Your overnight flight brings you into Kolkata, India’s cultural heart and former capital of the British Raj. As you descend, you’ll catch glimpses of the sprawling city fringed by the winding Hooghly River. On arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in and refresh after your international journey.

The rest of the day is left at leisure for you to gently acclimatise and begin absorbing the atmosphere of this vibrant metropolis. You may wish to take a leisurely stroll through the colonial-era boulevards, enjoy the flavours of authentic Bengali cuisine, or simply relax at your hotel and recover from your flight.

Kolkata offers an intriguing blend of colonial grandeur and Bengali spirit—where literary traditions, artistic expression, and spiritual devotion come alive in every corner. Tomorrow, you’ll dive deeper into its rich history and cultural landmarks, but today provides the perfect introduction at your own pace.

This morning, leave the bustle of Kolkata behind as you take a short flight to Assam, followed by a scenic drive into the lush landscapes of Kaziranga National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga is famed as the last great stronghold of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros and home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife.

On arrival, check in to your lodge set amidst the verdant countryside. Later in the afternoon, venture into the park for your first wildlife safari. Accompanied by an expert naturalist, traverse tall elephant grasslands, dense forests, and wetlands alive with birdlife. With luck, you may encounter wild elephants, swamp deer, and perhaps even a glimpse of the elusive tiger that roams these jungles.

As dusk settles, return to your lodge where the sounds of the jungle provide a fitting soundtrack to the evening. Share stories over dinner and prepare for a full day of safari adventures tomorrow in one of India’s most iconic national parks.

Rise early this morning for a thrilling jeep safari in the misty dawn light of Kaziranga National Park. As the first rays of the sun filter through the tall elephant grass, the park comes alive with the calls of exotic birdlife and the stirring of wildlife beginning their day. This is your best chance to spot the greater one-horned rhinoceros, often grazing in the open grasslands, alongside wild elephants, swamp deer, and troops of monkeys swinging through the trees.

After returning to your lodge for breakfast and a short rest, the afternoon brings another safari adventure into a different zone of the park, offering varied habitats and fresh opportunities to encounter Kaziranga’s diverse fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for rare species such as the hog deer and wild water buffalo, as well as predators like leopards and, with great luck, the elusive tiger.

Between safaris, take time to enjoy the serenity of your surroundings—lush greenery, distant views of the Brahmaputra River, and the gentle hum of nature all around. As evening falls, gather for dinner at your lodge and reflect on the unforgettable encounters of the day.

Today your journey continues north into the emerald hills of Darjeeling, one of India’s most beloved hill stations and famed worldwide for its tea. Travelling through winding mountain roads, you’ll ascend into the cool Himalayan foothills where crisp air, lush tea gardens, and colonial-era charm define the landscape. Along the way, soak in sweeping views of terraced fields, forests, and villages clinging to steep slopes.

On arrival, check in to your hotel and take time to unwind after the scenic drive. The rest of the day is free at leisure for you to explore at your own pace. Stroll through the town’s bustling markets, where Tibetan handicrafts, woollen shawls, and colourful curios line the stalls, or simply relax and take in the majestic mountain setting.

Darjeeling is often called the “Queen of the Hills”, and as the mist rolls across pine-covered ridges, it’s easy to see why. This evening, enjoy the serenity of the town at twilight, perhaps with a steaming cup of world-famous Darjeeling tea as you prepare for tomorrow’s discoveries.

Rise before dawn for a memorable excursion to Tiger Hill, Darjeeling’s most famous viewpoint. As the first light of day breaks over the horizon, watch in awe as the snowy peaks of the Kangchenjunga range—the world’s third-highest mountain—are bathed in golden hues. On clear mornings, you may even glimpse distant Mount Everest shimmering on the skyline, making this a truly unforgettable Himalayan sunrise.

Afterwards, return to town for breakfast before continuing with a day of Darjeeling’s highlights. Visit a traditional tea estate where the world-famous Darjeeling tea is cultivated on lush terraced slopes. Learn about the intricate process of plucking, withering, and rolling the delicate leaves before sampling a freshly brewed cup amid the gardens that produce it.

