Bhutan, hailed as the last Buddhist kingdom on Earth, and Nepal, renowned as the land of Mount Everest, boast unique charms that beckon travellers to explore them. However, when faced with the question of Nepal vs Bhutan – which destination to explore first — many find themselves pondering.
To address this question, we have done all the research to help you decide which destination, Nepal or Bhutan, aligns better with your preferences. These beautiful, mountainous, and green countries promise an escape like no other from the daily hustle and bustle amidst their majestic natural landscapes.
Best time to visit Bhutan vs Nepal
Due to their geographical location in the Himalayan mountain ranges, Bhutan and Nepal share similar climates and weather patterns. Both countries experience the usual spring, summer, autumn and winter, with occasional rain and snowfall that contribute to cooling temperatures.
Bhutan: The best time to visit Bhutan is during spring or autumn. From March to April, Bhutan’s landscape bursts into vibrant colours as the red silk cotton trees and rhododendrons bloom across the land. As autumn approaches in October and November, Bhutan transitions into a different spectacle as leaves start falling, offering a unique perspective on its lush landscapes. Additionally, Spring and Autumn host various festivals like Thimphu Tsechu and Paro Tsechu, providing an excellent opportunity to experience Bhutanese culture.
Nepal: For the best experience of Nepal’s natural beauty, plan your visit during spring or autumn. October and November mark the trekking season, welcoming adventure enthusiasts to explore the wonders of the land on foot amidst the picturesque landscapes of Autumn. Spring, too, is the best time to visit, as rhododendron forests are in full bloom, and wildlife sightings are frequent in national parks due to migratory patterns.
Exploring the Himalayan nature and landscapes
Bhutan and Nepal, both landlocked countries set across the Himalayan mountain ranges, offer breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and abundant greenery. Here’s what sets them apart:
Bhutan: Hidden away in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan boasts dramatic landscapes featuring valleys, mountains and plains. With over 72 percent of its land covered in forests and seven percent adorned with perpetual snow and glaciers, Bhutan is a haven of lush greenery. The nation is home to Gangkhar Puensum, the highest unclimbed mountain in the world, serving as the highest peak in Bhutan. Explore natural treasures at Royal Manas National Park, Jigme Dorji National Park and Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary.
Nepal: Another famous landlocked country in Asia, Nepal is defined by its mountainous terrain, including the majestic Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. Nepal boasts several notable peaks, attracting mountain climbers from around the world. The southern region, known as the Terai, features fertile and lush lowlands. Experience the exciting wonders of Nepal’s nature at Chitwan National Park, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Sagarmatha National Park, Annapurna Conservation Area and Bardia National Park.
Best places to visit in Bhutan and Nepal
Discovering the cities and valleys of Bhutan and Nepal promises a journey filled with surprises. Before planning your trip, explore the must-visit destinations in both countries.
Bhutan: Experience the rich culture and lifestyle of Bhutan by exploring Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Trongsa, Phuentsholing, Phobjikha Valley, Bumthang Valley and Haa Valley.
Nepal: Dive into the culture, traditions, and hospitality of Nepal in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Nagarkot, Patan, Bhaktapur, Lumbini and Janakpur. For more insights, refer to our detailed guide on the best places to visit in Nepal.
Best things to do in Bhutan vs Nepal
It will be a journey filled with unique experiences in Bhutan and Nepal, both featuring adventures in the wild and encounters with ancient traditions. Here’s the breakdown of the activities you can enjoy in both countries.
Bhutan: Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture by attending traditional festivals (tsechus) in the dzongs, like Thimphu Tsechu and Paro Tsechu. Embrace the culture further by dressing in traditional attire: gho for men and kira for women. Hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) or trek the ancient Trans Bhutan Trail. For adventure seekers, try the Jhomolhari Base Camp trek, engage in traditional archery, go rafting in Puna Tsang Chhu, Wang Chhu and Sankosh River, or experience camping in the wild.
Nepal: Challenge yourself with a climb to Mount Everest or try your luck at the famed Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit. Explore the mythological sites of Lumbini and Janakpur, the birthplaces of Gautam Buddha and Sita from the Ramayana. Enjoy mountain biking and paragliding in Pokhara, or experience river rafting in the Trisuli River. Immerse yourself in unique festivals like Kukur Tihar and Indra Jatra. Witness wildlife, including one-horned rhinoceros and tigers, in their natural habitat.
