Phungcholing to Bhutan Tour (India to Bhutan by Overland)

Bhutan, the land of the Thunder Dragon, is known for its absolute beauty and enthralling culture. Bhutan, a developing world, remains deeply traditional – tourism is strictly regulated to protect its traditional culture.

Phugcholing to Bhutan Tour is rewarding experience for those who wish to explore Bhutan via road from Nepal or from North East India’s Sikkim and Darjeeling. 7 day India Bhutan overland tour starts from Phuentsholing – the major commercial hub in south-west Bhutan, also known as the “Gateway to Bhutan”. We drive to Thimpu and explore many cultural landmarks like King’s Memorial, nunnery temple, Tashichho Dzong and other.

Next we drive to Punakha with a tea stop at Dochula Pass. Located at an elevation of 3,100m, the pass commands superb view of snowy peaks including Mt. Masanggang at 7,158 meters – the highest peak in Bhutan also known as Mt. Gangkar Puensum in local dialects. The weather at pass usually remains foggy and chilly. However, the months of October – February commands the superb view of Bhutan’s Himalayan ranges.

We drive east of the pass which is steep for some distance and then veer left towards Punakha valley.

Punakha used to the capital of Bhutan and served as government center until 1955. It is located about 72km away from Thimpu and takes around 3 hours via private vehicle from the capital.

At Punakha, we visit Punakha Dzong which was strategically in 1967 at the confluence of Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers. This Dzong serves as the administrative and religious center of the region. The place was severely damaged by earthquake and four catastrophic fires but was fully restored few years back by present king. We also explore the Chimi Lhakhang which is praised as “the temple of fertility” by locals. It is believed that couples who don’t have children are blessed with newborns after praying at this temple.

Next we drive to Paro valley where we explore Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) perched majestically at 900m sheer rock face from the valley floor. Legend has it that the Guru Rinpoche flew here at the back of Tigress to fight against demon and medicated at the cave where the monastery stands.

Day 01: Arrival in Phuentsholing (300m/985ft)

Our representative will meet you at the India-Bhutan border checkpoint in Phuentsholing. He will make all the formalities for visa and drop you off at your hotel. Phuentsholing is the administrative center of Chukha District of Bhutan. This picturesque town is located at opposite of Indian town of Jaogaon and cross border trade helps to make it prosperous.

Overnight in Phuentsholing

Day 02: Phuentsholing – Thimpu (2,350m/7,710ft) – 175km/6 hours

After breakfast, we drive towards the capital of Bhutan – Thimpu. On the way, we get to admire the amazing landscape of Bhutan and mountain peaks. We also encounter a few waterfalls which offers a photographic opportunities for nature lovers.

Overnight in Thimpu

Day 03: Sightseeing Thimpu

In the morning, we explore Memorial Chorten which was built in the memory of the third king of Bhutan. He is also known as the father of modern Bhutan. We also visit Takin sanctuary to witness the national animal of Bhutan, Takin. Next, we visit National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Bhutanese traditional painting school, folk heritage museum, the Tashichho Dzong and the traditional paper factory. In the evening, we stroll around the Thimpu to explore the local lifestyle.

Overnight in Thimpu

Day 04: Drive from Thimpu – Punakha (1,250m/4,100ft) – 76km/ 2 – 3 hours

After breakfast, we enjoy the scenic drive from Thimpu to Punakha with a stop for tea at Dochu La Pass (3,100m). On the clear day, we get the stunning views of the Himalayas. From pass, we drive downhill through the forest rhododendron, fir and hemlock and then pass through rick fields along the river banks to reach Punakha. After lunch, we visit Punakha Dzong which was built in between 1637 – 1638, the second oldest and the second largest Dzong in Bhutan.

Overnight in Punakha

Day 05: Punakha – Paro – 120km, 4 hour

After breakfast, we drive to Paro valley via Dochu La Pass. Here we will explore the Druk Wangyal Monastery, 108 memorial chorten built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest queen mother. We continue our drive to Thimpu and stop there for lunch. Then we head for Paro.

Overnight in Paro

Day 06: Hike to Tiger Nest Monastery (3,180m/10,430ft)

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Takstang), is one of the most popular religious and touristic spot in Bhutan. Even people on the short tour in Bhutan visits this site. The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is small collection of building majestically located on a sheer rock face towering around 900m from valley floor.

Today we hike to Takstang which takes 4 – 5 hours of round trip. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery is located. After brief exploration, we hike down to the valley floor and return back to the hotel in Paro.

Overnight in Paro

Day 07: Final Departure

Your India to Bhutan overland tour adventure comes to an end today. The airport representative from Dream Bhutan will drive you to Paro International Airport on scheduled time for your final departure.

Cost Info

What’s included in the Cost

• All the ground transportation on private vehicle as per itinerary
• An English speaking professional Bhutanese guide and driver
• Accommodation on Twin sharing/single room basis
• Sightseeing and monumental entrance fees as mentioned in itinerary
• Meals plan: Break, Lunch and Dinner during the tour
• Bhutan Government Royalty Fee (USD 65 per person/per day)

What not included in the cost

• Insurance of any kind
• Final departure flight
• Nepal entry visa
• Additional cost due to any unforeseen circumstance like natural calamities, unfavorable weather, strike etc.
• Emergency evacuation (in case)
• Personal nature expenses – alcoholic beverages, laundry, phone bills, internet
• Tips for guides and driver