Later, stroll along the bustling Chowrasta Mall, the town’s central square lined with cafés, bookshops, and local vendors. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills or browse Tibetan handicrafts in nearby markets. The day ends at a relaxed pace, leaving you with time to soak in the cool mountain air and charming colonial-era ambience of this hill station.

This morning, step aboard the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, affectionately known as the Toy Train and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The narrow-gauge steam engine winds its way through misty hillsides, tea plantations, and charming villages, offering a nostalgic glimpse into colonial-era travel and some of the most scenic railway journeys in the world.

After your rail experience, continue exploring Darjeeling’s rich heritage with a visit to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, founded to honour Tenzing Norgay, one of the first climbers to summit Mount Everest. Here, fascinating exhibits showcase the region’s deep mountaineering traditions and Himalayan exploration. Nearby, you can also visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, renowned for its conservation of rare high-altitude species such as the snow leopard and red panda.

The afternoon is yours at leisure to enjoy Darjeeling at your own pace. You may wish to revisit a favourite tea café, wander the hillside streets lined with colonial cottages, or simply relax at your hotel with sweeping views of the mountains. This evening, reflect on your Himalayan journey so far before preparing for tomorrow’s onward travels.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the misty hills of Darjeeling as you set out on a scenic drive to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. The journey takes you along winding mountain roads, past terraced fields, rushing rivers, and hillside villages, with frequent opportunities to admire the grandeur of the Himalayan landscape.

On arrival in Gangtok, check in to your hotel and take time to settle in. Perched on a ridge at 1,650m, the town offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, with the mighty Kangchenjunga often visible in the distance. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to relax or begin exploring Gangtok’s bustling streets, colourful markets, and monasteries at your own pace.

Gangtok is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, where fluttering prayer flags and ancient stupas coexist with lively cafés and shops. This evening, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Sikkim’s capital as you prepare for the cultural and natural wonders awaiting you over the coming days.

Wake up to the crisp mountain air of Gangtok and set out to explore the town’s spiritual and cultural treasures. Your morning begins with a visit to the serene Rumtek Monastery, one of the most significant centres of Tibetan Buddhism in Sikkim. Adorned with vibrant murals, golden statues, and colourful prayer flags, it offers both spiritual inspiration and sweeping views of the valley below.

Continue to the Enchey Monastery, a 200-year-old sacred site perched on a hilltop above Gangtok. This charming monastery, with its striking red and white façade, is deeply associated with the tantric master Lama Druptob Karpo and remains an active centre of worship. Its peaceful setting is ideal for quiet reflection amid the chanting of monks and fluttering prayer flags.

In the afternoon, enjoy panoramic vistas from the Tashi View Point, where on clear days the snow-clad peaks of Kangchenjunga dominate the skyline. Afterwards, stroll along the lively MG Marg, Gangtok’s pedestrian avenue lined with cafés, shops, and flower gardens—a perfect place to soak up the town’s laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere.

Today’s journey takes you on a spectacular mountain drive to the sacred Tsomgo Lake, located at an altitude of 3,753m and surrounded by rugged snow-clad peaks. Known as the “Source Lake” in the local Bhutia language, its shimmering waters change colour with the seasons and reflect the dramatic Himalayan scenery. Spend time walking along the lakeside, soaking up the crisp mountain air, and admiring this natural wonder revered by locals for centuries.

Continue to the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a shrine dedicated to a revered Indian Army soldier whose spirit is believed to protect the region. This unusual and deeply respected site blends spirituality with folklore, offering a fascinating glimpse into Sikkim’s unique cultural traditions.

In the afternoon, return to Gangtok, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. You may choose to relax at your hotel, wander the town’s lively streets, or simply enjoy the panoramic Himalayan views as the sun sets over the peaks.