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Best hotels in Bhutan and Nepal
Both countries offer a diverse range of accommodations, from homestays to luxury mountain retreats, providing travellers with wholesome and rejuvenating stays unlike any other.
Bhutan: While several homes across Bhutan offer stays for travellers seeking insight into the local lifestyle and culture, those desiring luxury can opt for renowned establishments such as Le Meridien Paro Riverfront, Amankora Paro, Pemako and The Postcard Dewa in Thimphu.
Nepal: Nepal boasts a range of earthy guesthouses that offer a window into the Nepalese lifestyle. Additionally, there are luxury hotels and resorts offering unparalleled comfort. Noteworthy accommodations in Nepal include Hotel Yak & Yeti, The Terraces Resort and Spa, Hyatt Regency and Dusit Princess in Kathmandu Valley, The Pavilions Himalayas in Pokhara, Dorje’s Resort & Spa and Dwarika’s Resort in Dhulikhel, along with Meghauli Sarai, A Taj Safari, and Kasara in Chitwan National Park.
Book your stay at Basera Boutique Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at Basera Boutique Hotel via Agoda
Book your stay at Le Méridien Thimphu via Booking.com
Book your stay at Le Méridien Thimphu via Agoda
Shopping guide: What to buy in Nepal vs Bhutan
Bhutan: Make the most of your shopping spree in Bhutan by collecting Thangka paintings, Bhutanese stamps, Yatha bags, carved masks, Desh paper products, Dzi beads, honey, traditional outfits, datshi (cheese) and local jewellery.
Nepal: Preserve your travel memories of Nepal with souvenirs such as Nepali tea, yak cheese, yak butter, Lokta paper products, organic coffee beans, handmade local jewellery, wooden products and more.
Comparing the culinary offerings
No vacation is complete without sampling the local food, and both Nepal and Bhutan offer unique cuisines that reflect their nature, culture and people. Here’s a breakdown of what Nepalese and Bhutanese cuisines have to offer.
Bhutan: Indulge in Bhutanese delicacies such as ema datshi, kewa datshi, jasha maroo, phaksha paro, shamu datshi, puta, hoentay, gondo datshi and Bhutanese red rice.
For an authentic culinary experience in Thimphu, visit Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant, Babesa Village Restaurant, Zombala 2 Restaurant, or Bhutan Kitchen. In Paro, My Kind Of Place, Soechey Restaurant, Sonam Trophel Restaurant and Bukhari Restaurant are highly recommended.
Nepal: Enjoy a variety of Nepalese dishes including momos, gundruk, dal bhat, sel roti, choila, thukpa, chataamari, yomari, phuchka, khasi ko masu and juju dhau.
In the Kathmandu Valley, try the local fare at Shree Trishakti Newari Restaurant, Almond’s Cafe & Restaurant, Chatamari Chen, and The Village Cafe. In Pokhara, dine at Moondance Restaurant, Momotarou and Mo2’s Delights.
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(Feature image credit: Olga Danylenko/Shutterstock)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– What are the main differences between Nepal and Bhutan as travel destinations?
The main differences between Nepal and Bhutan as travel destinations lie in their culture, people, and landscapes.
– Which country, Nepal or Bhutan, is easier for tourists to travel to?
Nepal is generally considered easier and more budget-friendly for tourists to travel to as it has been a popular travel destination for a longer time, whereas Bhutan opened its doors to tourists in 1974.
– Which country offers better trekking opportunities, Nepal or Bhutan?
Nepal is renowned for its trekking, hiking, and climbing opportunities, especially with iconic destinations like Mount Everest and the Annapurna Circuit. However, Bhutan also has significant potential for trekking, boasting the world’s highest unclimbed mountain, Gangkhar Puensum.
– Which country, Nepal or Bhutan, offers better opportunities for wildlife viewing?
Both Nepal and Bhutan offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, as they are home to diverse ecosystems and a wide range of animal species.
– Which country is more suitable for adventure activities like rafting and paragliding, Nepal or Bhutan?
Both Nepal and Bhutan offer exciting adventure activities such as river rafting, camping, and paragliding, making them equally suitable for adventure enthusiasts.
– Which country, Nepal vs Bhutan, is less crowded and offers a more peaceful travel experience?
Bhutan is generally less crowded than Nepal, offering travellers a more peaceful and serene travel experience.
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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Written By
Priyaja Bakshi
Digital Writer - Growth, TravelPriyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism ..Read More
