Overview
Discover the serene beauty of Bhutan with Holiday Diaries on this scenic journey from Phuentsholing to Paro. Explore the cultural charm of Thimphu, the tranquil valleys of Punakha and Phobjikha, and the timeless heritage of Paro, highlighted by the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. A perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and Himalayan landscapes—beautifully curated by Holiday Diaries.
Highlights
- Day 01 : New Jalpaiguri Railway Station / Bagdogra Airport – Phuentsholing
- Day 02 : Phuentsholing – Thimphu
- Day 03 : Thimphu Sightseeing
- Day 04 : Thimphu – Punakha / Wangdue Sightseeing
- Day 05 : Excursion to Gangtey / Phobjikha Valley or Punakha Sightseeing
- Day 06 : Punakha / Wangdue – Paro Sightseeing
- Day 07 : Excursion to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
- Day 08 : Paro – Phuentsholing
- Day 09 : Phuentsholing – New Jalpaiguri Railway Station / Bagdogra Airport
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport and proceed to Phuentsholing, the gateway to Bhutan by road from India.
Located on the foothills along the Indo-Bhutan border, Phuentsholing is a lively commercial town blending Bhutanese and Indian cultures. Upon arrival, settle into the hotel.
The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore the local market and streets of Phuentsholing at leisure.
Overnight stay at Phuentsholing.
Complete immigration formalities and continue the journey towards Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
En route, enjoy scenic Himalayan landscapes, winding mountain roads, and picturesque river valleys. On arrival in Thimphu, check in at the hotel. The rest of the day is free to unwind or explore the city independently.
Overnight stay at Thimphu.
Begin the day with sightseeing in Thimphu. Visit Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Dordenma), offering panoramic views of the Thimphu valley and housing one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.
Continue to the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan, followed by the Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing traditional Bhutanese lifestyle and architecture.
Later, visit Sangaygang View Point, providing a sweeping view of the city, and the Takin Preserve Centre, home to Bhutan’s national animal. Explore Changangkha Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the city, known for its spiritual significance. In the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and central monastic body.
Overnight stay at Thimphu.
Depart Thimphu for Punakha, crossing the scenic Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens and colorful prayer flags, offering magnificent Himalayan views on clear days.
On arrival in Punakha, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, also known as the Palace of Great Happiness, beautifully located at the confluence of two rivers.
Continue with a gentle walk to Chhimi Lhakhang, popularly known as the Temple of Fertility, associated with Lama Drukpa Kunley. The evening is free for leisure.
Overnight stay at Punakha / Wangdue.
Option 1: Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley
Proceed for an excursion to the scenic Gangtey Valley. Visit Gangtey Goemba, the only Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan.
Explore the stunning Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley known for its natural beauty and as the winter habitat of the endangered Black-necked Cranes. Enjoy gentle walks through the valley before returning to Punakha.
Option 2: Punakha Valley Exploration
Spend the day exploring Punakha Valley. Visit Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, situated atop a hill offering breathtaking valley views.
Continue to the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan, followed by a visit to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, beautifully positioned overlooking Punakha and Wangdue valleys. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight stay at Punakha / Wangdue.
Travel to Paro, stopping en route at Royal Botanical Park, Lamperi, renowned for its diverse flora and birdlife.
On arrival in Paro, check in at the hotel. Later, visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan, followed by Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress-monastery that serves as the administrative center of Paro. The evening is free for leisure.
Overnight stay at Paro.
Visit the iconic Taktshang Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliffside and one of Bhutan’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. The hike to the monastery offers spectacular views and a deeply spiritual experience.
Later, visit Drukgyel Dzong, built to commemorate Bhutanese victories, and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
Overnight stay at Paro.
Return to Phuentsholing, retracing the scenic mountain route. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. The evening is free to relax or enjoy a final stroll through the town.
Overnight stay at Phuentsholing.
Depart Phuentsholing for New Jalpaiguri Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport for your onward journey, carrying cherished memories of the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan.









