Tour Overview :
Experience the best of Bhutan in this carefully crafted 8-day itinerary that begins and ends in Bagdogra. Discover the serene towns of Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro while passing through breathtaking mountain passes and lush valleys. Witness Bhutan's rich culture, spiritual heritage, and stunning architecture—from the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery to ancient dzongs and monasteries. Ideal for Indian travelers, this trip also allows permit-free access to Phuentsholing and helps save on the SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) with smart route planning.
Tour Highlights :
- Cross the scenic Indo-Bhutan border and explore peaceful Phuentsholing
- Wander through Thimphu’s cultural gems, monasteries, and city vibes
- Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views from Dochula Pass
- Marvel at the majestic Punakha Dzong and Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge
- Trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery or opt for scenic drives to Chele La Pass
- Visit historic sites like Simtokha Dzong and Tachog Bridge
- Flexible itinerary with comfortable hotels and local guides
- Smart route to save INR 1200/person on Phuentsholing SDF
Day Wise Itinerary
Phuentsholing is Bhutan’s vibrant border town known for its cultural blend of Indian and Bhutanese influences. It offers a peaceful first impression of the kingdom with markets, temples, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Distance: ~165 km
- Driving Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours
- Route: IXB – Siliguri – Hasimara – Jaigaon/Phuentsholing
- Itinerary:
- Arrive at Bagdogra Airport (IXB)
- Drive to Phuentsholing
- Check-in at hotel
- Visit Immigration Office to apply for permits
- Evening: Explore Zangtho Pelri Park or local markets
- Overnight: Hotel in Phuentsholing
Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, is a lively blend of tradition and modernity, nestled in a scenic valley. En route, Kharbandi Monastery offers sweeping views of Phuentsholing and the Indian plains.
- Distance: ~150 km
- Driving Time: 5–6 hours
- Route: Phuentsholing – Gedu – Chukha – Thimphu
- Itinerary:
- Complete immigration formalities
- Visit Kharbandi Monastery
- Scenic drive through forests and river valleys
- Check-in at Thimphu hotel
- Evening: Explore Clock Tower Square and local cafés
- Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Thimphu captivates with its majestic dzongs, monasteries, and modern Bhutanese culture. The valley is rich with cultural heritage and panoramic views.
- Local Travel Distance: ~30–40 km
- Itinerary:
- Buddha Dordenma
- Takin Preserve
- BBS Tower
- Zilukha Nunnery
- Simply Bhutan Museum
- Institute for Zorig Chusum
- Local archery match (if available)
- Evening: Tashichho Dzong (illuminated at night)
- Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Punakha, once Bhutan’s capital, sits in a lush valley and features the stunning riverside dzong. The route through Dochula Pass offers breathtaking Himalayan views and 108 memorial stupas.
- Distance: ~75 km
- Driving Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Itinerary:
- Depart for Punakha
- Stop at Dochula Pass (3,100m)
- Visit Punakha Dzong
- Walk across the Suspension Bridge
- Overnight: Hotel in Punakha or Wangdue
Paro is a tranquil town with ancient heritage and mountain vistas. En route, visit Bhutan’s oldest dzong and an iron bridge beside a hillside temple.
- Distance: ~130 km
- Driving Time: 4.5 to 5 hours
- Itinerary:
- Depart for Paro
- Visit Simtokha Dzong
- Visit Tachog Lhakhang & Iron Bridge
- Scenic river & airport viewpoints
- Evening: Paro town walk
- Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Option A – Adventure Hike:
- Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (~5–6 hrs round trip)
- Return and rest
Option B – Cultural & Scenic Tour:
- Visit National Museum (Ta Dzong)
- Explore Paro Dzong
- Drive to Chele La Pass (~3,988m, Bhutan’s highest motorable road)
- Overnight: Hotel in Paro
- Distance: ~160 km
- Driving Time: 5 to 6 hours
- Itinerary:
- Drive back to Phuentsholing
- Exit Bhutan and re-enter to save SDF
- Check-in at hotel
- Leisure evening
- Overnight: Hotel in Phuentsholing
- Distance: ~165 km
- Driving Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours
- Itinerary:
- Breakfast
- Transfer to Bagdogra Airport for onward flight
Important Travel Information
- Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
- Route: Bagdogra – Phuentsholing – Thimphu – Punakha – Paro – Phuentsholing – Bagdogra
- Type: Cultural & Nature Tour
- Entry Fees & Guides: Available on request
- Mode of Transport: Non-AC vehicles suited to group size
- Accommodation: 3-star to 5-star hotels or heritage stays
- Customization: Available as per guest preference
- Permit Requirement:
- Indian nationals need valid Passport or Voter ID (original)
- Children below 18: Original Birth Certificate
- Road Conditions: Mountainous; travel times may vary
General Guidelines for Tourists:
- Dress modestly; avoid revealing clothes
- Cover shoulders/knees at religious sites
- Remove hats, sunglasses, shoes at dzongs and temples
- No shorts or sleeveless tops inside sacred places
Best Time to Visit
- Spring: March to May
- Autumn: September to November
Recommended Travel Tips
Tour Includes
- Meet & greet at Bagdogra Airport
- Pick-up & drop from Bagdogra Airport
- Fixed Menu Breakfast & Dinner at hotels
- Accommodation on twin/double sharing basis
- All internal transport in Bhutan (Non-AC):
- 2 Pax: Creta/Santa Fe/Kia Sportage
- 3 Pax: Ertiga
- 4–8 Pax: Toyota Mini Bus / H1
- 9+ Pax: Coaster Bus
- IXB Pick & Drop (Non-AC):
- 2–3 Pax: Wangnor or similar
- 4–8 Pax: Innova or similar
- 9+ Pax: Traveller/Multiple Vehicles
- English-speaking Bhutanese guide
- Sightseeing from 9 AM to 5 PM
Tour Excludes
- Entrance fees to museums & monuments
- Lunch: INR 600 per person per meal
- Single Room Supplement: INR 10,500 for 7 nights
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides, drivers, porters
- Airfare
- Expenses due to delays or strikes
- SDF (Pay directly at Phuentsholing Immigration):
- Adults: INR 6000
- Children (6–12): INR 3000
Accommodation
Tour Cost (in US$) Per Person
Note:
Hotel
Sightseeings
Vehicle
Guide
Monument
