• The chance to travel to the extraordinary Kingdom of Bhutan and discover India’s least well-known region in one incredible holiday!
• Discovering why Kolkata is known as the ‘City of Joy’
• Traversing high into the Himalayas to witness extraordinary sunrises 
• Travelling on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and then exploring this land of monasteries, tea plantations, bargain-hunting, and trekking 
• Exploring the extraordinary biodiversity of the Singalila National Park Area
• Encountering wonderous wildlife on Singalila National Park
• Meeting Bhutanese people – artisans, nuns, monks, farmers and families
• The exciting pick 'n' mix menu of optional visits and experiences

• Cruising along the River Ganges, past temples, and bathing Ghats
• Wandering through Kolkata’s vast, vivid, and fragrant Mullick Flower Market
• Experiencing the spiritual peace of Lake Tsomgo 
• Seeing the sun rise on Tiger Hill and watching the Himalayan range turn gold
• Watching Tibetan artisans at work
• Learning about the Bhutanese concept of Gross National Happiness from an expert
• Watching Buddhist monks make paper by hand
• Hoisting prayer flags and discovering the meditative nature of this tradition

• Return British Airways flights from London Heathrow*
• 18x nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast
• 16x lunches
• All transfers, entrance fees, sightseeing visits, and excursions as listed in the itinerary
• Toy train from Darjeeling to Ghoom (please note that this is not air-conditioned)
• All inland travel permits and Bhutan visa fee
• Services of an English-speaking Indian tour manager (Day 2 to Day 11 & Day 19)
• Services of an English-speaking Bhutanese Tour Manager (Day 12 to Day 18) 
• Assistance on arrival and departure at airports
• All taxes, fees and gratuities
• 2x 500ml bottle of mineral water per day

*Please note, you can also opt to arrange your own travel and join the tour in Kolkata

Day One

14:25 – depart London Heathrow on British Airways flight BA0227 for Hyderabad

Day Two 

05:20 - arrive at Hyderabad

08:15 - depart Hyderabad on Indigo flight BA7952 for Kolkata

10:25 - arrive at Kolkata Airport. You will meet your Tour Manager at the terminal exit and transfer to your hotel, Taj Bengal 5* for breakfast and a morning at leisure. You will then enjoy lunch at the hotel before check-in.

Kolkata is renowned for its vibrant people, rich culture, distinctive cuisine, music, literature, and cinema. Nicknamed the ‘City of Joy’ and widely regarded as India’s intellectual capital, Kolkata’s recorded history began in 1690, with the arrival of the East India Company, who designated Kolkata as the capital until 1911. Remnants of the colonial era are still visible today - in its trams, India’s first underground railway, and grand Victorian architecture. Kolkata also has strong ties to many of India’s Nobel laureates, including Rabindranath Tagore and Mother Teresa.

Afternoon - experience the beauty of a Kolkata sunset from the River Ganges on a serene boat ride to the Belur Math temple. Your journey will take you past many of the city’s most iconic landmarks and the onboard guide will share stories and fascinating insights as you go. Snacks are served onboard and the experience includes a visit to Belur Math.

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Three 

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning -visit St Paul’s Cathedral, noted for its Gothic architecture and reputed to be the largest church in Kolkata and the first Anglican cathedral in Asia. Then visit to the iconic Victoria Memorial.before heading to The Mother’s House - Missionaries of Charity, established by the Blessed Mother Teresa. The last stop is South Street Cemetery.

Lunch at the Elgin Fairlawn, a colonial-era style hotel built by William Ford in 1783 on land he purchased from Sheikh Ramjan and Bhonay. Since then, the building has been shaped by the hands and minds of generations of families whose memorabilia is still here, contributing to its unique heritage

Afternoon - Visit the Botanical Gardens, a serene sanctuary amidst the bustle of Kolkata, threaded with lakes that flow into the Ganges. At its heart stands the legendary Great Banyan Tree (over 250 years old!), its vast canopy, supported by hundreds of aerial roots like natural columns, spreading across more than 4 acres: a living forest in the form of a single tree.

