Ultimate 7-Day Bhutan Travel Itinerary: Top Attractions and Experiences

Bhutan is a remarkable, isolated country nestled in the Himalayas. It may not be the most accessible destination, however, the reward is significant for those seeking a truly unique travel experience. I recently spent one week in Bhutan, appreciating every moment of my visit.

Most travelers spend 5 to 7 days in Bhutan, allowing ample time to explore many of the country’s major attractions, though many find it difficult to depart.

Bhutan is rich in intriguing culture and natural beauty, yet remarkably free from excessive tourism. Even highly frequented sites, such as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, retain a genuine, intimate atmosphere.

In this travel narrative, I will present my preferred Bhutan itinerary alongside exceptional activities to experience within one week in the country. This reflects the itinerary I followed in Bhutan, refined with insights gained from my experience.

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Best Bhutan Tour Company

For most nationalities, visiting Bhutan necessitates obtaining a visa and joining a tour arranged by a local Bhutanese company. Additionally, there is a daily fee of $100 USD per individual, instituted by the Bhutanese government to promote ‘quality over quantity’ in tourism.

I engaged with this tour company via GetYourGuide. My experience was excellent, and I would strongly endorse their services. The owner, Tsenrig, collaborated with me to create an ideal 7-day Bhutan itinerary, which included a visit to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and an array of other remarkable sights across Bhutan.

Their favored itineraries encompass 5 or 7 days, yet they also offer tours lasting 9 or 10 days, and even extensions up to 15 or 20 days. The itinerary is remarkably flexible, allowing you to select the locations you wish to visit each day in Bhutan.

My personal tour guide, L. Dorji, was exceptional and exceedingly accommodating, remaining by my side throughout the journey. He graciously offered to carry my heavy backpack and assisted me in swapping between my camera lenses during photography.

Dorji possessed comprehensive knowledge of Bhutan’s history, and he has been leading tours for many years. He ranks among the finest guides I have encountered globally. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend this company for your travels in Bhutan!

Bhutan Itinerary Day 1: Paro Acclimatization

• Ta Dzong

Welcome to Bhutan! You may feel fatigued following your flight to Paro. Commence your itinerary with a leisurely visit to Ta Dzong, situated merely a 20-minute drive from the airport.

This uniquely shaped circular structure, a 17th-century watchtower, now functions as the national museum of Bhutan. Inside, you will encounter Bhutanese art, sculptures, weaponry, and other historical artifacts.

For me, the highlight was the exterior of the building and the captivating view of the valley beneath.

• Paro Dzong

For many visitors, Paro Dzong will mark your initial authentic encounter with a Bhutanese fortress-monastery (referred to as a ‘dzong’). These structures are somewhat akin to Bhutan’s castles.

Also known as Rinpung Dzong, this foundational fortress and monastery in Paro town was erected in the 17th century and overlooks the river and valley. The name translates to “fortress of the heap of jewels.”

The external walls are striking, complemented by the impressive inner courtyard. Be sure to observe the oversized beehives suspended from the windows!

You can navigate this fortress in approximately 30 minutes, but it is well worth a visit! The optimal photo opportunity lies on the pathway leading to it.

• Kyichu Lhakhang

Kyichu Lhakhang is a small Buddhist temple that dates back to the 7th century, making it one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.

This site is just a 10-minute drive north of Paro town, rendering it easy to visit even if your time is limited.

• Archery Match

Archery has held the status of national sport in Bhutan since 1971, with locals constantly honing their skills with bow and arrow. Witnessing an archery match is entertaining, as many participants exhibit impressive abilities.

I opted to forgo this activity due to fatigue and the desire to conserve energy for subsequent engagements, although I did catch glimpses of archery matches later while driving through the picturesque countryside.

You will encounter numerous opportunities to witness archery during your travel in Bhutan.

• Paro Town

If you still possess energy, consider spending the rest of the day exploring Paro town and shopping for souvenirs.

The main street features numerous shops with a wide selection of Bhutanese crafts, alongside the usual range of shirts, fridge magnets, and other novelties for sale.

• Overnight In Paro

Overnight in Paro, which is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,200 meters (7,200 ft). I stayed at Hotel Olathang, a historic 3-star establishment perched on a hill, surrounded by pine forests and overlooking the Paro valley. While slightly dated, the location is delightful.

Bhutan Itinerary Day 2: Thimphu

• Drive To Thimphu

After breakfast, you will proceed to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Although the distance from Paro to Thimphu is merely 45 kilometers, the drive takes about 60 to 90 minutes due to winding mountain roads.

