Family-Friendly 5-Day Bhutan Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

8:00 AM

Visit Buddha Dordenma Statue

Start your day by visiting the magnificent Buddha Dordenma Statue, offering panoramic views of Thimphu valley.
Drive 30 minutes from Thimphu city center to the statue.
Free, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Tashichho Dzong

Head to Tashichho Dzong, a beautiful fortress housing the throne room and offices of the king. Enjoy the traditional Bhutanese architecture.
Walk 15 minutes from Buddha Dordenma Statue to Tashichho Dzong.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Bhutanese meal at the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant, offering a taste of local cuisine.
Drive 10 minutes from Tashichho Dzong to the restaurant.
20 USD, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Motithang Takin Preserve

Visit the Motithang Takin Preserve to see the unique national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, in a natural reserve setting.
Drive 20 minutes from the restaurant to the preserve.
5 USD, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore Centenary Farmers' Market

End your day at the Centenary Farmers' Market, where locals come to buy fresh produce and traditional goods.
Drive 10 minutes from the preserve to the market.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: More of Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

9:00 AM

Hike to Cheri Monastery

Embark on a hike to Cheri Monastery, a peaceful retreat with scenic views. Ideal for families with a sense of adventure.
Drive 1 hour from Thimphu city center to the monastery trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Picnic at Dochula Pass

Enjoy a family picnic at Dochula Pass, surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan mountain views.
Drive 1.5 hours from Cheri Monastery to Dochula Pass.
Free, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Simply Bhutan Museum

Visit the Simply Bhutan Museum to learn about Bhutanese culture through interactive exhibits and traditional demonstrations.
Drive 1.5 hours from Dochula Pass to the museum.
10 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ambient Cafe

Savor a cozy dinner at Ambient Cafe, offering a blend of Bhutanese and international cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Drive 30 minutes from the museum to the cafe.
30 USD, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Punakha Exploration

Punakha, Bhutan

8:00 AM

Visit Punakha Dzong

Begin your day by exploring the majestic Punakha Dzong, set at the confluence of two rivers. Marvel at its architecture and history.
Drive 3 hours from Thimphu to Punakha.
5 USD, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Sonam Trophel Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional Bhutanese lunch at Sonam Trophel Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors and riverside views.
Walk 10 minutes from Punakha Dzong to the restaurant.
25 USD, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Chimi Lhakhang Temple

Visit the unique Chimi Lhakhang Temple, dedicated to the 'Divine Madman' and known for its fertility blessings.
Drive 30 minutes from the restaurant to the temple.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Discover Paro

Paro, Bhutan

9:00 AM

Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery

Embark on a memorable hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside with stunning views. A must-visit in Bhutan.
Drive 2 hours from Punakha to Paro, then hike 4 hours to the monastery.
10 USD (entrance fee), 5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Rinpung Dzong

Explore the historic Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery offering insight into Bhutanese religious and cultural heritage.
Drive 20 minutes from Tiger's Nest Monastery to Rinpung Dzong.
5 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Bukhari Restaurant

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Bukhari Restaurant, known for its Bhutanese and international fusion cuisine in a cozy ambiance.
Drive 15 minutes from Rinpung Dzong to the restaurant.
40 USD, 2 hours
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Day 5: Paro Exploration

Paro, Bhutan

9:00 AM

Explore National Museum of Bhutan

Start your day at the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in a historic watchtower and showcasing Bhutanese art and artifacts.
Walk 20 minutes from Paro city center to the museum.
5 USD, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Champaca Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Champaca Cafe, known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious vegetarian options.
Walk 10 minutes from the museum to the cafe.
15 USD, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Stroll along Paro River

Take a relaxing stroll along the picturesque Paro River, admiring the views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Walk from the cafe to the riverbank.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Shop at Paro Market

Explore the bustling Paro Market, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce to take home.
Walk 10 minutes from the riverbank to the market.
Varies, 1 hour
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