Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Bhutan

Day 1: Explore Paro

Paro, Bhutan

8:00AM

Visit Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery

Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Paro Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliffside. Enjoy the scenic hike up and explore the monastery.
Paro Taktsang is about a 1-hour drive from Paro town. You can hire a taxi or use a local tour guide. The hike to the monastery takes around 2-3 hours.
Entrance fee: 500 BTN, Half-day

1:00PM

Lunch at Bukhari Restaurant

Head to Bukhari Restaurant for a delicious Bhutanese meal with a view of the Paro valley.
Bukhari Restaurant is located in Paro town, a short drive from Paro Taktsang.
Approx. 300-500 BTN per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Rinpung Dzong

Visit the historic Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery that offers insight into Bhutanese architecture and culture.
Rinpung Dzong is within walking distance from Paro town.
Entrance fee: 300 BTN, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sonam Trophel Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy family dinner at Sonam Trophel Restaurant, known for its traditional Bhutanese dishes.
Sonam Trophel Restaurant is located in Paro town.
Approx. 400-600 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: Paro Exploration Continues

Paro, Bhutan

9:00AM

Visit National Museum of Bhutan

Explore the National Museum to learn about Bhutan's history, culture, and art through its exhibits.
The National Museum is located above Rinpung Dzong in Paro.
Entrance fee: 150 BTN, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic at Chele La Pass

Have a family picnic at Chele La Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Chele La Pass is about a 1.5-hour drive from Paro. You can hire a taxi for the trip.
Cost of taxi: 2000-2500 BTN (round trip), 2-3 hours

4:00PM

Shop for Souvenirs in Paro Town

Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs like traditional Bhutanese crafts and textiles in Paro town.
Paro town has various shops and markets selling local handicrafts.
Varies, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Galingkha Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy dinner at Galingkha Restaurant, known for its warm ambiance and Bhutanese cuisine.
Galingkha Restaurant is located in Paro town.
Approx. 500-800 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Thimphu Exploration Begins

Thimphu, Bhutan

9:00AM

Visit Buddha Dordenma Statue

Start your day with a visit to the impressive Buddha Dordenma Statue, a symbol of peace and happiness.
The statue is located in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, accessible by taxi or private car from Paro.
Entrance fee: 300 BTN, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ambient Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ambient Cafe, known for its cozy atmosphere and international cuisine.
Ambient Cafe is located in Thimphu city.
Approx. 400-600 BTN per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Tashichho Dzong

Visit Tashichho Dzong, a majestic fortress that houses the throne room of the King of Bhutan.
Tashichho Dzong is located in Thimphu city.
Entrance fee: 300 BTN, 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Simply Bhutan Museum

Explore the Simply Bhutan Museum to experience a recreated traditional Bhutanese village and learn about local culture.
Simply Bhutan Museum is located in Thimphu city.
Entrance fee: 300 BTN, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Zone

Enjoy dinner at The Zone, a popular restaurant in Thimphu offering a mix of Bhutanese and international cuisine.
The Zone is located in Thimphu city.
Approx. 500-800 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: Thimphu Further Exploration

Thimphu, Bhutan

9:00AM

Visit Memorial Chorten

Start your day with a visit to the Memorial Chorten, a stupa dedicated to world peace and prosperity.
The Memorial Chorten is located in Thimphu city.
Free entry, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Centenary Farmers Market

Stroll through the Centenary Farmers Market to see a variety of fresh produce, local products, and interact with the friendly locals.
The market is located in Thimphu city.
Varies based on purchases, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ambient Cafe

Head back to Ambient Cafe for another delicious meal and relaxing ambiance.
Ambient Cafe is located in Thimphu city.
Approx. 400-600 BTN per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Motithang Takin Preserve

Explore the Motithang Takin Preserve to see the unique national animal of Bhutan, the takin, in a natural habitat.
The preserve is a short drive from Thimphu city center.
Entrance fee: 300 BTN, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Stroll around Clock Tower Square

Spend the evening strolling around Clock Tower Square, a popular meeting point in Thimphu with shops and cafes.
Clock Tower Square is located in the heart of Thimphu city.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Bhutan Kitchen

Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner at Bhutan Kitchen, known for its authentic local dishes.
Bhutan Kitchen is located in Thimphu city.
Approx. 500-800 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 5: Punakha Day Trip

Punakha, Bhutan

8:00AM

Visit Punakha Dzong

Embark on a scenic drive to Punakha and visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress at the confluence of two rivers.
Punakha is about a 3-hour drive from Thimphu. You can hire a private car for the trip.
Entrance fee: 300 BTN, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Chimi Lhakhang Cafeteria

Enjoy lunch at the Chimi Lhakhang Cafeteria, offering local Bhutanese dishes in a serene setting.
The cafeteria is located near Chimi Lhakhang Temple in Punakha.
Approx. 300-500 BTN per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Chimi Lhakhang Temple

Visit the Chimi Lhakhang Temple, known for its fertility blessings and unique history.
Chimi Lhakhang is a short walk from the cafeteria.
Entrance fee: 100 BTN, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Walk along Punakha Suspension Bridge

Take a leisurely walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and river.
The bridge is near Punakha Dzong and easily accessible on foot.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Dochula Resort

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Dochula Resort, offering a mix of Bhutanese and international cuisine in a tranquil setting.
Dochula Resort is on the way back to Thimphu from Punakha.
Approx. 500-800 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 6: Gangtey Exploration

Gangtey, Bhutan

9:00AM

Visit Gangtey Monastery

Start your day with a visit to Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Gonpa, offering insights into Buddhism and local culture.
Gangtey Monastery is located in the Phobjikha Valley and can be reached by car from Punakha.
Donation-based entry, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gakiling Guest House

Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at Gakiling Guest House, known for its authentic local cuisine.
Gakiling Guest House is located near Gangtey Monastery.
Approx. 300-500 BTN per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Phobjikha Valley

Take a leisurely walk or drive around the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, known for its natural beauty and conservation efforts.
Phobjikha Valley is easily accessible from Gangtey Monastery.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Black Necked Crane Information Centre

Learn about the endangered Black Necked Cranes and their conservation at the Information Centre in Phobjikha Valley.
The Centre is located in the valley and offers educational insights.
Donation-based entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Gakiling Guest House

End your day with a cozy dinner at Gakiling Guest House, savoring the flavors of Bhutanese cuisine.
Gakiling Guest House offers dinner options for guests.
Approx. 400-600 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 7: Return to Paro

Paro, Bhutan

9:00AM

Drive to Paro via Thimphu

Embark on a scenic drive back to Paro via Thimphu, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and mountain views along the way.
The drive from Gangtey to Paro takes about 6-7 hours, passing through Thimphu. Consider hiring a private car for comfort.
Cost of private car: 5000-6000 BTN, Full day

3:00PM

Explore Paro Town

Upon reaching Paro, spend the afternoon exploring the charming town, visiting local shops and cafes.
Paro town offers a relaxing atmosphere for leisurely walks and shopping.
Varies, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Zombala 2 Restaurant

Enjoy a farewell dinner at Zombala 2 Restaurant, savoring your last evening in Bhutan with delicious food and warm hospitality.
Zombala 2 Restaurant is a popular dining spot in Paro town.
Approx. 600-800 BTN per person, 2 hours
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