Welcome to Kolkata

On arrival at Kolkata Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, after completing customs, immigration formalities, and baggage collection, as you exit the arrival terminal, you will be warmly welcomed by an India Tours & Travels executive holding a placard with your name. You will then be assisted with your transfer to the hotel for check-in.
Kolkata, fondly known as the “City of Joy,” is India’s cultural and intellectual capital. Once the seat of the British Raj, the city still echoes its colonial heritage through grand architecture, tram-lined streets, and historic landmarks. A vibrant metropolis famed for its literature, arts, spiritual sites, and culinary delights, Kolkata offers visitors a rich tapestry of old-world charm interwoven with the dynamic energy of modern urban life.

Overnight stay in Kolkata.
The Senator or similar (3*), Peerless Inn or similar (4*), ITC Royal Bengal or similar (5*)
Meals: (No meals included)

Explore Kolkata

Start your day early with a visit to Kolkata’s vibrant Flower Market near Howrah Bridge, where hundreds of vendors line the narrow lanes with heaps of marigolds, lotuses, roses, and seasonal blooms, creating a riot of colours and fragrances – a perfect introduction to the city’s lively spirit. Walk across or drive past the iconic Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel and one of Kolkata’s most recognisable landmarks, buzzing with daily life. Continue to the majestic Victoria Memorial, an architectural masterpiece built in white marble, set amidst sprawling gardens, and housing an excellent collection of British-era paintings, sculptures, and historical artefacts. Next, visit the sacred Kali Temple at Kalighat, dedicated to Goddess Kali and revered as one of the Shakti Peethas, where pilgrims offer prayers in a spiritually charged atmosphere. Later, explore the serene South Park Street Cemetery, an atmospheric colonial-era graveyard with moss-covered tombstones and grand mausoleums, offering a glimpse into the city’s 18th-century history. Visit the Mother House, the headquarters of Missionaries of Charity, where Mother Teresa lived and worked. Conclude your day at Kumartuli, the traditional potters’ quarter, to witness artisans skilfully crafting clay idols of gods and goddesses for festivals, before returning to your hotel for the evening.

Overnight stay in Kolkata.
The Senator or similar (3*), Peerless Inn or similar (4*), ITC Royal Bengal or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant).

Flight to Bagdogra & drive to Darjeeling
By Flight: Departure Kolkata at 0750 hrs. / Arrival Bagdogra at 0855 hrs. or similar

This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bagdogra, the gateway to the Eastern Himalayas. As you exit the arrival terminal, you will be warmly welcomed by an India Tours & Travels executive holding a placard with your name. You will be introduced to your English-speaking accompanying guide and the driver then, begin your scenic drive to Darjeeling (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs. drive), winding through lush tea gardens, rolling hills, and charming mountain villages with glimpses of the distant snow-clad peaks of Kanchenjunga. As you ascend the cool Himalayan slopes, notice the refreshing change in air and landscape. Upon arrival in Darjeeling, you will be transffered to your hotel and check in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing and acclimatising to the pleasant mountain climate. You may choose to take a gentle stroll around the town to soak in the serene atmosphere of this historic hill station, known as the “Queen of the Hills.”

Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Hotel Viceroy or similar (3*), The Elgin or similar (4*& 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Darjeeling Sightseeing

