Are you headed to Bhutan through India? If you’ve explored Delhi and crave a fresh experience, consider routing through Kolkata for a unique adventure!

Greetings! Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you’ll be promptly escorted to your hotel (check-in starting at noon). Depending on your arrival schedule, you can embark on a thrilling city tour of India’s capital. We suggest an additional night’s stay for those arriving early or the evening prior.

Following our morning meal, we proceed to the airport. The journey to Paro (2,280 m) offers one of the most breathtaking flight experiences worldwide, boasting panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range. Navigating the narrow valley during landing requires skilled piloting and clear visibility. Post-immigration procedures, we rendezvous with our local guide and transfer to our accommodation. Later in the day, we explore the historic Paro Dzong, also known as “Ripung Dzong,” a fortress dating back to 1646 that still serves as a centre for regional governance and monastic life. Our next stop is Kyichu Lhakang, among Bhutan’s oldest and holiest temples, erected in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. We spend the night at a Paro hotel. (F/M/A)

On our second day exploring Bhutan, we embark on a 5-hour journey, ascending and descending through breathtaking landscapes to reach the renowned Tiger’s Nest monastery. Perched 900 meters above the Paro Valley, this sacred site is where Guru Rinpoche, a key figure in Tibetan Buddhism, is said to have arrived on the back of a tiger in the 8th century. Despite the steep climb, the monastery’s beauty and the panoramic views make it a rewarding experience. Later in the day, we visit Ta Dzong, Bhutan’s national museum, housed in a historic 16th-century fortress, showcasing cultural treasures spanning 50 years. We spend the night in a Paro hotel. (F/M/A)

We begin our trek with a relaxed pace, tracing the bends of the Paro River through the picturesque Paro Valley. Along the way, we catch glimpses of the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery from below and pass by quaint farmhouses surrounded by red rice, chilli, potatoes, and millet fields. After a five-hour journey, we arrive at Shana (2,860m), a charming village at the valley’s end. Our camping site awaits, expertly set up by the crew. Trekking distance: 17 km, duration approximately 5 hours. (F/M/A)

Today, our journey starts early as we tackle our first extensive leg. Venturing into the breathtaking terrain of Jigme Dorji National Park, we witness the Paro Valley gradually narrowing amidst lush forests teeming with oak, pine, and juniper. Ascending to significant heights, we relish panoramic vistas of the valley below and the majestic snow-capped Chomolhari peak towering at 7,326 meters. Our resting spot for the night is Soi Thangthanka (3,610m). Covering a distance of 22 kilometres, expect a journey lasting approximately 7-8 hours. (F/M/A)

Our journey advances northward alongside the majestic Paro River. Venturing into a vast valley flanked by towering cliffs and icy summits, we encounter scattered settlements inhabited by yak-rearing communities. The magnificent Chomolhari looms tantalizingly close. After a five-hour trek, we settle into our campsite at Jangothang (4,080m), covering a distance of 19 km in approximately 5-6 hours. (F/M/A)

Today presents a rare opportunity to inhale the air beyond 5,000 meters. Join us for a day excursion as we ascend to great heights, aiming for 5,000 or even 5,500 meters. Alternatively, you’re welcome to spend the day relaxing at the camp. (F/M/A)

Today’s journey commences with a brisk ascent, leading us to a serene glacial lake. We traverse a secluded valley, encountering yak herders in tents crafted from their hair. Following another challenging climb, we conquer the Bonte La pass, standing proudly at 4,890 meters above sea level. Amidst our midday reprieve, we relish the panoramic vista, stretching towards the majestic Kanchenjunga peak, soaring at 8,586 meters. A steep descent guides us to the quaint village of Soi Yaktsa (3,800m), where our campsite awaits. Covering a distance of 18km over approximately 7-8 hours, this journey promises adventure and awe. (F/M/A)

Throughout the day, breathtaking vistas accompany our journey. We ascend the eastern side of the Soi Yaktsa Valley, witnessing the majestic peaks of the Himalayas unfolding to the north. Chomolhari and Jichu Drake emerge on the horizon as we reach Takhung La at 4,520 meters. Descending into the vast, grassy Thangbushong valley, we pass by the dwellings of yak herders as in previous days. Our path leads us through a final steep ascent to Thombu La (4,380m), offering a panoramic view of Bhutan’s mountainous landscape. The descent brings us back to our starting point at Shana (2,860m), concluding our journey with a total distance of 15km covered in 6-7 hours. (F/M/A)

We journey southward through the Paro Valley, tracing the same path alongside the river we traversed a week prior. En route, we take a brief detour to Gunitawa, a community inhabited by military personnel and their families. Transported from Drugyel Dzong to our hotel, we unwind in the comforts of Bhutanese society, relishing a serene evening. Covering 17km over approximately 5 hours, we settle in for the night at a Paro hotel. (F/M/A)

To cap off our journey today, we head towards Thimphu (2,320 m), the vibrant capital of Bhutan. During the 1.5-hour bus journey, we briefly stop at Chuzom, where the Paro and Thimphu rivers converge, adorned by Tibetan, Nepalese, and Bhutanese stupas. Thimphu serves as Bhutan’s religious, cultural, economic, and political hub, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Surprisingly, it lacks traffic lights but boasts a Ministry of Happiness! Following check-in at the hotel, we embark on a city tour. Overnight stay in Thimphu at the hotel (F/M/A).

We opted for the bus journey to return to Paro. On our flight back to Delhi, we relish the grandeur of the mountains we’ve trekked through for a week, etching the majesty of the world’s largest mountain range into our memories. Our night is spent in Delhi. (Farewell/-/Arrival)

Transportation to the airport awaits for your journey back or onward. Should you desire to extend your stay in India, inquire about personalized options such as visiting Agra and Jaipur, exploring Kolkata, or unwinding in Goa by the beach. (F/-/-)