Bhutan, Nepal and Thailand Explorer
Trip highlights
- Visit centuries-old monasteries and dzongs
- Set out on a hike to Bhutan's Tiger's Nest
- Visit Patan, an ancient city in the Kathmandu Valley
- Explore two of Nepal's UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Take an epic walk through the Himalayas
- Enjoy a sunset boat trip exploring Phuket's nearby islands
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A prayer bell in a dzong in Paro
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Tsechu festival in Bhutan with traditional cultural performances
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Tiger's Nest Monastery perched on a cliffside
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A Nepalese-style stupa in Kathmandu
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Sandy beaches of Phuket
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips and safaris include:
- Exclusive luxury camps, lodges and hotels
- Curated experiences and private tours
- Skilled guides and local wildlife experts
- Decades of combined safari expertise from our team
- Full support from your local concierge
- Days 1-2 Paro
- Days 2-4 Punakha
- Days 4-6 Paro
- Days 6-8 Kathmandu
- Days 8-9 Pokhara
- Days 9-11 Dhulikhel
- Days 11-15 Phuket
- Days 1-2 Paro
- Days 2-4 Punakha
- Days 4-6 Paro
- Days 6-8 Kathmandu
- Days 8-9 Pokhara
- Days 9-11 Dhulikhel
- Days 11-15 Phuket
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
An introduction to Paro
The Paro Valley, one of Bhutan’s widest, is a patchwork of fertile rice fields interlaced by a serene, meandering river. While Bhutan is renowned for its stunning monasteries and monuments, Paro is home to some of the most remarkable. Among them is Tiger’s Nest Monastery, medieval-style bridges, grand dzongs and a town rich in traditional architecture. Gazing up at the mountain, you’ll be captivated by the 8th-century Taktsang Monastery, dramatically perched on a sheer cliff. Nearby, the imposing Paro Dzong and the ancient 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang temple stand as enduring symbols of Bhutanese heritage.
History, culture and art in Paro
A tour of Paro with National Museum, Rinpung Dzong and Nyanau Zampa.
Explore the best of Paro, starting with a visit to the National Museum, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the valley. The museum showcases over 3,000 pieces of Bhutanese art, spanning 1,500 years of cultural heritage, including masks, armor, paintings and artifacts from Buddhist temples.
Next, a short drive takes you to the Rinpung Dzong, a renowned Buddhist monastery and fortress, considered one of Bhutan’s finest architectural examples. Once used as defensive fortresses and administrative centers, dzongs were built with strong walls, false doors, and hidden armories. After exploring Rinpung Dzong, take a stroll across the wooden cantilever bridge on its grounds before heading to Nyanau Zampa.
Where you could stay
Paro
Overview
Situated in Balakha Village, the Amankora Paro contrasts rustic elements with contemporary design. Its pleasing features include natural rammed-earth walls, gently sloping roofs, wood-panelled interiors and spectacular views of blue pine forests, the 17th-century Drukyel Dzong and Mount Jhomolhari.
This impressive lodge features 24 suites, each with a combined lounge and bedroom and traditional wood-burning stove. Centred by a large flagstone courtyard, a lime-washed stone pavilion houses the living and dining room facilities with floor-to-ceiling windows, a library and an outdoor terrace overlooking a small stream.
A spa set on two levels features a yoga studio with glass walls and treatment rooms with outdoor baths.
→ Find out moreParo
Overview
Located on a 38-acre site sitting on a forested mount, Uma Paro was once the home of a Bhutanese nobleman and is a resort of exceptional style and elegance. The building, one of Bhutan’s only boutique hotels, features handcrafted stone, wood and tiles and white walls vividly painted by local artists.
29 suites including private villas can be found amongst glades planted with azaleas, and each suite features a traditional wood-burning stove. The circular dining room offers a unique atmosphere for dinners while a cosy bar and lounge afford complete relaxation.
Spa facilities incorporate a unique hot stone bath house, a large indoor pool with outdoor sun deck and steam rooms. There is also the use of a fitness centre and a boutique to complete your stay.
→ Find out moreParo
Overview
Fusing Bhutanese tradition with the best of modern-day technology, Zhiwa Ling is a forward-thinking hotel faithfully rooted in the past.
Guestrooms blend elaborate hand-carved wooden cornices with Swedish underfloor heating to create a comfortable tribute to Bhutan’s ornate architecture. Some feature sitting and dining rooms and all boast Paro valley views, best enjoyed from your sofa or balcony.
And the amenities don’t stop there. The spa is decked out with a sauna, steam room and traditional outdoor hot stone bath, while two restaurants serve a range of regional and international dishes. The spiritually inclined are particularly well catered for and can experience an authentic Buddhist ceremony at the in-house temple, made from 450 year old timbers from the famous Gangtey Monastery, and practise yoga at the Meditation House.
