Bhutan by Road, Phuentsholing to Paro

Day-by-day itinerary

1. Day 1

   Arrival at Bagdogra, drive to Phuentsholing

   Pickup from Bagdogra airport or NJP station and drive about 160 km (4 hours) through the Dooars tea gardens to Jaigaon and the Bhutan Gate. Overnight in Phuentsholing.

2. Day 2

   Entry permit and the climb to Thimphu

   Morning at the immigration office for your entry permit, then a winding 5 to 6 hour drive up past Gedu and Chukha to the capital, Thimphu. Overnight in Thimphu.

3. Day 3

   Thimphu's dzongs, markets and viewpoints

   Visit the Buddha Point, the National Memorial Chorten, the textile museum and the paper making unit. Evening walk through Clock Tower Square. Overnight in Thimphu.

4. Day 4

   Dochula Pass and Punakha Dzong

   Drive over Dochula to Punakha and the grand Punakha Dzong, the winter home of the monk body. Afternoon walk to the long suspension bridge. Overnight in Punakha.

5. Day 5

   Khamsum Yulley Chorten, then Paro

   Morning hike through the fields to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten above the Mo Chhu. Drive to Paro and take in Paro town in the evening. Overnight in Paro.

6. Day 6

   Taktsang hike and Paro valley

   Hike up to the Tiger's Nest Monastery with a tea break at the halfway café. Afternoon at the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong. Overnight in Paro.

7. Day 7

   Paro to the airport, trip ends

   Breakfast and drop at Paro airport for your flight back, or a long road transfer to Bagdogra on request. Trip ends.

Timings and stays can be adjusted to your dates on enquiry.