Bengal to Bhutan

This morning after breakfast, we’ll head out to start our exploration of the vibrant capital of Bangladesh with a full day of touring taking in Parliament House, the ancient Dhakeshwary Hindu Temple dating back to the 7th century, the impressive Lalbagh Fort, a masterpiece from the Mughal era in the 16th century, the esteemed Curzon Hall at the University of Dhaka, and the Star Mosque, a splendid example of Mughal architecture from the 16th century. There’ll be stops for morning coffee and lunch along the way.

One of the most iconic architectural landmarks in Bangladesh, Parliament House (Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban) stands as a masterpiece of modern architecture and a symbol of the nation’s democratic spirit. Designed by the renowned American architect Louis Kahn, and constructed between 1961 and 1982, the building is a striking example of Brutalist architecture fused with traditional Bengali motifs. While access to the interior is limited, you’ll be able to admire the building from the surrounding gardens and lake, which provide a peaceful escape from Dhaka’s bustling streets. 

Dhakeshwari Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, and estimated to be over 800 years old, is the most important Hindu temple in Bangladesh.  According to legend, it was built by King Ballal Sen of the Sena Dynasty in the 12th century. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone multiple renovations, incorporating both ancient and modern architectural styles.

Lalbagh Fort is an unfinished yet breathtaking Mughal stronghold dating back to the 17th century. You’ll have the chance to explore its tranquil gardens, the grand mosque, and the mausoleum of Pari Bibi, while uncovering the mysteries behind its incomplete construction.

Curzon Hal, is a colonial architectural masterpiece within the University of Dhaka and well worth a visit. The elegant red-brick structure, blending Mughal and European styles, was once a British-era town hall and now houses the Faculty of Science.  

We’ll finish today’s tour at Tara Masjid (the Star Mosque), a hidden gem adorned with intricate blue and white star-shaped motifs. This beautifully decorated mosque, with its unique mosaic work of Chinese porcelain, is a testament to Dhaka’s artistic heritage.

After arriving back at the hotel in the late afternoon, there’ll be time to rest and freshen up before gathering for a celebratory welcome dinner, including drinks, to get to know each other better.

Overnight: Six Seasons Hotel, Dhaka (B,L,D)

This morning after breakfast we’ll step into the heart of Dhaka’s past as we wander the narrow, bustling lanes of Old Dhaka. Marvel at the centuries-old buildings, colourful rickshaws, and the aroma of street food wafting through the air before visiting Ahsan Manzil, also known as The Pink Palace Dhaka, and one of Dhaka’s most iconic landmarks.  Originally built in 1859 and completed in 1872, it once served as the residence of the influential Nawab family of Dhaka and became the political and social centre of Dhaka’s elite, hosting British officials, zamindars (landlords), and foreign dignitaries. Now a museum, it offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of Bengal’s aristocracy during the British colonial era.

From aristocratic history we’ll transport ourselves back to the modern world with a visit to the Sadarghat River Port, one of the busiest river ports in the world. Serving as the main gateway for water transport across southern Bangladesh, it is a place of constant movement, vibrant energy, and historical significance. Every day, hundreds of ferries, boats, and launches transport thousands of passengers to and from different parts of Bangladesh. The port is a key trade and commerce centre, handling goods like fruits, fish, and textiles, and the sight of large, multi-decked passenger ferries docked alongside small wooden boats creates a fascinating contrast of old and new. You’ll get to witness up close boatmen, traders, and travellers in action and if you’re interested, get some incredible photos of the bustling river life, where people, goods, and history converge.

After stopping for some lunch, we’ll continue on to the Liberation War Museum, a powerful tribute to Bangladesh’s fight for independence in 1971. Through its compelling exhibits and personal stories, the museum preserves the memory of the Bangladesh Liberation War, highlighting the struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs that led to the nation’s birth, giving us the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Bangladesh’s independence struggle.

On our way back to the hotel, we’ll visit the Bangladesh National Museum, the country’s premier institution for history, culture, and heritage. Established in 1913 as the Dhaka Museum and later renamed in 1983, it houses a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Bangladesh, from ancient civilizations to the modern era. You can either come back to the hotel with your tour leader or stay at the museum and walk back at leisure, exploring more of Dhaka along the way.