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Two days enjoying Punakha
Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital until 1955, still exudes a serene, regal charm. Nestled in a fertile valley at 12,000 meters above sea level, it offers warm, inviting days perfect for mountain biking, trekking, and river rafting. A visit wouldn’t be complete without exploring the historic and stunning Punakha Dzong, the town’s crown jewel.
The best of Punakha
Indulge in a full day of sightseeing in Punakha. Start with a scenic hike along the Mo Chhu River to the Khamsum Yulley Temple, a magnificent monument with breathtaking valley views, commissioned by one of the Fourth King’s Queens. Afterward, enjoy a riverside lunch before a one-hour drive to Nalanda Monastery, where you’ll meet with monks. Conclude your day with a visit to Wolokha Nunnery, offering stunning views of the Toeb Valley.
Where you could stay
Punakha
Overview
Wrapped in lush rice fields and fruit orchards by Mo Chhu River, with views to the seventeenth century Punakha Dzong, is a former traditional Bhutanese farmhouse: the Amankora Punakha hotel.
Intimate and exclusive, this stand-out property provides just eight classically designed suites. Each boasts heaps of space and comfort, plus a traditional wood burning ‘bukhari’ stove for a peek into local life.
Dining, pampering and adventure are all well catered for, from the communal dining room, tea pavilion and alfresco courtyard to the two-story spa and meditation room, to exciting white-water-rafting tours.
→ Find out morePunakha
Overview
Nestled deep in the hush of Bhutan’s flourishing wilderness, this heavenly mountain retreat looks out over the rushing Mo Chu River as it winds through orchards and rice fields. Discreetly sleek with its calming, signature COMO style, Uma Punakha enjoys spectacular untouched valley and river views.
Gaze at these sublime panoramas from your hillside room or villa. While some feature private terraces, all boast enormous beds, wood-burning stoves and neutral colour schemes peppered with traditional hand-painted wall designs portraying local scenes.
The restaurant, Bukhari, then offers an array of delicious dishes made from fresh, local farming produce for an authentic taste of local life. Meanwhile the spa promises complete relaxation with holistic, Asian-inspired treatments, therapies and massages.
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Three days exploring Paro
A blend of natural beauty, rich history and spiritual significance, Paro is nestled in a fertile valley surrounded by lush green hills and snow-capped peaks. The town itself is a delightful mix of traditional Bhutanese architecture, with its wooden houses and vibrant prayer flags, and offers a peaceful atmosphere that reflects Bhutan’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. With its scenic landscapes, ancient temples and warm, welcoming locals, Paro serves as both a gateway to Bhutan and a destination in its own right.
Scenic hikes
Dzongdrakha
Tiger's Nest
Dzongdrakha
Embark on a hike to Dzongdrakha, a cliffside temple surrounded by the playful Capped-langur monkeys. As you hike, enjoy panoramic views of the expansive Bondey fields below. After lunch, visit a local farmhouse for an authentic glimpse into the daily life of a Bhutanese farming family. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the town of Paro.
Tiger's Nest
The hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, or Paro Taktsang, in Bhutan is a breathtaking journey through lush pine forests, past colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and along steep mountain trails. Starting at the base, the trail ascends through a mix of forested paths and rugged terrain, offering stunning views of the Paro Valley below. As you climb higher, the sacred monastery, perched precariously on the edge of a cliff, comes into view, its white walls contrasting with the dark rock. The final approach involves a steep set of stairs, rewarding hikers with an up-close experience of this iconic spiritual site
Where you could stay
Paro
Overview
Situated in Balakha Village, the Amankora Paro contrasts rustic elements with contemporary design. Its pleasing features include natural rammed-earth walls, gently sloping roofs, wood-panelled interiors and spectacular views of blue pine forests, the 17th-century Drukyel Dzong and Mount Jhomolhari.
This impressive lodge features 24 suites, each with a combined lounge and bedroom and traditional wood-burning stove. Centred by a large flagstone courtyard, a lime-washed stone pavilion houses the living and dining room facilities with floor-to-ceiling windows, a library and an outdoor terrace overlooking a small stream.
A spa set on two levels features a yoga studio with glass walls and treatment rooms with outdoor baths.
→ Find out moreParo
Overview
Located on a 38-acre site sitting on a forested mount, Uma Paro was once the home of a Bhutanese nobleman and is a resort of exceptional style and elegance. The building, one of Bhutan’s only boutique hotels, features handcrafted stone, wood and tiles and white walls vividly painted by local artists.