En route, you will encounter another monastery across the river named Tachog Lhakhang, alongside an old iron suspension bridge. Your guide may stop briefly so you can capture some photographs before continuing to Thimphu.

• Taschichho Dzong

The Tashichho Dzong is an expansive fortress-monastery that also serves as the seat of government in Thimphu.

I had the fortune of visiting Bhutan during the annual Tshechu festival, usually held in Thimphu in late September or early October, enabling me to witness the captivating mask dance alongside thousands of locals adorned in vibrant national attire.

This experience was truly incredible and ranks as one of the highlights of my visit to Bhutan!

• Cheri Monastery

The Cheri monastery hike constitutes a pleasant excursion into the forest near Thimphu, where you may observe wildlife and a 17th-century monastery perched on the hillside.

This hike typically takes 45 to 60 minutes to ascend, depending on your pace, and slightly less to descend. While primarily uphill, it is not as strenuous as the renowned Tiger’s Nest hike, making it manageable for most travelers.

During my hike, we spotted birds, mountain goats, and langur monkeys. My guide mentioned that tigers used to roar in the distance during the 1980s, and sightings of Himalayan black bears still occasionally occur in this region, as it borders Jigme Dorji National Park.

• Overnight In Thimphu

Spend the night in Thimphu, located at an altitude of roughly 2,300 meters (7,500 ft). I chose to stay at Kisa Villa, a 3-star hotel with a garden and close views of Tashichho Dzong. The dzong’s illumination at night is particularly striking.

Bhutan Itinerary Day 3: Gangtey Valley

• Dochula Pass & Drukwangyel

Day three begins with the drive from Thimphu to Phobjikha, which takes approximately 3 hours due to Bhutan’s usual winding roads, although ample scenic views grace the journey.

After about 45 minutes of travel, you will stop at Dochula Pass, a high-altitude passage of 3,150 meters (10,335 feet). Morning is the optimal time to visit this location.

On a clear day, stunning panoramas of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains can be appreciated from this vantage point. Included among them is Gangkhar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan and the tallest unclimbed mountain in the world!

There’s also a monastery at Dochula Pass featuring 108 stupas, constructed to honor 100 years of monarchy in Bhutan. The weather was overcast during my visit, yet we still glimpsed some of the distant peaks.

• Gangtey Monastery

After additional travel, you will arrive in Phobjikha and visit Gangtey Monastery, a vibrant 17th-century edifice overlooking the valley.

When I visited, the monastery was teeming with locals practicing dance for an upcoming festival.

• Kwewa Village Nature Trail

From Gangtey Monastery, a pleasant nature trail extends downhill through the forest and across Phobjikha Valley.

This hike is relatively easy, typically requiring about an hour or more to reach its conclusion, where your driver and guide will be waiting.

You might spot horses in the valley, and black-necked cranes migrate to this region from November to February.

• Black Necked Crane Center

After experiencing Phobjikha Valley, you have the option to visit an information center dedicated to black-necked cranes, featuring telescope setups for birdwatching.

I chose to skip this activity and rest at the hotel, as the black-necked cranes were out of season during my September visit.

• Overnight In Phobjikha

Stay overnight in the Phobjikha valley, at approximately 3,000 meters (9,800 ft) elevation. This marks the highest altitude you will experience within this Bhutan itinerary.

I anticipated a more rustic hotel, given the remote setting, but was pleasantly surprised by the comfort offered at Gakiling Guest House, a 3-star accommodation with splendid valley views, fast WiFi, quality cuisine, and amicable staff.

Bhutan Itinerary Day 4: Punakha & Wangdue

• Punakha Dzong

After breakfast, it is time to embark on the 2-hour drive from Phobjikha to Punakha, which will lead you back westward, retracing some of the earlier route.

Your first destination in Punakha is the Punakha Dzong, one of the oldest and largest fortresses in Bhutan. The view from across the Mo Chu river is a quintessential image of Bhutan.

Inside the dzong, you can meander through the courtyard, appreciating various intricate details, including an impressive gold door. Overall, I would assert it is the best dzong I encountered in Bhutan.

Punakha is situated at a significantly lower altitude of approximately 1,200 meters (4,000 feet), making it much warmer than other previously visited locations. Thus, lighter clothing may be preferable during your time here.

When I visited Punakha in September, I felt warm even without a jacket and contemplated swimming in the river to seek relief from the heat.

