Day 1 Welcome Kathmandu Oct 12

Welcome to the capital of Nepal and most-visited destination, full of ancient temples, golden pagodas, and natural beauty. We'll gather for our 'get-acquainted' meeting, followed by our first Nepalese dinner together.

Day 2 Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath

We enjoy a full day of cultural sightseeing today. Kathmandu Valley is known for its ancient heritage, temples, shrines, and markets. We start with Bhaktapur Durbar Square, founded in the 9th century, and boasting an array of Temples overlooked by the the royal palace. Next up is Boudhanath Stupa, one of the most imposing landmarks of Kathmandu and a center of Tibetan Buddhism. The stupa is built on a massive three-level mandala style platform and is 118 fee in height. Our final stop is Pashupatinath Temple: This is a magnificent temple with astonishing architectural beauty, located in a green natural setting on the bank of the sacred Bagmati River. Dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, it stands as a symbol of faith, region,

culture, and tradition.

Hotel Yak and Yeti (2 nights)

Day 3 Ghandruk

A morning flight jets us to Pokhara valley where we'll be transferred to the mountain village of Ghandruk. The road passes terraced fields, lush hills, river valleys., and occasional views of snowcapped peaks along the way. Ghandruk is known for its traditional slate-roofed houses and rich Gurung (indigenous) heritage. We'll settle in for the night in our rustic but comfortable lodgings before an optional hike to one of the many viewpoints for vistas of the mighty Annapurna and Dhauligiri Ranges.

Meshrom Guest House (1 night)

Day 4 Pokhara

An optional dawn viewpoint hike opens this day. After a liesurely morning we'll return to Pokhara. The valley's unique charm derives from its splendid climate and stunning views of magnificent Machhapuchre (Fish Tail) and the Annapurnas. Enhancing Pokhara's appeal is picturesque Phewa lake. After checking into our hotel you'll have the rest of this day free to explore the town and lake.

Day 5 Pokhara

Another full day unfolds for us this morning. We'll visit the World Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa that provides magnificent views of the lake and city. Next we'll venture to Davis Falls where a stream from Phewa Lake vanishes underground through a natural tunnel. For lunch today we'll visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp where you will learn how to cook Momo, the popular Nepali dumplings. Our sightseeing concludes with a boat cruise on Phewa lake.

Hotel Barahi (2 nights)

Day 6 Chitwan

After breakfast, we'll make the half-day drive to Chitwan National Park for our nature and wildlife encounter. Upon arrival and after checking in, we'll go for an excursion to a Tharu village. The Tharu people are an indigenous community of southern Nepal known for their unique culture, costumes, and traditions. Our activities include a Tharu stick dance presentation.

Day 7 Chitwan

Today is all about exploring Chitwan National Park and discovering its wildlife. Chitwan, which means “heart of the jungle”, is one of the finest national parks in Asia, renowned for its diverse wildlife and opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat. It is particularly famous for the population of Greater One–Horned Rhinoceros that it protects along with the rare Royal Bengal Tiger. You'll board a jeep and take a morning safari drive through the Park, looking out for a variety of wild species ranging from the rhinos, to honey badgers, Bengal foxes, civets, mongooses and, if we're a very lucky, one of the tigers that call the park home. In the afternoon we'll float down the Rapti River in dugout canoes, keeping an eye out for exotic bird life, marsh mugger crocodiles and gharials that inhabit the riverbanks.

Kasari Resort (2 nights)

Day 8 Kathmandu

Today is primarily a travel day as we motor back to Kathmandu. After some down time in the afternoon we'll visit one more iconic sight: Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a UNESCO WORLD Heritage Site. It is one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines of Nepal, and certainly one of the most photogenic. For dinner tonight we head to Newa Ghasa for a unique Newari dinner.

Hotel Yak and Yeti (1 night)

Day 9 Thimpu

Today is another travel day, beginning with a transfer to the airport for our morning flight to Paro. Spectacular views of the Himalayas escort us on our flight. More spectacular views of the Himalayas loom above the runway at Paro International Airport, welcoming us to Bhutan.  From there we'll be bused via the mountainous roads to picturesque Thimpu. Upon arrival, we'll enjoy a welcome dinner on our first Bhutanese evening.

