Start your Bhutan adventure with the charming town of Paro. Spend the morning exploring the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest, perched on a cliffside 900 meters above the Paro Valley. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in the Ta Dzong, a historic watchtower. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the town and immerse yourself in the local culture.
National Museum of Bhutan: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: BTN 200, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Zombala2, a cozy cafe in Paro. Enjoy their freshly brewed coffee and mouthwatering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 250 Nu per person.
For lunch, head to Sonam Trophel Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Bhutanese cuisine. Try their signature dish, ema datshi, a spicy cheese and chili stew. Average cost for a meal is about 300 Nu per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Bukhari Restaurant, located in the heart of Paro. This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Bhutanese and international flavors, paired with an extensive wine list. Average cost for a meal is about 800 Nu per person.
Monday, October 2: Thimphu
Embark on a scenic drive to the capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu. Morning is the perfect time to visit the majestic Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-monastery that houses the throne room of the King of Bhutan. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Folk Heritage Museum and gain insights into Bhutanese traditional life. As the evening approaches, take a stroll along Norzin Lam, the main street, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Folk Heritage Museum: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: BTN 50, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Norzin Lam: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Pema Restaurant: Start your day with a traditional Bhutanese breakfast at Pema Restaurant, located in the heart of Thimphu. Indulge in dishes like Ema Datshi (spicy cheese and chili) and Suja (butter tea). Average cost for a meal is about 150 BTN per person.
Tandin Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Tandin Restaurant, known for its delicious Bhutanese and Indian cuisine. Try the national dish of Bhutan, called "Dahli," or enjoy a hearty plate of momo (dumplings). Average cost for a meal is about 200 BTN per person.
Zombala Restaurant: End your day with a memorable dinner at Zombala Restaurant, a cozy eatery offering a blend of Bhutanese, Tibetan, and Chinese flavors. Sample their famous Thukpa (noodle soup) or savor a plate of Bhutanese fried rice. Average cost for a meal is about 250 BTN per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Punakha
Leave Thimphu behind and head to Punakha, a picturesque valley known for its stunning landscapes. Start your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece situated at the confluence of two rivers. Afterward, hike to the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, dedicated to the Divine Madman. In the evening, enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of Punakha Valley.
Discover the idyllic valley of Gangtey, known for its pristine beauty and the black-necked crane sanctuary. Start your day with a visit to Gangtey Monastery, perched on a hill overlooking the valley. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque Gangtey Nature Trail and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, witness the beauty of the black-necked cranes as they return to their roosting grounds.
Return to Paro for your final day in Bhutan. Rise early and embark on a challenging hike to the breathtaking viewpoint of Chele La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range. In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. End your day by exploring the vibrant Paro weekend market, where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Chele La Pass: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent: 4-6 hours
While exploring Bhutan, make sure to visit the hidden gem of Haa Valley, known for its pristine beauty and traditional way of life. Another local favorite is the Dochula Pass, located between Thimphu and Punakha, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas on a clear day. Don't miss the chance to try traditional Bhutanese cuisine, such as Ema Datshi (chilies and cheese) and Suja (butter tea), to truly experience the local flavors.