Luxury Relaxation on a Shoestring Budget in Bhutan

Day 1: Exploring Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

8:00AM

Visit Buddha Dordenma

Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Buddha Dordenma statue, offering panoramic views of Thimphu valley.
Buddha Dordenma is a short drive from the city centre.
Free, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Tashichho Dzong

Head to Tashichho Dzong, a stunning fortress housing the throne room and offices of the King of Bhutan.
Tashichho Dzong is located in the heart of Thimphu.
Free, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ambient Cafe

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Ambient Cafe, known for its local and international cuisine.
Ambient Cafe is centrally located in Thimphu.
£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Folk Heritage Museum

Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture at the Folk Heritage Museum, showcasing traditional artefacts and exhibits.
The museum is a short drive from the city centre.
£5, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Babesa Village Restaurant

Indulge in authentic Bhutanese cuisine at Babesa Village Restaurant, offering a unique dining experience.
Babesa Village Restaurant is located on the outskirts of Thimphu.
£15, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: More of Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

9:00AM

Hike to Tango Monastery

Embark on a scenic hike to Tango Monastery, a sacred Buddhist site nestled in the mountains.
Tango Monastery is a 30-minute drive followed by a 1-hour hike from Thimphu.
£5 (entrance fee), 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dochula Cafe

Relish a meal with a view at Dochula Cafe, located at the picturesque Dochula Pass.
Dochula Cafe is en route to Punakha from Thimphu.
£12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Travel to Punakha

Take a scenic drive to Punakha, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and passing through the Dochula Pass.
The journey from Thimphu to Punakha takes around 3 hours by car.
£20 (private car hire), 3 hours

6:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Lobesa

Settle into Hotel Lobesa, a comfortable accommodation option in Punakha for the night.
Hotel Lobesa is located in the town of Lobesa in Punakha.
£30, Rest of the day
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Day 3: Punakha Exploration

Punakha, Bhutan

8:00AM

Visit Punakha Dzong

Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan.
Punakha Dzong is located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
£5, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sonam Trophel Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at Sonam Trophel Restaurant, known for its local dishes.
Sonam Trophel Restaurant is a short drive from Punakha Dzong.
£8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Chimi Lhakhang

Visit the fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang and learn about its unique traditions and rituals.
Chimi Lhakhang is a short drive from Punakha town.
£3, 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Relax by the Mo Chhu River

Unwind by the picturesque Mo Chhu River, taking in the serene surroundings of Punakha.
The riverside is easily accessible from the town centre.
Free, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Paro

Paro, Bhutan

9:00AM

Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery

Embark on a challenging hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff overlooking Paro Valley.
The trailhead for the hike is a short drive from Paro town.
£15 (entrance fee), 5-6 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Mountain Cafe

Recharge with a meal at Mountain Cafe, offering a cosy atmosphere and delicious food.
Mountain Cafe is located in Paro town.
£10, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Paro Market

Explore the vibrant Paro Market, known for its local handicrafts, souvenirs, and bustling atmosphere.
Paro Market is centrally located in the town.
Variable based on purchases, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bukhari Restaurant

Dine at Bukhari Restaurant, offering a mix of Bhutanese, Indian, and Continental cuisine in a charming setting.
Bukhari Restaurant is a popular dining spot in Paro.
£20, 1-2 hours
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Day 5: Final Day in Paro

Paro, Bhutan

9:00AM

Explore National Museum of Bhutan

Visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in a former watchtower and offering insights into Bhutanese history and culture.
The museum is located above Paro Rinpung Dzong.
£5, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Red Rice Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal at Red Rice Restaurant, known for its authentic flavours.
Red Rice Restaurant is situated in the heart of Paro town.
£10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll around Paro Old Town

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Paro Old Town, lined with traditional Bhutanese houses and shops.
Paro Old Town is easily walkable from the central area.
Free, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kyichu Lhakhang

Explore the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan with fascinating history and architecture.
Kyichu Lhakhang is a short drive or walk from Paro town.
£3, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Zombala 2 Restaurant

Conclude your Bhutanese adventure with a farewell dinner at Zombala 2 Restaurant, savouring the last moments in this beautiful country.
Zombala 2 Restaurant is located in Paro town.
£25, 1-2 hours
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