This 17-day tour of Bhutan and India offers a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The adventure begins in Kolkata, India, where you’ll explore the city’s colonial heritage and dynamic present. Visits to iconic sites such as the Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, and Mother Teresa’s first home set the stage for the journey.
Next, you’ll travel to Bhutan, exploring the cultural richness of Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. In Thimphu, visit Buddha Point, the National Library, and the King’s Memorial Chorten. The scenic drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass offers breathtaking views and stops at sacred sites like Chimi Lhakhang and the historic Punakha Dzong. In Paro, hike to the renowned Taktsang Monastery, also known as the “Tiger’s Nest,” and discover ancient temples and traditional Bhutanese handicrafts.
Returning to India, the tour continues with a serene cruise along the Brahmaputra River aboard the luxurious MV Mahabaahu. As you sail through diverse landscapes, you’ll visit local villages and experience traditional Assamese life. Highlights include tours of a jute mill and a tea estate, along with thrilling wildlife safaris at Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Onboard the cruise, enjoy cultural performances, discussions on regional history, and an Assamese-themed evening. The journey also includes a visit to Majuli, the world’s largest river island, where you’ll immerse yourself in the unique neo-Vaishnav culture and witness spiritual performances that reflect Assam’s rich heritage.
The tour concludes back in Kolkata, offering a final evening to reflect on the experiences before departure. This itinerary provides a comprehensive and unforgettable exploration of both Bhutan and India, combining adventure, culture, and relaxation into a single, enriching journey.
Will you join us?
TOUR PRICE: FROM A$13,995 PLUS INTERNATIONAL AIRFARES
TOUR DATES: 6th – 22nd DECEMBER 2025
Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass
Centrally located in the progressive IT corridor of the capital of West Bengal, Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass is a contemporary hotel designed for the well-heeled business and leisure traveler. Stay on top of your fitness goals with a workout at the state-of- the-art rooftop gym and pool with a panoramic city view before indulging in fine meals at Mynt – the all-day diner, Wink – amongst the city’s finest bars serving pan-Asian cuisine, and Swirl – our adored patisserie and deli. Gourmands are spoilt for choice with extensive menus featuring American, European, Mediterranean classics as well as a home-style celebration of Bengal’s legendary cuisine.
Hotel Druk
A luxury four-star hotel is a part of the Tashi Group and has been in operation since 1985. Over the years, it has been renovated to give it a chic and modern edge that is powerfully felt in uncluttered spaces. Each floor, differently inspired, explores a subtle palette drawn from water, air, earth, fire and sky.
RKPO Green Resort
RKPO Green Resort sits in the heart of the verdant and lush Punakha Valley. Flanked by thick pine forests, it overlooks the Punakha Valley and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor. It is surrounded by plentiful walking and trekking trails. From RKPO Resort, it is just a five minutes trek down to the mountain to the magnificent Chimmi Lhakhang; the temple of the divine mad man (dharma yogi), which houses one of the amazing statues of the divine mad man in the country.
Hotel Kaachi Grand
At Hotel Kaachi Grand, unrivaled comfort and luxury will elevate your holiday experience. Our luxurious selection of rooms will satisfy all of your requirements and make your stay unforgettable. Choose from our five categories of rooms, including Classic, Premier, Sky Deck, and Suites, each offering its own unique charm.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views that accompany our rooms. Whether it’s the town view, lush landscapes, or captivating vistas, each room offers a window to a world of beauty. Wake up to the gentle glow of the sun and let the scenic panoramas create an unforgettable backdrop for your stay.
Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati
Set in a tranquil sector of Assam, the elegant Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati offers stellar amenities and a peaceful location a short drive from the city center. Located on NH-37, our hotel provides easy access to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) and the nearby railway station. When you’re ready to explore, visit ancient Hindu pilgrimage sites like Kamakhya Temple or spot rare birds at Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary. Business travelers appreciate our proximity to local industrial parks, universities, and technology companies, while families enjoy visiting the clouded leopards and macaques at Assam State Zoo, less than 10 minutes away.
Prefer just to relax? Lounge by our outdoor infinity pool and soak up scenic views of the area’s verdant hills. You can maintain your workout routine with a visit to our health club and treat yourself to revitalizing treatments in our beautiful spa. With five on-site restaurants and a bar, you can enjoy a delicious meal or refreshing cocktail after on-site meetings or sightseeing.
MV Mahabaahu
The 55-metre-long MV Mahabaahu is a premier river cruise vessel that has sailed the sacred Brahmaputra River in Assam, India. since 2012. The ship meets the highest standards of quality and comfort, blending modern design with traditional charm.
The vessel features 23 spacious, elegantly furnished cabins, ensuring a luxurious stay. Guests can enjoy delicious meals in a beautiful restaurant, offering an array of Asian cuisine, international fare, and exotic regional specialties. The open top deck allows passengers to soak up the sun and take in the picturesque views of life along the Brahmaputra.
