Everest to Tiger's Nest – Nepal to Bhutan
Oct 17 – 26, 2027

Namaste! Join our epic journey to the “roof of the world” for some astonishing scenery and thrilling events in two lands above the clouds. There’s a hush that settles over the Himalayas—a quiet that lingers between prayer flags and distant peaks. Sunrise feels sacred, and each path tells a story of mountain highs and holy sites. Our special journey unfolds between two kingdoms, into the living heart of Himalayan culture.

In Kathmandu, life moves in vibrant swirls of incense and color. Monks circle ancient stupas, bells chime in the morning mist, and artisans shape clay and canvas with hands that remember centuries. Here, you’re not just a visitor—you’re a participant. You will join locals in rituals of life, from the flick of a paintbrush in a Thangka workshop to shaping earth on a potter’s wheel. The city’s bustling markets invite you to taste, touch, and witness Nepal’s devotion to art and spirituality.

The AFS aha-moment is our signature Champagne Breakfast in front of Everest. Four helicopters lift us high out of Lukla for an experience that will never be forgotten.

“The world has few secrets left, but Bhutan is one of them.” – Karlie Hickman

A short flight lifts you over the snow-capped giants into Bhutan—hidden from the world for centuries and still blissfully untouched. This country is shaped by happiness and harmony. Experience the philosophy of “gross national happiness” with their constitution that ensures spiritual well-being for all. Thimphu welcomes you with quiet pride and centuries-old traditions, and locals welcome you like family. Stroll through textile museums, trade stories with monks, and slip into colorful Bhutanese costumes for a night of music and dance. There’s time for stillness, too: lighting butter lamps in a 7th-century temple, morning Zen yoga, hot stone baths, and sharing tea with a family in their farmhouse.

No visit here is complete without a walk up to the iconic Tiger’s Nest, a monastery perched impossibly on a cliff’s edge, where prayer wheels spin, and the air feels close to divine. Here you find travel that asks you to slow down, to listen, and to let the mountains work their quiet magic.

Janice leads this remarkable adventure with 20 fortunate travelers, and October is the perfect time to visit. It’s an explorer’s delight for any traveler’s bragging rights. Two unique kingdoms with so many wonders packed into each day to fulfill your wildest dreams!

“I want to thank you, Suzy, for putting this incredible trip together for us. Our hotels were absolutely first class, and it was jam-packed with so much culture, history, and fun activities. This adventure exceeded my expectations!” – Carole Daniel, 2022

Highlights:
• Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu: Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath & Boudhanath.
• Participate in hands-on Thangka painting and pottery workshops.
• Soar above the Himalayas on an optional Everest Scenic Flight.
• Discover Patan, the city of fine arts, and savor Kathmandu’s hidden food treasures.
• Journey into Bhutan’s capital Thimphu, blending tradition and modernity.
• Interact with a Gross National Happiness expert.
• Stroll through Bhutan’s textile museums, wildlife preserves, and charming handicraft markets.
• Enjoy a cultural performance in traditional Bhutanese attire.
• Marvel at the spiritual majesty of Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro.
• Experience authentic Bhutanese hospitality with farmhouse visits, archery, and a traditional hot stone bath.

• 8 nights’ accommodation in twin or double rooms at the listed hotels

• Daily buffet breakfast at all hotels

• Welcome and farewell events in Kathmandu

• Dinner included at hotels while in Bhutan (Thimphu and Paro)

• Local English-speaking tour guide in both Kathmandu and Bhutan & GTL Janice

• Thangka painting class in Kathmandu

• Pottery workshop in Kathmandu

• Champagne breakfast at Everest camp

• Round-trip helicopter flight: Kathmandu–Konge–Kathmandu (5 people per helicopter, max 5 helicopters; groups in multiples of 5)

• Private session with a GNH (Gross National Happiness) expert in Thimphu

• Cultural show in Thimphu

• Farmhouse visit

• Butter lamp lighting ceremony in Paro

• One bottle of mineral water per person per day on the bus

• All government taxes, entrance fees, and the $500 Bhutan Sustainable Development Tourism Fee

•  International Air

• Gratuities of $95. For your convenience, we recommend prepaying gratuities for your licensed guides and drivers when you book by selecting the Add-on section. This way, you won’t need to bring cash or hand it to your trip leader, Janice, each day—she will take care of distributing the gratuities for you.

