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Bhutan Classic — Thimphu and Paro
Buddha Dordenma statue Thimphu Bhutan
Tashichho Dzong Thimphu Bhutan
Dochula Pass chortens Bhutan
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7-Day Bhutan Classic — Thimphu and Paro

The essential Bhutan circuit — a day in the border town of Phuntsholing to cross into the kingdom, two days in the capital Thimphu with its giant Buddha statue and fortress-monastery, and two days in Paro capped by the legendary Tiger's Nest hike. Everything is connected by a single scenic mountain road.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Arrive at Bagdogra | Transfer to Phuntsholing

    Pick up at Bagdogra Airport or NJP station and drive to the Bhutan border town of Phuntsholing. Check in and explore Bhutan Gate, Zangto Pelri shrine and the evening market.

    Meals
    Dinner
    Stay
    Phuntsholing
  2. Day 2: Phuntsholing to Thimphu

    Obtain your Bhutan travel permit at the immigration office, then drive to Thimphu through terraced hillsides and hanging prayer flags. Afternoon at leisure — walk around Clock Tower Square.

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Stay
    Thimphu
  3. Day 3: Thimphu Sightseeing

    Full-day tour of the capital: Buddha Dordenma statue (177 ft), Tashichho Dzong, Motithang Takin Preserve (Bhutan's national animal), National Memorial Chorten and the Royal Textile Academy.

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Stay
    Thimphu
  4. Day 4: Thimphu to Paro via Dochula Pass

    Morning stop at the Dochula Pass viewpoint — 108 chortens and, on clear days, the high Himalayan range. Continue to Paro. Afternoon at the Drukgyel Dzong ruins with views of Mt. Jhomolhari.

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Stay
    Paro
  5. Day 5: Tiger's Nest Hike

    The hike everyone comes for — up through pine forest to the sacred Taktsang Monastery, clinging to a sheer cliff above the Paro valley. Visit Rinpung Dzong and the ancient Ta Dzong museum.

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Stay
    Paro
  6. Day 6: Paro to Phuntsholing

    Drive back to Phuntsholing, stopping at Kyichu Lhakhang — one of Bhutan's oldest temples. Evening free to shop for handicrafts.

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Stay
    Phuntsholing
  7. Day 7: Departure

    Check out and drive to Bagdogra Airport or NJP station for onward journey.

    Meals
    Breakfast

Trip Highlights

  • Hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery, 3,000 m above Paro valley
  • Thimphu sightseeing — Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, Takin Preserve
  • Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum of Paro
  • Scenic Dochula Pass with 108 memorial chortens
  • Bhutan permits and SDF included for Indian nationals

What's included

  • Accommodation as per the itinerary, on twin sharing
  • Daily breakfast and one main meal (lunch or dinner)
  • All transfers and sightseeing by private vehicle
  • Bhutan government Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
  • Bhutan travel permits and immigration assistance
  • English-speaking licensed Bhutanese tour guide throughout
  • Airport/railway station transfers both ways

What's not included

  • International or domestic airfare to and from Bagdogra / Paro
  • Lunch or dinner not specified in the itinerary
  • Monument and activity entry fees unless mentioned
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Personal expenses, tips and laundry
  • Anything not listed under inclusions

Pickup point

Bagdogra International Airport / New Jalpaiguri Railway Station

Cancellation policy

Cancel 30 days or more before departure — full refund minus a ₹3,000 processing fee.

Cancel 15 to 29 days before departure — 50% of the trip cost is refunded.

Cancel 7 to 14 days before departure — 25% of the trip cost is refunded.

Cancel within 7 days of departure — no refund.

International trips may have additional supplier cancellation terms that override this policy for pre-purchased tickets and hotel blocks; these are confirmed at booking.

Frequently asked questions

Do Indian nationals need a visa for Bhutan?

Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals do not require a visa for Bhutan. A valid passport or voter ID is sufficient. Bhutan issues a travel permit at the border (Phuntsholing) or at Paro airport, which the tour guide assists with on arrival.

What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

March to May brings spring blooms and the Paro Tsechu festival. September to November offers crystal-clear skies, perfect for mountain views and the Tiger's Nest hike. June to August is monsoon season — green and atmospheric but with intermittent rain. Winter (December to February) is cold but peaceful and less crowded.

Is Bhutan expensive?

Bhutan charges Indian nationals a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of approximately INR 1,200 per person per night, which is included in our packages. There is no daily minimum spend requirement for Indian travellers beyond the SDF.

What currency does Bhutan use?

The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged 1:1 to the Indian Rupee. Indian Rupee notes are accepted everywhere in Bhutan except the ₹2,000 denomination. ATMs are available in Thimphu and Paro but not always reliable; carry enough cash from India.

How difficult is the Tiger's Nest hike?

The hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) is moderate — about 2.5 to 3 hours up and 2 hours down, gaining roughly 900 metres from the base. The trail is well-marked and ponies are available for the first stretch. Fit beginners manage it comfortably. Starting early (7–8 am) avoids crowds and afternoon cloud.

Ready to book Bhutan Classic — Thimphu and Paro?

Tell us your dates and group size and our team will confirm availability, hold the rooms and send you the invoice and vouchers.

Bhutan Classic — Thimphu and Paro

₹38,999₹45,999SAVE ₹7,000

We call within working hours and never share your number.

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