7-Day Luxury Itinerary in Bhutan

  1. Day 1: Paro
    15 minutes (6.5 km) from Paro International Airport

    Discover the scenic Rinpung Dzong Monastery, the National Museum of Bhutan, and the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang temple. End the day with a visit to a local farmhouse for dinner.

  2. Day 2: Thimphu
    1 hour 30 minutes (55 km) from Paro

    Visit the famous Buddha Dordenma statue and the still-in-construction Spacious Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan. Savour an authentic Bhutanese meal and experience Thimphu's nightlife.

  3. Day 3: Punakha
    2 hours 30 minutes (75 km) from Thimphu

    Admire the elaborate Punakha Dzong, Bhutan's second-largest dzong. Hike to the stunning Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for panoramic views. Relax with a spa treatment and private dinner at a luxury hotel.

  4. Day 4: Gangtey
    3 hours 30 minutes (120 km) from Punakha

    Explore the hidden valley of Phobjikha, home to the endangered black-necked crane. Visit Gangtey Monastery and the traditional Black-Necked Crane Information Centre. Overnight in a cozy farmhouse.

  5. Day 5: Wangdue
    1 hour (35 km) from Gangtey

    Take a scenic drive to the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, one of the largest and most picturesque dzongs in Bhutan. Watch a traditional Bhutanese archery tournament or try your hand at the sport yourself.

  6. Day 6: Bumthang
    6 hours (244 km) from Wangdue

    Discover the cultural heartland of Bhutan, where several important temples and monasteries are located. Explore the sacred Jambay Lhakhang temple, the stunning Kurjey Lhakhang complex, and the Tamshing Lhakhang Monastery.

  7. Day 7: Paro
    10 hours (276 km) from Bumthang

    Return to Paro for a hot-air balloon ride over the picturesque valley. End your trip with a visit to the iconic Tiger's Nest monastery, perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Private farmhouse dinner (Day 1): 2 hours, £75 per person
  • Bhutanese hot stone bath and spa treatment (Day 3): 3 hours, £125 per person
  • Archery tournament (Day 5): 2 hours, £25 per person
  • Hot-air balloon ride (Day 7): 1 hour, £200 per person
  • Total Estimated Costs: £1,600 per person

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the remote Haa Valley for stunning views and fascinating culture. Or, if you have less time, consider skipping Bumthang and adding another day to Paro or Thimphu for more exploration. Remember to pack comfortable hiking shoes and dress in layers as the weather can change quickly.

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