How many days do you need in Bhutan?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Bhutan, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Bhutan?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Bhutan. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Family Friendly Luxury Itinerary in Bhutan: Nature, Culture, and Culinary Delights

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Paro, Bhutan

10:00 AM

Arrive in Paro International Airport

Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by your guide and driver before heading to your luxurious hotel.

USD300 (for 2 nights accommodation), 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Zone

Enjoy a delicious meal featuring traditional Bhutanese dishes such as Ema Datshi (chili cheese) at this local favorite.

USD20 per person, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Paro Dzong

Visit the majestic Paro Dzong, a stunning fortress full of historical significance and breathtaking views.

USD5 per person, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Temples of Kyichu Lhakhang

Explore one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, rich in history and tranquility, offering a glimpse of the country's spiritual side.

USD3 per person, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Zhiwa Ling

Experience a luxury dining experience in an elegant setting with a menu rich in local flavors.

USD50 per person, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Paro

Day 2: Cultural Day in Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, featuring local and international flavors.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Thimphu

Head to Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, and enjoy the scenic drive along lush valleys.

USD0, 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Visit Buddha Dordenma Statue

Marvel at the giant Buddha statue, which offers excellent views over Thimphu and enriches your understanding of Bhutanese Buddhism.

Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

National Institute for Zorig Chusum

Visit this school to see students learning traditional arts and crafts, and perhaps even participate in a short workshop.

Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Folk Heritage Museum Café

Taste authentic Bhutanese cuisine amidst the interactive museum setting, designed to let you experience local lifestyle.

USD15 per person, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore National Memorial Chorten

Visit this beautiful religious structure, a center of spirituality for the locals, filled with colorful prayer flags and fluttering rituals.

Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Takin Reserve

Visit the unique Takin, Bhutan's national animal, and learn about its significance deeply rooted in the country's culture.

Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Dinner at The Bhutan Kitchen

Delight in a variety of authentic Bhutanese dishes made with fresh local ingredients.

USD25 per person, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Evening Stroll at Thimphu's Craft Market

Explore the local crafts, buy souvenirs, and interact with artisans while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Variable, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Thimphu

Day 3: Punakha Palace Expedition

Punakha, Bhutan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a rich breakfast featuring both Western and Bhutanese dishes to start your day.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Punakha

Drive from Thimphu to Punakha, taking scenic stops along the majestic Dochula Pass.

USD0, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Dochula Pass Stoppage

Take time to enjoy the stunning views, visit the 108 chortens and perhaps sip a cup of tea at Druk Wangyal Cafe.

Variable, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Punakha Coffee House

Enjoy a lovely lunch with local specialties like Phaksha Paa (pork with red chili) amid scenic views.

USD15 per person, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Punakha Dzong

Explore the stunning Punakha Dzong, known for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Rafting Adventure on the Mo Chhu River

Engage in a thrilling family-friendly rafting adventure, perfect for experiencing the spectacular scenery of Bhutan's river valleys.

USD30 per person (adults) USD20 (child), 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Punakha Resort

Savor local and international favorites while enjoying the serene ambiance of the resort.

USD35 per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Punakha

Day 4: Cultural Trek in Bumthang

Bumthang, Bhutan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast before embarking on a new adventure.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Bumthang

Enjoy the scenic journey from Punakha to Bumthang through beautiful valleys and forests.

USD0, 4 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Restaurant with a View

Have lunch in a local restaurant surrounded by panoramic views of the Bumthang valley.

USD20 per person, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Jakar Dzong

Explore the historic Jakar Dzong, the name of which translates to 'White Bird Fortress'. It offers insightful history and beautiful architecture.

Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Kujey Lhakhang Exploration

Visit this sacred temple known for its unique history and significance as a pilgrimage site.

Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Biking Through Bumthang Valley

Rent bikes and explore the picturesque Bumthang Valley while engaging with the natural surroundings.

