Family-Friendly 5-Day Bhutan Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

8:00 AM

Buddha Dordenma Statue

Start your day by visiting the magnificent Buddha Dordenma Statue, offering panoramic views of Thimphu valley.
A 30-minute drive from Thimphu city centre.
Free entry, 1-2 hours

11:00 AM

Tashichho Dzong

Explore the Tashichho Dzong, a beautiful fortress that houses the King's office and government ministries.
Located in the heart of Thimphu city, easily accessible by foot or a short drive.
Entry fee required, 1-2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Ambient Cafe

Enjoy a delicious Bhutanese meal at Ambient Cafe, known for its authentic local cuisine.
Located in Thimphu city centre.
Moderate, 1 hour

3:00 PM

National Textile Museum

Visit the National Textile Museum to learn about Bhutan's rich weaving traditions and admire intricate textiles.
A short walk or drive from the city centre.
Nominal fee, 1-2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Babesa Village Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional Bhutanese dinner at Babesa Village Restaurant, offering a cosy ambiance.
Located on the outskirts of Thimphu, a short taxi ride away.
Affordable, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: More of Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

9:00 AM

Changangkha Lhakhang

Begin your day with a visit to Changangkha Lhakhang, an ancient temple offering stunning views of Thimphu valley.
Located on a ridge above Thimphu city, accessible by car or a short hike.
Donations welcome, 1-2 hours

11:00 AM

Weekend Market

Explore the vibrant Weekend Market to experience local life, buy souvenirs, and taste Bhutanese street food.
Located in the heart of Thimphu, easily accessible on foot.
Free entry, 1-2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant

Enjoy a cultural lunch at the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant, offering traditional Bhutanese dishes.
Located near the Folk Heritage Museum in Thimphu.
Reasonable, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Simply Bhutan Museum

Visit the Simply Bhutan Museum to learn about Bhutanese culture through interactive exhibits and traditional games.
A short drive or walk from the city centre.
Entry fee required, 1-2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Bhutan Kitchen

Experience a delightful dinner at Bhutan Kitchen, known for its warm hospitality and authentic Bhutanese cuisine.
Located in Thimphu city centre.
Moderate, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Punakha Exploration

Punakha, Bhutan

8:00 AM

Dochula Pass

Embark on a scenic drive to Punakha via the picturesque Dochula Pass, known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas.
A few hours drive from Thimphu, offering breathtaking vistas along the way.
Free entry, 2-3 hours

12:00 PM

Chimi Lhakhang

Visit the fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang, known for its unique history and colourful murals.
Located in Punakha district, accessible by a short walk from the main road.
Donations welcome, 1-2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Sonam Trophel Restaurant

Enjoy a riverside lunch at Sonam Trophel Restaurant, serving delicious Bhutanese and international dishes.
Located near Punakha town centre.
Reasonable, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Punakha Dzong

Explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, a historic fortress at the confluence of two rivers, showcasing Bhutanese architecture.
Located near the town centre, easily accessible by foot.
Entry fee required, 1-2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Dochula Resort

Enjoy a peaceful dinner at Dochula Resort, offering serene views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Located a short drive away from Punakha town.
Moderate, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: Paro Exploration

Paro, Bhutan

9:00 AM

Tiger's Nest Monastery

Embark on a memorable hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff overlooking Paro valley.
A short drive from Paro town followed by a hike up the mountain trail.
Entry fee required, 4-5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Mountain Cafe

Recharge with a hearty lunch at Mountain Cafe, offering a blend of Bhutanese and international cuisine.
Located in Paro town, a short distance from the main market.
Reasonable, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Rinpung Dzong

Visit the historic Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery that exemplifies traditional Bhutanese architecture.
Located in Paro town, a short walk from the main market area.
Entry fee required, 1-2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Sonam Trophel Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Sonam Trophel Restaurant, known for its warm ambiance and diverse menu.
Located in Paro town centre.
Moderate, 1-2 hours
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Day 5: Paro Exploration Continues

Paro, Bhutan

9:00 AM

National Museum of Bhutan

Discover the history and culture of Bhutan at the National Museum, housed in a former watchtower overlooking Paro valley.
Located above Rinpung Dzong in Paro town, accessible by a short walk or drive.
Entry fee required, 1-2 hours

11:00 AM

Kyichu Lhakhang

Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan with sacred relics and serene surroundings.
Situated near Paro town, a short drive or walk from the main area.
Free entry, 1-2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Champaca Cafe

Enjoy a cosy lunch at Champaca Cafe, offering a variety of local and international dishes in a charming setting.
Located in Paro town, near the main market.
Reasonable, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Leisure Time in Paro

Spend the afternoon exploring Paro town, shopping for souvenirs, or simply relaxing in the serene atmosphere.
Explore the town on foot and enjoy the local sights.
Variable, 2-3 hours

6:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at Bukhari Restaurant

Conclude your Bhutan trip with a special farewell dinner at Bukhari Restaurant, known for its fine dining experience and Bhutanese delicacies.
Located in Paro town, a perfect setting to reminisce about your memorable journey.
Fine dining prices, 2 hours
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