5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Bhutan in December 2023

1. Day 1: Paro
   30 minutes (12.5 miles) from Paro International Airport

   Start your trip in Paro, where you can explore the beautiful Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery in the morning. This iconic Buddhist temple clings to a cliffside and offers breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Bhutan to learn about the country's rich history and culture. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Paro and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

   • Paro Taktsang: Entrance Fee: £10, Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
   • National Museum of Bhutan: Entrance Fee: £5, Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
2. Day 2: Thimphu
   1 hour 30 minutes (31.2 miles) from Paro

   Head to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Start your day with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic statue of Buddha that overlooks the city. In the afternoon, explore the Folk Heritage Museum to get a glimpse of traditional Bhutanese life. For the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Thimphu River and enjoy the scenic beauty.

   • Buddha Dordenma: Entrance Fee: £8, Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
   • Folk Heritage Museum: Entrance Fee: £3, Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
3. Day 3: Punakha
   2 hours 30 minutes (50.7 miles) from Thimphu

   Embark on a day trip to Punakha, known for its stunning Punakha Dzong. In the morning, explore the dzong and its beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, hike to the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful views along the way. Return to Thimphu in the evening.

   • Punakha Dzong: Entrance Fee: £6, Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
   • Chimi Lhakhang: Entrance Fee: £3, Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
4. Day 4: Wangdue Phodrang
   1 hour 15 minutes (24.9 miles) from Thimphu

   Visit Wangdue Phodrang, a small town known for its picturesque landscapes. In the morning, explore the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. In the afternoon, take a walk through the town and interact with the friendly locals. End your day by witnessing a traditional Bhutanese dance performance in the evening.

   • Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: Entrance Fee: £5, Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
   • Bhutanese Dance Performance: Ticket Price: £10, Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
5. Day 5: Paro
   2 hours 45 minutes (88.1 miles) from Wangdue Phodrang

   Return to Paro for your final day in Bhutan. In the morning, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan. Take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful Chele La Pass in the afternoon, and if the weather permits, enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan mountains. End your day by indulging in a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath for relaxation.

   • Kyichu Lhakhang: Entrance Fee: £2, Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
   • Chele La Pass: Free, Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
   • Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath: £30, Estimated Time: 1-2 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Trongsa Dzong, one of the most impressive fortresses in Bhutan, and exploring the beautiful Bumthang Valley. For day trips, you can venture to the Haa Valley, known for its stunning landscapes, or take a hike to the famous Jomolhari Base Camp. To maximize your fun, try participating in a traditional archery session or indulge in Bhutanese cuisine at local restaurants.

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