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

Exploring Bhutan: A Week of Family Fun

Sunday, October 22: Arrival in Bhutan

Welcome to the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan! On your first day, arrive at Bagdogra Airport and make your way to the beautiful city of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Spend the morning immersing yourself in the local culture at the National Folk Heritage Museum. In the afternoon, visit the Buddha Dordenma, a massive statue symbolizing peace and happiness. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Norzin Lam, the main street of Thimphu, and explore the local shops and markets.

  • National Folk Heritage Museum: Cost estimate - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Buddha Dordenma: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Norzin Lam: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Monday, October 23: Exploring Paro

Embark on a day trip to Paro, a picturesque town in Bhutan. Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Paro Taktsang, also known as Tiger's Nest. This cliffside monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Afternoon, explore the National Museum of Bhutan, which showcases Bhutanese art and artefacts. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the charming streets of Paro and interact with the friendly locals.

  • Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest): Cost estimate - INR 1,000 per person (includes entrance fee and horse ride), Time spent - 4 hours
  • National Museum of Bhutan: Cost estimate - INR 250 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Exploring Paro town: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Tuesday, October 24: Discovering Punakha

Head to Punakha, a beautiful valley known for its stunning landscapes and historic sites. Start your day by visiting the Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress situated at the confluence of two rivers. Afternoon, take a leisurely hike to the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, known for its phallic symbols. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Mo Chhu River and soak in the scenic views.

  • Punakha Dzong: Cost estimate - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Chimi Lhakhang: Cost estimate - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Boat ride on Mo Chhu River: Cost estimate - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Wednesday, October 25: Immersed in Thimphu's Art and Culture

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Thimphu on this day. Begin your morning with a visit to the Choki Traditional Art School, where you can witness students learning traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts. Afternoon, explore the striking Tashichho Dzong, a fortress and monastery that serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government. In the evening, attend a lively traditional dance performance at the Royal Academy of Performing Arts.

  • Choki Traditional Art School: Cost estimate - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Tashichho Dzong: Cost estimate - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Royal Academy of Performing Arts: Cost estimate - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Thursday, October 26: Nature Escape in Dochula Pass

Embark on a scenic drive to Dochula Pass, a mountain pass adorned with beautiful prayer flags. In the morning, enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayan mountain range, and if weather permits, catch a glimpse of the highest peak in Bhutan. Afternoon, go for a short hike in the lush surroundings and visit the serene Druk Wangyal Lhakhang. In the evening, return to Thimphu and explore the local markets for souvenirs.

  • Dochula Pass: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
  • Druk Wangyal Lhakhang: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Exploring Thimphu markets: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours
Friday, October 27: Exploring Phobjikha Valley

Travel to the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley known for its picturesque landscapes and endangered black-necked cranes. In the morning, visit the Gangtey Monastery, a serene Buddhist monastery perched on a hilltop. Afternoon, take a nature walk in the valley, appreciating its natural beauty and spotting wildlife. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner with a local family and experience their warm hospitality.

  • Gangtey Monastery: Cost estimate - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Nature walk in Phobjikha Valley: Cost estimate - INR 100 per person (guides available), Time spent - 3 hours
  • Traditional dinner with a local family: Cost estimate - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Saturday, October 28: Bid farewell to Bhutan

On your last day, bid farewell to the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan. Take a leisurely morning walk along the beautiful Dochula Pass and savor the breathtaking views one last time. Afternoon, visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in honor of Bhutan's third king. In the evening, make your way back to Bagdogra Airport for your return journey home, taking with you cherished memories of your Bhutan adventure.

  • Dochula Pass: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Memorial Chorten: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Return journey to Bagdogra Airport: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the remote Phobjikha Valley in central Bhutan. This serene valley offers breathtaking views and a chance to witness the unique black-necked cranes, which migrate here every year. Another hidden gem is the Gangtey Monastery, perched on a hilltop in the Phobjikha Valley, offering a tranquil setting for reflection and spiritual rejuvenation. Locals also love exploring the charming streets of Paro, known for its traditional Bhutanese architecture and warm hospitality.

For more information on hotel and flight prices in Bhutan, check out Kayak.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version