leads travelers to vehicle routes that connect to both Thimphu and Paro with respective distances of 5-6 hours and 4-5 hours.  

Accommodation Options in Nepal Bhutan Tour for USA Citizens 

Nepal, along with Bhutan, provides tourists with an extensive selection of hotels that span from economical guesthouses to upscale resorts. 

The tourism sector in Nepal has budget hostels as well as hotels at mid-range prices and deluxe five-star resorts.

Tourists in Kathmandu, along with Pokhara and Chitwan, access quality boutique hotel accommodations and comfortable eco-lodge guesthouses through developed tourism infrastructure. 

Most people who hike through the Himalayas choose tea house accommodations and lodges that provide basic yet comfortable bedrooms that share facilities between guests. The Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA spans lodges that extend high-end services alongside marvellous mountaintop vistas. 

Bhutan operates a government oversight system for accommodation to protect both building excellence and environmental sustainability.

Punakha Monastery of Bhutan
Punakha Monastery of Bhutan

Travelers need to reserve their accommodations exclusively from government-licensed lodging facilities because the Bhutanese tour package requires such arrangements. 

Standard hotels in Bhutan offer comfortable rooms with modern comforts to travellers, along with the option to stay at luxurious resorts. The traditional Bhutanese farms function as accommodations for tourists who want a genuine cultural immersion. 

Bhutan Nepal Tour Cultural Experiences and Activities 

Tourists who explore Nepal and Bhutan experience spiritual heritage as well as cultural heritage that extends further than typical touristic attractions. 

The sacred sites of Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) Pashupatinath and Boudhanath Stupa stand as ancient temples and stupas throughout Kathmandu within Nepal. 

Local residents organize numerous vivid festivals, which include Dashain, Tihar and Holi while performing music, dancing, and conducting religious ceremonies. 

Trekking the Himalayas gives visitors access to observe Sherpa and Gurung traditional lifestyles over Himalayan Buddhist temples located in the high-elevation faith centres. 

The traditional heritage of Bhutan blends completely with its Buddhist faith. Visitors should not miss the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro, but they should also explore the Buddha Dordenma statue in Thimphu. 

During different Tsechu festivals across the country, people can watch traditional dance performances combined with religious ceremonies and listen to traditional music in dzongs, which are strong fortresses.  

Food and Cuisine in Nepal and Bhutan Tour 

People who visit Nepal and Bhutan can experience the unique flavor that results from blending spices with local food ingredients and time-tested culinary traditions. 

Eating Dal Bhat brings together rice along with lentil soup and various vegetable curries and additionally includes pickles and chutneys as part of the complete meal in Nepal.  

Food vendors in Nepal offer three staple street foods that include momos (dumplings), sel roti (sweet rice bread) and chatpate (spicy puffed rice snack). Thukpa (noodle soup) and yak cheese are two of the main food items commonly enjoyed throughout the Himalayan areas. 

Bhutanese food stands out for its intense spicy touch, and chillies drive the entire culinary experience when dining. Ema Datshi stands as the national stew of Bhutan, which combines local cheese with spicy chilies. 

Bhutanese dishes gain fame from Phaksha Paa (pork with red chillies), Jasha Maru (spiced chicken) and Suja (butter tea). The culinary heritage of Bhutan combines Indian and Tibetan culinary traditions while retaining its original character through local food procurement. 

How much does Nepal Bhutan Tour Cost from USA? 

Well, the cost for the Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA depends on the itinerary and the package you choose. The cost of Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA can fluctuate sometimes due to the weather, food and accommodation too. 

Anyways, you should always be on the safe side for the emergency and additional expenses you could do on the Nepal Bhutan Tour. Make sure you carry enough cash per the countries’ currencies to pay for your needs. 

Boats sailing on Lakeside Pokhara
Boats sailing on Lakeside Pokhara

For the money exchange, you can exchange the currencies in the Thamel Area of Kathmandu, where you will find hundreds of money exchange centers. Since the area has various centres, you will get to exchange money at a reasonable cost. 

Currency and Budget Planning for Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA 

Travellers from USA who wish to effectively manage their Bhutan Nepal Tour costs need to master the local currency systems of Nepal and Bhutan during their visits. 

Traveling to Nepal exposes you to Nepalese Rupee (NPR) as the official currency. The availability of ATMs is common in urban areas, yet travelers should always carry cash because payments by card might be impossible to execute in remote locations. 

Nepal provides tourists with an inexpensive travel option because they can find inexpensive food, budget-friendly accommodations, and transportation costs.  

Bhutan operates with Bhutanese Ngultrum as its official currency, yet Indian Rupees (INR) function equally as a payment method throughout the country.  

The Nepal Bhutan tour packages from Himalayan Trekking and Tours include accommodations together with meals and transport services and a certified guide providing travelers the opportunity to prepare their budget in advance.  

Packing List for Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA 

While you are visiting Bhutan from USA you must make sure you have a packing list consisting of the following things:

Clothing:  

  • Lightweight and breathable clothes for lower altitudes  
  • Warm jackets, thermal layers, and gloves for higher altitudes  
  • Comfortable trekking shoes or hiking boots  
  • Rainproof jackets and ponchos (especially if travelling during monsoon)  
  • Scarf, hat, and sunglasses for sun protection  

Travel Documents:  

  • Valid passport with at least six months of validity  
  • Nepal and Bhutan visas (Bhutan visa must be pre-arranged through a tour operator) 
  • Copies of flight tickets, hotel bookings, and travel insurance  

Health & Safety:  

  • Prescription medications and personal first-aid kit  
  • Altitude sickness tablets (if trekking in Nepal)  
  • Hand sanitiser, wet wipes, and face masks  
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF  

Electronics & Accessories:  

  • Universal travel adapter (Nepal and Bhutan use different plug types)  
  • Power bank and charging cables  
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing scenic views  
  • Flashlight or headlamp for remote areas  

Money & Essentials:  

  • Cash in local currency (Nepalese Rupee & Bhutanese Ngultrum)  
  • Debit/credit card (ATMs are limited in Bhutan)  
  • Small backpack for day trips and hikes  
  • Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated    

Final Travel Tips and Recommendations for Nepal Bhutan Tour from USA 

  • Before planning your Bhutan tour booking, a licensed tour operator must be used because independent travel remains forbidden in Bhutan. 
  • The best periods for visiting Bhutan are March-May in the springtime and September–November in the fall season. 
  • A visitor should maintain cultural respect by staying clothed modestly in religious areas and obtaining approval before photographing monks or Nepalese locals. 
  • Maintain respect toward altitude variations because people needing time to adapt can prevent altitude sickness while traveling to high-altitude regions. 
  • Nepalese citizens widely utilize rickshaws, domestic flights, and taxis for their transportation needs. Travellers in Bhutan need to rely on their tour operators to provide transportation services. 
  • Throughout Nepal and Bhutan, seek out local cuisine to sample dal bhat alongside Bhutan’s famous ema datshi dish. 
  • Obtain local cellphone services by purchasing affordable data SIM cards from Nepal. The internet access in Bhutan remains quite restricted though each hotel provides Wi-Fi service to their guests. 
  • Travel insurance must be obtained because the policy should protect against high-altitude trekking as well as medical emergencies and trip cancellations. 

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