Land of the Thunder Dragon

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Global Adventure

Bhutan

Discover the magic of Bhutan, a land where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. Journey through lush green tea plantations and national parks, marvel at the fluttering prayer flags at the mystical Dochula Pass, and embark on an unforgettable hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high on a dramatic cliff. Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture, savor unique local delicacies, and embrace the tranquil beauty of this extraordinary Himalayan kingdom.

Adventure Snapshot

Dates

Arrival Airport

Bagdogra

Accommodation

Boutique Hotels/ Homestays

Duration

6 nights, 7 days

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Hand-picked Group Size

Not exceeding 14

Adventure difficulty level

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EXPEDITION BLUEPRINT

Day 01 1
Enroute Phuentsholing
Day 01
Upon arrival, a scenic drive will whisk you from Bagdogra airport to Phuentsholing, Bhutan’s vibrant border town. The drive from Bagdogra to Phuentsholing offers breathtaking views of lush tea plantations and dense forests, marking a scenic and cultural transition into Bhutan’s unique environment. It’s your first glimpse of Bhutan’s tranquil beauty and distinctive charm.

Drive time: 3 – 4 hours

Accommodation: Hotel in Phuentsholing

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Day 02

After breakfast, we’ll head to the permit office to complete necessary paperwork. Once processed, we’ll depart for Phuentsholing. The journey to Thimphu offers a stunningly scenic drive through picturesque landscapes. As you ascend, you’ll experience a gradual change in scenery from the subtropical lowlands to the cooler, higher altitudes of Thimphu, with winding roads and stunning mountain vistas.

Drive time: 6 – 7 hours (with lunch and snack stops)

Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu

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Day 02 1
Our Carnaby Phinisi Liveaboard
Day 03 1
Buddha Point
Day 03

Begin your day at Golden Buddha Point, soaking in panoramic views of Thimphu before indulging in local delicacies at a cozy café. Create personalized stamps at the post office for a unique souvenir. In the afternoon, journey to Dochula Pass, where misty peaks and 360° mountain views create an ethereal experience. End the day at a serene riverside campsite, unwinding in nature’s embrace. 

Drive time: 2 – 3 hours

Accommodation: Riverside camping near Thimphu

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Day 04

After breakfast, we’ll visit Chimi Lhakhang, Bhutan’s famous Fertility Temple, where vibrant phallus symbols adorn homes to ward off evil spirits—a truly unique cultural experience! Next, we’ll take a scenic drive to Chele La Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes at 13,000 feet, offering breathtaking views and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Before reaching our final stop, we’ll pause by the Paro River near a picturesque rope bridge, a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. Up next—the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery!

Drive time: 5 – 6 hours (with lunch and snack stops)

Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

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Day 04 1
A village home in Punakha
Day 05 1
Taktsang Tiger’s Nest Monsatery
Day 05

Get ready for the highlight of the trip—a hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery! Perched on a cliff at 10,240 ft in the Paro Valley, this iconic Buddhist site is steeped in myth. It is said that Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress, giving it the name Tiger’s Nest. The 7.2 km round-trip trek winds through pine forests and rhododendron bushes, taking 4–6 hours depending on pace. After the trek, we’ll dive into Bhutan’s national sport, archery! Test your aim and enjoy this fun traditional experience.

Trek time: 4 – 6 hours

Trek level: Easy to moderate

Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

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Day 06

After breakfast, we’ll visit Paro Dzong, an architectural masterpiece that once defended the valley from invasions. Officially called Rinchen Pung Dzong, or ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels,’ it now houses both monastic and government offices. Later, we’ll journey back to the vibrant border town of Phuentsholing—one last chance to soak in the spirit of Bhutan before bidding farewell.

Drive time: 4-5 hours (with lunch and snack stops)

Accommodation: Hotel in Phuentsholing

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Day 06 1
Young monks in school
Day 07 2
Day 07

Once again, it’s time to undertake the scenic journey from Phuentsholing to Bagdogra airport, where we will wrap up our epic adventure and bid adieu!

Drive time: 3 – 4 hours to Bagdogra airport

Meet the captain of your Adventure!

Arun will be your adventure leader in the Land of the Thunder Dragon! A native of God’s own Country, Arun transitioned from an aerospace engineer to a full-time traveler and photographer, passionately showcasing his unique frames through elements of visual harmony. After refusing to settle for the mundane and quitting his corporate career, he biked through some of the most breathtaking trails in India and abroad, made innumerable friends along the way and captured well over 500,000 photographs. He has led over 25 trips.

Arun adores it when people completely indulge in what they genuinely love. Tales and Trails was born from Arun’s profound love for photography and his desire to share the magic of his experiences with others.

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Costs, Inclusions and Exclusions

Expedition Costs
Expedition Cost (Regular) Details
Cost (Regular) ₹42,500/- per person (inclusive of 5% GST) to be paid in the following installments
Advance Payment ₹20,000/- per person required to secure your booking. .
Balance Payment
(a) ₹12,500/- per person due on or before 90 days of the trip; and
(b) ₹10,000/- per person due on or before 60 days of the trip.
Expedition Costs
Expedition Cost (Early Bird) Details
Cost (Early Bird) ₹[ ] (inclusive of [ ]% GST) per person, if booked before [ ], 2025
Advance Payment ₹[ ] per person required to secure your booking.
Balance Payment
₹[ ] per person due on or before [ ] 2025.

What’s Included on This Epic Adventure?

What’s Not Included?

More Questions about this Expedition?

Request an invite to join this expedition. Once you receive an invite from us confirming your request, the advance and balance payments in respect of your expedition must be made in the account (or by way of UPI transfer) as specified by us in our email.

Travel Documents for Bhutan: As an Indian citizen, you will need:

  • Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry, or a Voter ID card as an alternative identification.
  • Entry Permit: Issued upon arrival at designated entry points (Paro Airport or Phuentsholing), allowing access to popular areas like Thimphu and Paro.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended to have travel insurance covering health and emergencies.

Note: Always check for the latest travel requirements before your trip.

Packing List: Once your spot in our adventure is confirmed, we will share a packing list with you. 

Health and Safety: During our Bhutan adventure, we will embark on multiple hikes. As we explore breathtaking landscapes, a good level of fitness will go a long way! You’ll need to carry your own luggage, though we’ll provide assistance where possible—just keep in mind that offloading isn’t available in most areas.

  • Cancel within 90 days before the Trip: Enjoy a full refund—no questions asked!
  • Cancel within 60 - 90 days before the Trip: You’ll receive a 70% refund.
  • Cancel within 30 - 60 days before the Trip: You’ll receive a 30% refund.
  • Cancel within 30 - 60 days before the Trip: Unfortunately, no refund will be available.

Need to Change Plans? You can transfer your spot to a friend if they’re excited to join the trip. Alternatively, you can keep your funds on hold with us for a future adventure.

Trip Cancellation or Postponement: If the trip is canceled or postponed at our end, you’ll receive a full refund. If the trip is cut short, you’ll receive a partial refund based on the days missed.

Ps. Refunds will be minus any cancellation charges for cars or accommodation or other such services and applicable taxes. Refunds will reach you within 7-10 business days.

We aim to make your adventure as smooth as possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance!

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