For relaxation, the MV Mahabaahu offers a luxurious swimming pool, a sauna, and an expansive spa where guests can indulge in rejuvenating massages. A sun deck bar provides the perfect spot to unwind with a drink while enjoying the river’s serene beauty.
Beyond leisure, the MV Mahabaahu immerses guests in cultural experiences. Mesmerising Indian folk-dance performances, educational talks by expert guides, and guided shore excursions reveal the rich culture and natural splendour of the Brahmaputra region. The ship also includes a library with works on India’s northeast, an internet café, and a large lounge area for relaxation.
With its blend of comfort, culture, and relaxation, the MV Mahabaahu offers an unforgettable journey through one of India’s most captivating regions.
Visa Requirements
Bhutan: Applicants wishing to obtain a visa to Bhutan must organise this visa through a travel company used to travel to Bhutan, it is not possible to travel to Bhutan as a tourist without using a travel company.
India: All visitors are required to carry a passport valid at least for 6 months after the date of arrival back to your country of residence and at least two blank pages. Australian and New Zealand passport holders may apply online for an Indian visa.
Please note that Visa requirements can change at any time. Please check with your consulate for more information.
Currency
Bhutan: The official currency is the ngultrum (Nu.), which is pegged 1:1 with the Indian rupee (₹). However, the ₹500 and ₹1000 notes are technically banned by the Bhutanese government, although many local non-governmental establishments accept the ₹500 note. US dollars ($) are widely accepted. Bhutanese currency is only needed for expenses personal in nature and buying small souvenir items. Most ATMs in Bhutan – which are mostly concentrated in Thimphu and Paro – are now compatible with international credit cards such as VISA, MasterCard and Maestro. However, as the service it is not overly reliable, it is good practice to have a supply of ngultrum, rupee or dollar notes.
India: The National Currency of India is the Indian rupee, which is available in denominations of Rs 10, Rs 20, Rs 50, Rs 100, Rs 500 and Rs 1000. There are coins for Re 1, Rs 2, Rs 5 and Rs 10. Banking in India has become quite easy now. ATMs are found in many cities in India except for the very small towns. Major international credit cards are widely accepted in the cities. Changing money in India especially in bigger metros is quite simple as there are many accredited money changers and most banks too change money. Moneychangers are open 24 hours at the airports and in hotels.
Climate
Electricity
Bhutan: In Bhutan, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type D, type F and type G are used. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.
India: 230v 50hz AC. Sockets are similar to those common in Europe (type C).
This 17-day tour of Bhutan and India offers a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The adventure begins in Kolkata, India, where you’ll explore the city’s colonial heritage and dynamic present. Visits to iconic sites such as the Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, and Mother Teresa’s first home set the stage for the journey.
Next, you’ll travel to Bhutan, exploring the cultural richness of Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. In Thimphu, visit Buddha Point, the National Library, and the King’s Memorial Chorten. The scenic drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass offers breathtaking views and stops at sacred sites like Chimi Lhakhang and the historic Punakha Dzong. In Paro, hike to the renowned Taktsang Monastery, also known as the “Tiger’s Nest,” and discover ancient temples and traditional Bhutanese handicrafts.
Returning to India, the tour continues with a serene cruise along the Brahmaputra River aboard the luxurious MV Mahabaahu. As you sail through diverse landscapes, you’ll visit local villages and experience traditional Assamese life. Highlights include tours of a jute mill and a tea estate, along with thrilling wildlife safaris at Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Onboard the cruise, enjoy cultural performances, discussions on regional history, and an Assamese-themed evening. The journey also includes a visit to Majuli, the world’s largest river island, where you’ll immerse yourself in the unique neo-Vaishnav culture and witness spiritual performances that reflect Assam’s rich heritage.
The tour concludes back in Kolkata, offering a final evening to reflect on the experiences before departure. This itinerary provides a comprehensive and unforgettable exploration of both Bhutan and India, combining adventure, culture, and relaxation into a single, enriching journey.
Will you join us?
TOUR PRICE: FROM A$13,995 PLUS INTERNATIONAL AIRFARES
TOUR DATES: 6th – 22nd DECEMBER 2025
Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass
Centrally located in the progressive IT corridor of the capital of West Bengal, Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass is a contemporary hotel designed for the well-heeled business and leisure traveler. Stay on top of your fitness goals with a workout at the state-of- the-art rooftop gym and pool with a panoramic city view before indulging in fine meals at Mynt – the all-day diner, Wink – amongst the city’s finest bars serving pan-Asian cuisine, and Swirl – our adored patisserie and deli. Gourmands are spoilt for choice with extensive menus featuring American, European, Mediterranean classics as well as a home-style celebration of Bengal’s legendary cuisine.
Hotel Druk
A luxury four-star hotel is a part of the Tashi Group and has been in operation since 1985. Over the years, it has been renovated to give it a chic and modern edge that is powerfully felt in uncluttered spaces. Each floor, differently inspired, explores a subtle palette drawn from water, air, earth, fire and sky.