Begin the day with an early morning drive to Tiger Hill, one of Darjeeling’s most iconic viewpoints, where you can witness the magical sunrise illuminating Mt. Kanchenjunga and, on clear days, even the distant silhouette of Mt. Everest. After sunrise (subject weather conditions), continue to the historic Ghoom Monastery, home to a magnificent 15-foot Maitreya Buddha statue and ancient Tibetan Buddhist manuscripts. Next, proceed to a picturesque Tea Estate, where emerald-green terraces stretch across the slopes. Take a guided walk through the gardens to understand how Darjeeling’s world-famous tea is grown, followed by a visit to the processing factory (closed on Sunday) to witness withering, rolling, and fermentation. Enjoy a curated tea-tasting session to appreciate the subtle flavours of premium Darjeeling tea. Then, step aboard the charming UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) for a nostalgic ride up to Ghoom. This slow, scenic journey through mountain curves and quaint settlements offers fantastic views and a true sense of Darjeeling’s heritage. Later, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), established to honor Tenzing Norgay and promote the spirit of adventure. Conclude your day at the Tibetan Self-Help Centre (Refugee Centre), where Tibetan refugees preserve their traditional crafts. Watch artisans skilfully create carpets, woodwork, leather goods, and handicrafts, and gain insight into their inspiring story of resilience and cultural preservation.

Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Hotel Viceroy or similar (3*), The Elgin or similar (4*& 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Travel to Gangtok and relax

After brekafast, embark on a picturesque drive to Gangtok (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs. drive), travelling through winding Himalayan roads, lush forests, and charming hillside villages, with the Teesta River often glistening alongside your route. As you ascend, the air turns cooler and the landscapes more serene, offering beautiful glimpses of terraced fields and distant mountains. Upon arrival in Gangtok, check in at your hotel and settle into the calm ambience of this vibrant hill city. The rest of the day is at leisure—take time to relax, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or step out for a gentle walk to soak in Gangtok’s refreshing mountain atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Chumbi Residency or similar (3*), Denzong Regency (4* & 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Sightseeing of Gangtok

Today, set out to explore the cultural and spiritual highlights of Gangtok. Begin your morning with a visit to the peaceful Enchey Monastery, perched on a hilltop surrounded by pine forests, offering beautiful views of the town and distant snow-capped peaks. This 200-year-old monastery belongs to the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism and is adorned with colourful murals, prayer wheels, and statues of Guru Padmasambhava and other deities, creating a serene and meditative atmosphere. Continue to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, one of the most important centres for the study of Tibetan Buddhism and culture in India. Admire its traditional Sikkimese architecture and browse through its fascinating collection of ancient manuscripts, thangkas, Buddhist icons, and artefacts that preserve the rich heritage of the Himalayan region. Later, visit the nearby Do Drul Chorten Stupa, surrounded by 108 prayer wheels, built in 1945 to drive away evil spirits and dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. Feel the spiritual calm as you walk around the chorten, spinning the prayer wheels while chanting mantras. In the evening, enjoy leisure time exploring MG Marg, Gangtok’s vibrant pedestrian-only market, lined with cafes, handicraft shops, and bustling local life before returning to your hotel for the night.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Chumbi Residency or similar (3*), Denzong Regency (4* & 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Travel to Kalimpong visiting Rumtek Monastery enroute

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your journey towards Kalimpong, a quaint hill station known for its colonial charm and monastery-lined ridges. En route, visit the grand Rumtek Monastery, the largest monastery in Sikkim and the seat of the Karmapa of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Located on a hilltop overlooking Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery is an architectural marvel with its colourful murals, intricate woodwork, golden stupas, and a large prayer hall housing a stunning statue of Buddha. Walk through its peaceful courtyards and feel the deep spiritual energy as monks chant and perform their rituals amidst the fluttering prayer flags. After soaking in the monastery’s serene atmosphere, continue your drive through winding mountain roads, lush forests, and terraced farmlands towards Kalimpong. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing and enjoying the tranquil ambience of this lesser-visited Himalayan gem.

