It is one of the most peaceful destinations and is super pocket-friendly for Indians. If you want to visit Bhutan and are unsure where to start, steal this researched Bhutan itinerary (7 days). It covers the major landmarks and allows you to immerse yourself and explore Bhutan like a local.
- Perfect Bhutan Itinerary 7 Days
- Day 1: Fly to Paro, Acclimatize, and Explore
- Day 2: The Iconic Tiger’s Nest Trek
- Day 3: Journey to Thimphu & City Exploration
- Day 4: Thimphu’s Cultural Delights
- Day 5: Scenic Drive to Punakha & Chimi Lhakhang
- Day 6: Exploring Punakha’s Majesty & Return to Paro
- Day 7: Farewell: Souvenirs, Relaxation, and Departure
- Why Choose OneVasco?
- FAQs
Perfect Bhutan Itinerary 7 Days
Here is the perfect itinerary with the best places to visit in Bhutan in 7 days:
| Week Plan | Things To Do |
| Day 1 | Fly to Paro. Explore the city, Visit Rinpung Dzong, a majestic fortress-monastery overlooking the Paro valley, and the National Museum in Paro. Stroll through Paro town, perhaps visiting local shops or enjoying a traditional Bhutanese dinner. If you are visiting for the weekend, you can check out the Paro Weekend Market. |
| Day 2 | The next day, embark on a hike to Taktshang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Bhutan’s most famous landmark. The trek is challenging but incredibly rewarding. It will take 5-6 hours to cover. Later, go for a traditional hot stone bath at a famous homestay or a nice hotel to revive from your trek. |
| Day 3 | Drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Explore the major landmarks, check out the neighbourhood, and at night, go karaoke. Bhutanese love to party and sing; it is one of the best things to do at night. |
| Day 4 | Spend a cultural day, exploring the best museums in Thimphu and shopping in the main streets. Enjoy a nice day on your last night in the capital city. |
| Day 5 | Drive to Punakha (approximately 3-hour scenic drive over the Dochula Pass). Stop at Dochula Pass to admire the breathtaking panoramic views. Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple, and spend the night in the hilly town. |
| Day 6 | In the morning, explore the beautiful Punakha Dzong. This historical marvel is the administrative centre of Punakha District in Punakha, Bhutan. Leave for Paro after your exploration. |
| Day 7Â | On your final day in Paro, explore the main town, soak in the calm before heading to the gorgeous airport and flying out of the most dangerous airport in the world. |
Day 1: Fly to Paro, Acclimatize, and Explore
Arrive at Paro International Airport (PBH). The flight into Paro is known for its stunning Himalayan views! It is also one of the most dangerous and thrilling airports in the world. If you want to catch a glimpse of Mount Everest, make sure to book a window seat on the left aisle of the airplane.
Meet your guide and driver, who will accompany you throughout your trip. Transfer to your hotel in Paro. Hiring a guide for Bhutan is mandatory if you are planning to venture beyond Paro and Thimphu.
After settling in, take it easy and acclimate to the altitude. Paro is at approximately 7,300 feet).
Visit Rinpung Dzong, a majestic fortress-monastery overlooking the Paro valley. Explore its beautiful architecture and intricate murals.
You must visit the National Museum in Paro. This museum houses a 17th-century watchtower and displays Bhutanese statues, paintings, and other art.
Stroll through Paro town, perhaps visiting local shops or enjoying a traditional Bhutanese dinner. If you are visiting for the weekend, you can check out the Paro Weekend Market. Buy the Himalayan honey, prayer flags, Buddhist paintings, Bhutanese postal stamps, and handmade souvenirs. You must visit:
- Mountain Café
- My Kind of Place, Paro
- Dagmar Restaurant
- Neyphug Heritage
Flights and Bhutan Visa for Indians
- Indians do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. However, they must pay a Sustainable Development Fee of â‚ą1,200 per person, per day.
- Round-trip flights between India and Bhutan cost â‚ą50,000 to â‚ą60,000. Direct flights are limited, and there may be layovers.
Tips:
- Acclimatization is crucial, especially in the initial days.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities upon arrival.
- Hire a guide and driver to explore the country and learn about it.
- Pack comfortable layered clothing and sturdy walking shoes; they are a must.
- Carry a travel adapter and your medicines.
- Get travel insurance and make sure your documents are with you at all times.
