Essence of Bhutan – Kalimpong & Darjeeling 12 Days / 11 Nights

Get ready for a beautiful adventure with the 12N 11D Kalimpong & Darjeeling Tour Package by AK Tours & Travels, a journey that takes you through the peaceful hills and valleys of Bhutan and India. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy nature, learn about different cultures, and relax in the calm surroundings of the mountains.

Every day of this trip brings something new and special. You’ll travel through scenic landscapes filled with green forests, flowing rivers, tea gardens, and snow-capped mountains. In Bhutan, you’ll discover a land full of happiness and tradition. The country is known for its kind people, beautiful monasteries, and strong connection to nature.

You’ll visit quiet temples, explore old fortresses, and enjoy peaceful walks in the valleys. Bhutan offers a deep sense of calm that stays with you long after you leave. After Bhutan, the tour continues to the lovely towns of Kalimpong and Darjeeling in India.

Kalimpong is a quiet hill station known for its pretty nurseries, old buildings, and peaceful monasteries. Darjeeling, often called the “Queen of the Hills,” is famous for its tea gardens, stunning views of the Himalayas, and rich history. Watching the sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga is truly a magical moment you will never forget.

This tour is not just about sightseeing – it’s about slowing down, enjoying the little moments, and creating happy memories. Whether you’re exploring local markets, sipping tea in a garden, or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air, every part of this trip is made to refresh your mind and soul.

When it comes to planning your trip, AK Tours & Travels is the best travel company to choose. With years of experience and a passion for creating great travel experiences, we take care of everything – from comfortable hotels to friendly guides and smooth transport. You can relax and enjoy your trip while we handle all the details.

With AK Tours & Travels, you’re not just booking a tour – you’re choosing a trusted partner for a truly special journey. Call us and book your 12N 11D Kalimpong & Darjeeling Tour Package today!

Itinerary

DAY 1: BAGDOGRA AIRPORT - PHUENTSHOLING

As you step out of Bagdogra Airport, nestled in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, your journey begins with a scenic drive through the Dooars region, winding through lush tea gardens, dense sal forests, and sparkling rivers.

  • Upon arrival in Phuentsholing, meet your Bhutanese guide and transfer to the hotel.
  • Check-in and relax after your journey.
  • Evening at leisure to explore local markets.

Overnight in Phuentsholing.

DAY 2: PHUENTSHOLING TO PARO VALLEY

A breathtaking drive through Bhutan's lush valleys and forested hills, introducing you to the country's natural beauty.

  • Complete immigration formalities.
  • Scenic drive to Paro with lunch en route.
  • Check-in at the hotel; evening at leisure.

Overnight in Paro.

DAY 3: PARO VALLEY EXPLORATION

  • Ta-Dzong (National Museum): Ancient watchtower showcasing Bhutanese artifacts.
  • Drukgyel Dzong: Historic fortress with mountain vistas.
  • Kyichu Lhakhang: 7th-century sacred temple.
  • Lunch at a local farmhouse.

Optional: Traditional Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath.

Overnight in Paro.

DAY 4: PARO TO PUNAKHA VIA DOCHULA PASS

  • Dochula Pass (3,100m): Panoramic Himalayan views and 108 stupas at Druk Wangyel Chorten.
  • Punakha Dzong: Iconic fortress at the river confluence.

Overnight in Punakha.

DAY 5: PUNAKHA TO THIMPHU

  • Visit the Punakha Suspension Bridge.
  • Drive to Thimphu; evening stroll in the capital.

Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 6: THIMPHU SIGHTSEEING

  • Tashichho Dzong: Fortress-monastery and government seat.
  • Buddha Dordenma Statue: Massive golden Buddha overlooking the valley.
  • Memorial Chorten: Spiritual hub for locals.
  • Farmers’ Market: Vibrant local bazaar.

Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 7: THIMPHU TO PHUENTSHOLING

  • Visit Simply Bhutan Museum for cultural immersion.
  • Explore the Craft Bazaar for souvenirs.
  • Drive back to Phuentsholing.

Overnight in Phuentsholing.

DAY 8: PHUENTSHOLING TO KALIMPONG

Scenic 6-hour drive through tea gardens and hills, with stops at the Teesta River Viewpoint.

