Escape to Bhutan

On arrival at Bagdogra Airport, begin your journey towards Phuentsholing, the border town of Bhutan. En route, enjoy a visit to Bengal Safari, a lush wildlife park spread over 700 acres where you can spot sambar deer, wild boars, jungle fowl, rhinoceros, spotted deer, and possibly the Royal Bengal Tiger. Afterwards, take a peaceful walk through the scenic Toorsa Tea Garden located near the Bhutan border (note: no tea tasting or factory visit is included). After reaching Phuentsholing, check in at your hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. On arrival at Bagdogra Airport, begin your journey towards Phuentsholing, the border town of Bhutan. En route, enjoy a visit to Bengal Safari, a lush wildlife park spread over 700 acres where you can spot sambar deer, wild boars, jungle fowl, rhinoceros, spotted deer, and possibly the Royal Bengal Tiger. Afterwards, take a peaceful walk through the scenic Toorsa Tea Garden located near the Bhutan border (note: no tea tasting or factory visit is included). After reaching Phuentsholing, check in at your hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

In the morning, complete the formalities for the route permit and then begin your journey to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The scenic drive winds through mountain roads, dense forests, and breathtaking landscapes, passing through Chukha. On arrival, check in to your hotel. The afternoon is free for relaxation, and in the evening, take a stroll at the charming Clock Tower Square, a local hub for culture and leisure. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Today, explore the unique capital of Thimphu, famously known for having no traffic lights, with its iconic traffic policemen directing vehicles with theatrical hand gestures. Begin your morning with a serene 45-minute Wangditse Nature Trail walk through pine forests, offering panoramic views of Tashichho Dzong and the Thimphu valley. On return, visit the Takin Reserve, home to Bhutan's national animal. Optional visits include the Folk Heritage Museum, Painting School, Paper Factory, and more (available at additional cost). Later, see the National Memorial Chorten and the Buddha Dordenma statue. In the evening, shop for local crafts at the handicraft market or relax at leisure. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, drive to Punakha via the stunning Dochula Pass (10,000 ft), which on a clear day offers views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks including Gangkar Puensum, the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. Visit the Royal Botanical Park at Lamperi (optional, at additional cost), known for its rich biodiversity, rhododendron species, and a natural lake. If lucky, spot red pandas or unique birdlife. Continue to Punakha, the former capital, and visit the sacred Chimi Lhakhang Temple (optional) and the magnificent Punakha Dzong. Also, walk across one of Bhutan's longest suspension bridges. In the evening, spend some time at Kaja Throm. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Today you will travel from Punakha to Paro. En route, stop at Tachog Lhakhang to cross its ancient iron chain bridge. On arrival in Paro, visit the stunning Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), and optionally visit the National Museum housed in the circular Ta Dzong fortress (additional cost), which displays historical artifacts and Bhutanese art. End the day with a short drive to a viewpoint of the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, offering a stunning first glimpse of the site. Enjoy the evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

After an early breakfast, you have the option (at additional cost) to hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliffside, the monastery is one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. The round trip hike takes around 5 to 6 hours and is moderately challenging, but the views and spiritual atmosphere make it unforgettable. Return to Paro and enjoy your afternoon at leisure or explore the town’s local shops. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

This morning, begin your journey out of Bhutan. Drive from Paro to Phuentsholing and complete the exit formalities. Then proceed to Jaldapara in West Bengal, India. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Bagdogra Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of a memorable journey through Bhutan.