1-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Bhutan: Discover the Land of the Thunder Dragon

Day 1: Exploring Bhutan

Thimphu, Bhutan

7:30AM

Breakfast at Café 99

Start your day with delicious Bhutanese breakfast options such as Ema Datshi (cheese and chili dish) accompanied by warm butter tea in this local café.
Located centrally in Thimphu, easily accessible before heading out.
BTN 300, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Tashichho Dzong

Explore this impressive fortress and monastery known for its remarkable architecture and gardens while getting a glimpse of Bhutanese spirituality.
It’s only a 5-minute drive from the café.
BTN 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Punakha

Enjoy the scenic 2.5-hour drive through beautiful mountain landscapes and valleys towards Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan.
Head east on the National Highway, follow the signs to Punakha.
BTN 0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Punatshangchhu Restaurant

Savor traditional Bhutanese dishes such as Jasha Maru (spicy chicken) while overlooking the gorgeous river views.
Located conveniently near Punakha Dzong.
BTN 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Punakha Dzong

Marvel at one of the most stunning dzongs in Bhutan, sitting at the confluence of two rivers with a backdrop of lush greenery.
Just a 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
BTN 300, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Trek to the Chimi Lhakhang

Take a leisurely 30-minute walk to this fertility temple, also known as the 'Temple of the Divine Madman,' set amidst beautiful rice fields.
Follow the well-marked path from the Punakha Dzong.
BTN 0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive back to Thimphu

Head back to Thimphu, enjoying the picturesque views one more time on this 2.5-hour return journey.
Retrace your route back to Thimphu.
BTN 0, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant

End your day with a hearty Bhutanese dinner in a unique ambiance where you can enjoy dishes made from fresh local ingredients.
Just a short drive from your hotel in Thimphu.
BTN 800, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening stroll at the Clock Tower Square

Take a leisurely evening walk at this vibrant square filled with shops and local artisans, perfect for picking up souvenirs.
Located in the center of Thimphu.
BTN 0, 1 hour
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