breathtaking bhutan journey

Arrive at Bagdogra airport and transfer to Phuentsholing (180 km / 5-6 hrs). After immigration formalities, visit Karbandi Goemba, a monastery founded by the Royal Grandmother, offering stunning views of Phuentsholing and the surrounding plains. Overnight stay in Phuentsholing.

After breakfast, drive to Thimphu (180 km / 6-7 hrs), stopping at Chuzom, the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers, where stupas of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Bhutanese styles mark the site. Upon arrival, visit Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), a perfect viewpoint overlooking Thimphu Valley. Continue to the King’s Memorial Chorten, where devotees circumambulate, spinning prayer wheels. Later, explore Trashi Chhoe Dzong, an impressive fortress housing the King’s throne room and government offices. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around Thimphu’s main street and market, and visit the Local Crafts Bazaar to browse Bhutanese handicrafts. Overnight in Thimphu (Altitude: 2,400m).

After breakfast, explore Thimphu Valley with visits to the National Library, home to a vast collection of priceless Buddhist manuscripts, and the Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students train in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Continue to the Textile Museum, showcasing one of Bhutan’s most distinct art forms, and Simply Bhutan, a living museum preserving the country’s cultural heritage. Visit the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal, before driving to Punakha (75 km / 3 hrs) via Dochula Pass (3,080m), which offers breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas on clear days.

After checking in, visit Punakha Dzong, a grand fortress at the confluence of two rivers, once Bhutan’s capital and still the winter residence of the monastic body. Later, take an excursion to Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, known for blessing childless couples. The short walk through rice fields and a traditional village offers insight into rural Bhutanese life. Spend the evening exploring Punakha village along the riverbank. Overnight in Punakha.

After breakfast, drive to Paro (120 km / 4.5 hrs), stopping en route at Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress, now serving as a Buddhist school. Upon arrival in Paro, check into the hotel and later visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower and now home to the National Museum. The museum showcases an extensive collection of antique Thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons, and historical artifacts. From here, take a short walk down to Rinpung Dzong, also known as the "Fortress of the Heap of Jewels," which features impressive Buddhist murals and an inner courtyard lined with traditional wooden galleries. Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, take an excursion to Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest, a famous site perched 900 meters above the Paro Valley. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche meditated here after arriving on the back of a tigress, giving the monastery its name. This sacred place, visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime, was severely damaged by a fire in 1998 but has since been restored to its original beauty. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

After breakfast, check out and enjoy a scenic drive to Phuentsholing (170 km / 6-7 hrs). Upon arrival, check into the hotel and spend the evening at leisure. Overnight in Phuentsholing.

After breakfast, complete immigration formalities and transfer to Bagdogra airport (180 km / 5-6 hrs) for departure.