Day 1: Arrival in Phuentsholing
Upon arrival at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), Bagdogra Airport (IXB), or Siliguri Bus Terminus, you’ll be greeted by a tour representative who will assist you with the transfer to Phuentsholing, the gateway to Bhutan. The 4-hour scenic drive takes you through lush green tea estates and forests of the Dooars region. Check into your hotel at Phuentsholing, a bustling town on the Bhutan-India border. Spend the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Phuentsholing
Day 2: Phuentsholing to Thimphu (2350m)
After an early breakfast, complete your permit processing at the Bhutan Immigration Office with the assistance of your guide. Once permits are issued, begin your 7-hour scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. En route, stop at picturesque waterfalls and witness Bhutan’s unique architectural style. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring Thimphu’s bustling streets and local market.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu Sightseeing
Start your day with a visit to Buddha Point, home to the largest Buddha statue in Bhutan, offering panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. Explore other key attractions including Tashichho Dzong, the Memorial Chorten, and the Institute of Traditional Medicine. Visit the School of Arts & Crafts, Motithang Takin Reserve, and Zangthopelri Lhakhang. End the day with a stroll around Thimphu’s local crafts market for some souvenir shopping.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha & Transfer to Paro
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital. Visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge, the longest in Bhutan, and visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten. Continue your journey to Paro, passing through the beautiful Dochu La Pass with its 108 chortens. Check into your hotel in Paro upon arrival.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 5: Paro Sightseeing
Explore Paro’s rich historical and cultural sites, starting with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). In the afternoon, visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, the National Museum at Ta Dzong, and other significant landmarks such as Kyichu Lhakhang and Drukgyal Dzong. Spend the evening exploring Paro’s charming town center.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 6: Paro to Phuentsholing
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Phuentsholing. The 5-hour drive will take you through scenic landscapes and beautiful valleys. Upon arrival in Phuentsholing, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the local market or relaxing.
Overnight: Hotel in Phuentsholing
Day 7: Departure from Phuentsholing
After an early breakfast, check out of your hotel and drive back to your onward destination, either NJP Railway Station, Bagdogra Airport, or Siliguri Bus Terminus. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Dooars region with an optional stop at Coronation Bridge for photography.