Discovering Bhutan: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Paro, Bhutan

10:00AM

Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest)

Begin your journey in Bhutan with a hike to the iconic Paro Taktsang monastery, perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley.
From Paro town, it's a scenic 2-hour drive to the base of the monastery. The hike takes about 2-3 hours each way.
Entry Fee: 500 BTN, 4-6 hours

3:00PM

Rinpung Dzong

Visit the historic fortress which now houses a monastic body and government offices, offering insights into Bhutanese culture and architecture.
Located in Paro town, a short drive from Paro Taktsang.
Entry Fee: 300 BTN, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bukhari Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner at Bukhari Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance.
Located in a hotel in Paro town.
Approx. 800-1200 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Exploring Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

9:00AM

National Memorial Chorten

Start your day with a visit to the serene chorten dedicated to world peace and prosperity.
A scenic 1.5-hour drive from Paro to Thimphu.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal at the museum's restaurant, surrounded by exhibits showcasing Bhutanese rural life.
Located within the Folk Heritage Museum in Thimphu.
Approx. 500-800 BTN per person, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Buddha Dordenma Statue

Marvel at the impressive 51.5-meter tall bronze statue of Buddha overlooking the Thimphu Valley.
A short drive from the museum.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ambient Cafe

Relish a fusion of Bhutanese and international cuisine at this cozy cafe in Thimphu.
Located in the heart of Thimphu city.
Approx. 600-1000 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Punakha Delights

Punakha, Bhutan

9:00AM

Punakha Dzong

Visit the majestic fortress at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
Travel from Thimphu to Punakha by car, approximately a 3-hour drive.
Entry Fee: 300 BTN, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sonam Trophel Restaurant

Savor traditional Bhutanese dishes with a view of Punakha valley at this charming restaurant.
Located near Punakha Dzong.
Approx. 400-700 BTN per person, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Chimi Lhakhang

Explore the fertility temple dedicated to the 'Divine Madman' Lama Drukpa Kunley, known for its phallic symbols and blessings.
A short drive from Punakha town.
Entry Fee: 100 BTN, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at RKPO Restaurant

Indulge in a mix of Bhutanese and continental cuisine at this cozy restaurant in Punakha.
Located in Punakha town.
Approx. 500-900 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Exploring Phobjikha Valley

Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan

9:00AM

Gangtey Monastery

Visit the picturesque monastery in the Phobjikha Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Travel from Punakha to Phobjikha Valley by car, approximately a 4-hour drive.
Entry Fee: 300 BTN, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Khem's Kitchen

Enjoy a hearty meal of Bhutanese and Indian cuisine at this local restaurant in the valley.
Located in the heart of Phobjikha Valley.
Approx. 300-600 BTN per person, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Gangtey Nature Trail

Embark on a leisurely hike along the nature trail to soak in the natural beauty of Phobjikha Valley and spot black-necked cranes (seasonal).
The trail starts near Gangtey Monastery.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Dewachen

Relish a cozy dinner at the hotel's restaurant, offering a mix of Bhutanese and continental cuisine.
Located in Phobjikha Valley.
Approx. 600-1000 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Journey to Bumthang

Bumthang, Bhutan

9:00AM

Jakar Dzong

Explore the historic fortress in the Jakar Valley, offering insights into Bhutanese history and culture.
Travel from Phobjikha Valley to Bumthang by car, approximately a 5-hour drive.
Entry Fee: 200 BTN, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yatha Guest House

Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal at this cozy guest house in the Jakar Valley.
Located in Bumthang town.
Approx. 400-700 BTN per person, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Tamshing Lhakhang

Visit the temple founded by Terton Pema Lingpa, known for its ancient religious treasures and sacred art.
A short drive from Jakar Dzong.
Entry Fee: 100 BTN, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Swiss Guest House

Enjoy a cozy dinner at the guest house's restaurant, offering a mix of Bhutanese and continental dishes.
Located in Bumthang town.
Approx. 500-900 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Tranquil Trongsa

Trongsa, Bhutan

9:00AM

Trongsa Dzong

Explore the largest dzong in Bhutan, strategically located to command the routes in all directions.
Travel from Bumthang to Trongsa by car, approximately a 3-hour drive.
Entry Fee: 300 BTN, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yangkhil Resort

Enjoy a delicious Bhutanese meal at the resort's restaurant overlooking the Trongsa Dzong.
Located near Trongsa Dzong.
Approx. 400-700 BTN per person, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Kuenga Rabten Palace

Visit the palace, a residence of the second King of Bhutan, now converted into a museum showcasing royal lifestyle.
A short drive from Trongsa Dzong.
Entry Fee: 150 BTN, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Trongsa Kitchen

Indulge in local Bhutanese delicacies at this cozy eatery in Trongsa town.
Located in the heart of Trongsa town.
Approx. 300-600 BTN per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Return to Paro

Paro, Bhutan

9:00AM

Kyichu Lhakhang

Visit one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, offering a glimpse into the country's spiritual heritage.
Travel from Trongsa to Paro by car, approximately a 6-hour drive.
Entry Fee: 300 BTN, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tashi Namgay Resort

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the resort's restaurant, surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views.
Located near Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro.
Approx. 500-800 BTN per person, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Paro Market Exploration

Stroll through the bustling Paro market, filled with local handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce.
Located in the heart of Paro town.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Uma by COMO

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at this luxury hotel's restaurant, bidding farewell to the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan.
Located in Paro town.
Approx. 1000-1500 BTN per person, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability