Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 61 travelers

A Week in Bhutan: Exploring the Land of Happiness

Friday, December 1: Arrival in Paro

Begin your Bhutan adventure by landing at Paro International Airport, surrounded by stunning Himalayan peaks. After completing immigration formalities, you'll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Spend the morning exploring Paro town, visiting the National Museum to learn about Bhutanese culture. In the afternoon, hike up to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside. End the day with a relaxing soak in the traditional hot stone bath before enjoying a delicious Bhutanese dinner.

  • Paro Town & National Museum: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Tiger's Nest Monastery: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
  • Traditional Hot Stone Bath: Estimated Cost - 500-1000 BTN (7-14 USD), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Druk, a cozy restaurant known for its delicious Bhutanese pancakes and butter tea. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
  • For lunch, head to Sonam Trophel Restaurant, a local favorite serving authentic Bhutanese cuisine. Try their famous Ema Datshi, a spicy cheese and chili dish. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
  • Dine in style at Bukhari Restro & Bar for dinner, a fine dining restaurant offering a fusion of Bhutanese and international cuisine. Indulge in their signature dish, the Bukhari Roast, for a truly memorable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Saturday, December 2: Thimphu

Embark on a scenic drive to Bhutan's capital, Thimphu. Start your day by exploring the magnificent Buddha Dordenma statue, offering panoramic views of the city. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a peaceful Buddhist shrine, and learn about Bhutanese religious traditions. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant Thimphu Market, where you can find local handicrafts and fresh produce. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Folk Heritage Museum to gain insights into Bhutanese rural life.

  • Buddha Dordenma: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • National Memorial Chorten: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Thimphu Market: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Folk Heritage Museum: Estimated Cost - 100-200 BTN (1.4-2.8 USD), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 3: Punakha

Head towards Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. En route, stop at Dochula Pass to admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. Explore Punakha Dzong, a magnificent fortress situated at the confluence of two rivers. Take a leisurely hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple known for its fertility blessings. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing riverside walk and absorb the serene ambiance of Punakha.

  • Dochula Pass: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Punakha Dzong: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Chimi Lhakhang: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Riverside Walk in Punakha: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, December 4: Phobjikha Valley

Embark on a scenic drive to Phobjikha Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. Visit the Gangtey Monastery, perched on a hilltop, and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Explore the valley on foot, keeping an eye out for the endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate here during winter. Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in a traditional Bhutanese cooking class in the evening.

  • Gangtey Monastery: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Phobjikha Valley: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Bhutanese Cooking Class: Estimated Cost - 500-1000 BTN (7-14 USD), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 5: Bumthang

Travel to the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, Bumthang. Visit Jakar Dzong, a fortress overlooking the valley, and witness the vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Explore Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century. Take a scenic hike to the mystical Burning Lake, considered sacred by the locals. In the evening, immerse yourself in the soothing ambiance of a traditional Bhutanese cultural show.

  • Jakar Dzong: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Jambay Lhakhang: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Hike to Burning Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Bhutanese Cultural Show: Estimated Cost - 500-1000 BTN (7-14 USD), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Phuentsholing

Leave the mountainous region and drive to Phuentsholing, the gateway town to Bhutan. Explore the Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang, a temple adorned with beautiful murals and intricate woodwork. Visit the Karbandi Monastery, offering panoramic views of the surrounding plains and Indian border. Indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping at the local markets before retiring for the night.

  • Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Karbandi Monastery: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Shopping in Phuentsholing: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Departure

After breakfast, bid farewell to the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan as you drive back to the airport in Paro for your departure flight. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you've made in the Land of Happiness.

  • Transfer to Paro Airport: Estimated Cost - Included in Tour Package, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Bhutan, don't miss the hidden gem of Haa Valley, known for its pristine beauty and traditional way of life. Visit the awe-inspiring temples of Haa and interact with the friendly locals. Another local favorite is the Dochula Pass, especially during clear weather when you can catch panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of this mountain pass and enjoy a warm cup of tea at the Dochula Cafeteria.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version