Late afternoon - at leisure or take part in the optional excursion:

Optional excursion: Visit a local market, followed by a cooking demonstration and Bengali meal

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Four 

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning - visit the elegant James Prinsep Memorial, a colonial-era Palladian porch honouring the renowned scholar. Continue to the 130-year-old Mullick Ghat Flower Market, the largest in Kolkata and one of the biggest in Asia before exploring Kumartuli, the famed Potters’ Colony where intricate clay idols are crafted for Hindu festivals and export. Drive past Dalhousie Square with its grand colonial architecture.

Lunch at the Glenburn Penthouse, a discreet, elegant residence known for its exquisite collection of antique Bengal colonial furniture and artworks and spectacular views of historic Kolkata.

Afternoon - at leisure or take part in the optional excursion:

Optional excursion: Kolkata food walk with tasting

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Five 

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

09:50 - depart Kolkata airport on Air India Express flight IX1595 for Bagdogra

11:05 - arrive at Bagdogra Airport and begin your journey towards Gangtok. We will stop en route at the Lemon Tree Hotelfor lunch surrounded by greenergy and tea gardens. 

Afternoon - drive on to Darjeeling where we will you check into The Elgin Nor-Khill

Nestled in an idyllic setting with a refreshing climate and stunning views of Kanchenjunga, Darjeeling has a long history, even before becoming a popular hill station during British colonial times in the mid-1800s. The region is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, vibrant Buddhist monasteries, expansive tea plantations, bustling markets ideal for bargain-hunting, and scenic trekking routes.

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Six 

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning - visit Rumtek Monastery, the largest and wealthiest monastery in Sikkim, followed by lunch at the Bamboo Retreat

Afternoon - return to Gangtok for an afternoon at leisure or choose from two optional experiences:

Option 1: visit Ray Mindu Village, known for its traditional food and handicraft centre
Option 2: visit Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Seven 

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning visit to Lake Tsomgo, part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape. (Please note, as this lake is located in a restricted area, all nationals must obtain special permits. Your guide will arrange these.) 

Return to Gangtok for lunch at the hotel followed by a visit to the Orchidarium. Recently re-opened following renovation, this tranquil oasis celebrates the diversity and beauty of orchids.

Afternoon -  at leisure or choose from two optional experiences:

Option 1: visit to Do-Drul Chorten stupa and Tashi Viewpoint
Option 2: visit to Tsuk-La-Khang and Enchey Monastery

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Eight

Breakfast at the hotel and check out, transferring to Darjeeling.

Nestled in an idyllic setting with a refreshing climate and stunning views of Kanchenjunga, Darjeeling has a long history, even before becoming a popular hill station during British colonial times in the mid-1800s. The region is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, vibrant Buddhist monasteries, expansive tea plantations, bustling markets ideal for bargain-hunting, and scenic trekking routes.

Lunch at The Elgin Hotel, where you will also be staying.  

Afternoon - enjoy a sustainability talk with a renowned Darjeeling personality

Dinner at the hotel

Day Nine

Rise early for an excursion to Tiger Hill, where, as dawn approaches, the horizon gradually shifts in colour before Kanchenjunga - India's highest peak - and the surrounding Himalayan range are bathed in golden light (weather permitting). If you would rather not go up Tiger Hill, you can choose to walk from the hotel to a viewpoint near the hotel from where you will be able to see the sunrise.

Return to the hotel for breakfast

Morning - enjoy a nostalgic toy train ride from Darjeeling to Ghoom, India’s highest railway station, where you will visit Ghoom Monastery, home to a 15ft-tall gilded statue of the Maitreya Buddha.

