Tour Plan
Day- 01
Arrival at Bagdogra Airport/New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP)/Siliguri to Phuentsholing/Jaigaon
Bhutan adventure begins with a warm welcome at Bagdogra Airport or from Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri railway station. From these points, you can access Bhutan by road, offering a cost-effective journey. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Paro International Airport. Embark on a scenic drive through picturesque tea estates, admiring the stunning landscapes that border India and Bhutan. Upon arrival at Phuentsholing/Jaigaon, check into your comfortable hotel. Spend the evening exploring the local markets or simply relax in your pre booked hotel at Phuentsholing.
** tips for travellers who arriving at Bagdogra Airport and heading to Bhutan Border - Phuentsholing/Jaigaon:
Visa and Permit:
- Indian Nationals: While Indian nationals don't require a visa, they need a permit to enter Bhutan. This permit can be obtained at the Bhutanese Immigration Office in Phuentsholing.
- Foreign Nationals: Foreign nationals require both a visa and a permit to enter Bhutan. These can be obtained through a travel agent.
Transportation:
- Private Taxis: For a more comfortable and personalized experience, you can hire a private taxi.
Currency Exchange:
- Indian Rupees: Indian Rupees are widely accepted in Phuentsholing.
- Bhutanese Ngultrum: You can exchange Indian Rupees for Bhutanese Ngultrum at authorized exchange bureaus in Phuentsholing.
How to get a SIM card in Phuentsholing:
- Visit a Telecom Shop: Look for a telecom shop in Phuentsholing. They will have both B-Mobile and TashiCell SIM cards available.
- Required Documents: You will need to provide your passport or other valid photo ID.
- Activation: The shop staff will help you activate the SIM card and choose a suitable data plan.
Day- 02
Embarking on a Cultural Journey to Thimphu
After a delightful breakfast, drive to Phuentsholing and commence a captivating journey towards Thimphu, Bhutan's cultural heart. Your route winds through the enchanting town of Gedu, nestled amidst serene hills at an elevation of 9,000 feet. As you ascend, marvel at the impressive Chukha Dam, a testament to Bhutan's engineering prowess, harnessing the power of the mighty Punatsangchhu River. En route, explore the picturesque village of Kharbandi, renowned for its tranquil ambiance and quaint beauty. Visit the revered Sangye Migjur Ling Monastery, a spiritual sanctuary nestled amidst verdant hills. Continue your journey, captivated by the cascading beauty of the Wangkha Waterfalls, where crystal-clear waters plunge into a lush ravine.
At the confluence of the Thimphu Chu and Paro Chu rivers, pause at Chuzum to capture breathtaking photographs of the merging rivers, a symbolic representation of Bhutan's unity.
Arrive in Thimphu in the afternoon and check into your hotel, ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of this remarkable city.
Overnight in Thimphu
Day- 03
Immerse Yourself in Thimphu's Cultural Tapestry
Embark on a captivating exploration of Thimphu, Bhutan's vibrant capital city, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern life. Begin your day at the revered National Memorial Chorten, a stunning stupa honoring the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. Witness the serene atmosphere as devotees circumambulate the chorten, engaging in prayer and meditation.
Ascend to Kuensel Phodrang hill and marvel at the majestic Buddha Dordenma statue, a colossal bronze Buddha overlooking the panoramic Thimphu Valley. This imposing statue symbolizes peace and enlightenment.
Delve into Thimphu's rich cultural heritage at Changangkha Lhakhang, one of the city's oldest temples. Admire the intricate murals and serene ambiance of this historic site, dedicated to Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
Encounter the unique Takin, Bhutan's national animal, at the Takin Preservation Centre. Observe these gentle creatures in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts to protect this iconic species.
Explore the National Library, a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist manuscripts and texts. Admire the world's largest published book, a testament to Bhutan's rich literary heritage.
Immerse yourself in Bhutan's artistic traditions at the Zorig Chusum, a traditional arts and crafts school. Witness students learning various traditional arts, including painting, sculpture, wood carving, and textile weaving.
Discover the exquisite world of Bhutanese textiles at the Royal Textile Museum. Admire intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and masterful craftsmanship, reflecting Bhutan's rich textile heritage.
Experience a unique blend of culture, tradition, and sustainability at Simply Bhutan. Explore traditional Bhutanese architecture and engage in interactive cultural activities, such as learning about traditional dress, archery, and the local dart game, Khuru.
Day- 04
A Journey to Punakha: Where History Meets Nature
Awaken to the serene beauty of the Punakha Valley and savor a warm cup of Bhutanese milk tea, Ngaja. Embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, nestled amidst the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
En route, traverse the majestic Dochula Pass, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. As you descend, immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Punakha Valley, renowned for its fertile rice fields and picturesque landscapes.
Explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, a historic fortress that stands as a testament to Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. Admire its intricate architecture and serene ambiance.
Visit the sacred Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kuenley. Experience the temple's tranquil surroundings and learn about its unique history.
Discover a hidden gem, the suspension bridge, offering breathtaking views of the Punakha Valley. Capture stunning photographs of the valley's natural beauty.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at the Kaja Throm market. Explore the stalls, savor authentic Bhutanese cuisine, and engage with friendly locals.
Delve into Bhutan's rich textile heritage at the Royal Textile Museum. Admire exquisite textiles and learn about traditional weaving techniques.
Experience a unique blend of culture, tradition, and sustainability at Simply Bhutan. Engage in interactive cultural activities, such as learning about traditional dress, archery, and the local dart game, Khuru.
Day- 05
Exploring the Enchanting Paro Valley
Embark on a journey through time and tradition as you explore the picturesque Paro Valley. Visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed within the ancient Ta-dzong building, to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan. Admire exquisite paintings, bronze statues, and artifacts that narrate the fascinating history of this Himalayan kingdom.
Ascend to the majestic Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that stands as a testament to Bhutan's architectural prowess. Admire its intricate woodwork, colorful murals, and the towering central watchtower, symbols of Bhutan's spiritual and temporal power.
Traverse the iconic Nya Mey Zam Bridge, offering panoramic views of the Paro Valley and the majestic Rinpung Dzong. Capture breathtaking photos of this serene landscape.
Visit the Paro Airport View Point, perched atop a hill, to witness sweeping views of the Paro Valley, the meandering Paro River, and the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. Admire the patchwork of rice fields, verdant hills, and the vibrant town of Paro.
Overnight in Paro
Day- 06
A Spiritual Journey to Tiger's Nest Monastery
Awaken to the serene beauty of the Paro Valley and fuel up with a hearty breakfast. Embark on a thrilling trek to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside 900 meters above the valley floor.
Ascend the steep trail, taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Paro Valley. Upon reaching the summit, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the Taktsang Monastery, a sacred site established by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century. Admire the monastery's stunning architecture and learn about its rich history.
