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

7-Day Nature Itinerary in Bhutan

Monday, September 18: Paro

Start your trip by landing at Paro International Airport, surrounded by majestic mountains. In the morning, visit the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside. Afternoon, explore the National Museum of Bhutan, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage. As the evening approaches, stroll through Paro Town, experiencing the local markets and traditional Bhutanese architecture.

  • Tiger's Nest Monastery: Estimated cost - Free for Bhutanese, $10 for foreigners, Estimated time spent - 4-6 hours
  • National Museum of Bhutan: Estimated cost - $10, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Paro Town: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Tuesday, September 19: Thimphu

Embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. In the morning, visit the Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, offering panoramic views. Afternoon, explore the Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing Bhutanese rural life. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along the Thimphu River and enjoy the serene surroundings.

  • Buddha Dordenma: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Folk Heritage Museum: Estimated cost - $5, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Thimphu River Walk: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Wednesday, September 20: Punakha

Travel to Punakha, a picturesque valley known for its stunning natural beauty. In the morning, hike to the breathtaking Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, offering panoramic views of the valley. Afternoon, visit the Punakha Dzong, an architectural marvel situated at the confluence of two rivers. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk across the iconic Punakha Suspension Bridge.

  • Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten: Estimated cost - $3, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Punakha Dzong: Estimated cost - $5, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Punakha Suspension Bridge: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, September 21: Phobjikha Valley

Indulge in the serene beauty of Phobjikha Valley, famous for its wintering grounds of the endangered black-necked cranes. In the morning, explore the Gangtey Monastery, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Afternoon, hike along the beautiful nature trails of the valley, keeping an eye out for wildlife. As the evening sets in, visit the Crane Information Center to learn more about these magnificent birds.

  • Gangtey Monastery: Estimated cost - $3, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Hiking in Phobjikha Valley: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Crane Information Center: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, September 22: Bumthang

Experience the spiritual heartland of Bhutan in Bumthang, a region dotted with ancient temples and monasteries. In the morning, visit the Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Afternoon, explore the Kurje Lhakhang, known for its sacred cave and intricate murals. As the evening approaches, wander through the local markets of Bumthang and savor traditional Bhutanese cuisine.

  • Jambay Lhakhang: Estimated cost - $3, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kurje Lhakhang: Estimated cost - $3, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Local Markets of Bumthang: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 23: Haa Valley

Discover the hidden gem of Haa Valley, a remote and untouched paradise. In the morning, hike to the stunning Chhundu Lhakhang, offering breathtaking views of the valley. Afternoon, explore the traditional villages of Haa, immersing yourself in the local way of life. As the evening sets in, enjoy a picnic amidst the scenic beauty of the valley.

  • Chhundu Lhakhang Hike: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Exploring Haa Valley: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Picnic in Haa Valley: Estimated cost - $10, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 24: Paro

Conclude your trip by returning to Paro. In the morning, visit the serene Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the beautiful Paro River, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. As the evening approaches, indulge in a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath to relax and unwind.

  • Kyichu Lhakhang: Estimated cost - $3, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Paro River Walk: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath: Estimated cost - $20, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites:

For nature enthusiasts, don't miss out on exploring the Dochula Pass, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. Additionally, hike to the Chele La Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, for stunning vistas. Visit the Haa Wangchuck Centennial Park, a pristine wilderness, to experience Bhutan's rich biodiversity.

For an off the beaten path experience, venture to the remote village of Laya and trek along the challenging Snowman Trek, known for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural encounters with the Layap people.

Check hotel and flight prices 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