Thunder Dragon | Paro, Punakha & Phobjika
- Bhutan
Durations
11 Days
Difficulty
Beginner
Enjoy the Adventure
This 12-day adventure takes you deep into Bhutan’s landscapes and traditions. Begin your journey at Bagdogra, cross into Bhutan at Phuentsholing, and gradually ascend into the peaceful rhythm of the highlands.
The ride blends cultural exploration—visiting dzongs, monasteries, and markets—with breathtaking routes through Dochula Pass, Phobjikha Valley, Punakha, and Paro. With extra days for both local sightseeing and Tiger’s Nest, this itinerary ensures a slower, immersive journey through Bhutan’s pristine beauty.
Day-to-Day Itinerary
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Focus: Arrival and pre-tour briefing
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport (IXB), India. You will be met and transferred to your hotel. The evening is for meeting the tour leader and fellow travelers for a comprehensive briefing before the journey into Bhutan begins.
Night Stay: Bagdogra
Distance Covered: ~165 km
Time Taken: ~4-5 hours
Drive from the plains of India to the Bhutanese border town of Phuentsholing. The day is dedicated to this scenic transfer and completing the necessary immigration and vehicle formalities to enter the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Night Stay: Phuentsholing
Distance Covered: ~150 km
Time Taken: ~4-5 hours
Terrain: Ascending mountain roads
The journey begins its ascent into the mountains. The drive or ride to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, offers impressive views as the road climbs through changing forests and landscapes, providing a true introduction to the country’s terrain. Arrive in the capital by evening.
Night Stay: Thimphu
Focus: Discovering the capital’s cultural heart
Spend the day exploring the sights of Thimphu. Highlights include a visit to the gigantic Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley and exploring the lively weekend market (if the day aligns) to see local produce, crafts, and interact with residents.
Night Stay: Thimphu
Distance Covered: ~130 km
Time Taken: ~4-5 hours
High Point: Dochu La Pass
Drive east from Thimphu, crossing the scenic Dochu La pass (3,100 m), which on a clear day offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range. A key highlight is a detour to see the impressive Punakha Dzong (fortress) before continuing to the beautiful, broad Phobjikha Valley.
Night Stay: Phobjikha
Distance Covered: ~15-20 km
Focus: Gentle exploration of a pristine valley
Enjoy a relaxed day with a short, scenic drive or ride through the tranquil Phobjikha Valley. This protected area is the winter home of the rare black-necked cranes and is known for its pristine nature, traditional farmhouses, and the historic Gangtey Monastery.
Night Stay: Phobjikha
Distance Covered: ~190 km
Time Taken: ~6-7 hours
The journey turns west towards the Paro Valley. This is a significant driving day, retracing the route over the mountain passes before heading towards Bhutan’s second major valley town, Paro, home to the country’s international airport and many historic sites.
Night Stay: Paro
Distance Covered: ~70 km (return trip)
Time Taken: ~3-4 hours
High Point: Chele La Pass (3,988 m)
Take a day trip from Paro to Chele La, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. The pass connects the Paro and Haa valleys and, on a clear day, provides spectacular views of the sacred Mount Jomolhari and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Night Stay: Paro
Activity: A challenging 4-5 hour round-trip hike
The day is dedicated to the iconic hike up to Paro Taktsang, the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This sacred site clings dramatically to a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The walk through the pine forest offers spectacular views culminating in a close-up look at the monastery.
Night Stay: Paro
Distance Covered: ~310 km
Time Taken: ~8-9 hours
Begin the long drive back from Paro, descending out of the mountains, crossing the border at Phuentsholing, and continuing to your final overnight stop in Bagdogra, India.
Night Stay: Bagdogra
Focus: Airport transfer
After breakfast, transfer to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) for your departure flight, concluding your journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Inclusions
We plan for all stays and meals. We arrange, if required, for accomodation on a twin-sharing or single basis, Inner Line Permits and associated fees, a basic First Aid Kit for fixed departures, certified guides and instructors including NOLS-certified guides, mechanic support throughout the trip.
Exclusions
5% GST, personal expenses, insurance, fines or servicing costs, activities additional to what has been planned for, extra costs arising from delays or breakdowns, and anything not specifically included as per customized final plan.
