Nepal and Bhutan are Himalayan views, prayer flags, monasteries, dzongs and the hike up to Tiger’s Nest. It’s also altitude, cold mornings, warm afternoons and a lot of stairs.
So this is a pack-for-layers trip: modest clothes, shoes you can hike in and a warm jacket you’ll use more than you think.
We built this list for our Nepal + Bhutan trip, but it works for any spring or fall trip to Nepal and Bhutan.
Nepal and Bhutan weather: what to expect
Spring (March to May) and fall (October and November) are the best times to go. Days are usually pleasant and sunny, somewhere in the 60s to 70s °F (15 to 25 °C) in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Bhutan is higher and cooler. Mornings and evenings can be cold, especially in the Phobjikha Valley, and the Tiger’s Nest hike starts early when it’s chilly.
Translation: layers you can add and remove all day, a warm jacket and good sun protection for the altitude.
What to wear
For everyday exploring
Both countries are fairly conservative. Clothes that cover your shoulders and knees help you feel comfortable everywhere.
- Loose pants or travel trousers
- Midi or maxi skirts
- T-shirts and long-sleeve tops
- A fleece or warm sweater
- A packable down or insulated jacket
- A big scarf
For dzongs and temples in Bhutan
Bhutan takes dress codes seriously at dzongs and temples. Wear long sleeves, long pants or a long skirt, and no hats inside. Collared shirts are a nice touch. You’ll take your shoes off at some temples.
For the Tiger’s Nest hike and active days
The hike takes about 4 to 5 hours round trip with steady uphill sections and stone stairs. You don’t need technical gear.
- Breathable, moisture-wicking tops
- Hiking pants or leggings
- A warm layer and a windbreaker for the start
- A hat, sunglasses and water
- Sport socks
For long travel days
Winding mountain roads and early flights. Comfy pants or leggings, a warm layer and a scarf you can use as a blanket.
Shoes: bring two or three pairs
- Hiking: supportive trail runners or light hiking shoes with good grip for Tiger’s Nest and ridge walks.
- Everyday: comfortable sneakers or walking shoes.
- Easy on, easy off: slip-ons or sandals for temples and hotels.
You don’t need heavy boots, but whatever you bring should already be broken in.
Health and toiletries
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF (UV is stronger at altitude)
- Moisturizer and hand cream (the air is dry)
- Altitude meds if your doctor recommends them
- Electrolytes and a reusable water bottle
- Pain relievers, band-aids, blister care and stomach meds
- Motion sickness meds for winding roads
- Hand sanitizer, wet wipes and tissues
- Your preferred period products
- Prescription meds in their original packaging, plus extra days
Travel insurance is required for this trip.
Electronics, documents and money
- Universal adapter (Nepal and Bhutan use a mix of Type C, D, G and M plugs, 230V)
- A power bank (power cuts happen and outlets can be limited)
- Extra storage for photos
- Downloaded maps and offline entertainment
Bring your passport with at least six months of validity. Nepal offers a visa on arrival for many nationalities. Bhutan’s visa is arranged in advance as part of your trip. Check what applies to you before you go.
Cards work in some hotels, but cash runs most things in both countries. Bring a debit card for ATMs in Kathmandu and a backup card stored separately, plus some clean US dollars. Small bills are handy for tips and markets.
What to leave at home
- Shorts and tank tops (they feel out of place, especially in Bhutan)
- Heavy denim
- Brand-new shoes
- Too many outfits (you will rotate the same 4 or 5)
- A hair dryer or high-voltage styling tools
FAQ: packing for Nepal and Bhutan
Do I need hiking boots?
Not heavy ones. Supportive trail runners or light hiking shoes with good grip are perfect for Tiger’s Nest.
How modest do I need to dress?
Cover your shoulders and knees everywhere. In Bhutan’s dzongs and temples, wear long sleeves and long pants or a long skirt.
How hard is the Tiger’s Nest hike?
Challenging but very doable at a slow, steady pace with breaks. It takes about 4 to 5 hours round trip.
Can I wear leggings?
Yes, for hikes, flights and drives. Pair them with a longer top in towns and temples.
What luggage should I bring?
A rolling suitcase or a soft duffel both work. We fly between Nepal and Bhutan, so check the baggage allowance and pack one manageable bag plus a daypack.
Is laundry available?
Yes, in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Thimphu and Paro. Plan one or two laundry stops and pack less.
The bottom line
Pack warm layers, modest clothes and shoes you can hike in. The Himalayas will do the rest.
Want to go? See our Nepal + Bhutan trip, or browse all our upcoming trips.
