Bhutan Shoestring Budget Adventure

Day 1: City Exploration

Thimphu, Bhutan

8:00AM

Visit Buddha Dordenma

Start your day by visiting the magnificent Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, offering panoramic views of Thimphu valley.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant, where you can savor authentic local dishes in a charming setting.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Tashichho Dzong

Visit the stunning Tashichho Dzong, a fortress monastery with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens, offering insights into Bhutanese heritage and culture.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ambient Cafe

Dine at the Ambient Cafe, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious yet affordable international and Bhutanese cuisine.
20 USD, 1-2 hours

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Punakha, Bhutan

9:00AM

Hike to Chimi Lhakhang

Embark on a scenic hike to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, nestled amidst rice fields and offering cultural and natural beauty.
Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tashi Dzong Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Tashi Dzong Restaurant, offering authentic Bhutanese cuisine with a view of the Punakha valley.
15 USD, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Punakha Dzong

Explore the historic Punakha Dzong, an architectural marvel situated at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, providing a glimpse into Bhutanese history and spirituality.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sonam Trophel Restaurant

Indulge in a satisfying dinner at Sonam Trophel Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious Bhutanese and Tibetan dishes at budget-friendly prices.
20 USD, 1-2 hours

Day 3: Scenic Splendor

Gangtey, Bhutan

8:00AM

Explore Gangtey Monastery

Start your day with a visit to the Gangtey Monastery, perched on a hilltop and offering breathtaking views of the Phobjikha Valley, known for its natural beauty and tranquility.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gakiling Guest House and Restaurant

Savor a delicious lunch at Gakiling Guest House and Restaurant, serving freshly prepared local and international dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Nature Walk in Phobjikha Valley

Embark on a leisurely nature walk in the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and serene ambiance.
Free, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Dewachen Restaurant

Relish a satisfying dinner at Hotel Dewachen Restaurant, offering a variety of affordable Bhutanese and continental dishes amidst a cozy setting with stunning views.
20 USD, 1-2 hours

Day 4: Historical Delights

Trongsa, Bhutan

9:00AM

Visit Trongsa Dzong

Explore the majestic Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong fortress in Bhutan, steeped in history and architectural grandeur, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Free, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yangkhil Resort Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Yangkhil Resort Restaurant, offering a range of delectable Bhutanese and international dishes in a serene and scenic setting.
15 USD, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Ta Dzong Museum

Visit the Ta Dzong Museum, housing a fascinating collection of Bhutanese artifacts, historical exhibits, and cultural treasures, providing insights into the country's heritage.
5 USD, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Yoezer Wine Bar and Restaurant

Dine at Yoezer Wine Bar and Restaurant, known for its relaxed ambiance and delectable Bhutanese and continental cuisine, along with a selection of affordable wines.
25 USD, 1-2 hours

Day 5: Cultural Immersion

Bumthang, Bhutan

8:00AM

Explore Jambay Lhakhang

Begin your day with a visit to Jambay Lhakhang, an ancient temple with intricate artwork and spiritual significance, offering a glimpse into Bhutan's religious heritage.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bumthang Cultural Trek Restaurant

Indulge in a flavorful lunch at Bumthang Cultural Trek Restaurant, serving authentic Bhutanese and international cuisine with a focus on local flavors and hospitality.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Kurjey Lhakhang

Visit the sacred Kurjey Lhakhang, a complex of temples with historical and spiritual significance, set amidst tranquil surroundings and adorned with intricate carvings and murals.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Red Panda Brewery and Bar

Savor a delightful dinner at Red Panda Brewery and Bar, known for its charming ambiance and a variety of affordable Bhutanese and international dishes, along with locally crafted beers.
20 USD, 1-2 hours

Day 6: Scenic Beauty and Local Flavors

Mongar, Bhutan

9:00AM

Drive to Drametse Monastery

Embark on a scenic drive to Drametse Monastery, a hidden gem nestled amidst lush greenery, providing a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese architecture and religious traditions.
Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Damchen Resort Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Damchen Resort Restaurant, offering a selection of locally inspired dishes and international cuisine in a charming setting with beautiful views.
15 USD, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Mongar Town

Stroll through Mongar Town, absorbing the local sights and sounds, and perhaps visit the bustling local market to experience the vibrant colors and flavors of Bhutanese life.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Yidrung Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Yidrung Restaurant, known for its welcoming atmosphere and a variety of affordable Bhutanese and international dishes with a focus on local flavors.
20 USD, 1-2 hours

Day 7: Eastern Charms

Trashigang, Bhutan

8:00AM

Visit Trashigang Dzong

Start your day with a visit to Trashigang Dzong, an imposing fortress overlooking the town, offering stunning views and insights into the region's history and cultural richness.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Khangsar Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Khangsar Restaurant, offering a variety of local and international dishes with a focus on regional flavors amidst a welcoming ambiance.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Radhi Village

Take a short drive to Radhi Village, known for its picturesque landscapes and traditional weaving techniques, providing a glimpse into the local way of life and cultural traditions.
Free, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Lingkhar Lodge Restaurant

Savor a special farewell dinner at Lingkhar Lodge Restaurant, known for its elegant setting and a delectable array of Bhutanese and international cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
30 USD, 2 hours

Connectivity Info

For connectivity in Bhutan, Wi-Fi is readily available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in major cities and towns. However, cellular coverage may be limited in remote areas. It's advisable to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for ease of communication. Power outlets in Bhutan generally follow the Type D and Type F sockets, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. It's recommended to carry a universal adapter for charging your electronics.