Overnight stay in Kalimpong.
Holumba or similar (3*), The Elgin Silver Oaks or similar (4* & 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Kalimpong Sightseeing

Today, set out to explore the serene beauty and cultural heritage of Kalimpong. Begin your morning with a visit to Durpin Dara Hill, the highest point in Kalimpong, offering panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayan ranges, Teesta River valley, and the surrounding green hills dotted with villages and forests. Atop the hill, visit the Zang Dhok Palri Monastery (Durpin Monastery), built in 1972 and inaugurated by the Dalai Lama. This monastery houses rare Buddhist scriptures brought from Tibet during the Chinese invasion and features impressive murals and a peaceful prayer hall, exuding a deep sense of calm. Continue to the Kalimpong Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of Himalayan flora, colourful orchids, and beautifully landscaped pathways perfect for a gentle walk amidst nature. Later, visit the Jang Dog Palriffo Brang Gompa, another name for Zang Dhok Palri Monastery, known for its intricate Tibetan architecture and spiritual ambience. End your sightseeing at Thongsa Gompa, also known as Bhutan Monastery, the oldest monastery in Kalimpong founded in 1692, with its peaceful courtyard, prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and views over the valley. Return to your hotel in the evening, with time at leisure to explore the local markets or simply relax and absorb the quiet charm of Kalimpong.

Overnight stay in Kalimpong.
Holumba or similar (3*), The Elgin Silver Oaks or similar (4* & 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Travel to Phuentsholing, complete the Bhutan visa formalities and relax

After breakfast, check-out and enjoy a smooth and scenic drive as the landscape gradually transitions from India’s bustling plains to the peaceful foothills of Bhutan. Upon arrival in Phuentsholing—Bhutan’s welcoming gateway town (Approx. 04 to 05 hrs. drive)—you will meet your Bhutanese English-speaking guide, who will escort you to the immigration office to complete all entry and visa formalities. Your documents will be verified by the officials, and your Bhutan entry permits will be issued. Once the procedures are complete, check in to your hotel and relax. Later, you may enjoy a leisurely stroll through Phuentsholing’s lively streets, browse local shops.
Overnight stay in Phuentsholing.
Hotel Meto Pema / Druk Hotel or similar (3* - Best available with basic amenities in the area)
Meals: (Breakfast & Dinner at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Travel to Thimphu and relax

After breakfast, check-out and begin your scenic journey to Thimphu (Approx. 04 to 05 hrs. drive), Bhutan’s charming capital nestled amid emerald valleys and forested hills. Enjoy a smooth drive along winding mountain roads, passing cascading waterfalls, quaint villages, and panoramic viewpoints that reveal Bhutan’s tranquil natural beauty. On arrival in Thimphu, check in to your hotel and take the rest of the day at leisure to unwind.

Overnight stay in Thimphu.
The Willows or similar (3*), Thimphu Capital Hotel or similar (4*), Le Méridien or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast & Dinner at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
*Lunch will be in a local restaurant.

Explore Thimphu

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Thimphu, beginning with a visit to the magnificent Buddha Dordenma, a towering golden statue overlooking the valley and offering breathtaking panoramic views. Continue to the National Memorial Chorten, a revered religious monument where locals gather for daily prayers, creating a serene and spiritual ambiance. Next, explore the National Textile Museum, an excellent place to learn about Bhutan’s rich heritage of weaving, traditional dress, and intricate textile craftsmanship. Proceed to Changangkha Lhakhang, one of Thimphu’s oldest temples, perched on a ridge and offering sweeping views of the city below. From there, visit the Motithang Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s unique national animal—the Takin. Later, wander through the vibrant Craft Bazaar, where local artisans showcase handmade crafts, textiles, traditional masks, and souvenirs that reflect Bhutan’s artistic heritage. In the evening, conclude your day with an interior visit to the impressive Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and monastic body. Illuminated against the night sky.

Overnight stay in Thimphu.
The Willows or similar (3*), Thimphu Capital Hotel or similar (4*), Le Méridien or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast & Dinner at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
*Lunch will be in a local restaurant or at the Hotel in Thimphu depending on the situation.

Travel to Punakha visiting Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple en route

Drive to Punakha (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs drive), a beautiful journey that takes you through winding mountain roads, lush forests, and traditional Bhutanese villages. En route, stop at the impressive Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, a uniquely modern temple built in honour of the Fourth King, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Perched atop the Dochula Pass, the temple is surrounded by the famous 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges on clear days. Inside, admire the striking murals that creatively blend traditional artistry with contemporary Bhutanese history, portraying the country’s evolution and the visionary leadership of its kings. After this enriching visit, continue your scenic drive to Punakha and enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend into the warm, fertile valley.

