Itinerary for a road trip to Bhutan from Delhi, India

Embarking on a Bhutan road trip is akin to painting a vivid narrative of this petite, landlocked nation, known for its awe-inspiring landscapes. Bhutan, celebrated for its lush natural beauty, diverse culture, and rich heritage, has aptly earned its moniker as “The Global Sanctuary of Happiness.”

Bhutan is adorned in the serene charm of Buddha, making it a much-sought-after destination for those on a spiritual quest. Its accessibility and affordability have endeared it to tourists seeking a blend of tranquility and adventure.

However, Bhutan is far from a run-of-the-mill destination. It’s a realm of enchantment, enveloped in mystique, where monasteries, art, and mountains coalesce. A Bhutan road trip offers a distinctive, minimalist-style vacation centered around rejuvenation. Its unique food, culture, and festivals have established Bhutan as a popular choice among Indian travelers.

Table of Contents

Setting Out from Delhi, India to Bhutan
Why Embark on a Bhutan Road Trip?
7 Days Bhutan Road Trip Itinerary from Delhi, India

Setting Out from Delhi, India to Bhutan

By Air

Reaching Bhutan from India by air is straightforward. Paro is the only international airport in Bhutan. Bhutan Airlines and Drukair offer direct flights from various Indian cities like Delhi, Gaya, Bagdogra, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Guwahati to Paro.

By Road

Traveling by road is the prevalent method of entering Bhutan from Delhi, India. Tourists can choose between three border crossings: the Jaigaon–Phuentsholing border, the Bongaigaon–Gelephu border, and the Darangamela–Samdrup Jongkhar border. However, the Jaigaon–Phuentsholing border route is particularly popular.

By Train

A cost-effective approach to reach Bhutan from India is via rail. There is no direct train route to Bhutan; tourists must travel to a designated station and then hire a cab or use local transport. The best options in India are New Alipurduar, Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri Station, and Hasimara, with cab services from New Alipur to Jaigaon.

Why Embark on a Bhutan Road Trip?

Experience the rich heritage in numerous monasteries and partake in cultural festivals.
Embrace adventure with treks on renowned trails such as Thanza, Jhomolhari, Laya-Gasa trek, and Soi Yaksa valley.
If mountaineering, rafting, and mountain biking enthrall you, Bhutan is your ideal vacation destination.
With 600 bird species, Bhutan offers an unrivaled bird-watching experience.

Don’t hesitate! Plan your Bhutan itinerary from Delhi, India, and immerse yourself in the magnificent beauty of this biodiverse land, replete with colorful culture and traditions. Its pristine environment, historical significance, and educational opportunities make it an idyllic vacation destination.

7 Days Bhutan Road Trip Itinerary from Delhi, India

Embarking on a road trip from Delhi to Bhutan covers over 1600 kilometers of scenic driving. To thoroughly explore Bhutan and craft unforgettable memories, it’s recommended to journey by road over 9 to 10 days. Here is the perfect itinerary to ensure an extraordinary Bhutan road trip:

Day-1: Delhi to Siliguri

Day-2: Siliguri to Phuentsholing

Day-3: Phuentsholing to Paro

Day-4: Rest day in Paro

Day-5: Paro to Thimpu

Day-6: Thimpu to Punakha

Day-7: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley Punakha (Deparutre)

Day-1: Delhi to Siliguri

Siliguri, the third-largest city in West Bengal after Kolkata, nestles at the foothills of the Himalayas, encircled by tea gardens. Known for its three T’s: Tea, Transport, Tourism, and Timber, it sits 35 km from Darjeeling on the banks of the Mahananda river. It is most swiftly reached from New Delhi in roughly 3 hours.

Day-2: Journey from Siliguri to Phuentsholing (156 Kms)

Phuentsholing, an enchanting border town in southern Bhutan, is the administrative seat of Chukha District. The journey between Phuentsholing and Siliguri spans a scenic 94 km, with a distance of 58 miles by road.

Highlights of Phuentsholing

In Phuentsholing, marvel at the Bhutan Gate, relax by the Torsa River Side, and visit the Zangto Pelri Lhakhang. Also, don’t miss out on the Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre, ZiniGO – Sustainable Luxury Experiences, and Bhutan Wild Parks Tours and Treks.

Day-3: Phuentsholing to Paro (160 Kms)

Paro, a serene valley town in Bhutan, lies to the west of the capital, Thimphu. As the site of the country’s only international airport, Paro is easily accessible and is renowned for its numerous sacred sites.

Sacred Sites and Adventures in Paro

Taktsang Palphug Monastery and Tiger’s Nest Monastery are some of the prominent pilgrimage sites in Paro. Besides spiritual enlightenment, adventure seekers can enjoy trekking at Samtengang and biking along the Paro Ta Dzong Trail, among other activities.

Day-4: Rest day in Paro (Attractive Sites in Paro)

Paro Taktsang, Chele La Pass, National Museum, Paro River, and Rinpung Dzong are some top attractions in Paro. After a day filled with exploration, relax and rejuvenate in luxury at Le Meridien Paro or Riverfront, two of the best accommodations in Paro.

Day-5: Paro to Thimpu (65 Kms)

Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is the country’s largest city. The city boasts a unique blend of modern development and ancient traditions. Some must-visit places in Thimphu include Dochula Pass, Buddha Dordenma, Bhutan Post Office (Headquarters), Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong), Thimphu Chorten ( Memorial Chorten), and Simtokha Dzong.

Day-6: Thimpu to Punakha (86 Kms)

Punakha, a scenic town in the Himalayas of Bhutan, is known for its 17th-century fortress, unique rice-growing techniques, and charming architecture. Some must-visit spots include Punakha Dzong, Punakha Suspension Bridge, Mo Chhu (River), and Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang.