A weekend in nature's green paradise
Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a small Himalayan kingdom famed for its stunning landscapes, preserved culture, and Gross National Happiness index. It boasts dramatic mountains, ancient monasteries like Tiger's Nest (Paro Taktsang), and vibrant festivals such as the Paro Tsechu. Bhutanese society values tradition, seen in traditional attire like the gho and kira. Thimphu, the capital, blends tradition with modernity in its architecture and lifestyle. Bhutan restricts tourism to preserve its environment and culture, offering visitors a unique, serene experience in one of the world's last remaining Himalayan kingdoms.
Tour Highlights
- Walk the 900 Kandi Glass Bridge at Lakkidi Viewpoint
- Explore 6,000-year-old prehistoric carvings at Edakkal Caves
- Visit Banasura Sagar Dam — India's largest earthen dam
- Ride one of South India's longest ziplines at Muddy Boots
- Tea estate walk through Chundale and Meppadi
- Overnight AC transport — no vacation day burnt
- Small group departures with experienced tour captain
Itinerary
The following detailed itinerary provides a day-by-day breakdown of your Essence of Bhutan tour. From your door step to the moment you arrive back home, we've outlined your activities and experiences to make the most of your trip. Let's dive into the specifics.
Day 1New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station (NJP) / IXB airport (Bagdogra) - Phuentsholing
New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station (NJP) / IXB airport (Bagdogra) - Phuentsholing
Meet and greet upon arrival at the NJP Railway Station or IXB Airport, followed by a road trip from India to Phuentsholing, The Gateway to Bhutan. Situated on the northern edge of the Indian Plains, it is a booming commercial centre. When you get there, check into the hotel. Spend the night at Phuentsholing
Day 2Phuentsholing - Thimphu.
Phuentsholing - Thimphu.
After breakfast, finish the immigration procedures and proceed to Bhutan's capital, Thimphu (7,710 feet). When you get there, check into the hotel. See the Tashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion) in the twilight. Spend the night in Thimphu.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3Thimphu Sightseeing
Thimphu Sightseeing
After a delicious breakfast, visit places such as;
Visit the Buddha Statue at Kuensel Phodrang (a refreshing spot with a massive statue of the Buddha atop the structure), the Folk Heritage Museum, and the National Memorial Chorten (a monument).
Visit Sangaygang View Point, Changangkha Monastery, Taking Preserve Centre in the afternoon. Here is where you can observe Tashichho Dzong, the talking national animal of Bhutan (Fortress of the Glorious Religion). Spend the night in Thimphu.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4Thimphu- Sightseeing in Punakha and Wangdue
Thimphu- Sightseeing in Punakha and Wangdue
After breakfast, make your way to Wangdue or Punakha. Stop at Dochu-La-Pass (3150 metres) en route to see the higher Himalayas. arrival in Punakha and hotel check-in. Visit Punakha Dzong, which was constructed in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, after midday. It functioned as the government seat for a considerable amount of time, up until the reign of the second king. Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness) was the name given to the Dzong. Je-Khenpo still spends his winters in Punakha, where King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck held the first National Assembly in 1952.
After that, go on a quick excursion to see the Chhimi Lhakhang, also referred to as "The Temple of Fertility." Lama Drukpa Kuenley, dubbed "The Devine Mad Man," constructed the temple. Free evening for recreational activities.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5Punakha to Wangdue and Paro Sightseeing.
Punakha to Wangdue and Paro Sightseeing.
After breakfast drive to Paro (7,483 ft.). On the way stop at Lamperi to visit Royal Botanical Park - The park contains a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna and features a huge species of plants and animals including endangered species. On arrival check in at the hotel. Afternoon visit Paro Local market by walking to enjoy your evening in leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6Hiking to Taktsang.
Hiking to Taktsang.
Visit Drukgyel Dzong after breakfast. Visit the well-known Kitchu Monastery and Taktsang Monastery, also known as 'Tiger's Nest', which is a two hours' climb from the base camp.
We'll spend the night in Paro.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Local sightseeing in Paro and back to Phuentsholing
Local sightseeing in Paro and back to Phuentsholing
Following breakfast, depart from your hotel and take in the local sights of Paro, including the Ta Dzong (Ring Pong Dzong), Drukgyel Dzong, Paro Airport View Point, and the local market. Afterward, return to Phuentsholling.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8Phuentsholing to NJP Railway station/ IXB airport.
Phuentsholing to NJP Railway station/ IXB airport.
After leaving your accommodation, return to NJP/IXB in preparation for your next destination. Allow the enduring memory of this stunning, tranquil land and the dazzling Himalayas to stay in your thoughts when you return home, inspiring you to come back often
Meals: Breakfast
What to Expect from this Trip
Start your tour from Bagdora Airport or the NJP Railway Station and check the must see places in Bhutan. This itinerary includes Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha Valley and Dochu La pass, a hike to Taktsang and much more! Have an amazing tour, Book with Backpackers United!You will be Visiting Thimphu, Bhutan's vibrant capital. Discover the impressive Tashichho Dzong, the National Memorial Chorten, the Dochula Pass, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas and the 108 memorial chortens. This tour encapsulates Bhutan's natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and unique cultural identity. Book with Backpackers United to make the most of your trip!
Accommodations
Experience comfort at our 3-star hotel accommodation for a delightful stay.
Backpackers United
Backpackers experts will accompany the entire trip and guide you through out the tour.
What's in your package
What is Included
- Accommodation on twin sharing basis in hotels mentioned or similar.
- Services of Local English Speaking Guide
- Local 01 SIM Card per family on arrival will be provided on a returnable basis (Recharge / Top Off will have to be done by the client)
- Internal permits for visiting municipal areas
- Transfers and Sightseeing by Non AC Toyota Coaster/Hiace/Similar depending on group Size.
- Sightseeing as per the itinerary
- Seven breakfasts to start your day right.
What is Not included
- Any Air or Rail fare.
- Monument entrances & Museum visiting frees.
- Sustainable Development Fee (Royalty Fee) applicable, the entire Indian tourist has to pay the same at the time of booking SDF @ INR 1,200/- per adult per night, INR 600/- per kid (5-11 years) per night. GST and TCS will be extra
- Travel Insurance.
- Any other meal not mentioned in price includes.
- Any other destination not mentioned in itinerary.
- Any other expenses.
- Anything not in inclusions is excluded.
You pick the weekend.
We map the route.
Join a small group of travellers on our next departure. Overnight bus, curated stays, handled logistics — you just show up with a bag.
Transparent cancellation policy
Good to know
- Once a flight is booked, it is non-refundable.
- Minimum 8 travellers required for group departures. If the group falls below 8, you'll be offered an alternative.
- In case of weather, strikes or government restrictions, trips may be modified. Cash refunds aren't issued in such cases.
- For international bookings, 5% GST + 3% booking fee is non-refundable.
| Days before departure | Cancellation charge | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| 15–30 days | 25% | 75% refunded |
| 7–15 days | 50% | 50% refunded |
| 3–7 days | 75% | 25% refunded |
| 0–3 days | 100% | No refund |