• Visas – Nepal $30

Air is easy round-trip from the USA to Kathmandu on this. Details are coming in trip tips. Several airlines offer one-stop flights from the USA to Kathmandu, and the most commonly listed options are Qatar Airways, Air India, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and one-stop itineraries on Royal Jordanian, SWISS, or Japan-based carriers depending on the departure city. There are no nonstop flights from the United States to Kathmandu.

Practical options:

- Qatar Airways

- Air India

- Cathay Pacific

- Emirates

- Turkish Airlines

- Singapore Airlines

- Royal Jordanian

- SWISS

- ANA / Japan Airlines on some routes

A few current examples show one-stop itineraries from U.S. cities such as New York, Washington, and other major gateways, with Kathmandu usually reached via hubs like Doha, Delhi, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Singapore, or European transfer points.

Touch down in Kathmandu! A storied city of a legendary former royal capital of the kingdom. The vibrant city bursts with color, culture, history, art, and amazing temples and stupas. Transfer to Shambala Hotel for 3 nights with a staff that loves AFS groups. After check-in, you'll have a chance to meet your fellow travelers—your adventure crew for the coming days. At 5 PM, meet your fabulous tour manager for a briefing. Kick off your journey with a festive Welcome Dinner at the hotel. Rest up tonight; tomorrow is a big day!
Overnight: Shambala Hotel Kathmandu https://shambalahotel.com
Meals: Dinner

Wake early—today sunrise brings a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! At 5:30 AM, prepare for your Everest experience helicopter tour. Our five helicopters take you deep into the heart of the Himalayas. Soar past towering peaks up to 14,250 feet. On arrival, enjoy a hot breakfast served by Sherpas.

Tour AFS mountain flight, one of the world’s most exclusive tours, takes you deep into the Himalayas, flying into valleys close to the rock face, as close as five nautical miles from Everest itself. Now you can see the stunning beauty of nature: raw, undiluted, and truly majestic. Besides Mt. Everest (8848m), you will see Lhotse (8516m), Nuptse (7855m), Shisha Pangma (8013m), Dorje Lakpa (6966m), Phurbi Ghyachu (6637m), Choba Bhamare (5970m), Gauri Shankar (7134m), named after Lord Shiva and his consort, Melungtse (7181m), and many other small peaks. (Subject to weather conditions. If due to bad weather, the helicopter ride is not possible, we will try the next day again.)

Leave for a tour of Kathmandu and vibrant Durbar Square with the Dhoka Palace Complex. Visit the Swayambhunath Stupa. Find peace and prayers on the little hillock of Swayambhunath in the northwest of the Kathmandu Valley. Also known as the "Monkey Temple" among visitors from abroad, Swayambhunath sits atop its hill, overlooking most parts of the valley. This is a good place to catch panoramic views of the city. The site itself has stood as a hallmark of faith and harmony for centuries. The glory of Kathmandu Valley is said to have started from this point. Resting on a hillock 3 km west of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath is one of the holiest Buddhist Chaityas in Nepal. It is said to have evolved spontaneously when the valley was created out of a primordial lake more than 2,000 years ago. This stupa is the oldest of its kind in Nepal and has numerous shrines and monasteries on its premises.

We also visit Pashupatinath and Boudhanath. Not only is Pashupatinath the most important Hindu temple in Nepal, it is one of the most important Shiva temples on the subcontinent and draws numerous devotees from all over India each year. Pashupati is considered to have a special concern for the kingdom of Nepal. Pashupatinath, an ancient plinth by the banks of the holy Bagmati River, stands the 16th-century Pashupatinath Shiva, as Lord of all Creatures. The old buildings on the site were destroyed by Muslim invaders in the 14th century, its stone linga smashed to dust, but it rose again behind their retreating backs. Succeeding monarchs reinstated the temple and the images. The flowing Bagmati is a holy river, and the ghats (crematorium) at its bank are the earnest Hindus' truest cremation center.

