Participants from our previous batches on this route.
What past participants say
Bhutan has a calming energy that's hard to describe. From peaceful monasteries to warm local hospitality, every day felt refreshing. YHAI Hirkani team planned everything beautifully, allowing us to simply enjoy the journey and soak in the country's unique culture. Highly recommended...
I'd seen countless photos of Bhutan, but nothing prepared me for the real experience. The mountain drives, vibrant dzongs, and stories shared by our local guide & Hirkani coordinator made this far more than a sightseeing trip. Truly unforgettable!
This wasn't just another holiday - it felt like pressing the reset button. Bhutan's simplicity, breathtaking landscapes, and rich traditions left a lasting impression. YHAI Hirkani Unit's well-organized itinerary struck the perfect balance between exploration, comfort, and meaningful experiences. Made a few friends for life too.
Overview
Bhutan Diaries is a cultural exchange travel trip into the Land of the Thunder Dragon. The program is about learning the history, culture and heritage of Bhutan - visiting museums, dzongs (fortress-monasteries) and places of architectural and religious importance across Thimphu, Punakha and Paro.
Highlights include the town of Phuentsholing, the capital Thimphu and its vibrant market, a day excursion to Punakha via the prayer-flag-draped Dochu La pass, and Paro with its historic fort - crowned by the unforgettable hike to the cliffside Tiger's Nest monastery.
Three batches of forty participants each. Kids below 3 years travel free of charge and are accommodated with their parents.
Organised By
- Hirkani Unit - Maharashtra State Branch, YHAI
- Program Coordinators: Ms. Laxmi Mordekar, Ms. Madhumita Deshpande, and Mrs. Sarita Gaikwad
- Contact: 9987990990, 9552945027, 8698940246
- Email: hirkani.yhai@gmail.com
Day-wise Schedule
Day 1: Reporting at Jaigaon, West Bengal. Visit the town of Phuentsholing, Bhutan.
Day 2: Travel to Thimphu via Phuentsholing after immigration. Explore Thimphu Market.
Day 3: Day excursion to Punakha via Dochu La. Explore Punakha.
Day 4: Thimphu sightseeing. Travel to Paro. Explore Paro Market.
Day 5: Hike to Tiger's Nest.
Day 6: Explore Paro Fort. Head back to Jaigaon.
Day 7: Check-out after breakfast from Jaigaon.
Note: The itinerary is subject to change without prior notice in case of any on-ground unforeseen situations.
Program Details
Inclusions
- Food: morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea and dinner
- Accommodation on twin / triple sharing basis
- Insurance
Exclusions
- SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) and transportation
- Personal expenses and tips
- Entry fees to monuments and any item not listed under inclusions
What Participants Should Bring Along
- Original Voter ID or Original Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Original Medical Certificate (within 30 days of reporting), duly signed by a registered MBBS / MD practitioner with registration number and stamp - compulsory at the time of reporting
- YHAI Membership Card
- Personal medication
- Umbrella / poncho, winter wear, sunscreen and cap
- Comfortable shoes, hiking pole (optional)
- Day pack and water bottle
Facts & Eligibility
Who Can Participate?
- Anyone and everyone - no age limit.
- Kids below 3 years: no charge, accommodated with parents.
Batches
- Three batches, forty participants each
- Reporting dates: 02-10-2026, 08-10-2026 and 10-11-2026
How to Reach the Reporting Place
- Nearest airport: Bagdogra
- Nearest railway station: Hasimara (15 km)
- Enquire with us for the best and most economical travel routes from your city.
How to Join
- Booking through bank account transfer / deposit to the registered YHAI bank account.
- Online booking: not available
Accommodation, Food & Water
- Twin / triple sharing accommodation
- Morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea and dinner provided
- Refillable water source available
Safety & Security
- Participants are briefed about the do's and don'ts in Bhutan during the group briefing.
Batch Dates
Reporting Point: Bhutan Gate, Jaigaon, West Bengal
Program Map
- 1Jaigaon / PhuentsholingDays 1, 2, 6, 7
- 2ThimphuDays 2, 4
- 3Dochu LaDay 3
- 4PunakhaDay 3
- 5ParoDays 4, 6
- 6Tiger's Nest (Taktsang)Day 5
Places from the day-wise schedule, numbered in visiting order. Tap any place below to open it in Google Maps. Map data (c) OpenStreetMap contributors.
Cancellation Policy
Seat Transfer
- A confirmed seat is 100% transferable to another participant, provided the request is received at least 5 days before the date of departure.
Credit Voucher
- Instead of cancelling, you may opt for a 100% credit voucher, usable for any program run by the National Office or by a State Branch that reciprocates with the Maharashtra State Branch.
- Credit voucher requests must be submitted at least 30 days before departure.
Refund
- A 50% refund of the participation fee for cancellations received at least 30 days before departure.
No Refund
- No refund or credit voucher is given for cancellations received less than 30 days before departure.
Safety
- You will be briefed on the do's and don'ts in Bhutan at the group briefing.
