For breakfast, start your day at Cafe de Bhutan, a cozy cafe in Wangdue Phodrang town. Enjoy their freshly baked pastries and delicious Bhutanese tea. Average cost for a meal is about 150 to 200 BTN per person.
For lunch, head to Dewachen Restaurant in the Phobjikha Valley. This restaurant offers a menu with a variety of Bhutanese and international cuisine options, all made with fresh local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 250 to 300 BTN per person.
For dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at Gangtey Palace Restaurant, located within the Gangtey Palace boutique hotel. This fine dining restaurant serves gourmet Bhutanese dishes with a modern twist, accompanied by stunning views of the valley. Average cost for a meal is about 500 to 600 BTN per person.
Saturday August 12: Exploring Paro
Begin your Bhutan adventure in the picturesque town of Paro. In the morning, visit the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside with breathtaking views. Afterward, explore the National Museum of Bhutan and gain insights into the country's rich history. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the charming streets of Paro town.
National Museum of Bhutan: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: INR 300, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Paro Town: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Olive Tree Cafe: A cozy breakfast spot located in the heart of Paro town, offering a variety of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 Nu per person.
Red Rice Restaurant: Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Red Rice Restaurant, known for its traditional Bhutanese cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 300 Nu per person.
Mountain View Grill: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Mountain View Grill where you can savor a blend of Bhutanese and international flavors while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Average cost for a meal is about 500 Nu per person.
Sunday August 13: Thimphu City Tour
Embark on a scenic drive to Bhutan's capital city, Thimphu. Start your day with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma, a massive golden statue overlooking the valley. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Thimphu Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan's government. As the evening approaches, take a stroll along the lively Norzin Lam street, filled with shops and restaurants.
Buddha Dordenma: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Thimphu Tashichho Dzong: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Norzin Lam: Cost varies based on activities, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Ambient Cafe. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and hearty breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 1500 BTN per person.
For lunch, head to the popular Babesa Village Restaurant. Enjoy traditional Bhutanese cuisine in a rustic setting. The average cost for a meal is about 800 BTN per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Bhutan Kitchen. This restaurant specializes in authentic Bhutanese dishes prepared with local ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about 1200 BTN per person.
Monday August 14: Punakha Exploration
Travel to Punakha, a serene valley town known for its stunning landscapes. Start your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress situated at the confluence of two rivers. In the afternoon, hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple famous for its fertility blessings. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and beautiful countryside. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and trying traditional Bhutanese cuisine.
Punakha Dzong: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Chimi Lhakhang: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Local Markets: Cost varies based on purchases, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Sonam Trophel Restaurant, known for its traditional Bhutanese dishes. Enjoy a hearty meal for around 200 BTN per person.
For lunch, head to Norzin Lam Cafe and try their delectable momos, a Bhutanese dumpling specialty. A meal here will cost you around 250 BTN per person.
In the evening, indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Bukhari Restaurant, offering a wide range of Bhutanese and international cuisines. Expect to spend around 400 BTN per person for a meal here.
Tuesday August 15: Wangdue Phodrang & Gangtey
Embark on a scenic drive to Wangdue Phodrang, a small town with charming architecture. Visit the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, perched on a ridge overlooking the valley. Afterward, continue the journey to the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, home to the Gangtey Monastery. Take a leisurely walk in the valley, known for its rich biodiversity and the rare black-necked cranes. Spend the evening enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.
Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Gangtey Monastery: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Phobjikha Valley: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday August 16: Haa Valley Excursion
Embark on a scenic drive to the lesser-known Haa Valley, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas. Enjoy the picturesque vistas, visit the Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo temples, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere. Take a walk in the village and interact with the friendly locals. In the evening, savor a traditional Bhutanese dinner and experience Bhutanese hospitality at a local farmhouse.
Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Village Walk: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Traditional Dinner at a Farmhouse: Cost varies based on arrangements, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Perk, located in Haa town. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast options, from freshly baked pastries to hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 10 USD per person.
For lunch, head to the popular Sonam Trophel Restaurant, known for its authentic Bhutanese cuisine. Try their mouth-watering Ema Datshi (cheese and chili dish) or their flavorful Kewa Datshi (potato and cheese dish). Average cost for a meal is about 15 USD per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at the elegant Drukgyal Restaurant. With its charming ambiance and wide range of Bhutanese and international dishes, it's the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. Average cost for a meal is about 25 USD per person.
Thursday August 17: Dochula Pass & Thimphu
Head back to Thimphu, but make a stop at the breathtaking Dochula Pass along the way. Admire the panoramic views of the Himalayas and the 108 memorial chortens. Enjoy a picnic amidst the natural beauty. Once in Thimphu, spend the afternoon exploring the unique Royal Textile Academy and the vibrant craft markets. In the evening, have a delicious Bhutanese meal at a local restaurant.
Dochula Pass: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Royal Textile Academy: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: INR 150, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Craft Markets: Cost varies based on purchases, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday August 18: Paro Valley & Farewell
Return to Paro and spend the day exploring the enchanting Paro Valley. Visit the historic Rinpung Dzong, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance. Take a stroll along the beautiful Paro River and soak in the natural beauty. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath to relax and rejuvenate. End your Bhutan adventure by savoring a farewell dinner.
Rinpung Dzong: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Paro River Walk: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Hot Stone Bath: Estimated cost - INR 1000 per person, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Farewell Dinner: Cost varies based on restaurant choice, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the remote village of Ura, known for its traditional way of life and beautiful landscapes. Explore the stunning Bumdra Monastery Trek, a scenic hike that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Don't miss out on trying local delicacies like Ema Datshi (chili and cheese dish) and Suja (butter tea) for a true taste of Bhutanese cuisine.
Check hotel and flight prices for your Bhutan adventure here.