Dinner tonight is at leisure.  

Overnight: Six Seasons Hotel, Dhaka  (B,L)

This morning after an early breakfast and check out, we’ll transfer to Dhaka railway station to take our first class seats on the Maitree Express train for the full day journey to Kolkata. This is the only train that connects these two cities and is  testament to the co-operation and commitment to the future between these two countries. 

Your journey is not just a means of transport – it offers a fascinating glimpse into the landscapes, rivers, and rural life of Bengal, an experience that blends history, culture, and the charm of countryside travel. Departing Dhaka, the train soon leaves behind the capital’s urban sprawl, giving way to lush green fields, small villages, and meandering rivers, while the sight of paddy fields, jute farms, and mango orchards paints a picture of Bangladesh’s agrarian beauty. We’ll travel through small market towns and rural stations flash by, with glimpses of rickshaws, bustling bazaars, and local life.  

After crossing the border into West Bengal, India, the transition is subtle but noticeable—slightly different architecture, new crops, and a shift in signage to Bengali and English. Rolling farmlands, banana plantations, palm groves, and rural railway stations dot the landscape, and rivers like the Jalangi and Bhagirathi crisscross the route, reflecting the sky in their shimmering waters. As the train nears Kolkata, urban settlements begin to appear, with colonial-era buildings, railway yards, and bridges over the Hooghly River marking the city’s grand entrance.

Welcome to Calcutta, the  capital of colonial India, where history, culture, and modernity blend seamlessly. Known for its colonial charm and rich heritage and its deep intellectual legacy and warm hospitality, this bustling metropolis is a city of contrasts, from grand British-era architecture to lively and colourful street markets. Often referred to as the City of Joy, it’s also known for its unique ‘adda’, a freestyle exchange of socio-political ideas and intellectual debate that is enthusiastically engaged in, in public spaces over a cup of steaming chai.

On arrival, we’ll be met and privately transferred to our hotel for some time to relax and unwind before gathering for dinner in the hotel restaurant.

Overnight: The Lalit Great Eastern Hotel, Kolkata (B, D)

This morning after breakfast, we’ll embark on a walking tour to gain some insight into the culture of a city that has witnessed more cultures in its past than most others, even when taking the highly globalised present into consideration. During your walk, you will trace the origins and remnants of the diverse communities who settled in Calcutta and called it home, and also visit St. Paul Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece known for its stunning Gothic Revival style. You’ll learn why Chinese breakfast still rules Tiretta Bazar, why the Parsis are dwindling in numbers with each passing day, and how the Armenians gave the city its oldest surviving Christian church as we pass the Anglo-Indians, the Muslims, the Marwaris, the Biharis and many more that made this city a great melting pot of diverse cultures.

You’ll also ride a heritage tram to explore the narrow streets and some of the most picturesque parts of the city. The tram situation in Kolkata has a very special link to Australia – Roberto D’Andrea, a former tram conductor from Melbourne, has played a pivotal role in preserving Kolkata’s historic tram system through his initiative, Tramjatra. During a visit to Kolkata in 1994, he was captivated by the city’s trams, reminiscent of those in Melbourne. This led to the formation of Tramjatra in 1996, a collaborative effort between tram enthusiasts from both cities aimed at celebrating and preserving their shared tram heritage. 

After some lunch together, we’ll explore “Kumartuli” (Potter’s Town) and interact with the local potter’s community before visiting the famous Victoria Memorial, built in memory of Queen Victoria.

Dinner tonight is at leisure.

Overnight: The Lalit, Kolkata (B, L )

This morning after breakfast and checking out, we’ll start our day with a visit to the vibrant and colourful Kolkata Flower Market.  Also known as the Mullick Ghat Flower Market, it’s one of the largest and most vibrant flower markets in Asia – a bustling, colourful hub of trade, chaos, and tradition.

Later, we’ll transfer to the airport for a flight to Bagdogra Airport, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, and a gateway to the popular hill stations of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Gangtok. 

Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to private vehicles for a scenic drive through picturesque countryside to our hotel near Kurseong, a charming hill station located in the Darjeeling district, often referred to as the “Land of White Orchids” and the launching pad for our exploration tomorrow of the famous UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.  

After checking into our resort hotel, there’ll be time to rest and relax, explore the hotel, or head out for a walk in the nearby tea plantation. 

Dinner tonight will be at the hotel.

Overnight: Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa, Kurseong (B,D)

After breakfast this morning, we’ll temporarily check out of the hotel for an overnight adventure to Darjeeling on the famous UNESCO listed Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. We suggest you leave your big luggage in storage for when we get back and just take an overnight bag today. 

We’ll transfer to Kurseong station to board our private carriage on what is fondly known as the “Toy Train.” This nickname comes from its narrow-gauge tracks, small steam locomotives, and leisurely pace, giving it a charming, toy-like appearance as it winds through the hills of Darjeeling. 

Our  journey is one of the most scenic and nostalgic train rides in the world, through the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas on a leisurely but mesmerizing trip through misty hills, lush tea gardens, and charming hillside villages. As the train chugs along its narrow-gauge tracks, it passes through several quaint stations, including Tung and Sonada, where you can catch glimpses of local life. Along the way, you’ll see children waving, monks strolling near monasteries, and tea estates stretching across the hillsides. All this, along with the rhythmic sound of the steam engine and the picturesque scenery, makes this ride an unforgettable experience.

Upon our arrival in Darjeeling, we’ll embark on a town tour and enjoy some lunch. The settlement we know today at Darjeeling really began in 1828 with British interest. By 1835, it was predominantly a Sanatorium for the invalid servants of the East India Company, consisting of a monastery on observatory hill clustered with about 20 huts and a population of about 100 people. Planning began in 1839 to lay out the Darjeeling town proper and construct a hill road connecting Siliguri, Pankhabari, Kurseong and Darjeeling. At the same time, the evolution of hotels began, and by 1840 Darjeeling town had about 30 buildings and a few respectable houses, sparking the beginning of a vibrant community. In 1878 a plan for a two feet gauge railway line operating as a steam tramway between the hills of Darjeeling and the plains was proposed. In 1881, the idea of a tramway was abandoned and replaced with the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Co, taken over by the Government of free India on October 20, 1948. 

After lunch we’ll set off for afternoon visits to the Ghoom Monastery, one of the most iconic and oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region; and a Tea Estate to experience the journey our cuppa takes from the field to the table.  

Later in the afternoon, we’ll check into our charming, very centrally located hotel, the original “Heritage House of the Himalayas” and considered by many to be the only truly authentic Heritage property of the British Raj era in the district. 

Dinner tonight will be at the hotel.  

Overnight: Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling (B,L,D)

There’s a very special optional activity this morning before breakfast for those who want to add to the number of memorable moments from this tour – you may like to make the one-hour journey to watch the sun’s first rays breaking over mighty Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest in the distance, returning to the hotel in time for breakfast.  

After breakfast and check out, it’s back to our gorgeous Kurseong base, the Taj Chia Kutir Resort and Spa by private coach. After checking back in and reuniting with your luggage, the day and evening is yours to relax and enjoy the facilities of the hotel. Go on a guided walk, try your hand at tea picking or archery, play some chess in the gorgeous lounge, or head to the Spa for a massage, or just relax on your balcony and soak up the Himalayas!

Lunch and dinner are at leisure today. 

Overnight: Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa, Kurseong  (B)

This morning after a very early check out, we’ll board our private coach with a packed breakfast and head back to the airport at Bagdogra for our flight to Bhutan, one of the happiest places on earth, according to many. You’ll  have a chance to grab a coffee and another snack at the airport before boarding.

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, we’ll stop for an early lunch before being transferred by private coach to Thimphu, the tiny nation’s capital, nestled in the breathtaking Himalayas, where we’ll go directly to our centrally located hotel and check in.

