Phuentsholing (Altitude 300m) - Frontier town connecting Bhutan with Darjeeling & Sikkim tourism places

The frontier town in southern Bhutan, Phuentsholing is a thriving commercial centre, situated directly at the base of Himalayan foothills. Geographically and commercially situated in a strategic position on Bhutan-India border, it is a fascinating place where different ethnic groups mingle prominently Indian, Bhutanese and Nepalese. Phuentsholing  adjoins the Indian town of Jaigaon in West Bengal and cross border trade has resulted in thriving local economy, in this region.

The town of Phuentsholing is located adjacent to the Amochhu (commonly known as Toorsa river) River system that has its origin in Chumbi valley of Tibet and flows through the western Bhutanese district of Haa and Samtse before finally draining via Chuukha district onto the plains of India. The climate is subtropical and humid in Phuentsholing with mild winter. Spring, from March to May remains hot especially in April and May when highest temperature may go up to 40 degrees Celsius and afternoon thunderstorm becomes more frequent. From June to September, it is monsoon season with plenty of rainfall, sometimes torrential. November to February temperature is quite pleasant in Phuentsholing.

From Phuentsholing, the road winds north, over the southern foothills, through lush, forested valleys and around the rugged north-south ridges of the inner Himalaya, to the central valleys of Paro and Thimphu.

Being the border town, Phuentsholing serves as the convenient entry or exit point for Bhutan and also the important link to visit the Indian state of West Bengal, Sikkim and Assam.

Places of Interest in Phuentsholing (Altitude 300m)

Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang
Situated in city centre, this small temple represents the heaven of Guru Rinpoche. On ground floor there are statues of eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche and paintings on Buddha’s life while the next floor contains eight Bodhisattavas and statues of Avalokiteshvara and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. On top floor, there is a main statue of Amitabha. Located in the heart of town, the visit to the temple and stroll around the area provides an interesting feel and flavour of destination Bhutan.

Kharbandi Goemba
Founded in 1967 by Royal Grand Mother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron and situated at the altitude of 400m, this beautiful monastery contains paintings on the life of Buddha, statues of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru Rinpoche. Situated in a garden of tropical plants and flowers on a hilltop overlooking Himalayan foothills, from the monastery there is a fascinating view of Phuentsholing town and surrounding plains.

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