  • Check-in at Kalimpong hotel.

Overnight in Kalimpong.

DAY 9: KALIMPONG SIGHTSEEING

  • Deolo Hill: Panoramic Himalayan views.
  • Zang Dhok Palri Monastery: Tibetan Buddhist site.
  • Dr. Graham’s Homes: Historic colonial-era school.
  • Pine View Nursery: Exotic cactus collection.

Overnight in Kalimpong.

DAY 10: KALIMPONG TO DARJEELING

Picturesque drive to Darjeeling, the "Queen of the Hills."

  • Check-in and optional half-day sightseeing.

Overnight in Darjeeling.

DAY 11: DARJEELING SIGHTSEEING

  • Tiger Hill: Sunrise over Kanchenjunga.
  • Batasia Loop: Spiral railway with garden views.
  • Happy Valley Tea Estate: Tea factory tour.
  • Padmaja Naidu Zoo: Himalayan wildlife.

Overnight in Darjeeling.

DAY 12: DARJEELING TO BAGDOGRA AIRPORT

Transfer to Bagdogra Airport for departure.

✈️ TOUR CONCLUDES.

Inclusions

  1. SDF Fee: INR 1200/day/person (Bhutan only).
  2. Accommodation: 3-star hotels.
  3. Meals: Daily breakfast & dinner.
  4. Transport: Maruti Ertiga with driver.
  5. Guide: English-speaking licensed guide (Bhutan).
  6. Taxes: All government charges included.

Exclusions

  1. Monument entry fees.
  2. Travel insurance.
  3. Beverages and personal expenses.
  4. Tips for guides/drivers.
  5. Airfare/train tickets.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bhutan Tour Package

The ideal time for this Bhutan tour is:
  • Spring (March-May): Pleasant 15-25°C temperatures with blooming rhododendrons
  • Autumn (September-November): Clear skies perfect for Himalayan views and festival season
These seasons offer comfortable weather for sightseeing and photography.
Essential Packing List:
  • Clothing: Layered outfits (light woollens for day, warm jackets for evenings)
  • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
  • Accessories: Sunglasses, sunhat, small backpack
  • Temple Visits: Modest clothing covering shoulders/knees
  • Miscellaneous: Medicines, power bank, reusable water bottle
The 160 km journey from Bagdogra to Phuentsholing includes:
  • Travel time: 4-5 hours (depending on border formalities)
  • Route: Through Siliguri, Jaigaon to Bhutan border
  • Scenic stops: Tea gardens along the way
  • Border crossing: Indian exit/entry formalities at Jaigaon
Your tour operator will arrange all necessary border paperwork.
The 125 km journey from Paro to Punakha features:
  • Travel time: 4-5 hours (including scenic stops)
  • Key highlight: Crossing Dochula Pass (3,100m) with 108 chortens
  • Best stops: Simtokha Dzong, traditional villages
  • Terrain: Descends from mountains to subtropical Punakha valley
The 50 km Kalimpong-Darjeeling route offers:
  • Duration: 2.5-3 hours (mountain roads)
  • Scenic views: Tea estates, Himalayan ranges
  • Key stops:
    • Lamahatta Eco Park (optional)
    • Tea garden viewpoints
  • Road condition: Winding but well-maintained
Visa/Permit Information:
  • International Tourists: Visa fees included (USD $40)
  • Indian Nationals: Entry permit processing included
  • Documents required:
    • Passport copy/Voter ID (for Indians)
    • Passport-sized photos
    • Travel dates confirmation
ABC Tours handles all paperwork before your arrival.
For Senior Citizens:
  • Comfortable pace with adequate rest stops
  • Hotels with easy accessibility
  • Option to skip strenuous activities
For Families with Kids:
  • Kid-friendly attractions like Buddha Point
  • Flexible meal timings
  • Hotels can arrange extra beds
Note: Some monasteries require climbing stairs - alternatives can be arranged.
Connectivity Overview:
  • Cities/Towns: Good 4G coverage (Airtel/Indian SIMs work)
  • Remote Areas: Limited signals in mountain valleys
  • Hotels: Most offer WiFi (speed varies)
Recommended:
  • Purchase local SIM (TashiCell) for better coverage
  • Download offline maps
  • Inform family about possible connectivity gaps
Activity Level:
  • Light walking (1-2 hours) at cultural sites
  • Optional short hikes to viewpoints
  • Monastery visits may involve stairs (alternate routes available)
  • No difficult trekking included in standard itinerary
Physical requirements can be adjusted based on your comfort level.
Customization Options with ABC Tours:
  • Adjust tour duration (extend/shorten stays)
  • Upgrade/downgrade accommodation level
  • Add/remove specific activities or destinations
  • Special dietary requirements
  • Private vehicle options
  • Special occasions (honeymoon/anniversary arrangements)
Contact our travel consultants to create your perfect itinerary.