After settling into our rooms, we’ll embark on an exploratory walk around Thimphu Main Street and market area. Also visit the Local Crafts Bazaar, to browse through examples of Bhutan’s fine traditional arts. Here you can buy hand-woven textiles, Thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewellery, and interesting items made from local materials.

Dinner tonight will be in the hotel at The Thongsel restaurant, renowned for its elegant ambiance and floor to ceiling windows offering panoramic views of mist-covered mountains.  

Overnight: Pemako Hotel, Thimphu (B,L, D)

Thimphu, with a population of just 115,000 people, is the capital and largest city of Bhutan, and one of the most fascinating capitals in the world, where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, and where you’ll find no traffic lights but plenty of prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

We’ll spend the day exploring this interesting city, with visits to the Takin Sanctuary, a wildlife reserve set on forested slopes above the city; Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and Royal offices; Pangri Zampa, two 16th century buildings that now house a monastic training school for astrologers; the National Memorial Chorten, a memorial to Bhutan’s third King designed in the style of a classical stupa; and the National Textile Museum for a fascinating glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing the lifestyle, traditional clothing, and weaving techniques of Bhutanese villages. We’ll pause for lunch in a local restaurant along the way.

After returning to our hotel, you’ll have time to relax and freshen up before regrouping for dinner at Chig Ja Gye, the outstanding flagship restaurant in our hotel.

Overnight: Pemako Hotel, Thimphu (B,L,D)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we set off on our private coach to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, and one of the country’s most beautiful and historically significant valleys, and a place that still holds deep spiritual and cultural importance. With its lush terraced fields, river confluence, and majestic dzong, Punakha feels like stepping into a postcard.

The magnificent scenic drive crosses Dochula Pass (3,100 m), is a highlight in itself, with 108 small buddhist shrines, forests of fluttering prayer flags, and spectacular views of the eastern Himalayas on a clear day.

Upon arrival in Punakha, we’ll visit the yellow-roofed Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple), also known as the Temple of the Divine Madman. Built in 1499 in honour of Drukpa Kunley, dubbed the “Divine Madman,” for his unorthodox methods of teaching Buddhism by singing, humour and outrageous behaviour, which amounted to being bizarre, shocking and with sexual overtones. He is also the saint who advocated the use of phallus symbols as paintings on walls and as flying carved wooden phalluses on house tops at four corners of the eaves, something you see everywhere in Bhutan. The monastery is the repository of the original wooden symbol of phallus that Kunley brought from Tibet, and women from across Bhutan and even abroad come here to pray for children.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll proceed directly to check in to your own private villa at our riverside hotel, and enjoy lunch. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to enjoy your spacious room with a private pool, before enjoying dinner together in the hotel.  

Overnight: Pemako Luxury Tented Villas, Punakha (B, L, D)

This morning after breakfast, we’ll visit Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness), one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historically significant dzongs (fortresses). Originally built in 1637 and located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River), Punakha Dzong is a masterpiece of traditional Bhutanese design, with towering whitewashed walls, golden-tiered roofs, and intricately carved wooden windows. Bhutan’s first king, Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned here in 1907, marking the beginning of the hereditary monarchy, and it remains a symbol of unity and national identity. The Dzong has been damaged over centuries by fires and an earthquake but has been faithfully restored.  

We’ll visit the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of Bhutan’s longest, connecting Punakha Dzong to nearby villages across the Po Chhu River, immersing ourselves in the scenic views and fluttering prayer flags, as we peacefully walk across to Khamsum Yuley Namgay Chorten, a shrine recently built by the royal family, past white-washed homesteads and through farmland along the way.   

Lunch today will be at a local restaurant before returning to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure followed by dinner in the hotel. 

Overnight: Pemako Luxury Tented Villas, Punakha (B, L, D)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll make the journey to Paro by private coach.  

Paro is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historically rich valleys. Surrounded by lush green mountains and dotted with traditional Bhutanese architecture, it is both a spiritual centre and a gateway for visitors exploring the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Upon arrival in Paro, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before proceeding to our hotel to check in for some down time before gathering for dinner in the hotel this evening.

