Bhutan Itinerary
This Bhutan Itinerary will explore the main highlights of the country as well as taking you off the beaten track and into the Himalayas. From the Taktsang Monastery (Tigers Nest) and Punakha Dzong – to the mountainside villages in the soaring Himalaya’s. Be greeted by smiling Bhutanese faces in a sanctuary for the simple and happy lifestyle.
Your Bhutan Trip
We suggest a loop of sorts with the main goal of getting to Laya – one of the Highest settlements on earth. Depending on your timeframe and the time of year/season theres a few combinations. We put this together based on our trip as it includes some of Bhutans best spots. It takes you into the ‘real Bhutan’ as well and depending on your preferences includes lots of activities and cultural highlights. Please get in touch if you are thinking of going – we would love to help. Read our Guide to Bhutan for all the information you need.
Day 1: Arrive in Paro
Enjoy the incredible scenic flight into Bhutan through the Himalayas before the expert landing to arrive at the charming airport in Paro. Head to the hotel to relax and adjust to the altitude. Enjoy local food and Paro's charm.
Day 2: Climb the Tigers Nest
Hike up the cliffside to the majestic Taktsang, or 'Tigers nest' monastery. A special place that hugs the mountain and a national icon. Explore the Paro Dzong and the national museum, or relax those muscles with a hot stone bath.
Day 3: Explore Thimphu
Thimphu showcase's the modern Bhutan. The countries busiest intersection still manages without a traffic light and we loved it. Check out one of the biggest Buddha's in the world and meet the national animal the 'Takin'.
Day 4: Dochula to Punakha
Dochula Pass is a beautiful mountain pass, on the road from Thimphu to your accomodation in Punakha. With stunning mountain views and 108 memorial stupas known as “Druk Wangyal Chortens.” Rest in Punakha before your trek.
Day 5: Mountaintop Gasa
Its a bit of a drive to Gasa but the scenery is glorious. Depending on your trip you can check out the Punakha Dzong on the way. Stay tonight in a local farmstead and learn more about the whole country being organic!
Day 6: The Hike to Laya
Drive up the valley and begin your Trek. Its about 7-8 hours of hiking to Laya which sits at an oxygen deprived 3800 meters in the Himalaya's. It's a rewarding challenge that following the awe inspiring river valley up the mountains.
Day 7: Laya Village
Experience village life in the mountains. Learn how people live here and explore the area. Maybe check out archery the national sport, learn some Bhutanese cooking or hike a little higher for epic views of the snow capped peaks.
Day 8: Back to Punakha
After the long hike back down from Gasa you can visit the Thermal Baths to relax - a Highlight. Its a bit of a trek all the way back to Punakha but the hotel and hot showers are very well received.
Day 9: Thimphu
Either visit the temple of Fertility which is interersing and explaining the phallus's (penisus) that adorn many of Bhutans buildings, see more of Punakha or simply head back to Thimphu for some shopping.
Day 10: Depart Bhutan
Depending on your travel plans you may have time to see al little more before you drive back to Paro to fly out. There is also an option to drive the long way south to Phuntsholing and exit overland into India.
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