Overnight stay in Punakha.
Zangto Pelri or similar (3*), Lobesa Boutique or similar (4*), Dhensa Boutique or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast & Dinner at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
*Lunch will be in a local restaurant or at the Hotel in Punakha depending on the situation.

Punakha Sightseeing

Begin your day with a scenic morning hike to Khamsum Yuley Namgyal Chorten, an intricately designed temple built to bring peace and harmony to the world. The trail leads you through terraced rice fields and pine forests, offering stunning views of the Punakha Valley and the winding Mo Chhu River. Once at the top, admire the temple’s exquisite architecture and enjoy the serene panoramic vistas that make the climb truly rewarding. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historically significant fortresses, strategically situated at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers. Explore its grand courtyards, intricate woodwork, and sacred temples that reflect Bhutanese craftsmanship at its finest. Continue your experience with a walk across the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, one of the longest in Bhutan, offering breathtaking river views and fluttering prayer flags that add a touch of spiritual charm. Later, return to your hotel and relax for the evening at leisure.

Overnight stay in Punakha.
Zangto Pelri or similar (3*), Lobesa Boutique or similar (4*), Dhensa Boutique or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast & Dinner at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
*Lunch will be in a local restaurant during the sightseeing.

Travel to Paro and sightseeing

Enjoy a scenic morning drive to Paro (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs. drive), winding through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional hamlets, with occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks as you descend into the tranquil landscapes of western Bhutan. Along the way, take in the serene beauty of river valleys, prayer flag–draped bridges, and hillside monasteries that reflect the country’s timeless charm. Upon arrival in Paro, check in to your hotel and take a moment to settle in before beginning your afternoon exploration. Start with a visit to the National Museum, housed in the historic Ta Dzong, where a rich collection of paintings, textiles, ritual objects, and natural history exhibits provide insight into Bhutan’s vibrant past and cultural evolution. Conclude your sightseeing at the majestic Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture, renowned for its massive stone walls, intricate woodwork, and sweeping views of the valley. Wander through its courtyards and corridors, learning about its role in both monastic life and local governance.

Overnight stay in Paro.
Rema Resorts or similar (3*) Kaacha Grand or similar (4*), Le Méridien or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast & Dinner at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
*Lunch will be in a local restaurant.

Travel to Paro and sightseeing
Excursion to Tiger Nest & visit to Kyichu Lhakhang

Embark on a full-day excursion to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most celebrated and spiritually significant landmark. Perched dramatically on a cliffside about 900 meters above the Paro Valley, the monastery is reached by a scenic hike through fragrant pine forests, prayer flag–lined pathways, and viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains. Upon reaching the monastery, explore its sacred temples and learn about the legends of Guru Rinpoche, who is believed to have meditated here in the 8th century. After descending, continue your spiritual journey with a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, dating back to the 7th century. With its peaceful courtyards, ancient statues, and timeless atmosphere, the temple provides a perfect contrast to the dramatic setting of Tiger’s Nest. After your visits, return to the hotel and spend the evening at leisure.

Overnight stay in Paro.
Rema Resorts or similar (3*) Kaacha Grand or similar (4*), Le Méridien or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast & Dinner at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
*Lunch will be in a local restaurant during the excursion.

Paro Departure (by international flight)

After breakfast, you will be assisted with a departure transfer to Paro International Airport to board your flight to your home or onward destination. As you drive through the peaceful valley one last time, take in the serene landscapes and the warm hospitality of Bhutan that made your journey truly memorable. Your guide will assist you with all formalities at the airport, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure. Safe travels and Tashi Delek!

No Accommodation on this day
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)