Mystic Realms of India & Bhutan
Small Group Tours
There are so many pinch-yourself moments on our India & Bhutan tour, it’s hard to pick out the highlights. Exploring India’s north-eastern corner, you’ll embrace Kolkata’s vibrancy and colour, before heading to the hills of Darjeeling for tea, toy trains and an unforgettable sunrise over Mount Everest. We’ll then cross the border into Bhutan, the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’, a country closed to visitors until just 50 years ago. With tourism numbers still strictly limited, it’s a real privilege to travel here. We’ll immerse ourselves in Bhutanese culture, heritage and tradition, experiencing everything from a spiritual tea-offering ceremony with nuns to platefuls of deliciously authentic local cuisine at simple, charming hotels. Trek through forested landscapes to admire the sight of the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, explore ancient dzongs (fortresses), visit mountaintop monasteries, and enjoy peace and tranquillity in spades. There are many festivals taking place across the year - if we’re lucky, we’ll be witness to one during our time here.
Included with every escorted tour
- VIP door-to-door travel service
- Knowledgeable tour managers
- Included excursions
- Selected meals and international flights
Including
34 meals
- 13 breakfasts
- 8 lunches
- 13 dinners
Accommodation
13 nights in hotels and 1 in flight
Transport
Travel in destination by coach
Excursions and visits
- City tour of Kolkata
- Rickshaw ride to Kolkata local markets
- Cruise along the Hooghly River
- Sunrise at Tiger Hill, Darjeeling
- Excursion to the Himalayan Zoological Park, Mountaineering Institute & Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre
- Visits to Bhutia Busty Monastery, Ghoom Monastery, Thimphu Textile Museum, Zilukha Nunnery, Tashichho Dzong & craft bazaar, Tango Monastery & Pangri Zampa, Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong, National Museum of Bhutan & Rinpung Dzong, and Kyichu Lhakhang temple
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to Ghoom
- Excursion to Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma statue & Royal Takin Preserve
- Meet with Bhutanese art students
- Tea-offering ceremony with Zilukha nuns
- Bhutanese cultural dance performance
- Archery lesson at a local farm
- Guided brewery tour and beer tasting
- Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Overview
2 passengers
14 nights . 25 Sep 2026
Asia . India . Kolkata . Darjeeling . Bhutan . Phuenstsholing . Thimphu . Punakha
Based on London Gatwick Airport, check for other options
Multiple
34 meals: 13 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 13 dinners
Active explorer
Itinerary
Duration: 15 days
Please note
- 19 September 2025 departure coincides with Thimphu Festival (dates subject to change).
- This tour contains areas of high altitude and customers that may be concerned are recommended to consult their doctor.
- The hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery is moderately strenuous, with a steep ascent (approx. 1,200 steps) and uneven terrain - a good level of physical fitness is required. We recommend sturdy hiking shoes and layers are worn.
- Due to strict controls on development in Bhutan, hotels are relatively basic, but comfortable and in keeping with the environment.