What travel documents are required for Indian tourists visiting Bhutan?

Indian citizens require a valid Indian Passport (with at least 6 months validity from date of entry) OR an original Voter Identity Card issued by the Election Commission of India. Children under 18 require an original Birth Certificate or Passport. Himalayan Yatra pre-processes the official Bhutan Entry Permit.

What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and is it included?

The Royal Government of Bhutan levies a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of INR 1,200 per adult per night for Indian passport holders (children aged 6-12 receive 50% concession; under 6 free). For non-Indian travellers, the SDF is USD 100 per night. Himalayan Yatra includes SDF facilitation in all itemised quotations.

How difficult is the hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)?

The hike is moderate to demanding, taking roughly 4 to 5 hours round trip with a total vertical climb of 900 meters (reaching 3,120 m elevation). Pony/horse rides are available up to the midway cafeteria for travellers needing assistance; the final stairs must be walked.

What are the vehicle and guide norms in Bhutan?

Bhutanese tourism regulations mandate that all international visitors must be accompanied by a licensed Bhutanese tour guide and travel in an authorized tourist vehicle with a registered driver throughout their journey. Himalayan Yatra provides dedicated licensed guides and mountain-experienced chauffeurs.

What is the best time of year to undertake the Bhutan Grand Discovery tour?

Spring (March to May) offers blooming rhododendrons, temperate valley weather, and the Paro Tshechu festival. Autumn (September to November) provides crystal-clear blue skies, majestic snow-peak vistas from Dochula and Chele La, and the arrival of Black-necked Cranes in Phobjikha Valley.

FIT — Fully Customizable

Bhutan Grand Discovery

Phuentsholing – Thimphu – Punakha – Paro – Haa Valley 8 Nights / 9 Days Private Tour 4.9 (84 Reviews)

Start Point NJP Railway Station / Bagdogra (IXB) Airport

End Point NJP Railway Station / Bagdogra (IXB) Airport

Accommodation Twin-sharing stay in selected 3★ / 4★ / 5★ hotels or similar

Meals Breakfast & Dinner

Transport Exclusive non-AC private vehicle for all transfers, excursions, and sightseeing as per itinerary (SUV / Toyota Hiace / High Roof Hiace / Coaster based on group size)

Difficulty Moderate

Trip Overview

Discover the true essence of the Kingdom of Bhutan on this 8 Nights / 9 Days Bhutan Grand Discovery tour. Travel through the charming border town of Phuentsholing, the vibrant capital Thimphu, the serene valleys of Punakha and Paro, and the untouched beauty of Haa Valley. Explore world-famous attractions including the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, Chele La Pass, Buddha Dordenma, Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and the National Museum. Experience breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, scenic mountain drives, ancient monasteries, and Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. With comfortable accommodations, daily breakfast and dinner, private transportation, and a licensed Bhutanese guide, this journey offers the perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, nature, and authentic Bhutanese hospitality for an unforgettable Himalayan escape.

Starting from

₹ 66,300

₹66,300 0.00% OFF

This is a customizable tour. Choose your dates, upgrade hotels, add activities — make it yours. Our expert will craft a personalized itinerary within 2 hours.

Tiger's Nest Monastery, Chele La Pass, Haa Valley, Buddha Dordenma, Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, Kyichu Lhakhang, National Museum, Scenic Himalayan Drive

Customize & Enquire Talk to Travel Expert Enquire on WhatsApp

Why You'll Love This Trip

Tiger's Nest Monastery

Trek to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking Himalayan views and a spiritual experience.

CheleLa

Drive to Chele La Pass, Bhutan's highest motorable pass, with spectacular mountain panoramas, fluttering prayer flags, and crisp alpine air.

HaaValley

Discover the untouched beauty of Haa Valley, known for its peaceful villages, scenic landscapes, ancient temples, and authentic Bhutanese culture.

Dochula

Cross the scenic Dochula Pass, home to 108 memorial chortens and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain range.

PunakhaDzong

Admire the stunning Punakha Dzong, Bhutan's most picturesque fortress, beautifully located at the confluence of two rivers.

Buddha

Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking Thimphu, a symbol of peace offering incredible city and mountain views.

Kyichu

Explore Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred temples, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and rich history.

Heritage

Experience Bhutan's timeless heritage through ancient monasteries, traditional architecture, vibrant festivals, and preserved cultural treasures.

Nature

Journey through lush valleys, dense forests, winding mountain roads, and pristine Himalayan scenery at every step of the adventure.

Botanical

Stroll through the Royal Botanical Garden at Lamperi, home to diverse Himalayan flora, tranquil walking trails, and natural beauty.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

/IXB → Phuentsholing (170 km | ~5 hrs | 293 m)

On arrival at NJP Railway Station / IXB Airport, transfer to Phuentsholing, the bustling border town of Southern Bhutan. Meet your Bhutanese guide and capture photos at the ornate entry gate. Check in at hotel. Evening free. Overnight in Phuentsholing.

StayPhuentsholing

MealsDinner

TransferPrivate Vehicle

Day 2

Phuentsholing → Thimphu (176 km | ~6 hrs | 2,350 m)

After breakfast, complete immigration formalities and drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. En route visit Kharbandi Goemba Monastery (1967), founded by the Royal Grandmother. Enjoy views of Phuentsholing and the plains. Continue the scenic drive as landscapes shift to the Himalayas. Check in at hotel. Evening free. Overnight in Thimphu.