• Chimi Lhakhang

Chimi Lhakhang may be regarded as one of the more unconventional temples in Bhutan. It serves as a fertility temple adorned with phalluses and various sexual motifs, established by the ‘divine madman’ during the 15th century.

Infertile couples frequently visit to pray for children, and a unique tradition exists whereby they receive a light tap on the head with a wooden phallus as a blessing upon entering the temple.

This temple is positioned on a hill, necessitating a minor trek of approximately 15 to 30 minutes to access it, rendering it somewhat more challenging than other temples in Bhutan.

• Pho Chu River Bridge

One of the most significant attractions in the Punakha region is the bridge over the Pho Chu river, recognized as the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan!

You can traverse the entire 200-meter bridge, enjoying breathtaking views of the valley and turquoise glacial waters of the Pho Chu river.

• Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

My favorite viewpoint in the Punakha area occurred during our concluding stop of the day as we hiked to a stupa situated in the mountains. This particular stupa, with a name difficult to pronounce, is known as Khamsum Yulley Namgyal.

The ascent to this site takes approximately 1 hour and is entirely uphill. Along the way, you will witness remarkable vistas of the rice terraces and Punakha valley. Upon reaching the summit, you will find a 30-meter tall stupa and sweeping mountain views.

If you are reasonably fit and do not mind some hiking, this location should undoubtedly be included on your Bhutan itinerary. It is one of the premier activities to engage in while visiting the country!

• Overnight In Punakha

Stay overnight in Punakha at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters (4,000 ft). I chose a recent establishment named Divine Heritage House, featuring many windows to enjoy the scenic vistas of the rice terraces.

Bhutan Itinerary Day 5: Revisiting Thimphu

• Buddha Dordenma

Following breakfast, retrace your route back to Thimphu by passing through Dochula Pass once more. This journey will take approximately 2 hours from Punakha to Thimphu. Welcome back to the capital!

Your fifth day of exploration in Bhutan begins with a visit to the colossal golden Buddha statue located on the hillside overseeing Thimphu valley. It stands as one of Bhutan’s emblematic symbols.

The Buddha Dordenma statue, as it is named, ranks among the largest Buddha statues globally, measuring 52 meters (169 feet) in height. Constructed at a cost exceeding $100 million USD, it was erected to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Bhutan’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

• Sangay-gang Viewpoint

On the way to the Takin Preserve, make a brief stop at the Sangay-gang viewpoint, providing an excellent perspective of Thimphu city from an elevated position.

After a 20-minute drive up the mountain, you will have a comprehensive view of the city of Thimphu below, with some nature trails available for extended exploration.

• Motithang Royal Takin Preserve

The Takin (pronounced ‘tah-kin’) holds the position of national animal of Bhutan. Prior to my visit, I was unaware of the existence of such creatures! They appear to be a hybrid between a goat and a buffalo.

The Takin Preserve near Thimphu is home to nearly two dozen takins, as well as a few sambar and barking deer. A metal walkway encircles the sanctuary, allowing for prime viewing opportunities and easy photography.

The Takin is a safeguarded species in Bhutan, and sightings in the wild are rare, typically confined to areas like Jigme Dorji National Park. The preserve permits close-up photography while still ensuring the animals have sufficient space to roam freely.

• National Memorial Stupa

Following the visit to the Takin Preserve, we made a swift stop at the National Memorial Stupa, centrally located in Thimphu city.

This white stupa was constructed in 1974 in honor of Bhutan’s third king. Elderly Buddhist practitioners visit to ceremoniously walk around the stupa in a clockwise manner while engaging in prayer.

• Zorig Chusum Arts & Crafts School

Zorig Chusum is a school in Thimphu where Bhutanese youth acquire traditional arts and crafts skills, including calligraphy, painting, carving, and textiles, among others.

No items are available for purchase, but it is fascinating to observe the students at work as they hone their craft. Each studio showcases a different art form, with many impressive designs on display.

• Farmer’s Market

Your final stop for the day is the farmer’s market in Thimphu, showcasing a diverse array of fruits and vegetables.

There is a remarkable selection to explore, making it enjoyable to stroll through the aisles and appreciate the produce, even if you don’t make a purchase. Chilies are ubiquitous, as they are a vital component of Bhutanese cuisine.

Additionally, some exotic fruits, such as dragonfruit, can be found, which is unexpected in a mountainous nation like Bhutan.

