Nepal and Bhutan are both amazing South Asian landlocked nations. The geographically diverse nations are culturally and naturally rich. There are several Nepal and Bhutan similarities and differences. Both nations are popular for their stunning landscapes, snow-covered mountains, vibrant cultures, and rich heritages. The diversity in local lifestyle, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, approach towards living life, and environmental policies sets these nations apart from each other. The shared similarities and striking differences set uniqueness among travelers while exploring these magical nations. Below we have discussed in detail Nepal and Bhutan similarities and differences.
Similarities between Nepal and Bhutan
Both are Landlocked Nations
Nepal and Bhutan are both landlocked nations that have no access to sea bodies. Despite being landlocked, there is geographical diversity in both nations’ offering stunning mountain ranges with dramatic landscapes.
Culturally and Historically Rich and Diverse
Nepal and Bhutan are two phenomenal nations that are culturally and historically rich and diverse. Nepal is a religiously diverse nation with great harmony in diverse religions (Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, etc.). On the other hand, Buddhism is highly predominant in Bhutan. Nepal’s history as the birthplace of the founder of Buddhism, Gautam Buddha, and Bhutan’s history as a Buddhist kingdom is mesmerizing. Both nations still preserve their ancient culture and traditions.
Numerous Monasteries
Nepal and Bhutan both nations are abundant with monasteries. Numerous Buddhist stupas and monasteries in Nepal and Bhutan serve as spiritual hubs. These serve as central to Buddhist practice. Besides numerous monasteries, several temples in Nepal display cultural diversity. Thus, the capital Kathmandu is fondly called ‘the city of temples’.
Phenomenal Mountain Ranges
Both Nepal and Bhutan boast phenomenal mountain ranges. Nepal is home to the world’s highest mountain Mt. Everest (8848.86 m) including seven eight-thousanders. Bhutan is the most mountainous nation in the world, with 98.8% of its land covered by mountains. The incredible mountain ranges exhibit the natural beauty of both nations.
Multiple Vibrant Festivals
Both nations, Nepal and Bhutan host multiple vibrant festivals annually. Nepal celebrates more than 50 diverse festivals, showcasing its cultural diversity. Bhutan hosts several Tsechu festivals that highlight its rich Buddhist culture. Different community people come together to celebrate where the local culture, unique musical instruments and dance, and colorful clothes enhance the beauty of the festival.
Some Differences of Nepal and Bhutan
| Nepal | Bhutan | |
| Getting There | There are numerous direct flights from the Middle East and South Asia to Nepal such as Delhi, Doha, Dubai, Bangkok, etc. There are connecting flights to Nepal from nations worldwide. | There are limited direct flights to Bhutan as compared to Nepal. Flights to Bhutan are from Kathmandu, Kolkata, Delhi, Dhaka, Singapore, and Bangkok. |
| Visas And Permits | Getting a Nepal Visa and permits is easy as compared to Bhutan. It is easy and quick to get an on-arrival visa at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and as well as at all land border crossings open to foreigners. Travelers require a valid passport, 2 passport-size photos, and preferably some US dollars for payment. | Travelers must apply in advance for Bhutan Visa through the tour operator. All arrangements are looked after by the tour operator. Travelers must bring the printed copy and present it before flying to Bhutan along with the valid passport and flight ticket. A Visa is issued once you arrive in Bhutan. |
| Trekking Experience | Nepal is a trekker’s paradise and abundant trekking destinations are here suitable for all age groups of travelers. Trekkers can trek from Easy to Strenuous grades as their preference and gain amazing trekking experiences. For mountaineering, 419 peaks are opened. Travelers can also go for short hikes in the vicinity of Kathmandu Valley. | There are limited trekking destinations in Bhutan and trekking in Bhutan means Camping. In camping, travelers spend a night in tents and eat local foods. Most nomads live in the mountains. Mountaineering in Bhutan is not allowed as they consider the mountains as holy. |
