Land of The Thunder Dragon

7 Days 6 Nights

Trip Info

  • 3 Star
  • Available
  • Guided
  • As Per Itinerary

Embark on a soul-stirring journey to Bhutan, the mystical Himalayan kingdom known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Over 7 days, explore lush valleys, ancient monasteries, and majestic dzongs nestled amidst pristine mountains. Begin in Phuentsholing, then ascend to Thimphu, the capital, where tradition meets modernity. Visit the towering Buddha Druk Wangyal statue, the Folk Heritage Museum, and the sacred Takin Preserve. Travel to Punakha via Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 stupas and panoramic Himalayan views. Discover Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple, and Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. The highlight awaits in Paro with a breathtaking hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff at 2,950 meters. Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture with visits to Paro Dzong, the National Museum, and vibrant local markets. Enjoy traditional hot stone baths for deep relaxation. With all permits, SDF fees, accommodations, meals, and guided tours included, this seamless itinerary offers a rare glimpse into a kingdom that measures prosperity through happiness. Experience the magic of Bhutan — where every prayer flag whispers peace and every mountain holds a legend.

Trip Highlights

  • Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Goemba)
  • Visit Punakha Dzong
  • Dochula Pass (3,100m)
  • Chimi Lhakhang Temple

Inclusions

  • 6 nights’ accommodation in 3-star hotels (Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Paro) on double/triple sharing basis
  • Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner (6 days)
  • All Bhutan permits and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of Nu. 1,200 per person per night
  • Airport/railway station transfers (IXB/NJP to Phuentsholing and return)
  • All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary in non-AC vehicle
  • Professional English-speaking Bhutanese tour guide
  • 1 bottle of mineral water per person per day
  • Visa assistance and on-arrival visa processing for Indian nationals (Passport or Voter ID required)

Exclusions

  • Airfare (COK–IXB–COK) and GST (5%)
  • Entry fees to monuments, museums, and dzongs
  • Travel insurance, personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, minibar)
  • Additional meals or drinks not mentioned in the plan
  • Optional activities (pony rides, local taxis)
  • Costs due to flight delays, natural calamities, political unrest, or route changes
  • Airport transfers beyond standard pickup/drop
  • Train tickets or additional accommodation pre/post tour
  • Any surcharges due to fuel price hikes or government tax revisions
  • Expenses incurred due to illness, hospitalization, or visa rejection
  • Anything not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions

Day Wise Itinerary

Upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or NJP Railway Station, you'll be warmly greeted and transferred to Phuentsholing, Bhutan’s bustling southern gateway. Nestled on the edge of the Indian plains, this vibrant commercial town marks your entry into the Kingdom of Bhutan. After completing immigration formalities and obtaining your travel permits, check in to your comfortable 3-star hotel. Spend the evening unwinding, soaking in the serene atmosphere of this tranquil Himalayan town. Overnight stay in Phuentsholing.

After a hearty breakfast, depart for Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital. En route, pass through the scenic town of Gedu, perched at 9,000 feet, and marvel at the impressive Tala Hydroelectric Dam. Visit the peaceful Sangay Minjurling Temple and the cascading Wankha Waterfalls. Pause at Chuzom Bridge to capture the stunning confluence of the Puna Tsang and Thimphu rivers, where traditional architecture marks the meeting point. Arrive in Thimphu in the afternoon, check in to your hotel, and enjoy a relaxed evening in the valley. Overnight in Thimphu.

Begin the day with a scenic drive to Punakha Valley, ascending through the breathtaking Dochula Pass (3,100m). Here, 108 colorful stupas stand in tribute to Bhutanese soldiers, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas on clear days. Descend into the lush Punakha Valley and visit Chimi Lhakhang, the “Temple of the Divine Madman,” dedicated to fertility and blessed by the eccentric saint Drukpa Kunley. After lunch, explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 at the river confluence, once the seat of government and still the winter residence of the Je Khenpo. Also visit the country’s longest suspension bridge. Return to Thimphu for overnight stay.

After breakfast, explore Thimphu’s cultural landmarks. Visit the towering Kuensel Phodrang, home to the largest Buddha statue in Bhutan, housing over 100,000 smaller statues, and offering sweeping views of the valley. Then, explore Durga Mandir, a serene Hindu temple overlooking the city, followed by Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery and the Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing traditional Bhutanese life. Later, visit the Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s national animal, a rare goat-antelope. Conclude with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, the administrative and religious heart of the capital. In the evening, drive to Paro and check in to your hotel. Overnight in Paro.

Rise early for one of Bhutan’s most iconic experiences — the exhilarating hike to Taktsang Palphug Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched 900 meters above the Paro Valley at 2,950 meters, this sacred monastery is believed to be where Guru Rinpoche arrived on a flying tigress in the 8th century to introduce Buddhism. The five-hour round-trip trek winds through pine forests, prayer flags, and rocky trails, with breathtaking viewpoints offering dramatic vistas of the monastery clinging to the cliff. Upon return, rejuvenate with a traditional hot stone bath, rich in medicinal properties, especially beneficial for joint and muscle pain. Spend the evening in peaceful reflection. Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, explore the cultural treasures of Paro Valley. Visit Dungtse Lhakhang, a unique temple built by the legendary iron-chain bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo, featuring rare circular architecture and ancient murals. Proceed to the National Museum, housed in a 17th-century watchtower, displaying centuries-old weapons, thangka paintings, and artifacts. Then, visit Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), a fortress monastery that serves as the district’s administrative and spiritual center, where monks chant and meditate. In the evening, stroll through Paro’s charming town, where ancient dzongs blend with modern shops and cafes. Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, check out and begin your journey back to Phuentsholing. En route, stop at the Paro Airport viewpoint for a glimpse of the dramatic landing strip nestled in the mountains, and explore a local market for last-minute souvenirs. Arrive in Phuentsholing, check in briefly, and spend the evening exploring the local area. The next morning, after breakfast, transfer to Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station, concluding your unforgettable journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon with cherished memories.

Land of The Thunder Dragon