• Overnight In Thimphu

Once again, spend the night in Thimphu. I was pleased to return to the familiar Kisa Villa, enjoying the excellent cuisine and pleasing vistas of the Thimphu fortress from my window.

Bhutan Itinerary Day 6: Tiger’s Nest Monastery

• Drive To Paro

On your sixth day in Bhutan, it is time to return to Paro, the town where your journey began. After breakfast, you will drive approximately 1.5 hours to Paro, followed by a short distance past Paro to begin the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

• Tiger’s Nest Hike

The moment has arrived for the grand highlight of your Bhutan itinerary: the Tiger’s Nest Monastery!

Many tours postpone this splendid visit until the end of the trip, as it is such a remarkable site, and it also affords additional time for altitude acclimatization prior to the hike.

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is an extraordinary 17th-century structure that clings to the sheer side of a steep 900-meter cliff, creating an almost surreal visual effect.

This site ranks as Bhutan’s most renowned and picturesque destination, and I consider it one of the world’s finest day hikes.

Expect to dedicate a full day to the Tiger’s Nest, as the hike typically lasts between 4 to 8 hours, excluding time for photography and exploring the interior of the temple.

Lunch is available at the midway point, where a cafeteria with stunning mountain views awaits you. The entire experience is delightful.

The hike presents certain challenges; however, individuals with average fitness should find it manageable. I have compiled a comprehensive guide for the Tiger’s Nest hike, which you can access through the link below.

Read More: How To Hike To The Tiger’s Nest Monastery

• Bhutanese Cooking Class (Optional)

In the evening, if interested, you might participate in a Bhutanese cooking class to learn to prepare local dishes such as Ema Datshi, Kewa Datshi, and Jasha Maru at a local residence.

• Hot Stone Bath (Optional)

Another option available at the end of the day is indulging in a hot stone bath, where rocks from the river are heated over a fire and then placed in a wooden tub with herbs.

This serves as a splendid way to relax and rejuvenate after your earlier hike to Tiger’s Nest.

• Overnight In Paro

Conclude your Bhutan journey with one last night in Paro, soaking in the surroundings at Hotel Olathang, which was among my preferred lodging choices.

Bhutan Itinerary Day 7: Paro Farewell

• Dzongdrakha Monastery (Optional)

It is your final day in Bhutan. If time and energy permit, you might engage in an additional activity before your departure. My return flight to Bangkok with Druk Air was scheduled for 4:20 PM, providing me with a bit of extra time.

A special destination to consider visiting in the Paro vicinity is Dzongdrakha Monastery. This cliffside monastery is similar to the Tiger’s Nest, although its hike is shorter and easier. As fewer tourists frequent this site, you may have it all to yourself.

Bear in mind that tour providers in Bhutan commonly do not include activities on the last day of your trip; thus, there may be an additional fee for including it in your itinerary.

• Go To Airport

After a memorable 7 days in Bhutan, my driver and guide transported me to the airport, and it was time to bid farewell. Bhutan provided a unique and cherished experience, leaving me somewhat somber upon departure.

5 Days In Bhutan Itinerary

If you are unable to dedicate a complete 7 days to Bhutan, a 5-day itinerary can serve as a worthwhile compromise, enabling you to experience the country’s highlights.

Here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary for Bhutan:

• Day 1. Paro acclimatization. Visit Ta Dzong and Paro Dzong. Observe an archery match before wandering through Paro town for souvenirs.
• Day 2. Paro to Thimphu. During your drive to Thimphu, view Tamchog Lhakhang monastery and the suspension bridge from a distance. In Thimphu, visit the National Memorial Stupa, Buddha Dordenma statue, and Tashichho Dzong, alongside the farmer’s market and other points of interest.
• Day 3. Thimphu to Punakha. On your journey to Punakha, stop at Dochula Pass and Drukwangyel monastery for stunning views. In Punakha, explore Punakha Dzong, Pho Chu river bridge, Chimi Lhakhang, and Khamsum Yulley Namgyal.
• Day 4. Punakha to Paro. Return to Paro and hike up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. If time permits, visit Kyichu Lhakhang and enjoy a hot stone bath in the evening.
• Day 5. Depart Bhutan. No sightseeing on this day unless time allows for additional activities.

More Bhutan Travel Tips

Thank you for reading! I hope you found this 7-day Bhutan travel itinerary enjoyable. These activities represent some of the finest things to engage in while visiting Bhutan for a week.

I will continue to add additional Bhutan travel tips to my travel blog, so be sure to bookmark it and revisit soon!