Day 1: Paro
Paro is likely your entry point to Bhutan, and it’s a great place to start. Once you land at Paro Airport, take some time to settle in and rest. Your first day can be light.
Head over to Paro Dzong, a traditional fortress also known as Rinpung Dzong. It’s one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture. Spend some time walking around and soaking in the views of the Paro Valley.
If you have the energy, visit the Ta Dzong, which has been converted into the National Museum of Bhutan. This gives you a good overview of Bhutan’s history and culture.
In the evening, explore the small town of Paro. It’s a quiet, peaceful place, and you can enjoy a nice Bhutanese dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Day 2: Hike to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery)
Today is a big day. You’re going to hike up to one of Bhutan’s most iconic sites: Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery). It is about a 2-3 hour trek, depending on your pace.
Start early in the morning. The trail is uphill but manageable. You’ll walk through pine forests with prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Along the way, you’ll get some amazing views of the monastery clinging to the cliffs.
Once at the top, the effort will definitely feel worth it. Take your time to explore the monastery and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Many people find it to be one of the highlights of their trip.
After descending, relax in Paro for the evening. Consider resting your legs with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath.
Day 3: Drive to Thimphu
Today, you’ll drive to Bhutan’s capital: Thimphu. It’s a short ride—about 1.5 hours—and the scenery along the way is stunning.
Once in Thimphu, take a relaxed approach to sightseeing. Start with Memorial Chorten, a prominent religious site. You’ll see a lot of locals making prayer rounds here.
Next, visit Thimphu Dzong (Tashichho Dzong), the seat of the Bhutanese government. If you’re lucky, you might get to see a ceremonial event.
After lunch, stroll along the streets of Thimphu. There’s a good mix of traditional and modern life here. Stop by the local markets to check out some Bhutanese crafts, especially textiles and handmade paper.
Day 4: Explore Thimphu
Spend the day exploring more of Thimphu at a leisurely pace.
In the morning, head over to the Buddha Dordenma statue, a massive golden Buddha that overlooks the city. The views from here are fantastic.
Next, you could visit the Folk Heritage Museum. It’s a replica of a traditional farmhouse, and it provides a close look at how rural Bhutanese live.
For lunch, grab some food at a casual café or restaurant in town.
In the afternoon, check out the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, also known as the Painting School. Here, you can see students learning traditional Bhutanese crafts, such as painting, wood carving, and embroidery.
End the day with a visit to the Motithang Takin Preserve to see takins, Bhutan’s national animal. This nature preserve is a short drive from the city center.
Day 5: Drive to Punakha via Dochu La Pass
Today, you’ll drive to Punakha, which is about 3 hours from Thimphu. On the way, make a stop at Dochu La Pass. On a clear day, you’ll see panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
At the pass, walk around the 108 memorial chortens, and pause to enjoy the view. The air here feels especially fresh, and it’s a peaceful stop.
Continue on to Punakha. Once you arrive, visit the Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan. It’s located where two rivers meet, and the architecture is incredibly picturesque.
Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby suspension bridge. It’s the longest bridge in Bhutan and provides a fun experience as you cross over the Pho Chhu River.
Day 6: Punakha and Chimi Lhakhang
Start the morning with a visit to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the “fertility temple.” It’s about a 30-minute walk through rice fields from the road. This small temple is famous for its unconventional blessings.
Later, head back to Punakha and take a peaceful hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a stupa set on a hilltop. The hike takes about an hour and brings you through scenic farmland.
Once at the top, the views of the Punakha Valley are spectacular. Take your time here before heading back down.
In the evening, relax back at your stay and enjoy a nice Bhutanese meal.
Day 7: Return to Paro and Departure
On your final day, drive back to Paro for your flight out. The drive is about 4 hours, so make sure you leave with enough time.
If you have a little extra time before your flight, stop at the Kyichu Lhakhang temple in Paro. It’s one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, and it’s a peaceful place to reflect on your trip.
As you fly out of Bhutan, take one final look at the stunning mountains surrounding you. Bhutan is one of those places that will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
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