Magical Bhutan: A 6-Day Journey Through the Land of the Thunder Dragon

Day 1: Arrival in Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive at Paro International Airport, transfer to your hotel in Thimphu, and settle in comfortable accommodation.
Take a private vehicle from the airport to Thimphu, which takes approximately 1 hour.
INR5000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Folk Heritage Museum Cafe

Enjoy a delightful Bhutanese lunch featuring traditional dishes like Ema Datshi (chili cheese) in a cozy restaurant surrounded by cultural artifacts.
Walk to the cafe from your hotel, approximately a 15-minute stroll.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Tashichho Dzong

Explore the impressive fortress of Tashichho Dzong, which is the administrative center and also a monastic body.
A quick 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from the cafe.
INR200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the National Memorial Chorten

Visit this serene stupa built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan, where locals practice their daily rituals.
A 10-minute drive from Tashichho Dzong.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bhutan Kitchen

Savor traditional Bhutanese cuisine like Jasha Maroo (spicy chicken) in a friendly and local atmosphere.
Head back toward the city center, approximately a 15-minute car ride.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Explore Paro

Paro, Bhutan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out to explore more of Bhutan.
In-house at the hotel.
INR700, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Paro

Drive toward the scenic valley of Paro, known for its rich history and breathtaking views.
The drive takes about 1 hour.
INR3000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest)

Embark on a trek to the stunning Tiger’s Nest monastery perched atop a cliff, offering spectacular views and profound spirituality.
30-minute drive to the base and a 2-hour hike to the monastery.
INR1000, 5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Fuel up with a revitalizing lunch at a local restaurant, enjoying dishes like Phaksha Paa (pork with radish).
Return to the valley floor for lunch, approximately a 30-minute hike back and 15-minute drive.
INR800, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Paro Dzong

Visit Paro Dzong, a massive fortress that serves as the administrative and religious center of the region.
Take a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR300, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sonam Trophel Restaurant

End your day in Paro with dinner featuring delectable Bhutanese dishes, served with a view of the Paro Valley.
Just a 10-minute drive from the dzong.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Punakha

Punakha, Bhutan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Start your day with breakfast, including options like local pancakes and tea.
In-house dining.
INR700, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Punakha

Set off across beautiful landscapes towards Punakha, known for its stunning dzong.
The drive takes about 3 hours.
INR5000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Punakha Growth Center

Enjoy a wholesome lunch with traditional flavors and local ingredients in a scenic setting.
Located near the dzong, 10 minutes from your arrival.
INR800, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Punakha Dzong

Marvel at the architectural beauty of Punakha Dzong, the former administrative seat of Bhutan.
A short 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
INR200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Chimi Lhakhang

Visit the divine fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang, which is known for its peaceful atmosphere and unique architecture.
About a 30-minute drive from Punakha Dzong.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Spice Route

Enjoy a fusion of traditional and contemporary Bhutanese dishes while enjoying views of the river.
Return to Punakha town, roughly 30 minutes.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Phobjikha Valley

Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a nourishing breakfast at your hotel, possibly sampling some local yogurt.
In-house dining.
INR700, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Phobjikha Valley

Journey to the scenic Phobjikha Valley, famous for its black-necked cranes and beautiful landscapes.
The drive takes about 2 hours.
INR2000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Gangtey Monastery

Explore Gangtey Monastery, a significant Nyingma monastery with stunning views of the valley.
A short 10-minute drive from the valley entrance.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a simple yet delicious lunch at a local eatery, sampling Bhutanese dumplings.
20-minute drive back toward the entrance.
INR500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Black-Necked Crane Info Centre

Visit the center to learn about the conservation efforts for the endangered black-necked cranes in the valley.
A 10-minute walk from the eatery.
INR200, 1 hour

4:00PM

Nature Walk in Phobjikha

Take a leisurely stroll through stunning valleys and hills, immersing yourself in the natural beauty around.
Begin your walk just outside the information center.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gangtey Lodge

Feast on a gourmet dinner featuring local cuisine as you relax and take in the serene surroundings.
A 10-minute drive from Phobjikha.
INR1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Discover Gangtey

Gangtey, Bhutan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lodge

Savor breakfast including traditional porridge and local fruits.
At your lodging.
INR700, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Gangtey Valley

Further explore the picturesque valleys of Gangtey, taking in the stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere.
Walk or take a bike ride around the lodge area.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Cultural Interaction with Locals

Engage with local families, experiencing the warm Bhutanese hospitality and culture.
Arrangements made through the lodge.
INR1500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Lodge

Enjoy a leisurely lunch made from local ingredients and recipes to nourish your body.
At your lodging.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Phobjikha Monastery

Experience the tranquil atmosphere of Phobjikha Monastery and learn about its significance in local culture.
10-minute drive from lodge.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Local Family Home

Share a meal with a local family, enjoying traditional dishes while immersing yourself in their stories.
Arrangements made by your host.
INR800, 2 hours
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Day 6: Return to Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lodge

Enjoy breakfast before your journey back, featuring fresh bread and local honey.
At your accommodation.
INR700, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive Back to Thimphu

Travel back to Thimphu, reflecting on the memories created in Gangtey.
The drive takes about 2.5 hours.
INR3000, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Shop at Thimphu's Weekend Market

Explore the vibrant weekend market and pick up souvenirs, crafts, and local produce.
A short drive into the city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Raven Cafe

Enjoy lunch featuring a mix of international and local flavors in a laid-back atmosphere.
A 10-minute drive from the market.
INR900, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the National Textile Museum

Gain insights into the rich history of Bhutanese textile arts and culture.
A 15-minute drive from the cafe.
INR200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Chig-ja's Restaurant

Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner featuring no fewer than 30 varieties of traditional dishes.
A 10-minute drive back to the center.
INR1200, 2 hours
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