Day 10 Thimpu

Our Thimpu sightseeing begins with a picturesque stroll through paddy fields, woodlands, and a Tibetan village to reach Cheri Dorji Dhen monastery. Next we'll take in breathtaking views from the Buddha Dordenma and then explore traditional Bhutanese homes and culture at Simply Bhutan Museum. Next up, we visit the National Memorial Chorten, a modern stupa of dazzling white with golden spires and prayer bells. You'll be free to wrap up your day shopping for traditional goods at the National Handicrafts Emporium or visiting a paper-making enterprise that uses traditional methods.

The Capital Hotel (2 nights)

Day 11 Paro

Departing Thimpu, we continue our journey back to Paro. Our first activity will be a visit Ta Dzong, a former watchtower now housing the National Museum. It features Thangka paintings, textiles, weapons, and historic artifacts. Then we take a short walk to Rinpung Dzong (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), known for its

rich history and Buddhist wall paintings.

Dinner at Farmhouse. (This experience offers a cultural immersion with traditional Bhutanese architecture, a menu of local delights like Ema Datshi, and red rice on tables, attentive staff in traditional attire, and of a cultural performance create an enchanting and unforgettabledining experience)

Day 12 Paro

Begin your day with an early breakfast and a short drive to embark on a remarkable hike to the renowned Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. This ediface is clearly the jewel of Bhutan and a tour highlight. Perched high above the valley floor, the monastery offers breathtaking views not to mention the photographic masterpiece of the building itself. The reward for our hike is lunch in a mountain teahouse.

Day 13 Tour Over

The tour ends after breakfast. Imprint will assist with airport transfer arrangements.

Hotel Kaachi Grand (2 nights)

[Hotels and tour activities are subject to change.]

Journey into the heart of the Himalayas on an unforgettable tour through Nepal and Bhutan. From Nepal’s vibrant cities and sacred temples to Bhutan’s serene monasteries and dramatic mountain landscapes, this trip blends culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. Experience warm hospitality, ancient traditions, and breathtaking scenery in two of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations.

NOTE: This tour is particularly physically demanding. For several days on the tour we will be at 7000 feet+. Reaching our Ghandruck guesthouse will require a 20-30 minute uphill hike. Visiting iconic Taktsang Monastery in Bhutan will require a 2-hour uphill hike (at altitude).

Visa Requirements:

Nepal: U.S. and Canadian citizens can acquire visas upon arrival for short-term stays up to 15 days. Cost: $30.

Bhutan: Visitor Visa ($40) and Sustainable Development Fee ($100 per person per day) must be acquired in advance. This service and these costs will be provided by Imprint. We will require a scan or your passport ID pages (photo and signature pages) and a passport size head shot by July 1, 2027. We will send out a reminder notice mid-June.

Following are the specifications:

PASSPORT:
Clear scanned copies of all travelers’ passports (front 2 pages) in JPEG or PNG format.
The passport should be valid for at least six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan.

PHOTO:

• Clear scanned copies of both travelers’ recent passport-sized photos.

• Should not be older than six months.

• Should be color copy, portrait style.

• Eyes open, and forehead and ears clearly visible.

• Should be in white background, without any border.

Note: With the exception of Bhutan, the responsibility to acquire the correct visitor documentation rests solely with the traveler. Since Imprint does not provide this service for Nepal, we have no special expertise, connections, or experience on which to draw. Therefore, we are unable to assist with difficulties.

Registration and Deposit

Q: What should I expect after registering and paying the deposit for the tour?

A: You will receive a confirmation email which serves as your deposit receipt. This email will include a link to a 'Manage Booking' page where you can view and edit all your trip details. Additionally, it includes information for purchasing travel insurance. Imprint Tours STRONGLY recommends purchasing travel insurance and Bhutan requires it.

Q: Is my deposit refundable?

A: Your deposit is refundable for 30 days, after which it is non-refundable for any reason.

Flights/Hotels

Q: Are flights included?

