Phuntsholing, a bustling border town in southwestern Bhutan, serves as the gateway between Bhutan and India, adjoining the Indian town of Jaigaon. Unlike Bhutan’s serene highland towns, Phuntsholing is a vibrant commercial hub, blending Bhutanese and Indian cultures in a dynamic urban setting. It plays a crucial role in trade and transit, making it one of the most economically active regions in the country.
The town’s architecture and atmosphere reflect a unique fusion of tradition and modernity. Key attractions include the ornate Zangto Pelri Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, and the nearby Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre. Phuntsholing’s warm, humid climate contrasts with Bhutan’s cooler interior, offering a different experience for travelers.
As the first stop for many entering Bhutan by road, Phuntsholing provides a fascinating introduction to the kingdom’s culture, hospitality, and administrative processes, including immigration and permits for further travel into Bhutan.