Activities: After landing at Paro International Airport, visit the Ta Dzong Museum and Rinpung Dzong. Then, drive to Thimphu (2 hours). Sightseeing includes the Memorial Chorten, National Library, Tashichho Dzong, and Folk Heritage Museum.
Things to know: Bhutan is known as “Druk Yul” or Land of the Thunder Dragon. The official religion is Buddhism, and the national language is Dzongkha.
Visa Requirements: A visa is required for all foreign tourists. You can apply online at least a week before your visit through the website of the Royal Government of Bhutan’s Department of Immigration.
Transportation: The best way to travel around Bhutan is by hired car with a driver.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing and Dochula Pass
Activities: Visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, Punakha Chorten, Simtokha Dzong, and the Takin Preserve. Take a scenic drive to Dochula Pass for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Things to know: Bhutan is carbon negative, with forests absorbing more CO2 than it emits.
Day 3: Punakha and Wangduephodrang
Activities: Drive to Punakha, the old capital of Bhutan. Visit the Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility). In the afternoon, proceed to Wangduephodrang and explore its market.
Things to know: Winter months (December - February) may see snowfall in higher altitudes.
Day 4: Gangtey Valley and Phobjikha
Activities: Drive to the beautiful Phobjikha Valley. Visit the Gangtey Monastery and enjoy a walk around the valley, known for black-necked cranes during winter months (November - March).
Things to know: The Phobjikha Valley is part of the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Bhutan’s largest national park.
Day 5: Return to Thimphu and Hiking Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery)
Activities: Drive back to Thimphu in the morning. In the afternoon, embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched precariously on a cliff face.
Things to know: The hike to Tiger’s Nest takes around 4 hours round trip, but the views are well worth it!
Day 6: Paro Sightseeing and Chele La Pass
Activities: Drive to Chele La Pass for breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Then, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang temple in Paro and explore Paro town in the evening.
Things to know: Chele La Pass is the highest motorable road pass in Bhutan at 3,988 meters (13,084 feet).
Day 7: Departure from Paro
Activities: Spend your final day shopping for souvenirs or relaxing. Then, head to Paro International Airport for your departure flight.
Things to know: Bhutanese cuisine features a lot of chilies and rice dishes. Don’t forget to try some traditional Bhutanese food!