Southern Bhutan · 300 m
Phuentsholing
Bhutan's busy southern gateway, where the hills meet the plains of West Bengal.
The main overland entry point from India, a warm commercial town on the border with Jaigaon — the starting point for road journeys up into the western valleys.
Phuentsholing is unlike anywhere else in Bhutan. Step through the ornate gateway from the crowded streets of Jaigaon and the change is immediate — cleaner, calmer, the same heat but suddenly a different country.
For travellers arriving by road from India, usually via Bagdogra airport or the hill stations of Darjeeling and Sikkim, this is the start of the journey. It is a commercial town rather than a sightseeing one, but there is enough for an evening: the temple at its centre, the crocodile breeding centre by the river and the hilltop monastery of Kharbandi.
The real reward comes the next morning, as the road climbs out of the plains through forest and cloud into the mountains — a gradual introduction to the country that flying into Paro cannot give.
Things to see
- 01
The Bhutan Gate
The ornate traditional gateway marking the border with Jaigaon, India.
- 02
Zangto Pelri Lhakhang
A temple in the town centre representing the celestial palace of Guru Rinpoche.
- 03
Kharbandi Goemba
A hilltop monastery founded by a royal grandmother, with views over the plains.
- 04
Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre
A small conservation project for the endangered mugger and gharial.
Things to do
- Begin an overland journey north to Thimphu or Haa
- Watch the border town's market life
- Climb to Kharbandi for a view across the plains at sunset
Local tips
- Entry formalities for overland visitors are handled at the immigration office in town; we accompany you.
- The drive up to Thimphu climbs from 300 to over 2,000 metres in about five to six hours.
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