The little Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is like no other place on Earth. With its stunning white-capped mountains, impressive dzongs (some of which are impossibly perched on steep cliffs), perfect balance between development and tradition, and a strong commitment to environmental protection, this small mountainous country is rightly referred to by many as the last ‘Shangri-La’ (Heaven on Earth).
With such diversity of natural beauty, architectural wonders and lively traditions, this Bhutan 10 day itinerary will allow time to visit all the main spiritual and cultural sights of the Western and Central regions of this Dragon Kingdom (if short on time, this 7-day itinerary will allow you to explore the Western part). However, if you have time and want to explore the remote East of Bhutan, check out this 15-day itinerary.
To prevent mass tourism and preserve its traditions, visiting Bhutan is only possible through a tour with a minimum daily fee of $250 (depending on the season). This price is all-inclusive: accommodation, meals, a driver, a guide, and even a ‘sustainable development fee’ that helps fund roads and schools are included, making this a reasonable deal.
Tip: Try to align your visit with one of the traditional colourful festivals or tshechus (Bhutanese lamas publish a list of all the festivals one year in advance, giving you a chance to plan accordingly).
Bhutan 10 day itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in Paro
You will likely arrive in the early morning flying over the impressive Himalayan mountain range (if you are lucky and the skies are clear, you might even get a glimpse of Mount Everest). After clearing immigration and customs at the little airport, explore the charming town of Paro and its surrounding areas. Some highlights include the 7th-century Khyichu Lhakhang (a circular temple with beautiful paintings depicting the victory over the demons that roamed this area), Paro Dzong (the beautiful monastery-fortress that protected the valley from Tibetan invaders), and the National Museum at Ta Dzong, the former watchtower. For more tips on visiting Paro click here.
Tip: Make a stop at one of the archery ranges to see Bhutanese impressive skills at this national sport.
Day 2 – Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, easily the most famous sight in all of Bhutan. The 2-hour hike is strenuous but the views of the structure impressively perched on a steep cliff 900 meters above the valley are worthwhile. After exploring the 10th holiest site for Buddhists, head back to Paro and explore more of the town or head to the ruins of Drukgyel dzong which was damaged by the fire of a butter lamp. Relax your tired feet (and body) in a hot stone bath at one of the more luxurious hotels in the area.
Day 3 – Punakha
A 4-hour drive going over Dochu La Pass (more than 3.000 meter above sea, famous for its 108 chortens in lush coniferous forests) leads to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. The city is home to the second longest suspension bridge in the world as well as so-called most beautiful dzong in all of Bhutan where lamas occasionally perform miracles. For more tips about Punakha click here.
Day 4 – Phobjikha Valley
Home to the black necked crane in the winter months, this glacial valley boasts a 1.5-hour ecological trail which crosses pine and bamboo forests. The trail is considered one of the most beautiful trails in the country. There is also an option to visit the 17th century monastery Khewa Lema temple with its incense-making factory or the black necked crane information centre.
Tip: The valley is famous for its delicious potato, so make sure to try some of the local potato dishes while there.
Day 5 – Trongsa and Bumthang
You will spend a large portion of the day driving to Bumthang, the holiest district in Bhutan. Halfway through, stop at Trongsa, home to a 17th-century impenetrable fortress that successfully protected the valley from invaders throughout its history. The interior consists of a labyrinth of structures and courtyards, each waiting to be explored. The surrounding forests are also full of wild monkeys, so keep your eyes open. After wandering around the dzong, continue your way to Bumthang. If time permits, make another stop on the way at the local carpet factory. The hand-woven carpets feature amazing colourful patterns and designs – and they make for excellent souvenirs.
Day 6 – Bumthang
Bumthang Valley has the highest concentration of temples and monasteries in the country. If you manage to time your visit with one of the tsechu masked dance festivals, take your time to observe the colourful event. Afterwards, spend the rest of the day exploring some of Bumthang’s sights, including its dzong and Kurje Lhakhang monastery, or simply walk around the old town of Jakar and enjoy some souvenir shopping or tasting of the local dry cheese. For more tips about what to do Bumthang click here.
Day 7 – Bumthang
Head on an excursion to one of the valleys near Jakar town. Some of the most popular include Ura Valley, where small villages have a medieval feel with their cobble-stone streets, closely packed houses and impressive monastery atop the hill. Alternatively head to Tang Valley, home to some of the most beautiful farmhouses in all of Bhutan. Or, for something more remote, visit Ogyen Choling palace that has been owned by the same family for centuries.
Day 8 – Thimphu
You will spend most of the day making your way back to the west to the small capital of Thimphu. To break the long drive, stop at any of the interesting hilltop villages on the way.
Day 9 – Thimphu
Spend your day exploring the top sights of the capital. Do not miss the Takin National Reserve (the takin is the national animal of Bhutan), the local market, the Textile museum, the Memorial Chorten built in memory of the third King of Bhutan, and Buddha Point which offers beautiful views of the city. You can also use the day to buy souvenirs, including traditional tangkas, wooden hand-painted masks or hand-made paper featuring natural motifs from the local paper factory. For more tips on how to spend your time in Thimphu click here.
Day 10 – Depart from Paro
If your flight leaves in the evening, take advantage of your final day to visit the sights that you missed during your first or second day in Bhutan, or spend some time people-watching or shopping for last-minute souvenirs in the main street of the Paro town.
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