Nepal and Bhutan luxury guided tour

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

By traveling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.

Hotel Dwarika and Dwarika Sanctuary address energy and carbon emissions by prioritizing the use of renewable and low-emission technologies. Currently, hotels have implemented an electrical heat pump in place of a diesel boiler and adopted solar thermal heating to support our hot water system. Electrical appliances are used wherever possible to further reduce carbon emissions. Looking ahead, it plans to continue improving efficiency and sustainability across all operations, including expanding renewable energy use and exploring additional regenerative energy models.

Hotel Zhiwa Ling Ascent – Thimphu uses solar energy for water heating and outdoor lighting. Dawa at Hilltop by Heeton – Paro also uses solar power for some outdoor lighting.

90% food is locally sourced, seasonal and organic. Vegetarian and vegan food are available everyday. Dwarika menus have vegetarian and vegan options. For Vegan meals, an advanced dietary preference request will help timely arrangement of meals.

Environment and wildlife

Dwarika’s both hotels manage solid waste by separating it into reusable, organic, and dry waste. Organic waste is composted or used in our sustainable farming initiatives, reusable items are repurposed where possible, and dry waste is properly processed to minimize environmental impact. We continue to explore ways to improve waste management and implement regenerative practices. It focuses on water efficiency and conservation by using low-flow fixtures, monitoring water usage, and promoting responsible practices among staff and guests. These measures help reduce overall consumption and ensure sustainable use of water resources within the property. It manages kitchen wastewater by using traps to treat it before it enters the city sewage system.
This helps reduce contaminants and minimizes the environmental impact on municipal water systems. Dwarika's Sanctuary was built out of deep respect for nature and the ancient wisdom of the Himalayan mountains. The property sits on 25 acres of natural forest at the base of the Himalayas, with stunning views of the mountain peaks. The Sanctuary does more than just protect nature—it actively works to restore it. The grounds are filled with native trees and plants that originally grew in this region. These plants create safe spaces where local wildlife can live and travel. Native bees and butterflies feed on the flowers, while many different bird species make their homes in the forest trees. The property works like a real sanctuary where animals and plants can flourish alongside the guests. Hotel Dwarika, Kathmandu has maintained lush greenery within its property using indigenous plants and trees. Instead of manicured gardens with seasonal flowers, it has preserved a traditional garden featuring fruit trees and native flowers, ensuring year-round greenery and fresh air.

Both Zhiwa Ling Ascent – Thimphu and Dawa at Hilltop by Heeton – Paro practise rainwater harvesting as a measure to reduce water consumption and lower their overall environmental impact. In addition, Zhiwa Ling Ascent – Thimphu has energy-efficient building design that maximises natural light and thermal efficiency, further contributing to the reduction of its carbon footprint. Hotel Zhiwa Ling Ascent – Thimphu supports nature restoration and biodiversity around the property. Its design and landscaping create a natural setting that harmonises with nearby green spaces and provides habitat continuity for local wildlife, including birds and pollinators. Dawa at Hilltop by Heeton – Paro is set within a natural hillside environment overlooking pine forests and the Paro Valley, which inherently supports local biodiversity. Together with rainwater harvesting and careful site integration, the property’s location and design encourage the preservation of the surrounding landscape and habitat for native flora and fauna.

This itinerary does not include National Park and protected areas. However, it offers optional helicopter trips to the Everest region that include National Park fee and local Govt fees . ( Presently s. 3,000 per person for Everest National Park & Rs. 3000 pp for local village development ).

This trip covers Kathmandu valley and its surrounding hence it includes conservation of intangible heritages and cultural revival. Our guides are locals who are instrumental in respecting the conservation initiatives/ leave no trace practices in hiking trails. Furthermore on Signature day (Day 4), Forest bathing & guided nature walk in Gokhureshwar community forest is a successful conservation model engaging local people. This way our trip helps in nurturing nature and reforestation initiatives.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

Our trips maximize local economic opportunities by hiring local guides & drivers. It also supports handicraft artisans, women cooperatives and Newari village visits such as Bhaktapur, Panauti, and Namobuddha. We source our souvenirs / gifts from women-led fairtrade stores such as Dhukuti and Mahaguthi, which provide employment to women from marginalized communities. Through these partnerships, we ensure that tourism benefits reach local artisans, cooperatives, and community-based enterprises.

EMPLOYMENT, DIVERSITY and INCLUSIVITY


This trip is LGBTQ+ friendly. Nepal is an LGBTQ+ friendly destination with progressive laws that protect and recognize same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights. Our society, especially in urban areas, is increasingly progressive and welcoming toward LGBTQ+ travelers. We ensure that all our partners, including hotels, restaurants, and guides, maintain inclusive and respectful environments for guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Our staff is trained to provide safe, comfortable, and equitable experiences for all travelers.

The hotel buildings / cottages and most of the hiking trails / excursion destinations are not accessible. They have steps or uneven ground that present a great challenge, so travelers with specific needs should communicate the requirements in advance so as to plan and deliver services minimising possible discomfort.