Comprehensive 6-Day Bhutan Road Trip Itinerary 2025: Bagdogra to Phuentsholing Loop

Day 1: Arrival and Border Crossing

Bagdogra to Phuentsholing, India into Bhutan on June 1, 2025

Arrival at Bagdogra Airport

Arrive at Bagdogra Airport, the nearest airport to Bhutan’s border, ready to begin your scenic road journey.
INR0, Approx. 30 minutes

Drive through Dooars region to Phuentsholing

Travel through lush green tea gardens and rolling foothills on the 4-5 hour drive to Phuentsholing, Bhutan’s gateway town.
INR0, 4-5 hours

Visit Bhutan Gate

Explore the iconic Bhutan Gate that marks your entry into the Kingdom; a great spot for photos and acclimatization.
Free, Approx. 30 minutes

Explore Phuentsholing Market

Wander through the vibrant local market to experience Bhutanese culture firsthand with local crafts and fresh produce.
Free, 1 hour

Dinner at Hotel Norbuling

Enjoy a delicious Bhutanese dinner featuring dishes such as Ema Datshi in a cozy setting.
Approx. INR700, 1 hour
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Day 2: Immigration and Thimphu sightseeing

Phuentsholing to Thimphu, Bhutan on June 2, 2025

Complete Immigration and Permit Formalities

Begin the day with processing your immigration and Bhutan entry permits in Phuentsholing.
Free, Approx. 1 hour

Drive to Thimphu

Enjoy a scenic 6-7 hour drive over mountain roads, passing rivers and forests en route to Bhutan’s capital.
Free, 6-7 hours

Visit Buddha Dordenma Statue

Marvel at the massive golden Buddha statue overlooking the valley, a striking landmark visible throughout Thimphu.
BTN100, 1 hour

Explore Memorial Chorten

Visit this important Buddhist stupa rich in traditional paintings and architecture located in central Thimphu.
BTN50, 45 minutes

Tashichho Dzong Visit

If time permits, tour the impressive Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the king and government; closes by early evening.
BTN150, 45 minutes

Dinner at Ambient Café

Dine in an artistic ambiance offering a mix of local Bhutanese and international cuisine.
Approx. BTN250, 1 hour
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Day 3: Dochula Pass & Punakha

Thimphu via Dochula Pass to Punakha, Bhutan on June 3, 2025

Drive to Dochula Pass

Travel 2.5 hours through forested mountain roads to the pass featuring 108 white chortens and panoramic Himalayan views.
Free, 2.5 hours

Explore Dochula Pass

Enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of the eastern Himalayas and visit the small tea house serving refreshments.
Small refreshment cost, 45 minutes

Continue to Punakha

Drive an additional hour descending into scenic Punakha valley known for its fertile green surroundings.
Free, 1 hour

Lunch at Mountain Café

Savor authentic Bhutanese dishes including red rice and buckwheat pancakes.
Approx. BTN200, 1 hour

Visit Punakha Dzong

Tour the stunning riverside fortress, one of Bhutan’s architectural jewels, open till late afternoon.
BTN150, 1 hour

Walk Suspension Bridge

Cross Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge with sweeping views over the Mo Chu River.
Free, 30 minutes

Short Hike to Chimi Lhakhang

Visit the Fertility Temple famous for its blessings, perched in a peaceful rural setting.
BTN50, 1 hour

Dinner at Lobesa Farmhouse Restaurant

Relax with farm-fresh Bhutanese specialties in an inviting, rustic atmosphere.
Approx. BTN300, 1 hour
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Day 4: Paro Temples & Market

Punakha to Paro, Bhutan on June 4, 2025

Drive to Paro

Embark on a 4-5 hour drive crossing through pristine valleys to reach Paro town.
Free, 4-5 hours

Lunch at Sonam Trophel Restaurant

Indulge in local Bhutanese dishes and momos in a popular eatery within Paro.
Approx. BTN250, 1 hour

Visit Rinpung Dzong

Explore this majestic fortress combining religious and administrative functions, rich in stunning art and history.
BTN150, 1 hour

Explore Kyichu Lhakhang Temple

One of Bhutan’s oldest temples offering tranquility and spiritual depth.
BTN50, 45 minutes

Walk through Paro Town

Roam the charming town, browsing local handicraft shops and souvenir stalls.
Free, 1 hour

Optional Hot Stone Bath

Unwind with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath available at select lodgings with prior booking.
Approx. BTN400, 1 hour

Dinner at Zamling Bistro

Enjoy a cozy dinner with Bhutanese and international dishes to close the day.
Approx. BTN300, 1 hour
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Day 5: Tiger’s Nest & Return Drive

Paro to Phuentsholing, Bhutan on June 5, 2025

Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)

Early start for a challenging 4-6 hour hike to Bhutan’s iconic cliffside monastery, offering unmatched spiritual ambiance and mountain vistas.
BTN300, 4-6 hours

Lunch in Paro

Light meal to replenish energy before continuing your journey.
Approx. BTN150, 1 hour

Drive to Phuentsholing

Begin the 5-6 hour road trip back to Phuentsholing for overnight stay, enjoying scenic mountain views en route.
Free, 5-6 hours

Dinner at Hotel Norbuling

Relax and enjoy a comforting Bhutanese meal after a full day of activities.
Approx. BTN350, 1 hour
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Day 6: Departure

Phuentsholing to Bagdogra, Bhutan to India on June 6, 2025

Drive to Bagdogra Airport

After breakfast, travel the 4-5 hour road journey back to Bagdogra airport for your onward flight home.
INR0, 4-5 hours
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