After breakfast, bid farewell to Gangtok as you embark on a scenic drive to Kalimpong, a charming hill town nestled in the Himalayan foothills. The journey takes you past lush valleys, gurgling streams, and terraced farmlands, with panoramic views unfolding at every turn. Known for its serene ambience and colonial heritage, Kalimpong offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere compared to its neighbouring hill stations.

On arrival, check in to your hotel and take time to refresh. In the afternoon, begin exploring Kalimpong’s highlights, starting with the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, which houses rare Buddhist scriptures and offers sweeping views of the surrounding hills. Continue to the colourful Flower Nurseries, for which Kalimpong is famous, where exotic orchids and gladioli are cultivated and exported worldwide.

Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town’s bustling bazaars, where Tibetan handicrafts, textiles, and local delicacies fill the market stalls. As evening descends, unwind at your hotel and take in the cool mountain breeze, reflecting on the tranquil beauty of this hidden Himalayan gem.

Wake up to the peaceful charm of Kalimpong, a hill town known for its monasteries, colonial-era architecture, and lush landscapes. After breakfast, set out on a guided exploration of its highlights, beginning with the Durpin Monastery, perched on a ridge and offering magnificent views of the Teesta River and distant Himalayan peaks. Inside, you’ll find striking murals and sacred texts that reflect the deep spiritual heritage of the region.

Continue to the Colonial Churches built during the British era, each echoing the town’s unique blend of cultures. Visit the Pine View Nursery, which houses one of the largest collections of cacti in Asia, a surprising yet fascinating attraction in the Himalayan foothills. Along the way, admire the vibrant markets and handicraft centres where local artisans display exquisite works of wool, wood, and bamboo.

The afternoon is left free at leisure. You may choose to wander Kalimpong’s laid-back bazaars, sample traditional Tibetan and Nepali cuisine in a local eatery, or simply relax at your hotel and take in the serene views. The slower pace here makes Kalimpong an ideal retreat before continuing your journey.

This morning, leave the rolling tea gardens and foothills of West Bengal behind as you travel towards the Indo-Bhutan border town of Phuntsholing. Nestled at the base of the Himalayas, Phuntsholing serves as the gateway to Bhutan and is a fascinating melting pot of cultures, where Indian and Bhutanese influences blend seamlessly.

On arrival, check in to your hotel and take time to rest before exploring the town. You may visit the Zangto Pelri Lhakhang, a beautiful temple dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, or stroll through the lively local markets filled with Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and traditional goods. The town’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an inviting introduction to Bhutan’s unique way of life.

As evening falls, enjoy a peaceful walk through Phuntsholing’s streets, where prayer wheels spin gently beside colourful shops, and prepare for tomorrow’s journey deeper into Bhutan’s enchanting landscapes.

Wake up in Bhutan’s charming capital, Thimphu, a city unlike any other in the world. With no traffic lights but plenty of cultural vibrancy, Thimphu blends modern life with deep-rooted traditions. Today is dedicated to exploring its highlights, beginning with the majestic Memorial Chorten, a whitewashed stupa built in honour of Bhutan’s third king, where locals gather daily to spin prayer wheels and offer devotion.

Continue to the towering Buddha Dordenma, a colossal golden statue overlooking the valley and one of the largest of its kind in the world. The site offers sweeping views of Thimphu and the surrounding hills. Next, visit the National Folk Heritage Museum, where traditional Bhutanese architecture and exhibits bring the country’s rural heritage vividly to life.

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Centenary Farmers’ Market, where stalls brim with colourful produce, spices, and handicrafts, or stroll along Norzin Lam Street to discover locally made textiles and souvenirs. As the day draws to a close, you may also catch a glimpse of the Tashichho Dzong, the impressive fortress-monastery that houses both the King’s offices and the central monastic body.

This morning, leave Thimphu behind and journey eastward towards Punakha, the former winter capital of Bhutan. En route, ascend to the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100m), where 108 chortens, fluttering prayer flags, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks create one of the country’s most iconic vistas. Pause here to take in the fresh mountain air and panoramic views before continuing your descent into the subtropical Punakha Valley.