29 suites including private villas can be found amongst glades planted with azaleas, and each suite features a traditional wood-burning stove. The circular dining room offers a unique atmosphere for dinners while a cosy bar and lounge afford complete relaxation.
Spa facilities incorporate a unique hot stone bath house, a large indoor pool with outdoor sun deck and steam rooms. There is also the use of a fitness centre and a boutique to complete your stay.
→ Find out moreParo
Overview
Fusing Bhutanese tradition with the best of modern-day technology, Zhiwa Ling is a forward-thinking hotel faithfully rooted in the past.
Guestrooms blend elaborate hand-carved wooden cornices with Swedish underfloor heating to create a comfortable tribute to Bhutan’s ornate architecture. Some feature sitting and dining rooms and all boast Paro valley views, best enjoyed from your sofa or balcony.
And the amenities don’t stop there. The spa is decked out with a sauna, steam room and traditional outdoor hot stone bath, while two restaurants serve a range of regional and international dishes. The spiritually inclined are particularly well catered for and can experience an authentic Buddhist ceremony at the in-house temple, made from 450 year old timbers from the famous Gangtey Monastery, and practise yoga at the Meditation House.
→ Find out moreTwo days exploring Kathmandu
Immerse yourself in this captivating city by exploring cultural landmarks such as the 18th-century Kumari Ghar Palace and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Durbar Square.
Top highlights
City
Temple
An exclusive tour of Patan
Today, you’ll visit Patan, the City of Fine Arts, also known as Lalitpur. As one of the three ancient cities of the Kathmandu Valley, Patan is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited Buddhist town in the world. Explore its beautifully preserved temples and palace complexes, showcasing the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
A guided visit to Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Bhaktapur
Today, your private guide will take you to three remarkable Nepalese landmarks: the Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Bhaktapur. Begin with the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world, and gain insights into modern Buddhist life in Kathmandu. Next, visit Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism’s principal deities. Conclude your tour in Bhaktapur, the most historically authentic of the Kathmandu Valley’s ancient cities, renowned for its preserved architecture and cultural heritage.
Where you could stay
Kathmandu
Overview
Discover the history and culture of Nepal at one of Kathmandu’s finest properties, Dwarika’s Hotel. From Nepalese art adorning the walls to dark wood carvings and intricate staircases, this property takes inspiration from traditional Newari architecture to create a delightful retreat from the bustle of the city.
The hotel plays an important role in the architectural conservation of the area. Its construction incorporated artefacts from the 13th century onwards and care has been taken that any new additions to the building have been undertaken in the traditional style. Dwarika’s Hotel helps to keep the classical style alive by training artisans to work on restoration projects in the Kathmandu Valley.
Restored tall red-brick buildings house the 83 guestrooms which are decorated with red and black Nepalese materials and look out onto a central courtyard. Meanwhile, the outdoor pool and impressive spa offer further peaceful settings. You can then delve deeper into Nepal’s culture at Krishnarpan, one of the three on-site restaurants, to savour delicious regional dishes such as dal bhat.
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Two days in Pokhara
Discover the charm of Pokhara, a lakeside town offering a blend of adventure and tranquility. Embark on exhilarating treks through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and lush greenery. Enjoy a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake, explore ancient monuments and dive into thrilling activities like mountain biking, kayaking, and paragliding across scenic valleys.
An immersive walk through the Himalayas
Embark on a scenic walk through Pokhara’s stunning Himalayan landscape. This excursion will take you through verdant farmland, where you can observe traditional agricultural practices and local villages, where the culture and warm hospitality shine. Traverse serene forests and take in breathtaking views, all set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas.
Where you could stay
Pokhara
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Overview
Named after the fragrant temple tree or frangipani, Temple Tree Resort sits beside a scenic lake, framed by the foothills and peaks of the Annapurna Mountain Range.
From double-storey hand-cut stone cottages with garden views, to exclusive apartments and a generous suite enjoying Himalayan vistas, the accommodation here provides utter scenic comfort.
After a day of trekking through the stunning natural scenery, return to this tranquil retreat to unwind in the infinity pool, Jacuzzi or at the indulgent spa. Treatments at the spa include traditional perfumed oils, spices and the essences of Himalayan flowers and shrubs.
Take a table at The Bay Leaf Restaurant where international cuisine is served against a sublime backdrop, while The Tree House and The Island Bar offer relaxed spots to enjoy a drink and light bite to eat.
Besides its scenic setting, Temple Tree Resort is also based just ten minutes from both the centre of Pokhara and the airport, ensuring complete easy access.
→ Find out morePokhara
Overview
Nestled among lush vegetation on a tranquil lake a short distance from Pokhara town, this all-natural sanctuary faces the snow-clad Annapurna massif that towers above flourishing paddy fields and the gentle Begnas lake.
