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, a week is hardly enough to truly experience the wonders of Bhutan (check out our longer 10-day visit or a cross-country 15-day trip). However, this Bhutan 7 day itinerary will provide you with a general insight into this Dragon Kingdom. Below is an itinerary that will take you to all the most important sites of Western Bhutan.
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 7 day itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in Paro and drive to Thimphu
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, head to Thimphu (around 1.5 hours drive away) – the quaint capital city of Bhutan where modernity seamlessly blends with tradition. The rest of the day spend exploring this capital’s top sights. 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.
Day 2 – Thimphu
You have another free day to explore the capital and visit the sights that you were not able to the previous day. You can use this 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 3 – Punakha
A 3-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 – Back to Paro
After spending most of the morning driving back to Paro, you will finally have time to explore this charming town 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 6 – 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 relax your tired feet (and body) in a hot stone bath at one of the more luxurious hotels in the area.
Day 7 – Depart from Paro
If your flight leaves in the evening, take advantage of your final day and head to the ruins of the tentative UNESCO site Drukgyel dzong which was damaged by the fire of a butter lamp, or spend some time people-watching or last-minute souvenir shopping in the main street of Paro town.
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