Lunch at a hotel in Darjeeling

Afternoon - embark on a sightseeing tour of Darjeeling to learn about this history city. During the tour, you'll visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, where you can see equipment used by Mr. Tenzing Norgay during his summit. Next, enjoy a visit to Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to a range of Himalayan animals, including the red panda, snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, Tibetan yak, Himalayan black bear, and various bird species. The final stop is the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre, established in 1959 following the arrival of Tibetan refugees who fled with the Dalai Lama. Run by the Tibetan community, the centre focuses on the preservation of traditional handicrafts, such as leather work, paintings and woodwork.

Evening - return to the hotel for dinner 

Day Ten

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning - explore the Happy Valley Tea Estate on the misty hills near Darjeeling where the world famous teas are grown. Mild in character, Darjeeling teas are known as the 'Champagne of Tea'. You will see the various stages of tea manufacture and enjoy a tasting session.

Lunch with a local family - Mr. Uday Mani Pradhan, former District Governor of the Rotary Club and a respected lecturer at a renowned Darjeeling college, will warmly welcome you with a traditional khata (scarf). Enjoy an informal conversation about the city and its local customs as you savour tea and coffee accompanied by authentic Nepali snacks. Your hosts will introduce you to the rich flavours of Nepali cuisine, followed by the opportunity to taste the delicious dishes you've just discovered.

Afternoon - at leisure 

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Eleven

Early breakfast at the hotel 

Morning - Transfer to Singalila National Park, entering through the Manebhanjan checkpost and exploring this hilly landscape in an Old Model Private Number Land Rover (1953-54 model - if available). We will stop for lunch at a local lodge/homestay in Tumling, the entry point for the national park, followed by some free time to explore at your leisure.
 
Afternoon - return to Manebhanjan by modern Land Rover (if available), then return to Darjeeling

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Twelve

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Morning - begin your journey to Bhutan, stopping for lunch at Sinclairs Retreat Dooars. You will also visit two indigenous communities near Grassmore Village en route.

Mid-afternoon – arrive at the India/Bhutan border, where your English-speaking Bhutanese guide will meet you and assist you through immigration. You will then continue your drive to Phuentsholing, where you will be staying for the night at Druk Hotel, Phuentsholing.

Phuentsholing, the gateway to Bhutan, is a charming town nestled at the base of the Himalayan foothills at an elevation of 293 metres. It was here that Buddhism first took root in Bhutan, and today it serves as the country’s financial, industrial, and commercial hub. The majority of goods traded into Bhutan pass through Phuentsholing, making it a vital entry point for commerce with India.

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Thirteen

Early breakfast at the hotel and check out before continuing your journey deeper into Bhutan towards Thimphu. Wind through light mountain jungle draped in lianas and orchids, crest a ridge, then descend to the Torsa River, which powers the massive Chukha Hydel hydroelectric project. Magnificent views invite frequent photo stops along the way.

Upon arrival at Druk Hotel, Thimphu, enjoy a relaxing lunch at the hotel.

Ranging in altitude from 2,248 to 2,648 metres, Thimphu is the fifth-highest capital city in the world. As the seat of the Royal Family, it serves as Bhutan’s administrative, religious, and commercial heart. Despite being the most modern city in the Kingdom - with cafes, restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centres - Thimphu retains a deep sense of tradition, offering a harmonious blend of ancient heritage and contemporary life.

Afternoon - visit the National Institute of Zorig Chusum ('the Painting School'), where students master Bhutan's 13 traditional arts over six years, from drawing and painting to woodcarving, embroidery, and statue-making. You will also have opportunity to see the Takin Reserve, home to Bhutan's national animal, the takin (also called cattle chamois or gnu goat).

Evening - attend an insightful talk on Gross National Happiness (GNH), Bhutan's unique philosophy rooting economic development in Buddhist values and cultural preservation. Dinner will be served after the talk.

Day Fourteen

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning - visit Pangri Zampa Monastery, the School of Astrology, just north of Thimphu. For those wishing to hear predictions of their future, personal sessions can be arranged at an additional charge of $50 US Dollars, payable directly to the monastery. Afterwards, tour a traditional Dezo paper factory to see the complex, centuries-old process of Dezo making. Our last activity of the morning will be a visit to the giant Buddha Dordenma, which overlooks Thimphu.

