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 77 travelers

Exploring Bhutan: A Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary

Monday, February 19: Arrival in Paro

Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival in Paro, take a short drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. In the morning, visit the Memorial Chorten, a beautiful stupa dedicated to Bhutan's third king. Afterward, explore the National Folk Heritage Museum, where you can learn about Bhutanese culture and traditions. In the afternoon, visit the Thimphu Takin Preserve to see the unique national animal of Bhutan. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around the Clock Tower Square.

  • Memorial Chorten: Approx. cost: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • National Folk Heritage Museum: Approx. cost: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Thimphu Takin Preserve: Approx. cost: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Clock Tower Square: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Tuesday, February 20: Exploring Punakha

Head towards Punakha, known for its stunning landscapes and historic sites. In the morning, visit the Punakha Dzong, a magnificent fortress situated at the confluence of two rivers. Take a relaxing walk across the suspension bridge nearby. Afterward, continue to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility, where you can receive blessings for fertility and enjoy the scenic surroundings. In the evening, take a short hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and admire the panoramic views of the Punakha Valley.

  • Punakha Dzong: Approx. cost: $5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Chimi Lhakhang: Approx. cost: $3, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours (including hike)
Wednesday, February 21: Thimphu Highlights

Return to Thimphu for a full day of exploration. Start your day with a visit to the famous Trashi Chhoe Dzong, an impressive fortress housing several government offices and the throne room of the King. Afterward, discover Bhutan's rich textile heritage at the Royal Textile Museum. Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the Changangkha Lhakhang, a temple popular among locals and known for its spiritual ambiance. End your day with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma, a massive statue that offers stunning panoramic views of Thimphu.

  • Trashi Chhoe Dzong: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Royal Textile Museum: Approx. cost: $3, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Changangkha Lhakhang: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Buddha Dordenma: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, February 22: Paro and the Tiger's Nest

Start your day with a scenic drive to Paro. In the morning, hike to the iconic Taktsang Palphug Monastery, also known as the Tiger's Nest. This sacred site clings to a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning surroundings. After descending from the trek, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan. In the evening, explore the quaint town of Paro and try some delicious Bhutanese cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Taktsang Palphug Monastery (Tiger's Nest): Approx. cost: $10 (entrance fee + horse ride), Time spent: 4-6 hours (including trek)
  • Kyichu Lhakhang: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday, February 23: Departure from Paro

After breakfast, bid farewell to Bhutan as you depart from Paro. Reflect on the mesmerizing experiences and beautiful memories created during your family-friendly journey through the land of the Thunder Dragon.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When visiting Bhutan as a family, consider exploring the Dochula Pass, located on the way between Thimphu and Punakha. It offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range and is known for its 108 memorial chortens. Kids will especially enjoy the sight of colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Additionally, make sure to interact with the friendly locals and try some authentic Bhutanese dishes, such as ema datshi (chili and cheese stew) and momos (steamed dumplings).

To check hotel and flight prices for your Bhutan adventure, click 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