Bhutan · Private & Tailored Tour
Himalayan Foothills to Highland Valleys
Bagdogra · Phuentsholing · Thimphu · Punakha · Paro
Duration
6 Nights / 7 Days
Destinations
Bagdogra, Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha, Paro
Travel Style
Private & Tailored Tour
Covering
2 Countries · 5 Cities
Overview
Bhutan – The Last Shangri-La of the Himalayas!
Ascending from the tea-carpeted plains of West Bengal into the high Himalayas, this seven-day overland circuit bridges low-altitude borderlands with Bhutan’s cultural core. Entering via Phuentsholing and climbing past Kharbandi Gompa along dramatic river gorges, the route reaches Thimphu. Days in the capital balance heritage and daily life, taking in Semtokha Dzong, the National Memorial Chorten, the National Library, traditional craft workshops, and weekend market commerce.
Crossing the rhododendron-clad ridge of the 3,100-meter Dochu-La pass, the journey descends into the temperate, subtropical basin of Punakha. Exploration centers on the monumental seventeenth-century Punakha Dzong at the river confluence, paired with walks through terraced paddies to the fertility shrine of Chimi Lhakhang and the hillside stupa of Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. A stop at the historic ridgeline fortress of Wangduephodrang rounds out the valley circuit before heading west.
The finale unfolds in Paro with the iconic pilgrimage ascent to Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest), clinging to sheer cliffs 900 meters above the valley. Further discoveries span the 17th-century ramparts of Drukgyel Dzong, the ancient 7th-century sanctuary of Kyichu Lhakhang, and an optional high-pass foray into the secluded Haa Valley. Supported by private overland transit, cultural admissions, and local guiding, this route offers a focused, ground-level immersion into Bhutan’s sacred strongholds.
Highlights
What You Will Experience
- Travel from Bagdogra/Siliguri through lush tea gardens to Phuentsholing, the gateway to Bhutan
- Visit Kharbandi Gompa and enjoy panoramic views over Phuentsholing and the Indian plains
- Discover Thimphu’s cultural heritage through the National Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Temple, National Library, and Traditional Paper Factory
- Cross the scenic Dochu-La Pass and admire Himalayan mountain views and seasonal rhododendron blooms
- Explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers
- Hike through rice fields to the hilltop Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and enjoy a picturesque riverside picnic
- Experience the iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery, perched dramatically above the Paro Valley
- Discover historic Drukgyel Dzong and the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro
The Route
Your Journey
Bagdogra · Phuentsholing · Thimphu · Punakha · Paro
Itinerary
Day by Day
Day 01 – Bagdogra/siliguri – Phuentsholing
Our Bhutan Rovers-Travel & Tourrepresentative will meet you on arrival at either Siliguri or Bagdogra airport in the Indian state of West Bengal. After a drive of about three hours along roads lined with lush green tea gardens you will reach Phuentsholing, the gateway to Bhutan. This rapidly growing town is Bhutan’s commercial centre. Before dinner at the hotel there will be an orientation on Bhutanese etiquette by your guide.
Overnight: Phuentsholing
Meals: As per plan
Day 02 – Phuentsholing – Thimphu
After breakfast, proceed to Thimphu, stopping enroute at Kharbandi Gompa. This beautiful monastery was built by Royal Grandmother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedon in 1967. There is a splendid view of Phuentsholing and the Indian plains from the splendid monastery gardens of tropical plants and flowers. From this point the road climbs steeply up and down mountainous ranges through light mountain jungle displaying lianas and orchids and small townships such as Chukha and Chimakothi. Lunch is served en route.
After passing through Chapcha, the road reaches its highest point of about 2,800m, then descends steeply and runs along the bank of the Wang Chu (river) to Chuzom (meaning confluence), where ir meets Paro Chu. From here it is only 2 hours’ drive up the valley to Thimphu. Shortly before reaching our destination, we will stop to visit Semtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in the kingdom, build by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1627. On arrival in Thimphu, check into the hotel.
Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: As per plan
Day 03 – Thimphu
Once a rustic village sitting in a broad, fertile river valley, Thimphu is today the nation’s bustling capital. Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, including a visit to the National Memorial Chorten depicting the Buddhist faith in the form of paintings and statues. This temple was first initiated by the Third King as a protection from the negative elements of modernisation, and as a monument to world peace. The Royal Queen Mother completed it as a memorial stupa for the Third King who passed away in 1972. Continue on to 12th century Changangkha Temple and Drubthob monastery housing the Zilukha Nunnery.
Other sites to visit include: the School for Arts and Crafts where students are taught the 13 types of Bhutanese art, The National Library housing the collection of Bhutanese scriptures dating back to the 8th century, the Traditional Paper Factory displaying the Bhutanese paper making process, and a fascinating replica of a medieval farmhouse at the Folk Heritage Museum.
If there is time, you may visit the nursing pen for the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan, and Tashichhodzong, ‘the fortress of the glorious religion’. Initially erected in 1641 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was rebuilt in the 1960s during the reign of Bhutan’s third king in the traditional style, without plans or nails. Tashichhodzong houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body.
