Bhutan Extended — Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Paro

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8-Day Bhutan Extended — Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Paro

Eight days for those who want to go beyond the standard circuit — add the Phobjikha valley and Gangtey Gompa monastery, a remote glacial valley that shelters migrating black-necked cranes in winter. Combines the cultural highlights of Thimphu and Punakha with the Tiger's Nest hike and this off-the-beaten-path highland wetland.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Bagdogra | Transfer to Phuntsholing
Pick up and drive to Phuntsholing. Explore the border town and Bhutan Gate in the evening.
Meals
Dinner
Stay
Phuntsholing
Day 2: Phuntsholing to Thimphu
Clear immigration and drive to Thimphu. Afternoon at leisure — Clock Tower Square and evening markets.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Stay
Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu Sightseeing
Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, Takin Preserve, National Memorial Chorten, Royal Textile Academy.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Stay
Thimphu
Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass stop (clear-day Himalayan views). Down to Punakha: Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong, Suspension Bridge.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Stay
Punakha
Day 5: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley
Drive west over the Black Mountains to the Phobjikha glacial valley. Visit Gangtey Gompa and walk through the wetland (black-necked cranes October–March).
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Stay
Phobjikha
Day 6: Phobjikha to Paro
Morning valley walk, then the long drive across Bhutan to Paro. Kyichu Lhakhang temple on arrival.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Stay
Paro
Day 7: Tiger's Nest Hike | Paro Sightseeing
Hike to Taktsang Monastery. Afternoon: Ta Dzong, Rinpung Dzong and the Paro market.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Stay
Paro
Day 8: Departure
Transfer to Bagdogra or NJP station.
Meals
Breakfast

Trip Highlights

Phobjikha valley — Bhutan's glacial black-necked crane habitat
Gangtey Gompa, a 17th-century monastery above the valley
Punakha Dzong at the river confluence
Tiger's Nest Monastery hike
Dochula Pass and 108 memorial chortens

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 Extended — Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey 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.

Book This Tour

₹48,999

+ tax as applicable

Runs on any date you choose — tell us when and we will confirm availability.

Tour Option

Twin Sharing₹48,999

Bhutan

The kingdom that measures happiness.

Know Before You Go

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.

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