6 Days 5 Nights Bhutan Tour Itinerary from Kolkata by Train
Introduction
Bhutan, the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is a dream destination for many travelers from India. If you’re traveling from Kolkata, taking a train journey followed by a road trip to Bhutan is a cost-effective and scenic option. This blog will guide you through a detailed 6 Days 5 Nights Bhutan itinerary, including bookings, permits, costs, and travel tips.
Day 1: Train Journey from Kolkata to Hasimara
- Train Options: Board a train from Kolkata to Hasimara, the nearest railway station to Bhutan.
- Kanchankanya Express (Train No. 13149) – Departs from Sealdah at 8:30 PM, arrives at Hasimara at 10:40 AM (next day).
- Booking: You can book tickets via the IRCTC website or app.
- Cost: Approx. ₹350 for Sleeper Class, ₹950 for 3AC, ₹1,400 for 2AC.
- Overnight: Onboard train.
Day 2: Hasimara to Phuentsholing – Entering Bhutan
- Distance: 15 km from Hasimara to Phuentsholing.
- Transport: Hire a taxi (₹300) or take an auto-rickshaw (₹150 per person).
- Permits:
- Visit the Immigration Office in Phuentsholing.
- Required Documents: Passport/Voter ID, passport-size photos, hotel booking proof, and tour itinerary.
- Processing Time: 2-3 hours.
- Accommodation: Stay overnight in Phuentsholing (Budget hotels from ₹1,200, Mid-range ₹2,500).
Day 3: Phuentsholing to Thimphu – Explore the Capital
- Travel Distance: 170 km (~6 hours).
- Transport: Private cab (₹3,500) or shared taxi (₹600 per person).
- Sightseeing:
- Tashichho Dzong – The stunning fortress monastery.
- Buddha Dordenma – A gigantic Buddha statue with a panoramic city view.
- Memorial Chorten – A must-visit spiritual site.
- Accommodation:
- Budget: Hotel Norbuling (~₹1,500 per night)
- Mid-range: Hotel Thimphu Tower (~₹3,000 per night)
- Luxury: Le Meridien Thimphu (~₹6,000+ per night)
Day 4: Thimphu to Paro – The Beautiful Valley
- Travel Distance: 50 km (~1.5 hours).
- Transport: Taxi (~₹1,500 for a private car).
- Sightseeing:
- Paro Dzong – A picturesque fortress.
- National Museum of Bhutan – Learn about Bhutanese culture.
- Try Bhutanese cuisine (Ema Datshi, Suja Tea).
- Accommodation:
- Budget: Hotel Paro Grand (~₹1,500 per night)
- Mid-range: Tenzinling Resort (~₹3,500 per night)
- Luxury: Uma Paro by COMO (~₹7,000+ per night)
Day 5: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery)
- Activity: A must-do 4-5 hour trek to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
- Entry Fee: ₹500 for Indians.
- Tips: Start early, carry water, and wear comfortable shoes.
- Evening: Relax in Paro or return to Phuentsholing (optional).
- Accommodation: Stay in Paro or Phuentsholing (depending on departure plans).
Day 6: Return Journey to Kolkata
- Paro to Phuentsholing: Early morning taxi (~₹1,500).
- Phuentsholing to Hasimara: 30-minute auto ride (~₹150 per person).
- Train: Board Kanchankanya Express at 3:00 PM from Hasimara to Kolkata (arrives next morning).
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
- Spring (March to May): Best season with blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and vibrant festivals like Thimphu Tshechu.
- Winter (December to February): Cold but great for budget travelers and snow-covered landscapes.
- Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rains; not ideal for sightseeing.
5. Food & Local Cuisine Recommendations
🍲 Must-Try Bhutanese Dishes:
- Ema Datshi: Spicy chili and cheese dish
- Phaksha Paa: Pork with red chilies
- Momos & Thukpa: Tibetan-style dumplings and noodle soup
- Red Rice & Buckwheat Noodles
🛒 Where to Eat?
- Thimphu: Zombala Restaurant, Folk Heritage Restaurant
- Paro: Sonam Trophel Restaurant, My Kind of Place
- Punakha: Lobesa Village Restaurant
4. Permit & Entry Requirements for Bhutan
Documents Needed for Entry Permit (at Phuentsholing Immigration Office):
✅ Valid Indian Passport (Minimum 6 months validity) OR Voter ID
✅ 2 Passport Size Photos
✅ Hotel Booking Confirmation
✅ Travel Itinerary & Guide Details (Required in some cases)
Entry Fees for Popular Attractions:
- Tiger’s Nest Hike: ₹1,000 per person
- Punakha Dzong: ₹500
- National Museum (Paro): ₹100
- Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu): Free entry after 5 PM
Estimated Total Cost (Per Person)
| Expense | Estimated Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Train Tickets (Round Trip) | 1,900 |
| Local Transport & Taxis | 4,500 |
| Accommodation (Budget) | 6,000 |
| Food & Miscellaneous | 4,000 |
| Permits & Entry Fees | 500 |
| Total | 16,900 |
Important Travel Tips
- Carry sufficient cash, as digital payments are limited in some areas.
- Always carry your permits while traveling between cities.
- Respect Bhutanese culture and dress modestly at religious sites.
- Avoid single-use plastics as Bhutan is an eco-friendly country.
- Book hotels in advance during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
A 6 Days 5 Nights Bhutan tour from Kolkata by train is a budget-friendly and adventurous way to explore this mystical kingdom. From stunning monasteries to breathtaking landscapes, Bhutan is truly a paradise for travelers. Pack your bags and embark on this unforgettable journey!
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