BHUTAN
06 NIGHTS AND 07 DAYS BHUTAN TOUR FROM BAGDORA TO BAGDOGRA
Day 1 : Arrive Bagdogra/NJP and Transfer to Phuentsholing
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport/NJP Railway Station and transfer to Phuentsholing Bhutan. The town of Phuentsholing is the gateway for travelers entering Bhutan by road. A thriving commercial centre on the northern edge (West Bengal) of the Indian plains, Phuenthsoling is situated directly at the Himalayan foothills. This town is fascinating mixture of Indian and Bhutanese, a perfect example of mingling of people and their culture.
Evening as time permits visit Zangtho Pelri: Situated in city centre, this small temple represents the heaven of Guru Rinpoche. Later explore Phuentsholing town and market. Overnight at the hotel in Phuentsholing. (Altitude 300m)
Day 2 : Phuentsholing-Thimphu(180km, approx. 6 hours drive)
After breakfast, embark on an interesting journey to Thimphu en route visiting Kharbandi Gompa, the beautiful monastery founded in 1967 by Royal Grand mother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron. Here you can see the statues of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru Rimpoche along with paintings portraying scenes from the life of Lord Buddha. The monastery garden provides great views of the Phuentsholing town and surrounding plains of West Bengal. Phuentsholing Thimphu highway was built in 1961further stimulating economic activities between India & Bhutan. Drive further stopping en route at Gedu University for photos. Later after a short tea break nearby Chukha, resume your journey through a small town of Chimakothi and afterwards stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Paro & Thimphu rivers. On arrival, in Thimphu check-into the hotel. The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of Government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Situated in western Bhutan, with the population of about 1,00,000, it is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without a traffic light. Evening an exploratory walk arounnd Farmer's Centenary Market and Kaja Throm.
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. (Altitude 2,320m)
Day 3 : Thimphu
After breakfast, drive to visit the following places Memorial Chorten. Also known as Thimphu Chorten. Afterwards visit to Buddha Point or Buddha Dordennma (Kuensel Phodrang). Later drive to upper Motithang in Thimphu to visit Takin Preserve. The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan. Also visit SIMPLY BHUTAN, you can try your hand at Archery, sip traditional Butter Tea "SUJA", taste locally brewed Hooch "ARA" or even try a sumptuous Traditional Bhutanese Lunch and enjoy the Cultural Dance and song performance. Post lunch, sightseeing in Thimphu valley including visit to the following : The Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School) Folk Heritage Museum. Sangaygang View point, Zilukha Nunnery. Conclude the day’s sightseeing with visit of Trashichhoedzong, or ‘the fortress of the glorious religion’.Evening at leisure in Thimphu city centre. Also explore the Local Crafts Bazaar, to browse through
example of Bhutan's fine traditional arts. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. (Altitude 2,320m)
Day 4 : Thimphu – Punakha & Wangdue (75km, approx 3 hours drive)
After Breakfast drive up to Dochu-la pass (3,088m/ 10,130 ft). Thwn drive towards Punakha. On arrival check into the hotel. Afternoon visit Punakha Dzong or ‘Palace of Great Happiness or Bliss.After exploring Punakha city centre, embark on a short walking excursion to Chimi Lhakhang. Also known as Fertility temple. Also visit the popular Suspension Bridge which provides a stunning sight for beautiful selfies and pictures. You can also go for a WHITE RIVER Rafting. Overnight at the hotel in Punakha & Wangdue. (Altitude 1,300m)
Day 5 : Punakha & Wangdue – Paro (125km, approx 4.1/2 hours drive)
After breakfast drive back to Paro descending back down from Dochu La, follow the way back up the dramatic Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu river valleys, before crossing through Paro town towards the north end of the valley. En route visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress of the country. Then visit is the Tachog Lhakhang, a temple located across the famous iron bridge built over the meandering Pa Chhu (Paro River). Later in the day after checking into hotel, proceed to visit Ta Dzong, originally built as Watchtower, which now houses National Museum. Then walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), which has a long and fascinating history. Evening take a stroll around interesting city centre of Paro. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)
Day 6 : Paro Tiger's Nest Hike
After breakfast excursion to Taktshang Monastery (approx. 5 hours round trip walk): It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. The hike to the monastery makes a splendid half day excursion. Later in the afternoon visit the Tashi Namgay Artisanal Brewery and Paro Valley View Point. While return to the hotel, along the way, visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang. You can also go for a traditional Hot Stone Bath. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)
Day 7 : Paro-Phuentsholing-Bagdogra Depart
After breakfast drive back to Phuentsholing. Upon reaching Phuentsholing our representatives will help you with the exit formalities and drive further Bagdogra Airport for your onwards journey home.