Discover the tranquility, rich Buddhist heritage, and spectacular Himalayan landscapes of the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Starting with a scenic overland border entry from Bagdogra through Phuentsholing, this 9-day journey guides you through the cultural landmarks of the capital city Thimphu, the subtropical valleys of Punakha & Phobjikha, and the iconic mountain sanctuaries of Paro. Highlights include crossing the panoramic Dochula Pass, hiking through the glacial Phobjikha Valley, and making the legendary pilgrimage trek to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).
Upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport and embark on a scenic drive across the plains to the border town of Phuentsholing. Complete the entry immigration formalities as you seamlessly transition into Bhutan. Check into your hotel, relax, and take an evening stroll through the town market to absorb the local atmosphere. Enjoy a welcoming dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Phuentsholing
After breakfast, drive toward Bhutan’s modern capital, Thimphu. Pause along the winding mountain road at Kharbandi Check Post for sweeping views of the plains, then pass Chunzom Junction where the Thimphu and Paro rivers meet. Upon arrival in Thimphu, check into your hotel and refresh. Later, visit the iconic Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan, before enjoying an evening walk through the vibrant streets of Thimphu. Overnight in Thimpu.
Begin the morning with a visit to Buddha Point (Kuenselphodrang) to see the giant Buddha statue overlooking the valley. Next, experience living culture at the Simply Bhutan Museum, followed by visits to the National Library (ancient manuscripts), the Textile Museum (traditional weaving), the Bhutan Postal Museum (philatelic history), and the Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory. Conclude your day with a tour of Tashichhoedzong, a magnificent fortress serving as the seat of government and the monastic body. Overnight in Thimpu.
Depart Thimphu for Punakha, ascending to the breathtaking Dochula Pass (3,100 m). Take in the 360-degree views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain range surrounded by 108 memorial chortens and fluttering prayer flags. Descend into the warm Punakha Valley and embark on a walk through paddy fields and villages to Chimi Lhakhang (the famous "Temple of Fertility"). Afterward, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong situated at the confluence of two rivers, and walk across the adjacent Punakha Suspension Bridge. Overnight in Punakha.
Set off early on a scenic day tour to the glacier-carved Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley (altitude 3,000 meters). Hike along the tranquil Gangtey Nature Trail surrounded by pristine pine forests, visit the ancient Gangtey Goenba monastery, and explore the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre to learn about the endangered wintering cranes. As the afternoon wanes, return to Punakha through the scenic countryside for a relaxing evening at your hotel. Overnight in Punakha.
Enjoy breakfast before driving along the highway toward the historical Paro Valley. Stop en route at Simtokha Dzong, built in 1627 as Bhutan's oldest fortress. Upon arriving in Paro, check into your hotel and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, explore Ta Dzong (the National Museum housing antique thangkas, armor, and textiles) and take a short walk down to Rinpung Dzong, famous for its wooden galleries and Buddhist murals. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel. Overnight in Paro.
Embrace an early morning excursion to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), clinging precariously to a cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor. Follow the scenic pilgrimage trail through pine and rhododendron forests to witness this sacred site where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated. After hiking back down, spend your late afternoon taking a leisurely walk through Paro's main street and local handicraft markets. Overnight in Paro.
Say farewell to the inner valleys of Bhutan as you commence your drive back down through the mountains to the border town of Phuentsholing. Check into your hotel, enjoy a final evening stroll through the town to collect souvenirs, and gather for a farewell dinner. Overnight in Phuentsholing.
Following breakfast at the hotel, complete your border departure procedures and take the final transfer back to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) for your onward flight home.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to take this tour is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is clear, sunny, and pleasant, offering optimal mountain views across the Dochula Pass and ideal hiking conditions for the Tiger's Nest trek. Autumn also coincides with many vibrant cultural Tshechus (festivals), while spring brings blooming rhododendrons across the hillsides.
Yes, all foreign travelers require travel authorization to enter Bhutan. For international tourists, a visa must be processed in advance. Indian passport holders do not require a visa, but must obtain an Entry Permit at the Phuentsholing border immigration office using a passport valid for at least 6 months or a valid Voter ID card.
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a mandatory daily tourism levy imposed by the Royal Government of Bhutan to support eco-tourism, healthcare, and infrastructure. The SDF is already included in the cost of this tour package, so you do not need to pay it separately on arrival.
The hike on Day 7 is a moderate-to-challenging roundtrip trek lasting about 4 to 5 hours, with an elevation gain of approximately 900 meters. The trail is well-maintained, and travelers can hike at their own comfortable pace. There is also a cafeteria located halfway up the trail where you can rest and enjoy views of the monastery.
The local currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian Rupees (in ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, and ₹100 denominations) are widely accepted across local markets and hotels. High-value Indian notes like ₹500 are legally restricted. Credit cards are only accepted at major luxury hotels and select souvenir shops, so carrying cash for daily personal expenses is recommended.
