panoramic bhutan adventure

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, visit the National Library, which houses an extensive collection of Buddhist manuscripts. Continue to the Institute for Zorig Chusum, commonly known as the Painting School, where students undergo training in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Later, explore the Textile Museum, which provides insight into Bhutan’s intricate weaving traditions, and Simply Bhutan, a living museum showcasing Bhutanese culture and heritage. In the afternoon, visit Zilukha Nunnery, also known as Druthob Goemba, the largest nunnery in Bhutan. Set in a peaceful location, it offers a glimpse into the spiritual lives of Bhutanese nuns. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

After breakfast, drive to Punakha (75 km / 3 hrs) via Dochula Pass (3,080m), which offers breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas on clear days. En route, visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility, located on a small hillock. The short walk to the temple through rice fields and traditional villages offers a glimpse into rural Bhutanese life. Later, visit Punakha Dzong, a magnificent fortress located at the confluence of two rivers. It served as Bhutan’s capital until 1955 and remains the winter residence of the monastic body. 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, embark on an excursion to Taktshang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor, this sacred site is where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated. The trek takes about five hours round trip, offering stunning views along the way. Alternatively, opt for a full-day excursion to Haa Valley via Chele-La Pass (3,800m), one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes. Visit Haa Dzong, Lhakhang Karpo, Lhakhang Nagpo, and Wangchulo Dzong before returning to Paro in the evening. Overnight stay 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.