If your visit to Thimphu coincides with the weekend, you can walk through the Thimphu Market to see the variety of food of Bhutan, including basket upon basket of fiery chillies, fresh cheese and a variety of fresh greens. In addition, many stalls contain Bhutanese handicrafts and household items. (This market is open only from Friday until mid Sunday).
Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: As per plan
Day 04 – Thimphu – Punakha
Drive over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks before descending into balmy Punakha valley (about 3 hrs total driving time). The drive through the countryside affords a glimpse of everyday life in this most remote of Himalayan kingdoms. In the Dochu-La area there are vast Rhododendron forests that grow to tree size and bloom in late April/early May covering the mountains in a riot of glorious spring colour.
Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness” built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’ as predicted by the great Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava). It is situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers) and is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. It was here on 17th December 1907, Bhutan’s first king was crowned.
After lunch, enjoy a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Drukpa Kuenly who is also known as the Divine Madman. He inherited the Divine Madman title since he revolted against the orthodox Buddhism in his time. He taught the people that religion is an inner feeling and it’s not necessary that one should be an ordained monk. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and most childless couples go to his temple for blessing.
Overnight: Punakha / Wangduephodrang
Meals: As per plan
Day 05 – Punakha – Thimphu – Paro
In the morning drive to Yabesa village and hike to through ricefields and up to Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten, built by her majesty the queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. Perched high on a hill on the bank of the river, the Chorten houses paintings belonging to Nyingmapa Traditions.
Take a picnic lunch on a picturesque riverside before exploring the bustling town of Wangduephodrang. Visit the market and Wangduephodrang Dzong. Built in 1639 the strategically located Dzong is perched on a spur at the confluence of two rivers. In the 17th century Wangduephodrang played a critical role in unifying the western, central and southern regions of the country.
Drive back to Thimphu where you will have an opportunity to visit handicraft and souvenir stores. Afterwards proceed to Paro, visiting Semtokha Dzong en route. The Dzong, built in 1627, is the oldest in Bhutan. It now houses the Institute for Language and Culture studies. On arrival in Paro, check into the hotel.
Overnight: Paro
Meals: As per plan
Day 06 – Paro
After breakfast hike to Taktsang Monastery. The trail is broad and the walk of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill takes you almost a kilometre above the Paro valley floor (for those who cannot hike we will arrange a horse for transfer up to cafeteria). The view of Taktsang Monastery built on a sheer cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor is a spectacular sight. The Monastery is also an important pilgrim site for the Buddhists. The great Guru Rimpoche is said to have flown here on the back of a tigress when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. He then mediated in a cave there for three months where the monastery was later built. The cave is said to be the origin of Buddhism in Bhutan. Nearby there is a teahouse where you can stop for refreshments before returning to Paro for lunch.
In the afternoon drive to the ruins of the 17th Century Drukgyel Dzong, an historic monument built by the Shabdrung to commemorate his victory against invading Tibetans in 1644. In fine weather the towering peak of the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7314m) appears as a stunning backdrop. On the return drive to Paro, visit 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Kyichu is built in a manner similar to the Jokhang in Lhasa. Inside there is a great golden image of Buddha Shakyamuni.
Alternatively, day 6 could be spent on a day trip to the Haa Valley, one of the most picturesque districts in Bhutan. Reached via the beautiful Chelila Pass, Haa Valley is characterised by its surrounding rugged and mountainous terrain.
Overnight: Paro
Meals: As per plan
Day 07 – Depart Paro
Breakfast in the hotel, then drive to the airport for flight to your onward destination.
Tashi Delek!
Meals: As per plan
Stays & Travel
Accommodation & Transport
Where You Stay
- Phuentsholing – 1 night
- Thimphu – 2 nights
- Punakha / Wangduephodrang – 1 night
- Paro – 2 nights
Getting There
- Departure flight from Paro to your onward destination
Getting Around
- Private car or shared vehicle with driver as mentioned in the itinerary
- Airport transfers by private car
- Bottles of water on vehicles for tour days and transfers
- Your team: Private Guide, Driver, Trip Managing Expert
Your Tour
What Is Included
Included
- Accommodation with daily breakfast
- Private car or shared vehicle with driver as mentioned in the itinerary
- Airport transfers by private car
- Local English-speaking guides as mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner) as mentioned in the itinerary
- Bottles of water on vehicles for tour days and transfers
Not Included
- Internal/ International flights not mentioned
- Visa fees
- Travel Insurance
- Hotel early check-in or late check-out surcharge (if requested)
- Meals (L/D) and drinks not mentioned
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, Excess Baggage Charges, souvenirs…) and other services not mentioned.
- Peak season surcharge
- Tips & gratuities for guides and drivers
- All other services not mentioned above
Booking Terms
Cancellation Policy
Read the cancellation policy
Charges, as a share of the tour price, by days before departure:
- More than 21 days: 10%
- 15–21 days: 25%
- 7–14 days: 50%
- Less than 7 days: 100%
Our standard booking terms and website disclaimer: Terms & Conditions.
Tailor This Journey
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