| Cultural Attractions | Nepal has abundant cultural attractions that are aesthetic, and architecturally impressive and hold historic and cultural significance. All cultural attractions in Nepal are cultural heritages and some cultural attractions are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Durbar Squares, Lumbini, Swayambhunath Stupa, etc. | Bhutan has also abundant cultural attractions. Paro Taktsang, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Punakha Dzong, Thimphu Dzong, etc. are some impressive attractions in Bhutan. These attractions display the cultural beauty of Bhutan. |
| Travel Cost | Nepal’s travel cost is more reasonable as compared to Bhutan. Travelers have the flexibility to select their accommodation, transportation, and food according to their spending capacity. There are options available for travelers from budget-friendly to luxury. Nepal is one of the most affordable nations to travel to. | Bhutan’s tourism policy includes paying daily SDF Fees which is USD 100 per person per night. Besides SDF Fees, additional costs for accommodation, meals, transport, and entry fees to monuments make traveling to Bhutan very expensive. |
| Environmental policies | Nepal has no strong environmental policies which is why air quality in Nepal is poor. But slowly some proper waste management is in operation to keep the cities clean but there are no strict rules and regulations to manage it. | Bhutan’s strict environmental policies are praiseworthy and safeguard the landscapes of Bhutan with strict implementation of its policies. Only with special permission, trees are allowed to be cut, and trekking is allowed on only some specific trails that ensure the preservation of wildlife. |
| Outdoor Activities | Nepal is one of the most loved nations for Outdoor activities. Outdoor activities in Nepal are abundant and a variety of options are available for all age groups of travelers. Some popular outdoor activities in Nepal are White-water rafting, Paragliding, Bungee Jumping, Zip-flyer, Mountain Biking, Rock Climbing, etc. | Bhutan is not so popular for outdoor activities and very limited outdoor activities are here in Bhutan. Outdoor activities in Bhutan are not so adventurous but light and gentle. Fishing is one outdoor activity that is relaxing but requires a permit to do it. |
Nepal and Bhutan Flights
Nepal has 3 International Airports but the most popular and in operation is Tribhuvan International Airport. Likewise, Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. Thus, Nepal and Bhutan flights are inadequate, and regular flights to Bhutan are limited to only 5 nations.
Only 2 local carriers in Bhutan are in operation: Bhutan (Tashi) Airlines and Druk Air which provides regular flight services to Nepal (Kathmandu), India (Delhi, Bagdogra, Gaya, Guwahati, and Kolkata), Thailand (Bangkok), Singapore, and Bangladesh (Dhaka). Travelers must take connecting flights if they are traveling via other nations besides above mentioned.
In the case of Nepal, there are direct flights to Nepal from neighboring countries, Southeast Asia, and Middle-east Asia while connecting flights are the only options for travelers traveling from Europe, North and South America, Australia, and New Zealand. There are more frequent connecting flights from Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, UAE, Qatar, China, and India to Nepal than other nations.
Weather and Climate in Nepal and Bhutan
Nepal and Bhutan are both landlocked Himalayan nations that have diverse geography. The topographical differences, lowland elevation, and highland elevation in both nations vary which impacts the weather and climate of these nations. Both nations have four main seasons: Spring (Mar-May), Autumn (Sep-Nov), Summer (Jun-Aug), and Winter (Dec-Feb). Throughout the year, traveling in both nations is possible. Travelers consider spring and autumn the best seasons to visit both nations.
Weather and Climate in Nepal
Nepal is a nation that geographically expanded from an elevation of 60m in Terai to 8848.86m in the Himalayas. Mainly there are four seasons in Nepal: Spring, Summer/Monsoon, Autumn, and Winter. It is possible to tour all around the year in Nepal. All seasons have their specialty and offer something to travelers. Weather and temperature are mostly stable in the lower regions during the Autumn and Spring seasons, and as elevation rises the weather and temperature are unstable. City sightseeing or tours are mostly done in the lower regions, so the weather and climate are bearable.