Lunch at a local restaurant

Afternoon - visit the authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar, where local artisans sell reasonably-priced handmade products, followed by the lively Farmer’s Market. In the later afternoon, visit the Memorial Chorten, which honours the Late King of Bhutan and symbolises peace. In the evening, it transforms into a lively gathering spot where people engage in prayer, turn large prayer wheels and light butter lamps while socialising.

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Fifteen

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Morning - Drive to Punakha, visiting the Dochu-la Pass en route.

Located at an elevation of 3,100 metres, Dochu-la offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas on clear days. The site is marked by 108 chortens, colourful prayer flags, and mani walls, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. A popular picnic spot for locals, it’s not uncommon to see families enjoying a peaceful break against this dramatic mountain backdrop. Depending on whether the day is auspicious - according to the Buddhist lunar calendar - you may have the opportunity to hoist prayer flags, lung dhar, yourself. If the day is not auspicious, this activity will take place elsewhere.

Upon arrival in Punakha, take a 30-40 minute scenic walk through a village and terraced paddy fields to reach Chimi Lhakhang temple. If you would rather not walk, there is an option to drive straight to the temple.

Lunch at a local restaurant

Afternoon - Visit Nalanda University, where you will have the chance to engage with monks who are pursuing advanced Buddhist studies and learning English. They’ll be eager to practice their language skills, so feel free to interact with them. You will then explore Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful fortresses in Bhutan.

Late afternoon - check in to the RKPO Green Resort, in the heart of the Punakha Valley.

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Sixteen

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Morning - Set off towards Paro, a beautiful valley that is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, as well as the country’s only international airport. The Paro Valley is one of the kingdom’s most fertile tracts of land, producing the bulk of Bhutan’s famous red rice from its terraced fields.

Lunch at a local restaurant

Afternoon - check in to Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa, and then visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the country, where you will have the chance to observe elderly pilgrims spinning the prayer wheels and offering obeisance to the different deities and gurus. There will be time afterwards to browse for souvenirs in Paro’s market before vising one of the finest farmhouses in the valley to watch - and participate - in an archery tournament, the national sport of Bhutan.

Evening - try on a gho or kira, the national dress of men and women (respectively), followed by a sumptuous traditional Bhutanese meal.

Day Seventeen

Breakfast at the hotel

Today you have two options:

Option 1: Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) & Viewpoints 

The trek through shady pine forests to the viewpoint and cafeteria takes a couple of hours. After a break for a vegetarian buffet lunch, you will continue to walk further up to the monastery where you will have an hour to explore before making your way back down. 

Option 2: Visit to Dungtse Lhakhang & Ta Dzong

Built in 1421, the temple of Dungtse Lhakhang was ordered to immobilize a demoness who was terrorising the valley. Ta Dzong was originally a watchtower, and is now home of the National Museum of Bhutan. The museum displays fine artifacts including armour, weapons, costumes and artwork highlighting Bhutanese heritage and culture.

Return to your hotel for lunch and the remainder of the day at leisure

Early evening – watch a cultural performance at the hotel while wearing traditional outfit followed by dinner

Day Eighteen

Early breakfast and check out, then transfer to Paro airport for your flight to Kolkata

07:40 - depart Paro on DrukAir / Royal Bhutan Airlines flight KB210

08:40 arrive at Kolkata airport, and transfer to your hotel, the Taj Bengal.

Remainder of your day at leisure with lunch included

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Nineteen

Breakfast at the hotel

A day at leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities, relax by the swimming pool or pamper yourself in the hotel spa.

Evening - dinner at the hotel

Day Twenty

Early check out and transfer to Kolkata airport to catch flight home

07:05 - depart on Air India flight AI2644 for Mumbai 

09:55 – arrive at Mumbai Airport

13:10 - depart Mumbai airport on British Airways flight BA0198 for London

18:15 - arrive at London Heathrow

Tour Ends

Read more about our optional excursions and visits below in "Deeper Dive" section