Classic Bhutan

Itinerary :

Day 01: Arrival at Phuentsholing: Arrive at Bagdogra airport, or travel by train to NJP, Alipur or Hashimara, or travel from Darjeeling, Gangtok and Kalimpong to the Indo-Bhutan border at Phuentsholing. Upon arrival in Phuentsholing, we process route permit and then take a leisurely stroll through the market in the evening. Overnight in Phuentsholing.(D)

Day 02: Phuentsholing – Thimphu (165 Km/5 hrs):  Complete immigration formalities and drive to Thimphu, which takes about five to six hours. En-route visit Rinchending monastery and stop in villages and scenic spots to enjoy and photograph the landscape which is replete with bounties of nature including waterfalls. Upon arrival in Thimphu, check in hotel. Take a walking tour in capital city visiting Bhutanese Crafts market and Clock Tower Square area. Overnight in Thimphu. (B,D)

Day 03:Thimphu: The capital of Bhutan also has most things to see for visitors. A full day tour of Thimphu’s cultural sites and monuments will include National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, and The Jungshi handmade paper factory. Continue visiting more sights of Thimphu namely, Motithang Takin Preserve, National Institute of Zorig Chusum (also known as Painting school, where students undergo a 6-year training. Course in Bhutan’s 13 traditional carts & craft), a short drive up to a viewpoint for aerial view of the capital, its suburbs and Tashichho Dzong. There are other attractions like Changangkha monastery, Simtokha Dzong, Textile Museum, Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, Farmer’s Market (more vibrant during the weekends), and others which can be visited as per available time or based on your interests. Overnight in Thimphu.(B,D)

Day 04: Thimphu – Punakha/Wangdue (85 Km/2-3 hrs):  The drive from Thimphu to Punakha across spectacular Dochula takes about 3hrs. From Thimphu, road climbs up to Dochula pass. Punakha-Wangdue valley is lower (about 1450m above sea level) and it enjoys sub-tropical climate. Visit Richengang village, unique for cluster of houses connected with each other, followed by short walk to visit Chimi Lhakhang temple, dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley (1455 – 1529), popularly known as ‘the divine madman, a folk hero and a cultural icon around whom countless yarns of facts and fiction, stories and legends have been spun. Later visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, built at the confluence of two major rivers in Bhutan, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, which converge in this valley. It is an especially beautiful sight on sunny days with sunlight reflecting off the water onto its white-washed walls. On the way to the hotel, stop to visit the township of Punakha at Khuruthang. Overnight in Punakha.(B,D)

Day 05: Punakha to Paro (130 Km/3-4 hrs): Drive short distance through the idyllic countryside and walk short distance uphill to Khamsum Chorten on Nyenzangang hill. Return drive to Thimphu retracing Dochula Pass, lunch could be planned on the way. After descending into Thimphu, continue short drive to Paro. The popular attractions within Paro include visiting Rinphung Dzong, National Museum, temples of Kichu and Dungtse, visiting local home and the stroll around the township. Overnight in Paro.(B,D)

Day 06: Paro Valley (Taktsang Hike): Drive to the trail head and hike to famous Taktsang (tiger’s nest) monastery If for some reason, you are not able to hike, your Guide can arrange other interesting alternatives. You can also hire pony for the uphill part, till the first viewpoint & cafeteria but you must be able to walk back downhill. While some will probably not make it all the way to the monastery, however it is worth even to try getting till the first viewpoint. Return to Paro, where we may have more time for stroll around the town. Overnight in Paro(B,D)

Day 07: Paro – Phuentsholing (160 Km/5 hrs.): After breakfast, drive back to Phuentsholing.Upon arrival, check-in and evening at leisure. Overnight in Phuentsholing.(B,D)

Day 08: Phuentsholing: Departure transfer to Bagdogra Airport/ NJP railway station for your return journey.(B)