Rooms and suites look out to these picture-perfect lake and mountain views and are built in ethnic Gurung style stone-houses. All are tastefully appointed and enjoy bundles of space, with the waterfront cottages providing the maximum privacy.
The resort is surrounded by chestnut, orange and other fruit trees, as well as coffee and cardamom bushes. The beautiful natural surrounds are echoed throughout the resort, creating a nourishing and healing environment, from traditional Ayurvedic remedies at the Himalayan Spa to a mountain spring water pool, and homegrown produce served at the restaurant.
Activities like yoga, meditation, colourful nature walks and village trails continue the healthy theme, while boating trips on the lake offer an idyllic spot to relax and fish.
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Overnight in Dhulikhel
Immerse yourself in the charm of Dhulikhel, a Himalayan hill town, by visiting the serene Namo Buddha Monastery and Stupa, followed by treks through peaceful terraced farms and quaint Nepalese villages. Then, venture into the heart of the old town to admire a stunning array of architecture, from intricately designed buildings to ornate Vishnu temples.
Where you could stay
Dhulikhel
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Overview
Dwarika’s Resort is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas and offers unparalleled views of this mesmerising mountain range. Nestled on a hillside, this blissful retreat reflects Nepal’s ancient philosophy and natural heritage through its elegant but rustic design and impressive number of peace-inducing services.
There are 39 suites inspired by nature, built using local wood and stone. Each suite features an outdoor terrace with day bed which are perfect for sunrise mountain views, scenic sundowners and sleeping under the stars.
Physical and mental wellbeing is key at Dwarika’s Resort and guests are encouraged to reconnect with mind, spirit and nature during their stay. There are plenty of on-site activities, from yoga, meditiation and salt therapy to cooking and art and pottery classes. There are also numerous hiking trails that lead straight from the property and ample opportunities for birdwatching.
Dining here is a real treat, with many of the ingredients grown in the resort’s very own vegetable garden.
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Four days of island bliss in Phuket
Immerse yourself in four days of pure island bliss in Phuket, where relaxation and adventure blend seamlessly. Spend your days lounging on pristine beaches, soaking up the sun, and dipping into the turquoise waters.
A speedboat tour of the Andaman with champagne at sunset
Experience the Andaman Sea like never before on a delightful speedboat tour that combines adventure with luxury. Cruise through the crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden coves and pristine beaches as the sun begins its descent. As the day fades, anchor at a secluded spot to witness a breathtaking sunset, where the sky transforms into a palette of warm hues. To cap off this unforgettable journey, enjoy a glass of chilled champagne, toasting to the beauty of the moment.
Where you could stay
Phuket
Overview
Some say this is one of the best resorts in all of South East Asia. We tend to agree. Overlooking the heavenly Andaman Sea on the west coast of Phuket with a secluded beach, Amanpuri’s unchecked luxury, discreet service and delicate Thai style make for a divinely deluxe stay.
The forty elegant pavilions and villas are designed with traditional Thai architecture in mind sit amidst an exotic coconut plantation. Each has a sun deck, dining terrace, King sized bed and an oversized bathroom.
Dining here consists of Thai, Italian, French and Japanese cuisine which is served over a variety of different eateries, while the resort’s bar offers the ideal spot to enjoy some poolside drinks. Amanpuri is also home to a library, gallery, gym and six tennis courts. For those who wish to indulge in genuine relaxation, take advantage of the Aman Spa where six Thai inspired pavilions, a sauna, a steam room and a range of treatments are available.
→ Find out morePhuket
Overview
Just twenty minutes from the airport, sitting on Laguna Beach is Banyan Tree. Looking out onto the Andaman Sea, this tranquil resort consists of 135 beautifully designed villas. The accommodation’s elegant and traditional Thai décor gives an authentic Asian feel while the vast amount of amenities and attentive staff ensures all modern demands are taken care of.
Guests can enjoy the numerous onsite eateries which offer a tasty selection of Thai, Mediterranean and International cuisine, or opt for the romantic cruise setting of dining on a long tail boat. Banyan Tree Phuket also provides plenty of opportunities to sip on your favourite cocktails or wines with the Lobby Bar and Wine Rack offering the perfect place to enjoy drinks by sunset.
The award-winning spa boasts a widespread choice of massages, treatments and remedies while there is also a large amount of exciting activities to get involved with. Besides scuba diving, golfing and windsurfing, this impressive resort also offers excursions such as canoeing and trekking
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Having used Jacada Travel twice now for major trips (one to Antarctica and the other to Bhutan, Nepal and India) I would not use any other travel agency. All of the staff is extremely professional, responsive and have planned *the* most amazing trips for me. Jacada has taken the time to determine exactly what I was looking for during my…
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