USD10 per person, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Yangkhil Resort

Dine on a delicious dinner featuring Bhutanese and Tibetan recipes prepared using locally sourced ingredients.

USD35 per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Bumthang

Day 5: Heritage and Nature of Jakar

Jakar, Bhutan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel your day of exploration.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Visit Bumthang Bread Factory

Witness the bread-making process that is traditional to the region, and taste different varieties fresh out of the oven.

Free (with snacks priced at USD2 each), 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Tamshing Lhakhang

Explore one of the oldest temples in Bumthang, rich in culture and history with beautiful ancient murals.

USD3 per person, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Nature Walk along the Chamkhar River

Take a family-friendly nature walk along the river, absorbing the beautiful landscape and serene surroundings.

Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Swiss Guesthouse

Taste delicious food inspired by Swiss cuisine while enjoying the cozy atmosphere.

USD25 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Jakar's Local Market

Engage with the local community while exploring the vibrant market, filled with local crafts and fresh produce.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Return for Relaxation at Hotel

Unwind and relax in the serene surroundings of your hotel.

USD0, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a carefree evening dining at your hotel with a view over the valley.

Included in hotel stay, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Jakar

Day 6: Scenic Exploration of Phobjikha Valley

Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast featuring both local and international options.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Phobjikha Valley

Set off for a magical drive into the pristine Phobjikha Valley, home to black-necked cranes and beautiful landscapes.

USD0, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Black-necked Crane Information Center

Learn about the conservation efforts surrounding the cranes and their importance to Bhutan's ecology.

Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at the Local Café

Savor a meal at this lovely café, offering a variety of local dishes.

USD20 per person, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Nature Walk in Phobjikha Valley

Enjoy a guided nature walk through the serene valley, spotting cranes and diverse flora and fauna.

Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Explore Gangtey Monastery

Visit this important monastery, witnessing its architecture and attending a short prayer session.

Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at the Hotel

Conclude your day with dinner at your hotel, enjoying delicious Bhutanese fare in a cozy ambiance.

USD30 per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Phobjikha Valley

Day 7: Departure from Paro

Paro, Bhutan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel, soaking in the views one last time.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel back to Paro

Head back to Paro, reminiscing the amazing journey you have had across Bhutan.

USD0, 2.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest)

Before heading to the airport, take a short hike to the iconic cliffside monastery, which is an unforgettable highlight of your trip.

USD30 per person (entrance fee), 3 hours for the hike

2:00 PM

Lunch at the Base Café

Refuel at the base café with various options as you reminisce about your trek to the top.

USD15 per person, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Airport Drop for Departure

Arrive at Paro International Airport, bidding farewell to Bhutan filled with beautiful memories.

USD0, 30 minutes

Find Hotels in Paro

Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Family Friendly Luxury Itinerary in Bhutan: Nature, Culture, and Culinary Delights

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

10:00 AM

12:00 PM

2:00 PM

4:00 PM

6:00 PM

Day 2: Cultural Day in Thimphu

7:00 AM

8:00 AM

9:30 AM

11:00 AM

12:30 PM

2:00 PM

3:00 PM

4:30 PM

6:30 PM

Day 3: Punakha Palace Expedition

7:00 AM

8:00 AM

11:00 AM

12:30 PM

2:00 PM

4:00 PM

6:30 PM

Day 4: Cultural Trek in Bumthang

7:00 AM

8:00 AM

12:00 PM

1:30 PM

3:00 PM

4:30 PM

6:30 PM

Day 5: Heritage and Nature of Jakar

7:00 AM

8:00 AM

9:30 AM

11:00 AM

1:00 PM

3:00 PM

5:00 PM

7:00 PM

Day 6: Scenic Exploration of Phobjikha Valley

7:00 AM

8:00 AM

11:00 AM

12:30 PM

2:00 PM

4:30 PM

6:00 PM

Day 7: Departure from Paro

7:00 AM

8:30 AM

11:00 AM

2:00 PM

3:00 PM

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