Spring is the best season to travel to Nepal as the weather is stable, flowers blossom, and the temperature is warm. The temperature is generally between 16°C to 23°C in the lower regions like Kathmandu Valley, and Pokhara, and slightly warmer in Chitwan. Autumn is the second-best season to travel to Nepal due to warm and pleasant weather with temperatures between 13°C to 20°C. The skies are also clear offering phenomenal views.
Summer is very sunny and warm and expect heavy rainfall from mid-June to August. Winters are very cold but the day views are clear. In the morning there is fog, and evening also gets colder. Wear appropriate clothes to protect yourself from cold.
Weather and Climate in Bhutan
The altitude and terrain of Bhutan affect its weather and climate. Likewise in Nepal, Bhutan also has four seasons: Spring (March to May), Summer (June to August), Autumn (September to November), and Winter (December to February).
Autumn is the best time to travel to Bhutan as the weather is warmer with clear blue skies. Spring is the second best season to travel because of the blooming seasonal flowers. But, the weather can be cloudy, and expect more rain. Several vibrant festivals also occur in this season. During the autumn season, the temperature of Bhutan is 15°C to 22°C while in Spring season, the temperature is between 15°C to 25°C.
Winter is very cold but the skies are clear and suitable for beautiful scenery. In Jan and Feb months, there is a high chance of heavy snowfall which can create a blockade for hiking or trekking. The nights are colder as the temperature drops. Summer is also a monsoon season in Bhutan, so expect light rainfalls. But, the weather is pleasant and warm.
Places to visit in Nepal and Bhutan
Nepal and Bhutan are both landlocked Himalayan nations. There are no beaches or seas but abundant cultural and natural destinations. Both nations are geographically diverse and have multiple exciting places that offer diversity such as cultural, natural, and adventurous attractions. In both nations, travelers can sightsee around cultural and historical landmarks, go hiking or trekking, or perform adventurous activities.
| Nepal | Bhutan |
| Kathmandu Valley (Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur ): Sightsee UNESCO Heritage Sites Nagarkot: Nearest hill station for sunrise views Pokhara: Tourist capital popular for lakeside, sunrise views, and adventurous activities (Paragliding, Zip-flyer, Hot-air balloon rides, etc.) Lumbini: Birthplace of Lord Buddha Chitwan National Park: Popular for Jungle Safari Mustang: Must Visit Travel Destination in most travel websites list Everest Base Camp: Popular trekking destination Annapurna Base Camp: Classic and most visited trekking destination | Paro: Kyichu Lhakhang, Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Drukgyal Dzong Punakha: Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang Thimphu: Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Motithang Takin Preserve, Tashichho and Simtokha Dzongs Phobjikha: 108 Memorial Chorten, Dochula Pass, Gangtey Goempa Wangdi Phodrang: Radak Neykhang, Archery Ground, Vegetable Market, Army Training Centre, Dzong Gate and Eight Chortens Phuentsoling: Amo Chuu, Bhutan Gate, Karbandi Monastery, Zangthopelri Lhakhang Bumthang: Explore Ura, Chumey, Tang and Choekhor valleys |
Accommodation and Meals in Nepal and Bhutan
Accommodation and Meals in Nepal and Bhutan tours are distinct yet unique and satisfactory. Travelers have great choices of accommodation in Nepal and Bhutan tours from budget-friendly hotels to high-end luxury hotels. Likewise, meals in Nepal and Bhutan have some similarities and diversities that are unique and delicious.
Accommodation and Meals in Nepal
Accommodation in Nepal for travelers ranges from budget-friendly hotels to luxury hotels. Travelers can choose the accommodation of their preference but we recommend choosing luxury hotels. There are abundant luxury hotels in Nepal from 3-star to 5-star with the best of the facilities and services. Some popular 5-star hotels in Nepal are The Dwarika’s, Kathmandu Marriott, Hyatt Regency, etc. which cater to travelers with premium facilities.
