Nepal and Bhutan are neighboring countries that are often left out of people’s bucket list’ unless they’re avid trekkers and mountain climbers. This is a shame because both of these Asian nations located in the Himalayas offer an experience unlike anything in the world. If you’re the type who would rather skip the touristy path, join us on our Nepal and Bhutan group tours.
Nepal is the playground for the adventurous at heart. It offers the perfect landscape for rafting, trekking, and jungle exploring. It’s also full of rich history with its ancient architecture, religions, and quaint mountain villages. Bhutan, on the other hand, is a Kingdom slowly opening its doors to the world. It is most notably known as the world’s happiest country and is easy to see why. Its ancient culture and traditions remain untouched by the artificial sensibilities of “the west” and popular culture.
Below are some must-visit Nepal and Bhutan destinations…
Nepal and Bhutan Highlights
1. Meet a living goddess
In Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, the Newari people believe that the Hindu goddess Taleju is personified by a pre-pubescent girl known as the Kumari, or living goddess. Kumaris are often selected from a list of priestly families, based on a long list of physical and temperamental qualities. The chosen girl gets to live as a goddess until her first period. Kumaris often receive and bless visitors inside their special homes. Each kingdom in Kathmandu Valley has a Kumari, but those in Kathmandu and Patan are the most celebrated.
2. Make an excursion to Upper Dolpo
According to Tibetan Buddhism, the remote region of Upper Dolpo in western Nepal is said to be a beyul. Meaning, it is a refuge for when the world finally becomes too corrupt for spiritual practice. It is believed to resemble paradise, and once you have made the long tedious journey, you will immediately see why. Upper Dolpo is stunning and the perfect place to retreat to when the noise of the busy city becomes too much for you.
3. Have a taste of the ‘old world’
Most rural villages in Bhutan still practice ancient traditions and customs. They have also maintained their ancient values, more than people in urban towns. You can visit these villages, interact with the locals, listen to their stories, and indulge in their traditional customs, food, and activities. The great thing about this is that the locals are extremely kind and welcoming to visitors.
4. Trek to the Tiger’s Nest
The Tiger’s Nest Monastery (or Taktsanf Monastery) is almost synonymous to Bhutan. When you look up Bhutan in the Internet, you will most likely find photos of this sacred site. While the views are spectacular, the climb itself is an entirely different experience. With a 1000 meter elevation gain to an approximate height of 3000 meters, it will take you a couple of hours to reach the monastery that is clinging to the side of a cliff. Along the way, you will find a lovely cafeteria where you can enjoy tea or lunch while taking in the gorgeous views. You cannot use your camera inside the monastery, but the journey itself will be a significant addition to your Nepal and Bhutan photography adventure.
If you initially plan to visit just Nepal or Bhutan, you might want to consider going to both since the two countries are so close. It’s a shame to travel all that way when it’s so easy to cross between the two. Joining our Nepal and Bhutan Group Tours is an experience of a lifetime so sign up with Photofly Travel Club now!
