26025 – Mrs. Pushplata Bhati // Bhutan

Upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station, you will be warmly received by our driver. The drive to Phuentsholing takes about four hours, following the Teesta River, passing through scenic tea gardens, and gradually ascending to the foothills of Bhutan. The ideal arrival time is before 1:00 PM to ensure a comfortable journey.

En route, you may take short breaks or continue driving through the small towns across the highways. On reaching Phuentsholing, our team will greet you and assist with the immigration formalities at the border. After completing the process, check in to a quiet and relaxing hotel to unwind and re-energize for the journey ahead.

Phuentsholing is one of the most vibrant border towns of Bhutan, home to many Bhutanese families and thriving business communities. In the evening, you may explore the town on foot, browse through shops offering imported garments, or local cuisine and drinks. The town is safe, lively, and offers a pleasant introduction to Bhutan.

Phuentsholing: Phuentsholing, opposite Jaigaon, is a bustling border town and Bhutan’s trade gateway, where Bhutanese and Indian cultures blend vibrantly.
Evening if time permits visit Zangto Pelri Lhakhang, a serene temple in Phuentsholing, showcasing Guru Rinpoche, Bodhisattvas, Avalokiteshwara, Zhabdrung, and Buddha Amitabha.

Complete the immigration formalities before the journey.The road journey from Phuentsholing to Thimphu is a scenic five-hour drive, gradually ascending from subtropical plains to cool alpine hills. The route winds through dense forests, waterfalls, and charming mountain villages, offering breathtaking views of valleys and rivers, before reaching Bhutan’s serene capital, Thimphu, nestled in the Himalayas.

Stops en route: Tea/coffee breaks, photo opportunities at waterfalls and villages.

Chuzom (confluence of Thimphu & Paro rivers): A tri-junction where highways meet; enjoy the welcome portraits of Bhutan’s King and Queen.

Explore Thimphu by Walk: If time permits, stroll Thimphu’s vibrant streets, explore handicrafts, souvenirs, imported goods, and experience modern Bhutanese life. Overnight at 2,400m altitude.

Thimphu – This vibrant city is Bhutan’s center of commerce, religion, and government. While it is the most modern city in the country, with a variety of restaurants, internet cafes, shopping centers, and nightlife, Thimphu still beautifully retains its cultural identity and traditional values. Often called the world’s only capital without traffic lights, it offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Memorial Chorten: Built in memory of Bhutan’s third king, it is dedicated to world peace and is one of Thimphu’s most iconic landmarks.

Buddha Dordenma: A massive golden statue overlooking Thimphu Valley, located at Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park. 

Motithang Takin Preserve: Motithang Takin Preserve, near BBS tower, is a wildlife reserve in Thimphu, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the unique Takin.

Wangditse Hike: Drive above Thimphu, visit Motithang Takin Reserve to see the national animal, ‘Drong Gemtse,’ with cow’s body, goat’s head.

Thimphu Weekend Market: Farmers and traders from across Bhutan sell produce and goods next to Changlimithang National Playground. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Begin the scenic two-hour drive from Thimphu to Punakha, crossing the iconic Dochula Pass at 3,100 meters, where 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views await. After a refreshing break, the road winds down into the lush Punakha Valley, one of Bhutan’s warmest and most picturesque regions, blessed with fertile fields and stunning landscapes.

Dochula Pass: This panoramic location offers stunning views of the Himalayan range, especially on clear winter days. The pass is adorned with 108 chortens.

Punakha Dzong: Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness,” a 17th-century architectural masterpiece at Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers’ confluence.

Punakha Suspension Bridge: One of Bhutan’s longest bridges, connecting Punakha Dzong to nearby villages. Overnight at 1,350m.

The journey from Punakha to Phobjikha is a beautiful and peaceful drive, taking you through winding mountain roads, thick forests, and quiet village life. As you climb higher, the air feels cooler and fresher. Eventually, the landscape opens into the calm, wide Phobjikha Valley, home to graceful black-necked cranes.

Phobjikha Valley is a beautiful, glacial valley located in central Bhutan. Surrounded by pine-covered mountains, it is known for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic landscapes, and as the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes. The valley is part of the protected Gangtey region and is rich in both nature and culture.

Gangtey Goenpa is a 17th-century monastery in Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan. It’s a spiritual center of the Nyingma tradition, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful, scenic mountain surroundings.

The Black-Necked Crane Centre in Phobjikha Valley is dedicated to the conservation of the endangered black-necked cranes. It offers information, exhibits, and observation areas to educate visitors and protect these graceful birds.

The return drive from Paro to Phuentsholing begins early, allowing ample time to enjoy Bhutan’s stunning landscapes and capture lasting memories. Upon arrival, explore Phuentsholing’s bustling markets, perfect for affordable souvenirs and local produce. This lively border town offers a fitting conclusion to your Bhutan journey, as you prepare for departure with unforgettable experiences to cherish.

Kharbandi Monastery, built in 1967 by the Royal Grandmother, offers panoramic Phuentsholing and Toorsa River views. Last chance for souvenirs. Overnight stay.

End of your stay in Bhutan, as you bid farewell to Bhutan, our team will assist with exit formalities before you continue your onward journey back home. Carrying cherished memories of Bhutan’s landscapes, culture, and warm hospitality, you will depart with unforgettable experiences and stories to share, marking a perfect conclusion to your Himalayan adventure. Once is never enough; we hope to welcome you again.

  Package Rates are per person in INR and details as below

About Vehicle:

All the vehicles provided, unless otherwise specified will be Non-A/C Vehicles. Supplement Charges will be applicable for A/C vehicles.

  Inclusions

• Accommodation in dbl/twin sharing basis as per the hotels mentioned below or in similar hotel
  Meal Plan: MAP – Breakfast and Dinner
  Paro Airport pick up & drop
  Transportation and sightseeing as per the itinerary
  English speaking guide as per the itinerary for the sightseeing
  Sustainable Development Fees for the stay in Bhutan
  Permit/Visa arrangement for the stay in Bhutan
  Complimentary refill drinking water/bottled water
  Flight Fare

-Personal expenses (shopping, laundry, phone calls etc)

-Gratuities to guide and driver

-Travel Insurance

-Outdoor activities (Cycling, River Rafting, Motor Biking, Horse Riding, Cultural Program, Traditional Sports, Costumes, Hot stone Bath etc.)

-Anything which is not included under inclusion is not a part of the package

Permit for Bhutan:

Indian nationals do not require visa to travel in Bhutan. Only a valid passport or Voter Id card are the valid documents for obtaining entry permit.

Advance Online Permits

If you are traveling with an Indian Passport (with a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of departure from Bhutan), you can avail advance online permits by sending us clear colour scanned passport copy. It should reach us before 10 working days. We shall not be responsible for any rejections or similar issues in regards to the permits due to improper documents or delay in arrival of documents.  

NOTE:

Ø The above-mentioned hotels will be confirmed as per the room availability. Otherwise we will confirm similar category.

Ø The rates quoted in the packages are on per person basis & valid for Indian nationals from 01^st Mar 2024 to 31^st May 2024 (High seasons surcharge will be applicable during the Festivals & Peak season).

Presently Available Airfare : INR 18,800 *4 – 75,200