RKPO Green Resort
RKPO Green Resort sits in the heart of the verdant and lush Punakha Valley. Flanked by thick pine forests, it overlooks the Punakha Valley and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor. It is surrounded by plentiful walking and trekking trails. From RKPO Resort, it is just a five minutes trek down to the mountain to the magnificent Chimmi Lhakhang; the temple of the divine mad man (dharma yogi), which houses one of the amazing statues of the divine mad man in the country.
Hotel Kaachi Grand
At Hotel Kaachi Grand, unrivaled comfort and luxury will elevate your holiday experience. Our luxurious selection of rooms will satisfy all of your requirements and make your stay unforgettable. Choose from our five categories of rooms, including Classic, Premier, Sky Deck, and Suites, each offering its own unique charm.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views that accompany our rooms. Whether it’s the town view, lush landscapes, or captivating vistas, each room offers a window to a world of beauty. Wake up to the gentle glow of the sun and let the scenic panoramas create an unforgettable backdrop for your stay.
Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati
Set in a tranquil sector of Assam, the elegant Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati offers stellar amenities and a peaceful location a short drive from the city center. Located on NH-37, our hotel provides easy access to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) and the nearby railway station. When you’re ready to explore, visit ancient Hindu pilgrimage sites like Kamakhya Temple or spot rare birds at Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary. Business travelers appreciate our proximity to local industrial parks, universities, and technology companies, while families enjoy visiting the clouded leopards and macaques at Assam State Zoo, less than 10 minutes away.
Prefer just to relax? Lounge by our outdoor infinity pool and soak up scenic views of the area’s verdant hills. You can maintain your workout routine with a visit to our health club and treat yourself to revitalizing treatments in our beautiful spa. With five on-site restaurants and a bar, you can enjoy a delicious meal or refreshing cocktail after on-site meetings or sightseeing.
MV Mahabaahu
The 55-metre-long MV Mahabaahu is a premier river cruise vessel that has sailed the sacred Brahmaputra River in Assam, India. since 2012. The ship meets the highest standards of quality and comfort, blending modern design with traditional charm.
The vessel features 23 spacious, elegantly furnished cabins, ensuring a luxurious stay. Guests can enjoy delicious meals in a beautiful restaurant, offering an array of Asian cuisine, international fare, and exotic regional specialties. The open top deck allows passengers to soak up the sun and take in the picturesque views of life along the Brahmaputra.
For relaxation, the MV Mahabaahu offers a luxurious swimming pool, a sauna, and an expansive spa where guests can indulge in rejuvenating massages. A sun deck bar provides the perfect spot to unwind with a drink while enjoying the river’s serene beauty.
Beyond leisure, the MV Mahabaahu immerses guests in cultural experiences. Mesmerising Indian folk-dance performances, educational talks by expert guides, and guided shore excursions reveal the rich culture and natural splendour of the Brahmaputra region. The ship also includes a library with works on India’s northeast, an internet café, and a large lounge area for relaxation.
With its blend of comfort, culture, and relaxation, the MV Mahabaahu offers an unforgettable journey through one of India’s most captivating regions.
Visa Requirements
Bhutan: Applicants wishing to obtain a visa to Bhutan must organise this visa through a travel company used to travel to Bhutan, it is not possible to travel to Bhutan as a tourist without using a travel company.
India: All visitors are required to carry a passport valid at least for 6 months after the date of arrival back to your country of residence and at least two blank pages. Australian and New Zealand passport holders may apply online for an Indian visa.
Please note that Visa requirements can change at any time. Please check with your consulate for more information.
Currency
Bhutan: The official currency is the ngultrum (Nu.), which is pegged 1:1 with the Indian rupee (₹). However, the ₹500 and ₹1000 notes are technically banned by the Bhutanese government, although many local non-governmental establishments accept the ₹500 note. US dollars ($) are widely accepted. Bhutanese currency is only needed for expenses personal in nature and buying small souvenir items. Most ATMs in Bhutan – which are mostly concentrated in Thimphu and Paro – are now compatible with international credit cards such as VISA, MasterCard and Maestro. However, as the service it is not overly reliable, it is good practice to have a supply of ngultrum, rupee or dollar notes.
India: The National Currency of India is the Indian rupee, which is available in denominations of Rs 10, Rs 20, Rs 50, Rs 100, Rs 500 and Rs 1000. There are coins for Re 1, Rs 2, Rs 5 and Rs 10. Banking in India has become quite easy now. ATMs are found in many cities in India except for the very small towns. Major international credit cards are widely accepted in the cities. Changing money in India especially in bigger metros is quite simple as there are many accredited money changers and most banks too change money. Moneychangers are open 24 hours at the airports and in hotels.
Climate
Electricity
Bhutan: In Bhutan, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type D, type F and type G are used. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.
India: 230v 50hz AC. Sockets are similar to those common in Europe (type C).