StayThimphu

MealsBreakfast & Dinner

TransferPrivate Vehicle

Day 3

Thimphu Sightseeing (max ~6 hrs)

Visit Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Dordenma), National Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum, Changangkha Lhakhang, and the Motithang Takin Reserve. Evening visit to Tashichho Dzong, the fortress-monastery housing ministries and the central monk body. Overnight in Thimphu.

StayThimphu

MealsBreakfast & Dinner

TransferPrivate Vehicle

Day 4

Thimphu → Punakha/Wangdue Sightseeing (77 km | ~2 hrs | 1,310 m)

Drive via Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with its 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. At Punakha, hike (~30–45 min) to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility). Later visit Punakha Dzong at the confluence of Mo Chhu & Po Chhu rivers. Check in at hotel. Overnight in Punakha/Wangdue.

StayPunakha

MealsBreakfast & Dinner

TransferPrivate Vehicle

Day 5

Punakha/Wangdue → Paro Sightseeing (140 km | ~4 hrs | 2,280 m)

En route visit Royal Botanical Garden at Lamperi. Return permits at Hongtsho. Stop at Tamchog Lhakhang (Iron Bridge Builder). In Paro, visit Ta Dzong (National Museum), Rinpung Dzong, Nemi Zam Bridge, and Kyichu Lhakhang. Check in at hotel. Evening free. Overnight in Paro.

StayParo

MealsBreakfast & Dinner

TransferPrivate Vehicle

Day 6

Paro – Excursion to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Hike (~5–6 hrs round trip) to Taktsang Monastery at 3,100 m, Bhutan’s iconic cliffside temple. On return, visit Kyichu Lhakhang. Overnight in Paro.

StayParo

MealsBreakfast & Dinner

TransferPrivate Vehicle

Day 7

Excursion to Chele La Pass & Haa Valley (65 km one way | ~3 hrs | 2,700 m)

Excursion to Chele La Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, separating Paro and Haa valleys. Enjoy views of both valleys. Continue to Haa Valley and visit Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple), Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), and Haa Wangchuk Lo Dzong. Return to Paro. Overnight in Paro.

StayParo

MealsBreakfast & Dinner

TransferPrivate Vehicle

Day 8

Paro → Phuentsholing (200 km | ~7 hrs | 293 m)

Breakfast & checkout. Drive back to Phuentsholing. Check in at hotel. Overnight in Phuentsholing.

StayPhuentsholing

MealsBreakfast & Dinner

TransferPrivate Vehicle

Day 9

Phuentsholing → NJP/IXB (170 km | ~5 hrs | 89 m)

Breakfast & checkout. Transfer to NJP Railway Station / IXB Airport for onward journey. Safe Travels!

MealsBreakfast

TransferPrivate Airport Transfer

Interactive route map coming soon

What's Included

Included

Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis in base category rooms (unless specified otherwise).
Meal Plan: MAPAI (Breakfast & Dinner included).
Hotel taxes as applicable under the itinerary.
Licensed Bhutanese guide/escort services for the Bhutan sector only.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) as levied by the Government of Bhutan.
Exclusive non–air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary.
Note: Bhutan does not follow the concept of 'disposal vehicles.' Vehicle and guide services are available daily between 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Not Included

Airfare, train fare, travel insurance, and optional adventure activities (rafting, archery, etc.), which must be paid directly by guests.
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, bar bills, bottled water, tips, and gratuities.
Entry fees for monuments, museums, or attractions; optional tours; and any vehicle/room upgrades.
Any additional sightseeing or extra usage of vehicle beyond the fixed itinerary, or usage of guide/vehicle outside standard working hours.
Expenses arising from unforeseen situations such as landslides, roadblocks, strikes, or political disturbances, to be borne directly by guests.
Any increase in costs due to government tax hikes, fuel price changes, or introduction of new visa fees that impact transportation or land arrangements.
GST and TCS as applicable.
Anything not specifically mentioned under Inclusions.

Bhutan Grand Discovery

Trip Overview

Why You'll Love This Trip

Tiger's Nest Monastery

CheleLa

HaaValley

Dochula

PunakhaDzong

Buddha

Kyichu

Heritage

Nature

Botanical

Day-by-Day Itinerary

/IXB → Phuentsholing (170 km | ~5 hrs | 293 m)

Phuentsholing → Thimphu (176 km | ~6 hrs | 2,350 m)

Thimphu Sightseeing (max ~6 hrs)

Thimphu → Punakha/Wangdue Sightseeing (77 km | ~2 hrs | 1,310 m)

Punakha/Wangdue → Paro Sightseeing (140 km | ~4 hrs | 2,280 m)

Paro – Excursion to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Excursion to Chele La Pass & Haa Valley (65 km one way | ~3 hrs | 2,700 m)

Paro → Phuentsholing (200 km | ~7 hrs | 293 m)

Phuentsholing → NJP/IXB (170 km | ~5 hrs | 89 m)

What's Included

Included

Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Cholay Khangzang / Similar

Sinchula Villa / Tushita Eco Lodge / Similar

Hotel Vara / Punakha Residency / Similar

Hotel Alem / Hotel Bhutan Home / Similar

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