Arrive in Kolkata via international flight. Receive a traditional ‘Swagat’ (welcome) ceremony at the airport. Transfer to your hotel for check-in and rest. Overnight stay in Kolkata.
Catch your morning flight to Bagdogra. On arrival, our representative will greet you and escort you to Darjeeling. Check into your hotel and relax, soaking in the fresh mountain air. Overnight in Darjeeling.
At dawn, journey to Tiger Hill (8,500 ft) for a spectacular sunrise over the mighty Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. On your return, visit the historic Ghoom Monastery (est. 1875) and enjoy a nostalgic ride on the famed Darjeeling Toy Train. Post breakfast, explore the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Tibetan Refugee Camp, and the bustling local market. Afternoon visits include the Darjeeling Museum, Botanical Gardens, and verdant Tea Estates. Overnight in Darjeeling.
Drive to Pelling, perched at 2,085 meters amidst breathtaking Alpine scenery. This tranquil town offers magnificent views of Kanchenjunga and lush forested hillsides veiled in mist. Check in and unwind. Overnight in Pelling.
Tour Western Sikkim’s spiritual and natural gems: visit the revered Pemayangtse Monastery, Sangacholing Monastery, and the sacred Khechipelri Lake, believed to be the sacred lake of the guardian deity. Later, continue to Gangtok, the enchanting capital set on steep Himalayan slopes surrounded by rice terraces and flowing rivers. Once a small pilgrimage village, Gangtok is now a vibrant center of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Overnight in Gangtok.
Today’s excursion to Tsongmo Lake offers a pristine natural haven, a sanctuary for migratory birds like Brahminy ducks, blue whistling thrush, and redstarts. Visit the iconic Do-Drul Chorten stupas symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Explore Rumtek Monastery, a replica of Tibet’s Tsurphu Monastery and seat of the Kagyud sect. Visit the Himalayan Zoological Park, home to exotic Himalayan fauna, and the Government Institute of Cottage Industries showcasing exquisite Sikkimese handicrafts. Conclude your day browsing the vibrant Lal Bazaar. Overnight in Gangtok.
Drive to Phuntsholing on the India-Bhutan border. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring this gateway town. Overnight in Phuntsholing.
After breakfast, visit Zantho Pelri Monastery, a charming temple symbolizing Guru Rinpoche’s heavenly abode. Complete Bhutan entry formalities and drive onward to Thimphu. On arrival, visit the peaceful Kharbandi Gompa, surrounded by tropical flora, offering panoramic views over the plains. Overnight in Thimphu.
Discover Thimphu’s rich heritage with visits to the bustling traditional markets where locals wear vibrant costumes, the King Wangchuk Memorial, and the imposing Taschichho Dzong fortress. Explore Bhutanese handicraft centers and enjoy views of the picturesque Thimphu valley. Overnight in Thimphu.
Drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, strategically situated at the confluence of the Po and Mo Chu Rivers. This 17th-century fortress houses sacred relics and the embalmed body of the revered Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Overnight in Punakha.
Travel to Paro, driving through traditional Bhutanese countryside dotted with quaint hilltop homes and lush river valleys. Upon arrival, check in and explore Paro town, including the confluence of Wangchu and Paro Chu rivers at Chozom. Overnight in Paro.
Embark on a full-day tour of the Paro Valley’s treasures. Visit Ta Dzong, a historic watchtower turned National Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s cultural heritage. Walk to Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress with a fascinating history. Overnight in Paro.
After checkout, transfer to Paro Airport for your flight to Kolkata. Enjoy panoramic views of Himalayan giants such as Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu during the flight. Arrive in Kolkata and check into your hotel for an overnight stay.
Explore Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, rich in colonial architecture and heritage. Visit iconic landmarks including the majestic Victoria Memorial, the engineering marvel Howrah Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the historic Indian Museum. Other highlights include the Birla Planetarium, Marble Palace, Eden Gardens, and Fort William. Later, proceed to the airport for your onward journey.