Bouddhanath is among the largest stupas in South Asia, and it has become the focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The white mound looms thirty-six meters overhead. The stupa sits on the ancient trade route to Tibet, where Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers for many centuries. When refugees entered Nepal from Tibet in the 1950s, many of them decided to live around Bouddhanath. They established many gompas, and the "Little Tibet" of Nepal was born. This "Little Tibet" is still the best place in the valley to observe Tibetan lifestyle. Monks walk about in maroon robes. Tibetans walk with prayer wheels in their hands, and the rituals of prostration are presented to the Buddha as worshippers circumambulate the stupa on their hands and knees, bowing down to their lord.

Our tour will conclude with experiencing the ancient form of art—a Thangka Painting Class. You will learn the significance of various Thangka designs and patterns from a professional artist.

Overnight: Shambala Hotel Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast

(If bad weather canceled yesterday’s Everest flight, we’ll try again early this morning.)
 

Start your day with a visit to Patan City. This sister capital is an ancient city also known as Lalitpur and is situated on the southern bank of the Bagmati River, 5 km southeast of Kathmandu. This city is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments with bronze gateways, guardian deities, and wonderful carvings. It is also known as the city of fine arts and for the superb craftsmanship of its artisans.

Proceed to your Pottery Workshop. Learn about how to get the clay to the optimal moisture level for molding and have lots of fun with the pottery wheel! Once you have your basic shape hammered out, then take your time to adorn it with beautiful patterns and inscriptions. Our pottery master can also show you a variety of Nepalese patterns and explain what they all mean.   Make one for yourself to bring home. It takes 2 to 3 days for pottery to dry, and it will be delivered to the hotel at the end of your trip.  

The evening is yours to enjoy the nightlife or relax at our hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant for delicious Nepalese cuisine.

Overnight: Shambala Hotel Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, check out and head to the airport.  

Depart Kathmandu by Druk Air flight KB 401
Arrive Paro at 9 to 10:30 AM

Fly into Paro, where great snow-capped peaks of the inner Himalayas rise up to the heavens and can be seen during clear weather. As the plane approaches Bhutan, if you look down, farmhouses dot the hillsides.

On arrival in Paro, meet our guide team and drive to the capital city of Thimphu (approx. 2 hr drive), a fabulous blending of old and new. As Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu is home to many attractions and activities as mentioned above. It also houses the seat of government and the office of His Majesty, King Jigme Singey Wangchuk. This bustling town is home to Bhutan’s royal family, the civil servants, and foreign missions with representation in Bhutan. It is also the headquarters for a number of internationally funded development projects.

Check into your Pelyang hotel for 2 nights. Four-star luxury with Bhutanese character. Enjoy Zukha Spa and a great restaurant.

Later, visit the impressive Trashicho Dzong/fortress, which houses the throne room of the King and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of the Chief Abbot and the central monk body. If open, we may see the hoisting of the National Flag and the March of the Guards.

This evening we have the privilege of meeting a GNH (Gross National Happiness) Expert—a private session with a guest speaker with in-depth knowledge of the subject.  This special session strives to give more insight and understanding of Bhutan’s history, religion, culture, politics, etc. Followed by a Q&A.

Overnight: Pelyang Boutique Thimphu. https://www.pelyang.com/
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 Morning free today to explore. Wander downtown past Bhutanese architecture, little shops, farmers market, handicraft market, cafés and more. Look for the fun traffic policeman. (No traffic lights here, just a quirky policeman at the main intersection). Visitors love the Bhutan Postal Museum for its history. They make innovative personalized stamps with your photo and a unique way to send postcards home. 

Lunch on own.

After lunch, visit to Memorial Chorten. The building of this landmark was originally envisaged by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who had wanted to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King (“the father of modern Bhutan”) and a monument dedicated to peace. During the mornings and evenings, it is a bustling place where people of all ages circumambulate the chorten/stupa, pray and prostrate at the shrine, turn the big prayer wheels, offer butter lamps, and bask in the sun as they socialize and mingle.

Later, drive about 15 minutes to the Motithang Takin Preserve. This reserve center is dedicated to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin—a rare goat-antelope native to the Himalayas. Originally a small zoo, it became a preserve after the animals, once released, stayed in the area. Nestled in a pine forest, the center offers visitors a peaceful walk among enclosures housing takins and other native species like sambar and barking deer. It provides a unique blend of wildlife viewing and Bhutanese conservation values.