A: International Flights to/from the tour are NOT included. Our internal tour flights (Kathmandu > Pokhara, Kathmandu > Paro) are included.

Q: What airport do I use to join/depart the tour?

A: The tour starts in Kathmandu (KTM) on Oct 12 and ends in Paro, Bhutan (PBH) Oct 24, after breakfast.

Q: Should I arrive early for the tour?

A: When you arrive is entirely up to you. Most Imprint travelers arrive 1 day early.

Q: Does Imprint provide or arrange airport transfers?

A: No, airport transfers are the traveler's responsibility to arrange. Basic information will be included in the 8-Week Letter.

Q: Does Imprint provide advice about airlines, routing, or booking?

A: No, Imprint does not provide these services.

Q: When should I book my flight?

A: Avoid booking flights before Feb 12, 2027 unless you confirm the tour status.

Q: Do I need to check the tour status after Feb 12?

A: No, if you have not received a cancellation notice from Imprint by Feb 12 you may assume the tour is a go.

Q: Since Imprint is unable to assist with pre- and post-tour hotel bookings, how do I book non-tour hotel nights?

A: For pre-tour nights, the first tour hotel in Kathmandu is the Yak and Yeti. Our final hotel, in Paro, is the Kaachi Grand.

Q: If I want to book pre-tour nights in the Yak and Yeti, can Imprint assist in making sure I stay in the same room when the tour begins?

A: No, Imprint is unable to assist with this. You must deal directly with the hotel to make any special arrangements.

Q: What if the first and/or last tour hotels are fully booked for the pre- and/or post-tour nights I am interested in?

A: You must make your own alternative arrangements. We suggest using your favorite hotel booking engine to choose an accommodation with the location, price, and standard of your choice.

Tour Hotels/Facilities

Q: If I need a complete list of tour hotels, where do I find that?

A: Hotels are listed in the itinerary section above.

Q: Will there be hair dryers available in the hotels?

A: Yes, hair dryers are available.

Q: Will there be opportunity to do laundry during the tour?

A: Yes, there are laundry facilities available.

Tour start/end

Q: What time will the tour start on Oct 12?

A: About 17:00 (5:00PM)

Q: What time will the tour end on Oct 24?

A: After breakfast

Q: Can I skip breakfast on the final day?

A: Yes, you can skip breakfast. You will not miss any tour activities.

Payment: Early Pay Discount (EPD) and Full Price

Q: How do I take advantage of the Early Pay Discount (EPD)?

A: To receive the $300 EPD, you must register for the EPD price and pay in full by the designated date. As long as you choose the EPD category, the payment system already reflects this discount. You will receive a notice of final payment due one week prior. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding EPD as cancellation incurs a penalty.

Q: If I’ve chosen to take advantage of the Early Pay Discount (EPD), and subsequently cancel, what penalties will I incur?

A: If you’ve opted for the EPD and paid in full, but then cancel, your deposit plus $400 of the EPD price is non-refundable. If no deposit has been paid, $1000 of the EPD price is non-refundable.

Q: Can I pay with a Credit Card?

A: Yes, you can opt to pay via Credit Card. However, you must pay the Credit Card fees, which are non-refundable in the case of cancellation.

Q: Can I avoid the Credit Card fees?

A: Yes, you can pay via ACH transfer without fees.

Q: If I am registering for the optional extension, why do I need to designate EPD or Full Price when the extension price is the same for both?

A: Designating EPD or Full Price on the optional extension allows us to sync payments for your entire trip in order to invoice you accurately.

Q: Can I choose to delay final payment until June 12, 2027?

A: Yes, you must register for a Full Price package, then pay your balance due by June 12. You will receive a notice of final payment due one week prior.

Q: Is there any penalty for cancellation of a non-EPD registration?

A: No, there is no penalty for cancellation until June 12. However, your deposit is forfeit if the 30 days has elapsed (see above).

Q: What if I have to cancel after June 1?

A: After June 12, 2027 all payments are final and non-refundable for any reason.

Pre-Departure Information

Q: What should I do to prepare for the tour?

A: About 8 weeks before departure, you'll receive a detailed email with a packing list, sightseeing suggestions, itinerary, and other important information. Meanwhile, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date and has two clean pages for visa stamps. 