Nepal has a diverse ethnic group and hence, there is a diversity of meal options from different ethnic groups which is a unique treat for travelers. We recommend choosing a breakfast-only meal plan for travelers in Nepal as there is abundant availability of restaurants and hotels nearby and are reasonable with a variety of meal options. Some popular meals in Nepal are Nepali Dal-Bhat, Momo, Samay Baji set, Yomari, Tingmo, Sel Roti, Thakali Set, Juju Dhau (King Curd), Dhido, Gundruk, Sherpa Stew, etc.
Accommodation and Meals in Bhutan
Bhutan Tourism believes in delivering quality services to its travelers. Thus, accommodations in Bhutan are top-notch, and 4-star and 5-star luxury hotels are means of accommodation during Bhutan tours. All hotels are luxury that are well-equipped and provide premium facilities. Como Uma, Amankora, Le Meridien, etc., are some popular 5-star luxury hotels in Bhutan.
Bhutan also has some unique and tasty meals and spicy meals are the specialty of Bhutan. We suggest travelers go with a full-board (B+L+D) meal plan in Bhutan considering the cost and location factors. This option is convenient and cost-effective for travelers during the tour. Ema Datshi is the national dish of Bhutan which is very spicy yet mouth-watering. Buckwheat, Red Rice, Khewa Datshi, Jasha Maru, Phaksha Paa, Suja, Ara, Jaju Soup, Momo, etc. are some popular meals in Bhutan.
Culture and Festivals of Nepal and Bhutan
Both Himalayan nations Nepal and Bhutan are rich in culture, tradition, and festivals. The religious diversity in both nations is praiseworthy. The diverse ethnic group celebrates multiple festivals in Nepal whereas Bhutan also organizes vibrant grand festivals which are major attractions for travelers.
Culture and Festivals of Nepal
Nepal is a small landlocked country in South Asia having cultural and ethnic diversities. As per the 2021 census, it comprises 124 languages, 142 ethnic groups, and 10 religions. More than 50+ festivals are celebrated throughout the year. Hinduism and Buddhism are major religions in Nepal. Dashain, Tihar, Lhosar, Buddha Jayanti, Holi, Rato Machhindranath Jatra, etc. are some prime festivals in Nepal.
Popular Festivals in Nepal
Dashain: Longest Festival in Nepal (15 days)
Tihar: Festival of lights
Holi: Festival of Colors
Lhosar: Tamu, Gyalpo, and Sonam Lhosar (New Year of 3 different ethnicities)
Rato Machhindranath Jatra: The longest Chariot festival of Nepal
Buddha Jayanti: Birth anniversary of Lord Buddha
Maha Shivaratri: Biggest festival for Hindu devotees
Culture and Festivals of Bhutan
Bhutan is also a landlocked country where 75% of the Bhutanese follow Buddhism. Bhutan is highly influenced by Buddhism and they host Tsechu festivals throughout the year in different parts of Bhutan. Bhutan’s modern culture is greatly influenced by the ancient culture and still are in practice. The festivals in Bhutan are grand and a pleasure to witness. Some major festivals in Bhutan are Thimphu Tsechu, Paro Tsechu, Haa Summer, Jambay Lhakhang Drup Tsechu, Black Necked Crane Festivals, etc.
Popular Festivals in Bhutan
Paro Tsechu: The most popular mask dance festival
Haa Summer Festival: Traditional display of Culture, heritage, sports, and religion
Thimphu Tsechu: Grand festival commemorating the birth of Guru Rinpoche
Wangdue Phodrang Tsechu: To celebrate the life and great deeds of Guru Rinpoche
Black-necked craned festival: Creating awareness on protecting the endangered black-neck cranes
Wildlife in Bhutan and Nepal
Wildlife is the beautiful attraction of any nation. Nepal and Bhutan are also rich in wildlife and boast diverse species of flora and fauna including endangered species. Both Bhutan and Nepal have done tremendous jobs in protecting and preserving wildlife in their respective nations.