Get Free Quotes from Our Tour Expert!

    Recommended Packages

    Mathura With Vrindavan Tour Package

    Mathura and Vrindavan Tour Package

    Destination Covered : MATHURA - VRINDAVAN - GOKUL - GOVARDHAN - BARSANA - NANDGAON -

    read more

    Ayodhya With Jain Tour Package

    Destination Covered : AYODHYA - TRILOKPURI - SHRAVASTI - RATANPURI - KAUSHAMBI - PRAYAGRAJ - VARANASI

    read more

    Ratanpuri & Shravasti Tour Package

    Destination Covered : RATANPURI - SHRAVASTI

    read more

    Ayodhya With Prayagraj Kaushambi & Varanasi Tour Package

    Ayodhya With Prayagraj Kaushambi & Varanasi Tour Package

    Destination Covered : AYODHYA - PRAYAGRAJ - KOUSHAMBI - VARANASI

    read more

    Prayagraj With Varanasi & Gaya Tour Package

    Prayagraj With Varanasi & Gaya Tour Package

    Destination Covered : PRAYAGRAJ - VARANASI - GAYA

    read more

    Varanasi With Gaya Tour Package

    Varanasi with Gaya tour package

    Destination Covered : VARANASI - GAYA

    read more

    Varanasi Tour Package

    Destination Covered : VARANASI - SARNATH

    read more

    Ayodhya With Chhapiya Tour Package

    Ayodhya With Chhapiya Tour Package

    Destination Covered : AYODHYA - CHHAPIYA - MAKHOUDA

    read more

    Ayodhya with Prayagraj & Chitrakoot Tour Package

    Ayodhya With Prayagraj Chitrakoot & Varanasi Tour Package

    Destination Covered : AYODHYA - PRAYAGRAJ - CHITRAKOOT

    read more

    Ayodhya With Prayagraj Chitrakoot & Varanasi Tour Package

    Destination Covered : AYODHYA - PRAYAGRAJ - CHITRAKOOT - VARANASI

    read more

    varanasi prayagraj ayodhya chitrakoot tour package

    Destination Covered : AYODHYA - PRAYAGRAJ - CHITRAKOOT - VARANASI

    read more

    Ayodhya With Prayagraj & Varanasi Tour Package

    Destination Covered : AYODHYA - PRAYAGRAJ - VARANASI

    read more

    Ayodhya With Naimisharanya Tour Package

    Naimisharanya Tour Package

    Destination Covered : AYODHYA - NAIMISHARANYA

    read more

    Ayodhya With Prayagraj Tour Package

    Ayodhya prayagraj

    Destination Covered : Ayodhya - Prayagraj

    read more

    Ayodhya Tour Package 1 Night & 2 Days

    2 Nights 3 Days Ayodhya Tour

    Destination Covered : RAM TEMPLE-HANUMANGARHI - KANAK BHAWAN -DASHRATHA MAHAL-RAM - KI - PAIDI-SARYU GHAT-SURYAKUND-NANDIGRAM-GUPTAR GHAAT

    read more

    Ayodhya Same Day Tour Package

    Ayodhya Same Day Tour Package

    Destination Covered : RAM TEMPLE-HANUMANGARHI - KANAK BHAWAN -DASHRATHA MAHAL-RAM - KI - PAIDI-SARYU GHAT-SURYAKUND-NANDIGRAM-GUPTAR GHAAT

    read more

    Ayodhya With Varanasi Tour Package

    Destination Covered : AYODHYA - VARANASI- PRAYAGRAJ

    read more