Note - It is also the sole responsibility of the traveler to provide up-to-date passport information. If a passport has expired or will expire prior to six months beyond a traveler’s intended departure from their Imprint tour destination, it is the responsibility of the traveler to update the passport data in their registration. Imprint Tours is not responsible for transportation booking delays, mistakes, or omissions if registration passport data is out of date.

Important Reminders

Q: Are there any critical things I need to keep in mind?

A:

• Print and keep the confirmation letter for reference.

• If your passport will expire between now and 6 months beyond your intended departure from the Bhutan, it is your sole responsibility to update your registration information in We Travel. You can use the link in your confirmation email to return to your account to make edits. Imprint Tours is not responsible for transportation booking delays, mistakes, or omissions if registration passport data is out of date. Imprint tours is not responsible to remind you of needed updates or corrections.

• Add reid@imprinttours.com to your email address book.

• Download & activate Whatsapp for essential on-tour communications.

• Check your bank’s policy on international ATM withdrawal or Credit Card fees.

Health and Safety

Q: What health precautions should I take?

A: Visit the CDC website or your local travel medicine clinic for suggested inoculations for Egypt, Jordan, & Isael. We cannot advise on inoculations due to liability concerns. 
This tour involves moderate to demanding physical activity, including walking tours, climbing steps, and excursions with uphill hiking over uneven terrain. Most of the tour will be at high altitudes, reaching to 7000 feet in Bhutan. Participants should be in good health and capable of handling such activities.

Tour Member Expectations

Q: What mindset should I have for the tour?

A: Be flexible, respectful, independent-minded, and personally responsible. Expect challenges and surprises, especially in less-developed areas. Positive, flexible attitudes contribute to a better group experience.

Travel Insurance

Please note: Bhutan REQUIRES all tourists to have Travel insurance.

Q: Why is travel insurance important?
A: Travel insurance protects your investment against unforeseen events like flight delays, baggage loss, or sudden illness.

Trip cancellation insurance helps protect you and the investment you made in your trip when you travel. It provides pre-departure benefits in case you must cancel your trip before you have the chance to take it, and post-departure benefits such as travel delay, trip interruption, and emergency medical expenses to protect you while you are traveling. We recommend Trawick. For more than 25 years, Trawick International has been a trusted provider of international insurance, administration, and assistance services.  Trawick International provides personalized service and trusted guidance.  With 24/7 customer support and worldwide protection, you’ll have everything you need for everywhere you’ll go. We understand your plans can change quickly and unforeseen events could impact your travel plans. We feel it's important to consider purchasing a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment.

Comprehensive Travel Protection and Travel Medical Insurance Plans may provide coverage for:

·       Trip Cancellation

·       Trip Interruption 

·       Trip Delay 

·       Missed Connection

·       Baggage Benefits

·       Baggage and Personal Effects 

·       Baggage Delay 

·       Emergency Accident and Sickness

·       Medical Expense 

·       Dental Expenses 

·       Emergency Evacuation 

·       Repatriation of Remains  

·       Accidental Death & Dismemberment

*Please make sure to read your specific plan document as coverage may vary depending on state and policy purchased. 

For policy questions please call Trawick International’s 24/7 customer service team at 888-301-9289.

Worldwide Travel Assistance is available 24 hours a/ day, 7 days a week. Trawick International offers immediate online policy confirmation of coverage, personalized ID cards and plan documents. Our Global Response Center (GRC) is staffed by a diverse team of bilingual and multilingual professionals.  Trawick Internationals Assistance Provider OnCall International can arrange access to over 180 written and spoken languages to ensure we can deliver clear, accurate, and culturally sensitive emergency response and assistance to travelers anywhere in the world, at any time.

Please Note: Full coverage terms and details, including exclusions and limitations, are contained in the insurance policy. Product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. Plan sold by Trawick International. Insurance is provided by either Technology Insurance Company or Wesco Insurance Company, an AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. company and non-insurance services by Trawick International. Limitations and exclusions apply. Trip cancelation plans are only valid for residents of the United States.