Wildlife in Nepal
Nepal’s 23.39% of the land is approximately protected where they have established 12 National Parks, 1 Wildlife Reserve, 1 Hunting Reserve, 6 Conservation Areas, and 13 Buffer Zones. It extends from lowland Terai to high mountains which has greatly contributed in-situ conservation of ecosystems and biodiversity across Nepal. It shelters 30,167 living species; comprising 17,097 animals and 13,067 plants. Almost 10% of the world’s bird species are found in Nepal. Chitwan, Bardia, and Sagarmatha are some popular national parks of Nepal. Some popular protected species are the Bengal Tiger, One-horned rhino, Pangolin, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Asian elephant, etc.
Wildlife in Bhutan
Bhutan has 5 national parks, 4 wildlife sanctuaries, and 1 nature reserve which comprises of Bhutan’s 43% of the land. A biological corridor is designed that links all 9 protected areas which add to 52% of areas under the protection. A wide variety of flora and fauna are there in Bhutan which includes 770 bird species, 200 mammal species, and 5,500 plant species. The protected areas stretch from the subtropics in the south to the constantly frozen regions in the north. Various types of wildlife and plants are protected including endangered species. Jigme Dorji, Royal Manas, and Wangchuk Centennial are some popular national parks of Bhutan. Some popular protected species in Bhutan are the Royal Bengal Tiger, Snow Leopard, Asiatic Elephant, White Bellied Heron, Black-necked Cranes, etc.
Flora and Fauna in Nepal and Bhutan
Both Nepal and Bhutan boast diverse flora and fauna which are as follows:
Nepal
Nepal’s forest cover is 59,624 km2 (23,021 sq. mi), 40.36% of the country’s total land area, with an additional 4.38% of scrubland, for a total forested area of 44.74%. Nepal is a habitat for 4.0% of all mammal species,
8.9% of bird species,
1.0% of reptile species,
2.5% of amphibian species,
1.9% of fish species,
3.7% of butterfly species,
0.5% of moth species and 0.4% of spider species.
In its 35 forest types and 118 ecosystems, Nepal harbors 2% of the flowering plant species, 3% of pteridophytes, and 6% of bryophytes.
Nepal contains 107 IUCN-designated threatened species, 88 of them animal species, 18 plant species, and one species of “fungi or protist” group. These include the endangered Bengal tiger, the red panda, the Asiatic elephant, the Himalayan musk deer, the wild water buffalo, and the South Asian river dolphin, as well as the critically endangered gharial, the Bengal florican, and the white-rumped vulture.
There are four main vegetation types in Nepal ranging from 60m in Terai to 8848.86m in the Himalayas.
Tropical Zone (up to 1000m)
Subtropical Zone (1100m-2400m)
Temperate Zone (2500m- 4000m)
Subalpine and Alpine Zone (More than 4000m)
Bhutan
More than 35% of the country’s area is under the protection of some form of conservation management which comprises 26.23% of the country’s area is protected through National Parks. In addition, a further 9% have been declared as Biological Corridors.
Regarding diversity at the species level, inventories have indicated over 5500 species, including 300 species of medicinal plants and over 50 species of rhododendrons. Of the more than 600 species of orchid. So far 770 species of birds have been recorded in Bhutan, Jigme Dorji National Park. The park protects the largest area in the country and serves as the habitat for several endangered species, including takin, blue sheep, snow leopards, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and red pandas.
What To Expect In Nepal And Bhutan Tour?
