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 52 travelers

5-Day Bhutan Itinerary for November 2023

  1. Day 1: Explore the Capital - Thimphu
    50 minutes (30 km) from Paro International Airport

    Spend your morning exploring the Memorial Chorten, a revered shrine for Buddhist devotees. Then head to the National Textile Museum, showcasing Bhutanese weaving traditions. In the afternoon, visit the Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-like monastery and government palace. End your day strolling around the Centenary Farmers Market, filled with colorful stalls and friendly locals.

  2. Day 2: Discover the Spiritual Sites of Punakha
    2.5 hours (76 km) from Thimphu

    Start your day with a scenic drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. Visit the Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress built in the 17th century, and the Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman. In the afternoon, hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a beautiful stupa with stunning views of the Punakha valley.

  3. Day 3: Experience Bhutanese Culture in Bumthang
    5.5 hours (268 km) from Punakha

    Take a scenic drive to the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, Bumthang. Visit the Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in the country, and the Kurje Lhakhang, known for its rock carvings. In the afternoon, explore the Jakar Dzong, a fortress perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley.

  4. Day 4: Trekking in Gangtey
    6 hours (188 km) from Bumthang

    Start your day with a visit to the Gangtey Monastery, a 17th-century monastery surrounded by stunning mountain views. Then embark on a picturesque trek through the Phobjikha Valley, a conservation area known for its black-necked cranes. In the evening, cozy up by the fire at your traditional Bhutanese homestay.

  5. Day 5: Sightseeing in Paro
    5 hours (155 km) from Gangtey

    End your trip with a visit to Paro, a picturesque town famous for its traditional architecture. Visit the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, a sacred site perched on a cliffside. Then explore the National Museum of Bhutan, showcasing the country's cultural heritage. In the evening, stroll around the charming town center and indulge in some souvenir shopping.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on visiting the Haa Valley, a scenic valley located 3 hours from Paro. For thrill-seekers, consider white water rafting on the Punakha River. To maximize your fun, try some traditional Bhutanese cuisine like Ema Datshi, a spicy cheese and chili dish. Lastly, be sure to attend a cultural festival to experience the vibrant traditions of Bhutan.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Memorial Chorten (1 hour, free)
  • National Textile Museum (1.5 hours, 150 BTN)
  • Tashichho Dzong (1 hour, free)
  • Centenary Farmers Market (1 hour, free)
  • Punakha Dzong (1 hour, 300 BTN)
  • Chimi Lhakhang (1 hour, 100 BTN)
  • Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten (3 hours including hike, 400 BTN)
  • Jambay Lhakhang (1 hour, 200 BTN)
  • Kurje Lhakhang (1.5 hours, 150 BTN)
  • Jakar Dzong (1.5 hours, free)
  • Gangtey Monastery (1 hour, free)
  • Phobjikha Valley Trek (4 hours, 500 BTN)
  • Tiger's Nest Monastery (4 hours including hike, 500 BTN)
  • National Museum of Bhutan (1.5 hours, 150 BTN)
  • Souvenir shopping (1 hour, varies)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 2450 Bhutanese Ngultrum per person
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version