Overnight: Zhiwaling Heritage Hotel, Paro (B, L, D)

This morning after breakfast, there’s the opportunity to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime excursion to Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, both spiritually and visually – Taktsang Monastery, more famously known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on the edge of a 3,000-foot cliff in the upper Paro Valley, it’s not just a highlight of Bhutan, but one of the most awe-inspiring pilgrimage sites in the world. 

Taktsang gets its name from an ancient legend. In the 8th century, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava)—who is credited with bringing Buddhism to Bhutan—flew to this cliffside cave on the back of a flying tigress. He meditated there for three years, three months, three weeks, three days, and three hours, subduing local demons and blessing the site as sacred. The cave later became the foundation for the monastery built centuries later in 1692. The complex, consisting of several small temples and shrines interconnected by staircases and narrow paths, is a feat of architecture, with whitewashed walls, golden pagoda roofs, and fluttering prayer flags, all clinging impossibly to sheer granite cliffs.

The journey to the monastery is almost as legendary as the site itself –  a 2-3 hour hike uphill (depending on pace and altitude adjustment), and 1.5 to 2 hours to come back down – we will arrange ponies to the midway point for anyone who is confident to ride one. The difficulty is moderate to strenuous due to the steep sections after the midway point and the altitude of 3,120 metres. At the midway point, there is a teahouse/café with panoramic views of the monastery, and for many, this is the perfect compromise – the walk up to this point hasn’t been overly taxing and the view directly at the Monastery means it’s both a great place to rest and a photographer’s dream. 

After completing this memorable journey, we’ll enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. For those who prefer not to hike to Tiger’s Nest, an engaging alternative awaits: experience Bhutan’s national sport of archery, offering a unique blend of cultural immersion and entertainment, followed by a visit to the local market for shopping before joining your fellow travellers for lunch.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy the facilities of the hotel. If anyone is interested in exploring the town, we will arrange private transport to facilitate this.

Dinner tonight is at the hotel.

Overnight: Zhiwaling Heritage Hotel, Paro (B, L, D)

This morning after a relaxed breakfast, we’ll set out to explore three of Paro’s offerings. Our first stop will be Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan. Originally built 1649 as a watchtower to protect the sacred Rinpung Dzong and the valley below from invasions, the circular, 7-storey stone structure with thick walls and small windows was a fortress design adapted for defence before being converted into the Museum in 1968. The museum is compact but thoughtfully curated, covering Bhutanese history & monarchy, Buddhist relics and sacred scrolls, traditional masks used in religious festivals, Thanka (intricate Buddhist art)paintings, a natural history section – taxidermy of native animals (somewhat quirky but interesting!), ancient weapons, armour, ritual objects, coins, stamps, and more.

We’ll then take a short walk down the trail to Rinpung (“Heap of Jewel” Dzong, one of the crown jewels of Bhutanese architecture and culture –  a majestic fortress that’s as spiritually powerful as it is visually stunning. Originally built in the 15th century as a monastery, it was rebuilt into a grand dzong in 1646, and has served both religious and administrative functions ever since.  

Built without using a single nail, it is classic Bhutanese dzong architecture – massive whitewashed walls, red ochre bands, golden tiered roofs, and intricately painted woodwork. The dramatic wooden cantilever bridge entry is a great photo spot! Once inside this living dzong, you’ll see beautifully decorated courtyards with traditional wood carvings and murals, smaller temples,  stairways and balconies with stunning views of the valley, and monks and local officials working side by side.  

After stopping for some lunch in a local restaurant, we’ll visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples. This spiritual site offers a serene atmosphere, rich history, and beautiful architecture, providing a deep insight into Bhutanese culture and Buddhist heritage you’ve experienced on your travels.

It’s then back to the hotel for some relaxation before heading out in traditional Bhutanese dress (provided on tour) for a celebratory farewell dinner at  Bukhari Como Uma Paro, a favourite of the Bhutanese royal family.   

Overnight: Zhiwaling Heritage Hotel, Paro (B, L, D)

Our tour ends after breakfast this morning. You’ll be privately transferred to the airport for your flight to your onward destination. Your Guide will remain with you through the formalities to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.