Bhutan Soul & Serenity Journey
Overview
Journey Overview
Bhutan isn’t just a country—it’s a living expression of peace and purpose. This 9-day journey flows through its sacred valleys and smiling towns, blending culture, nature, and calm introspection. Every day unveils a part of Bhutan’s quiet beauty—from Thimphu’s monasteries to Punakha’s rivers, Phobjikha’s cranes to Paro’s Tiger’s Nest.
Package Itenary
Day 1 - Arrival at Phuentsholing → Transfer to Thimphu (Approx. 6 hrs drive)
• Arrive at the Jaigaon/Phuentsholing border by morning.
• After completing immigration and entry permit formalities (assistance provided), start your scenic drive uphill to Thimphu.
• En route, enjoy glimpses of Bhutan’s first mountain valleys and serene forests.
• Reach Thimphu by evening and check-in at your hotel (subject to room availability & standard check-in time).
• Leisure evening at Norzin Lam for a gentle introduction to Bhutan’s rhythm.
Overnight: Thimphu Meals: Dinner
Day 2 - Discover Thimphu – The Living Capital
• After breakfast, visit:
o Memorial Chorten – a spiritual landmark built in memory of the Third King.
o Buddha Dordenma – the magnificent 169-ft golden statue overlooking the valley.
o Takin Preserve – home to Bhutan’s national animal.
o Folk Heritage Museum & Handicrafts Emporium for glimpses of local artistry.
• Evening free for café-hopping or visiting local markets.
Overnight: Thimphu Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 3 - Thimphu → Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey)
• Drive towards the stunning Phobjikha Valley — winter home of the endangered Black-Necked Cranes.
• Stop at Dochula Pass (10,000 ft) to admire the 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views.
• Visit Gangtey Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most serene sites.
• Evening: gentle nature walk along the Gangtey Trail amid mist and prayer flags.
Overnight: Phobjikha Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 4 - Phobjikha → Punakha (Approx. 3 hrs drive)
• Morning at leisure, then drive to Punakha, the valley of eternal spring.
• Visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, built at the confluence of Pho and Mo Chu rivers.
• Cross the Suspension Bridge, one of the longest and most scenic in Bhutan.
• Evening at leisure beside the riverside — a quiet pause before New Year’s Eve.
Overnight: Punakha Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 5 - Punakha – A Riverside Stay
Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility, through lovely rice fields.
• Explore local markets or short optional hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.
Overnight: Punakha Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 6 - Punakha → Paro
• Scenic drive back via Dochula Pass.
• Visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan.
• Reach Paro by afternoon and check in (subject to room availability).
• Evening leisure stroll in Paro’s traditional market — perfect for a cosy Bhutanese dinner to welcome 2026.
Overnight: Paro Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 7 - Paro – Excursion to Haa Valley via Chelela Pass
• Early morning drive to Chelela Pass (13,000 ft) – Bhutan’s highest motorable road with snow-capped vistas.
• Continue to Haa Valley, one of Bhutan’s least-touched gems.
• Visit Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) & Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple).
• Return to Paro by evening.
Overnight: Paro Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 8 - Paro – The Sacred Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery)
• After breakfast, embark on a guided trek to Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan’s most iconic spiritual site, perched dramatically on a cliff.
• Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
• Evening at leisure for a traditional hot stone bath or local dinner.
Overnight: Paro Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 9 - Paro → Phuentsholing / Jaigaon / Bagdogra – Departure
• After breakfast, drive back to Phuentsholing with memories of monasteries, smiles, and snow-capped mountains.
• Drop at Jaigaon border / Bagdogra airport for onwards journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusion/Exclusion And Other Details
Trip details
Property & Check-in Policy
• All hotels are 3-star or above (Standard/Deluxe)
• Check-in after 1:00 PM (early check-in subject to availability)
Vehicle & Driving Policy
• Private non-sharing vehicle: Creta / Tucson / similar
• Driver-cum-guide throughout the tour
• Speed limits (strictly followed in Bhutan)
– Highways: 50 km/h
– Towns: 30 km/h
• Seat belts compulsory; no honking near monasteries/schools
Inclusions
• 8 nights accommodation in 3-star Standard/Deluxe hotels
• Daily breakfast & dinner (MAP plan)
• All sightseeing & transfers by private vehicle
• Entry & route permit assistance
• SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) for Indian nationals
• Bottled water during transfers
• Driver-cum-guide throughout
• All applicable taxes
Exclusions
• Airfare / Train fare
• Lunch, beverages & personal expenses
• Monument entry & festival fees
• Travel insurance, tips & camera fees
• Extra costs due to delays or natural calamities
Important Bhutan Travel Guidelines
Documents:
• Passport (6 months validity) or Original Voter ID
• 2–3 passport-size photos
• Photocopy of passport / voter ID
Cultural Etiquette:
• Modest clothing in monasteries & dzongs
• Remove shoes & hats in temples
• Ask before photographing locals
• Avoid loud behavior & public affection
Environmental Rules:
• No littering, smoking in public, or single-use plastics
• Follow Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy
Driving Rules:
• Only Bhutan-registered vehicles allowed beyond Phuentsholing
• Self-driving by tourists not permitted
Voter ID Entry Rules (India → Bhutan)
Accepted: Original laminated ECI Voter ID
Not accepted: Aadhaar, PAN, DL, voter slip, photocopy, digital ID
Alternative: Indian Passport (6 months validity)
Permit Process
• Entry permit issued at border (Phuentsholing/Gelephu) – Free of cost
• Valid for Thimphu & Paro
• Permit extension required for Punakha, Phobjikha, Haa, Bumthang
Why This Tour Is Special
• Slow, authentic Bhutan immersion
• Balanced mix of iconic & hidden valleys
• Designed with deep respect for Bhutanese culture
Pricing Note:
The rate is for 2 guests; the cost becomes more economical with more travellers.