On arrival, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, dramatically situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Often considered the most beautiful fortress-monastery in Bhutan, the Dzong is a masterpiece of traditional architecture with whitewashed walls, ornate woodwork, and towering golden spires. Inside, discover sacred relics, richly painted murals, and the country’s most important religious treasures.

Later, enjoy a gentle walk through terraced rice fields and traditional villages to the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of the Divine Madman. This 15th-century temple is famed for its unconventional saint, Drukpa Kunley, and is regarded as a place of fertility blessings. The serene countryside setting adds to the charm of this unique cultural experience.

Spend a full day discovering more of Punakha Valley, a region where fertile fields, riverside villages, and ancient temples embody Bhutan’s timeless beauty. Begin with a gentle hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a striking hilltop stupa built to ward off negative forces and promote peace. The walk takes you through rice terraces and pine forests, rewarded with sweeping views over the valley and winding Mo Chhu River below.

Later, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse to experience the rhythms of rural life. Here, you may share tea with a local family, learn about age-old farming practices, and gain a deeper appreciation of Bhutan’s community-focused culture. This authentic encounter offers a glimpse of daily life far removed from the modern world.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely riverside stroll or simply relax at your lodge, soaking in the peaceful scenery. Punakha’s slower pace and warm climate make it an ideal place to pause, reflect, and embrace Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness.

This morning, bid farewell to the tranquil Punakha Valley as you begin your drive westwards to Paro, Bhutan’s most picturesque valley town. The route retraces your journey through forested hills and high passes, once again crossing the Dochula Pass, where on a clear day you can savour a final glimpse of the snow-dusted Himalayan panorama before descending into the Paro Valley.

On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring Paro’s charms. Stroll through the town’s quiet streets lined with traditional Bhutanese architecture, colourful handicraft shops, and welcoming cafés. A highlight of the day is a visit to the imposing Rinpung Dzong, a 17th-century fortress-monastery that stands proudly above the valley and remains an important centre of monastic and civil life.

As evening descends, enjoy the peaceful ambience of the valley, framed by pine forests and fertile fields. With its blend of cultural heritage and natural splendour, Paro sets the stage for tomorrow’s unforgettable hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Today promises to be one of the most unforgettable highlights of your journey in Bhutan—a hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). Clinging dramatically to a cliff face 900 metres above the Paro Valley, this sacred site is said to be where Guru Rinpoche meditated after arriving on the back of a flying tigress. Its setting and spiritual aura make it one of the most iconic landmarks in the Himalayas.

The hike begins with a steady climb through pine forests scented with rhododendrons and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Midway, you’ll pause at a traditional teahouse, which offers the first spectacular views of the monastery perched impossibly on the cliffs above. From here, continue upwards to reach the monastery itself, where richly decorated halls, sacred shrines, and the rhythmic chants of monks create a deeply moving experience.

After exploring the monastery, descend back to the valley and return to your hotel in Paro. The remainder of the afternoon is left at leisure to rest or reflect on the spiritual beauty of the day. This evening, you may wish to celebrate your journey with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, a rejuvenating experience to conclude your Himalayan adventure.

Your journey through the Himalayan kingdoms draws to a close today. After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight to Delhi. As you soar over the rugged peaks and deep valleys, take a final look at Bhutan’s dramatic landscapes before descending into India’s bustling capital.

At Delhi Airport, connect to your onward overnight flight to NEW YORK. With your bags checked through and travel documents in hand, this is a chance to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past three weeks— from the colonial charm of Kolkata and the rhino-filled grasslands of Kaziranga to the serene monasteries of Sikkim and the unforgettable cliffside majesty of Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro.

As the aircraft lifts into the night sky, your ATOL-protected journey officially comes full circle. Ahead lies the return to London, but the memories of India and Bhutan’s vibrant cultures, sacred sites, and timeless Himalayan landscapes will stay with you forever.