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Bhutan, India · Hiking
The journey
See the best of Bhutan on a 7-day journey from Phuntsholing, the Gateway of Bhutan, through Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Enjoy a scenic drive into the Himalayas, explore the Bhutanese capital, and travel via Dochula Pass for views of Bhutan's highest mountains on a clear day. Visit important landmarks such as Punakha Dzong and Rinpung Dzong, taste Suja, the salty Himalayan butter tea, and hike to the famous Taktshang Monastery.
Taktshang, or the Tiger's Lair, is widely regarded as one of the most important and sacred monasteries in Bhutan.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
On the first day, arrive at Bagdogra Airport and then head to Phuntsholing - the Gateway of Bhutan. Phuntsholing, also sometimes spelt as Phuentsholing, is the second largest town in Bhutan and is located on the Indian border, next to the town of Jaigaon.
Begin at 09:00 by obtaining a permit at the Department of Immigration. The permit procedure may take time. After the permit is obtained, continue on a breathtaking drive to Thimphu. Don't forget to taste Suja, the Himalayan butter tea, which is salty rather than sweet.
Today, head out and explore the Bhutanese capital, Thimphu, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Thimphu is situated at over 7,600 ft on a hillside on the banks of the Thimphu Chhu River.
In the afternoon, proceed for sightseeing from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and visit Changlimthang Stadium, the national stadium, and the archery ground.
Today, ride to Punakha after obtaining a permit. Please note that the permit is not issued on Saturdays, Sundays, and government holidays. Stop en route at Dochu La Pass (3,100 meters), where on a clear day you can enjoy spectacular views of the highest mountains of Bhutan.
Capture the enthralling mountains and landscapes during a photo break and then drive to the warm valley of Punakha.
Visit Punakha Dzong, built at the confluence of the Po and Mo Chu Rivers in the 17th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. It served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955.
Today, drive to Paro (Alt. 2200 m/7,300 ft) as you move towards the end of the trip. For nature lovers, Paro will be a treat for the eyes. On the way, enjoy the view of Shaba River Point and Paro airport.
Check in at the hotel and then head to Chelela Pass, where you can have a view of Haa Valley as well as Paro Valley.
Then visit Rinpung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, which has a long and fascinating history. Its correct name is Rinpung Dzong, which means "Fortress on a Heap of Jewels".
Today, have a leisurely breakfast and proceed on an excursion to the famous Taktshang Monastery (Tiger Nest), a 5-hour hike. Taktshang, or the Tiger's Lair, is widely regarded as one of the most important and sacred monasteries in Bhutan. With this, your visit to this landlocked wonder will come to an end.
Drive back to Phuentsholing in the afternoon.
Return from Phuentsholing to Bagdogra Airport.
The route
The fine print
Pick-up and drop-off at Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Immigration assistance
All permits
2-star premium hotels on a twin/triple-sharing basis
Innova, Ertiga, Sumo, or similar vehicle as per the group size
Vehicle parking fees, toll taxes, and the driver's personal expenses
One tourist SIM card per group
Breakfast as per the itinerary
Bhutanese sales and service tax
5% GST
Camera fees, monument fees, and personal expenses
Extra sightseeing
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
Logistics
Your 7 days finish where they began, in Bagdogra Intl Airport Rd.
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