Upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP),you will begin your journey by road towards Phuentsholing, the gateway to Bhutan. The drive takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, winding through tea gardens and scenic plains. Once you reach Phuentsholing, check into your hotel and, time permitting, explore nearby attractions like the Bhutan Gate and Zangtopelri Lhakhang. This day is mostly about settling in and getting your first taste of Bhutanese hospitality and ambiance.
After breakfast, complete the immigration formalities (if not done on Day 1) and begin your uphill journey to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital city. The drive takes around 5 to 6 hours, with stunning views of rivers, dense forests, and waterfalls. Along the way, you can stop at scenic spots like Wankha Waterfalls or Chukha Hydropower Dam viewpoint. By late afternoon or evening, arrive in Thimphu and check into your hotel. The evening is free for a short stroll in the town or to rest.
Begin the day with local sightseeing in Thimphu, starting with the massive Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley, followed by visits to the National Memorial Chorten, the Folk Heritage Museum, and Changangkha Lhakhang. After lunch, embark on a scenic drive to Punakha via the famous Dochula Pass, which offers panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan ranges and 108 memorial chortens. On reaching Punakha, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong located at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers. Overnight stay will be in Punakha.
Today, take a full-day excursion to the beautiful and serene Phobjikha Valley, located about 3 hours from Punakha. En route, enjoy stunning mountain views and rural Bhutanese life. In Phobjikha, visit the famous Gangtey Monastery and enjoy a peaceful nature walk through the glacial valley on the Gangtey Nature Trail. This region is also the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes (visible between November and February). After exploring, return to Thimphu in the evening for your overnight stay.
After an early breakfast, drive to Paro and continue further up to the scenic Chele La Pass, Bhutan’s highest motorable road at nearly 4,000 meters above sea level. Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and the stunning landscapes dotted with colorful prayer flags. After spending some quiet time at the pass, drive back down to Paro and check in to your hotel. In the evening, you can visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, or explore Paro town.
This day is dedicated to Bhutan’s most iconic experience — the hike to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. The trek takes around 5 to 6 hours round trip and is moderately challenging but incredibly rewarding. Perched on the edge of a cliff, the monastery is both a spiritual and architectural marvel. After the trek, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. You may also opt for a traditional hot stone bath in the evening for relaxation.
After breakfast, visit remaining sights in Paro such as the Paro Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum (Ta Dzong). You can also take a stroll through the local market or pick up some souvenirs. After an early lunch, begin your return drive to Phuentsholing, which takes about 5 to 6 hours. Check into your hotel in Phuentsholing upon arrival and relax for the night.
Today marks the end of your Bhutan journey. After breakfast, drive back to Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station for your return journey home. Make sure your departure time allows for a 5–6 hour drive from Phuentsholing. Carry home memories of serene landscapes, rich culture, and warm Bhutanese hospitality.