Travelers often might wonder ‘What to expect in Nepal and Bhutan Tour?’ if they are planning for Nepal and Bhutan tour. There are abundant attractions in both Nepal and Bhutan including natural, historical, cultural, and adventurous. Besides this, the diversity in flora and fauna, flavorful cuisines, and vibrant festivals await travelers in these magical nations.
| Attractions | Nepal | Bhutan |
| Himalayan Views | Everest, Lhotse, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Cho Oyu, Manaslu, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Ganesh, Langtang, etc. | Great Himalayas, Gangkhar Puensum, Jichu Drake, Chomolhari, etc. |
| Ancient temples, Stupas, Monasteries | World Heritage Sites, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Durbar Squares, Lumbini, Changu Narayan, etc. | Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Drugyel Dzong, Lungchutse Monastery, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Punakha Dzong, Chhimi Lakhang, etc. |
| Festivals | Dashain, Tihar, Lhosar, Buddha Jayanti, Jatras (Bisket, Indra, Rato Macchindranath), Maha Shivaratri, Holi, Eid, Udhauli Parva, etc. | Thimphu Tshechu, Paro Tsechu, Haa Summer, Nimalung, Punakha Tshechu and Drubchen, Ura Yakchoe, Matsutake, The Annual Black-necked Crane, etc. |
| Flavorful cuisine | Nepali Dal-Bhat, Momo, Samay Baji set, Yomari, Tingmo, Thakali Set, Juju Dhau (King Curd), Dhido, Gundruk, Sherpa Stew, etc. | Ema Datshi, Buckwheat, Red Rice, Khewa Datshi, Jasha Maru, Phaksha Paa, Suja, Ara, Jaju Soup, Momo, etc. |
| Flora | Sal (Shorea Robusta), Asna (Terminalia tomentose), Pipal (ficus religiosa), Banyan (ficus bengalensis), Picea, Tusga, Larix, Abies spp, Juniper Scrub, Species of oak and rhododendron, etc. | Forest of oak, walnut and sal, birch, maple, magnolia, laurel, spruce, yew, weeping cypress, Himalayan grasses and flowering herbs, etc. |
| Fauna | Bengal tiger, Red Panda, Asiatic elephant, Himalayan Musk Deer, Wild water buffalo, South Asian River Dolphin, Bengal Florican, White-Rumped vulture, Gharial, etc. | Takin, Blue Sheep, Snow Leopard, Musk deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Asiatic elephant, Greater one-horned rhinoceros, Gaur, Wild water buffalo, Hog deer, Tiger, Clouded leopard, Hornbill, Trogon, etc. |
| Adventure Activities | Hiking and Trekking, Paragliding, Zip-flyer, Mountain Biking, Bungee Jumping, Rafting, etc. | Fishing, Hiking, Camping, Boating, etc. |
Dos and Don’ts in Nepal Bhutan Tour
Both Nepal and Bhutan hold great cultural significance. They respect their religion, culture, and tradition extremely. So, travelers should show gratitude and respect and strictly follow some guidelines while traveling to these nations.
- Use both hands while showing gratitude and respect.
- Ask permission before touching, and taking photographs of people and objects.
- Dress appropriately while visiting monasteries, temples, stupas, and village areas.
- Only use your right hand while eating in Nepal.
- Remove shoes and caps/hats while visiting monasteries or temples.
- Do not climb over historical and cultural monuments, chortens, etc.
Ultimate Bhutan and Nepal Tourist Maps
| Nepal | Bhutan |
| Country: Nepal Official Name: Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal Capital: Kathmandu Area: 147,516 sq. km Province: 7 District: 77 Latitude: 26°N and 31°N Longitude: 80°E and 89°E Population: 2,91,64,578 Language: Nepali Religion: Hinduism, Buddhism, and others Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR) [130 NPR= 1.00 USD approx.] Time Zone: NPT (UTC+5:45) Dial code: +977 Government: Parliamentary republic with a multi-party system | Country: Bhutan Official Name: Kingdom of Bhutan Capital: Thimphu Area: 38,394 sq. km District: 20 Latitude: 26°N and 29°N Longitude: 88°E and 93°E Population: Over 788,615 Language: Dzongkha Religion: Vajrayana Buddhism (state religion) Currency: BTN Ngultrum (Nu) [100 Nu= 1.25 USD approx.] Time Zone: BTT (UTC+6) Dial code: +975 Government: Constitutional monarchy |