Continue to the Textile Academy, where Bhutan’s extraordinary weaving heritage takes center stage. Explore a beautiful collection of traditional textiles, intricate handwoven fabrics, royal garments, and regional costumes. Learn about the artistry, symbolism, and cultural significance woven into each pattern and design, offering a deeper appreciation for one of Bhutan’s most treasured crafts.  You will have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs at the shop within the academy. 

After the cultural experience, enjoy some free time to shop and explore Thimphu on your own, discovering local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, and other Bhutanese treasures. 

This evening, experience Bhutanese culture firsthand at a traditional farmhouse cultural program.  Enjoy an entertaining presentation of folk songs, traditional mask dances, and local customs in an intimate, rustic setting.

Overnight: Pelyang Boutique Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and drive to Paro, one of Bhutan’s most picturesque valleys. Surrounded by soaring Himalayan peaks, fertile rice terraces, and traditional Bhutanese architecture, Paro is a captivating blend of natural beauty, ancient culture, and spiritual traditions. The valley is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, as well as the country’s only international airport. 

Upon arrival, proceed visit to Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples. Dating back to the 7th century, the temple is traditionally believed to be one of 108 temples built across the Himalayas by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue a powerful demoness. Its construction is closely associated with the introduction and spread of Buddhism in Bhutan. 

Experience a deeply meaningful Bhutanese tradition as you participate in the lighting of 108 butter lamps. Set within the serene surroundings of this ancient temple, this symbolic ritual is believed to dispel darkness, remove obstacles, and invite blessings of peace, health, and enlightenment for yourself and your loved ones. The gentle glow of the lamps, together with the temple’s ancient murals and sacred relics, creates a peaceful moment of reflection and spiritual connection. 

End the day with a visit to a Farmhouse to share a cup of traditional butter tea with the family. 

Enjoy a game of simple archery at a farmhouse in Paro. It offers a fun and authentic taste of Bhutan’s national sport. Using traditional bamboo bows or simplified sets for beginners, guests can try their hand at hitting the target while surrounded by local scenery and warm hospitality. Often accompanied by friendly cheers and light-hearted competition, this activity is a great way to connect with Bhutanese culture in a relaxed, rural setting. 

Later, enjoy time to explore Paro’s charming town center independently, browse its traditional shops, and discover local handicrafts and souvenirs at your own pace. 

Dinner at the hotel.

Overnight: Naksel Boutique & Spa Paro. https://www.naksel.com/
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

If you're adventurous and physically fit, get ready for a memorable hike to world-famous "Tiger's Nest" or Taktsang Palphug Monastery. Located on the face of a sheer cliff above the floor of the Paro Valley, this not-to-be-missed site is accessible by hiking. It is a strenuous uphill climb, including over 700 steps…but worth it!

This sacred pilgrimage site is where the great tantric mystic, Padmasambhava, flew on the back of a tiger and brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan (mythical belief). The monastery clings to a cliff soaring 3,000 feet above the valley floor at an altitude of 10,000 feet. Our guides will help each of you find the best way to navigate. A cafeteria halfway up offers an incredible view and a chance to refresh.

Prayer Flag—Along the way, you can hang prayer flags for world peace, or anything you like (in Buddhism, a prayer flag is considered a blessing). Stop for lunch and admire the breathtaking views from the cafeteria before slowly descending.

Optional:
Enjoy a hot stone bath at a local farmhouse—enjoy a rustic traditional hot stone bath at a farmhouse to relax the muscles from a hard day’s hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest monastery. River rocks are heated and then immersed in a wooden tub to heat the water, which is known for its mineral content. An aromatic native herb with soothing and healing properties is added to the water. The farmhouse facilities are basic and rustic, but the experience offers an authentic insight into the traditional hot stone bath practiced by locals.

Overnight: Naksel Boutique & Spa Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

OCT 25 - Farewell Bhutan – Back to Kathmandu
Our morning is free for last-minute exploration before you bid farewell to Bhutan and board your flight back to Kathmandu. 2 to 6 PM. After checking in at your hotel, unwind and reflect on your incredible journey. Tonight, celebrate your adventure with an AFS Farewell dinner.

Overnight: Shambala Hotel Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

OCT 26 - Goodbye Himalayas – Departure Day
Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your flight home. Safe travels!
Meals: Breakfast