Overview
For those travelling from the plains of North Bengal, the land route from Jaigaon to Phuentsholing is a practical entry. From there the road climbs to Thimphu. Allow a full day for the first transfer.
Entry rules, permits and the daily Sustainable Development Fee are set by the Department of Tourism and revised from time to time (as of October 2026; check current rules). See the Bhutan guide.
- Duration
- 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Route
- Bagdogra / NJP > Phuentsholing > Thimphu > Punakha > Paro > Phuentsholing / Paro
- Suits
- Travellers from North Bengal who prefer to enter by road.
- Stay style
- Comfortable hotels and small guesthouses, chosen for location and quiet.
Day-by-day itinerary
Sample itinerary. These are sample itineraries, designed as relaxed tour options. For a customised, detailed and personalised itinerary built around your dates, interests and pace, please contact us. Plan your journey or call +91 97755 97771.
Day 1Siliguri to Phuentsholing
Drive around 4 to 5 hours from Bagdogra or NJP to Jaigaon and cross to Phuentsholing. Entry permits are completed at the border office; carry your passport or voter ID (check current rules).
Day 2Phuentsholing to Thimphu
A winding drive of around 5 to 6 hours to Thimphu. Evening walk in the town centre.
Day 3Thimphu sights
Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma viewpoint, a craft or textile centre and the Folk Heritage Museum, subject to opening days.
Day 4Thimphu to Punakha
Drive around 3 hours over the Dochula Pass. Visit Punakha Dzong and walk to Chimi Lhakhang.
Day 5Punakha to Paro
Drive around 4 to 5 hours. Visit Paro Dzong and the National Museum in the late afternoon.
Day 6Tiger's Nest and departure
An early hike towards Paro Taktsang if time and fitness allow, then fly out of Paro or drive back to Phuentsholing the next day. Keep a generous margin.
Main experiences
- Border crossing at Phuentsholing
- Memorial Chorten
- Dochula Pass
- Punakha Dzong
- Tiger's Nest hike
Practical considerations
Entry
Indian nationals obtain an entry permit at the border and pay the daily fee; check current rules.
Road
Winding; allow for rockfall delays.
Guides
Bhutan visits use licensed operators.
Altitude
Paro is about 2,200 m.
This is a sample itinerary, not a fixed departure. Sequence, stays and activities are confirmed when we plan your journey, subject to availability, season, permits and local conditions.