Himalayas of Bhutan - 9 Days

Day 01 : NJP Railway Station / Bagdogra Airport – Phuentsholing (Approx. 160 km | 4.5–5 Hours)

Upon arrival at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representative. Begin your scenic drive to Phuentsholing, a bustling border town in southern Bhutan that serves as the gateway between India and the Kingdom of Bhutan. Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, this town offers a fascinating contrast between Indian and Bhutanese culture. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and complete immigration formalities. Spend the evening at leisure or explore the local Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang, a small but beautiful temple representing the celestial abode of Guru Rinpoche. Overnight stay in Phuentsholing.

Day 02 : Phuentsholing – Thimphu (Approx. 165 km | 6–7 Hours)

After breakfast, begin a picturesque drive to Thimphu, the charming capital city of Bhutan. The journey gradually ascends from the plains into the lush, mountainous terrain of western Bhutan, offering breathtaking views of valleys, rivers, and traditional villages along the way. Upon arrival in Thimphu, check into your hotel. If time permits, take a short walk around the town to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Visit Tashichho Dzong (from outside), the majestic fortress that houses the throne room and offices of the King. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 03 : Thimphu Sightseeing

Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural heart of Bhutan. After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Thimphu. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a prominent religious landmark dedicated to world peace and the third king of Bhutan. Continue to the Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic 51-meter-tall statue that overlooks the city and offers panoramic views of the Thimphu valley. Explore the Folk Heritage Museum and Textile Museum to gain insight into Bhutanese traditions and crafts. Also visit the School of Traditional Arts (Zorig Chusum), where students learn the 13 traditional arts of Bhutan. End the day with a visit to the Changangkha Lhakhang, a sacred 12th-century monastery. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 04 : Thimphu – Punakha / Wangdue via Dochu La Pass (Approx. 75 km | 3 Hours)

After breakfast, depart for Punakha/Wangdue, crossing the scenic Dochu La Pass at 3,088 meters. On a clear day, this pass offers stunning views of the eastern Himalayan peaks. Stop at the 108 memorial chortens (Druk Wangyal Chortens) that adorn the pass. Continue descending into the fertile Punakha Valley. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historically significant fortresses located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Later, enjoy a short walk to the Chimi Lhakhang, the "Temple of Fertility", dedicated to the Divine Madman, Lama Drukpa Kunley. Overnight stay in Punakha or Wangdue.

Day 05 : Excursion to Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley) OR Local Sightseeing in Punakha

After breakfast, choose between a day excursion to the serene Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey) or a more relaxed day exploring local sites in Punakha. Option 1: Gangtey Excursion (Approx. 75 km | 3 Hours One Way) Drive to the glacial Phobjikha Valley, home to the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate here during winter. Visit the peaceful Gangtey Monastery, one of the oldest Nyingma monasteries in Bhutan. Take a nature walk through the valley and admire the untouched beauty of this high-altitude plain. Return to Punakha in the evening.

Option 2: Punakha Sightseeing Visit the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, which offers spectacular views and houses a large bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara. You may also enjoy a riverside walk or explore traditional village life nearby. Overnight stay in Punakha or Wangdue.

Day 06 : Punakha/Wangdue – Paro via Thimphu (Approx. 140 km | 4.5–5 Hours)

Today after breakfast, travel to Paro, one of the most picturesque valleys in Bhutan. En route, stop in Thimphu for a lunch break or some last-minute sightseeing or shopping. Continue your journey along winding roads and through scenic mountain passes. Upon arrival in Paro, check into your hotel and then proceed to visit Rinpung Dzong, a majestic fortress-monastery with splendid architecture and panoramic views. Later, walk down to the traditional wooden cantilever bridge. If time permits, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 07 : Paro Sightseeing – Excursion to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery

After an early breakfast, embark on the iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most famous spiritual site, perched dramatically on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The moderate hike takes about 4–5 hours round trip and is a deeply rewarding experience, both physically and spiritually. Legend holds that Guru Rinpoche flew to this site on the back of a tigress to subdue evil spirits. After the descent, return to town and spend the afternoon at leisure — perfect for shopping or a traditional hot stone bath (optional). Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 08 : Paro – Phuentsholing (Approx. 160 km | 6–7 Hours)

After breakfast, bid farewell to the serene landscapes of Paro as you journey back to Phuentsholing. Enjoy the changing scenery as you descend from the highlands into the subtropical plains. On arrival, check into your hotel and relax after the long drive. Evening free at leisure or take a walk through the vibrant local markets. Overnight stay in Phuentsholing.

Day 09 : Phuentsholing – NJP Railway Station / IXB Airport Drop (Approx. 160 km | 4.5–5 Hours)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed towards NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport for your onward journey. Return home with unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s natural beauty, rich culture, and spiritual heritage.