Must Read: A Complete Guide to Bhutan Visa for IndiansÂ
Day 2: The Iconic Tiger’s Nest Trek
The next day, embark on a hike to Taktshang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Bhutan’s most famous landmark. The trek is challenging but incredibly rewarding. It will take 5-6 hours to cover.
You’ll hike uphill through pine forests, passing prayer flags and offering breathtaking views.
There’s the Taktsang Cafeteria halfway where you can rest and enjoy the scenery.
Explore the sacred monastery perched precariously on a cliffside and later, descend from Tiger’s Nest.
Relax and soothe your muscles after the trek. Book yourself a traditional hot stone bath for rejuvenation. Your hotel/homestay may offer this service. If not, here are some recommendations:
- Ugyen Village Homestay
- Paro Penlop Dawa Penjor Heritage Farmhouse
- Naksel Boutique Hotel And Spa
- Como Uma Paro
- Six Senses Paro
Also Read: Things Not to Do in Bhutan for a Smooth, Respectful TripÂ
Day 3: Journey to Thimphu & City Exploration
Source: wikipedia
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Paro. Transfer to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan (approximately 1-1.5 hour drive). The scenic drive follows the Paro Chhu and Wang Chhu rivers.
Check into your hotel in Thimphu. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a significant stupa dedicated to world peace and prosperity. It’s a vibrant place where locals circumambulate and pray.
Explore the Buddha Dordenma, a massive golden statue of Buddha Shakyamuni offering panoramic views of Thimphu valley.
Visit Tashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress that houses the throne room and government offices. It is beautifully illuminated at night.
You can enjoy a quiet dinner at night or head to the fun karaoke bars in Thimphu. Bhutan’s karaoke culture is vibrant; you will find some fantastic places to show off your singing skills.
Also Read: Winter in Bhutan: Weather, Things to Do, Packing Tips & More
Day 4: Thimphu’s Cultural Delights
Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, which provides insights into traditional Bhutanese rural life.
Explore the Textile Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s intricate and vibrant weaving traditions.
Visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (the 13 Arts and Crafts School) to observe students learning traditional Bhutanese arts.
Hike to Wangditse Goemba. This moderate hike offers beautiful views of the Thimphu valley and the dzong. Alternatively, visit the Simply Bhutan Museum, an interactive museum that provides a glimpse into Bhutanese culture and traditions.
Head to Bhutan Craft Market or Norzin Lam to shop for local souvenirs. Enjoy dinner in Thimphu:
- Ambient Cafe
- Tower Cafe
- Wangchen Momo Corner, Thimphu
- Drunken Yeti
- Ji-Gong Asian Cuisine & Karaoke
- Zombala 2 Restaurant
Must Read: Honeymoon in Bhutan – Best Places & Romantic GetawaysÂ
Day 5: Scenic Drive to Punakha & Chimi Lhakhang
Drive to Punakha (approximately 3-hour scenic drive over the Dochula Pass). Stop at Dochula Pass (10,200 feet) to admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range and the 108 chortens (stupas).
Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman. The walk through the rice paddies to reach the temple is pleasant.
Check into your hotel in Punakha. Spend the late afternoon by the river and exploring Punakha town.
Top Read: Bhutan in February: What to Expect and How to Plan?
Day 6: Exploring Punakha’s Majesty & Return to Paro
Visit Punakha Dzong, a stunning fortress strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (male river) and Mo Chhu (female river). It served as the capital of Bhutan until the mid-20th century and is known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
Consider a short hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a beautiful stupa built by the Queen Mother that offers fantastic views of the valley.
Begin your drive back to Paro (approximately 3-4 hours), check back into your hotel in Paro, and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day 7: Farewell: Souvenirs, Relaxation, and Departure
On your last day in Bhutan, enjoy a final Bhutanese breakfast and stroll through Paro’s streets.
You can click photos, buy souvenirs, and connect with locals before heading to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.
Accommodations in Bhutan
On your Bhutan 7-day travel plan, here are some accommodation options to explore for towns like Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha:
Paro |
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| Midrange:
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Thimphu |
| Budget:
 Hotel Shantideva Bhutan Khamsum Inn |
| Midrange:
 Norkhil Boutique Hotel and Spa Hotel Taktsang |
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Punakha |
| Budget:
 CheChey Homestay Nobgang “Traditional Heritage HomeStay” Mendrelgang Homestay |
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Shopping in Bhutan
Bhutan is famous for selling beautiful traditional textiles, handicrafts, souvenirs and local produce like red rice, local honey and cane and bamboo products and more. Everything in Bhutan has cultural and traditional significance; the phallus symbols, singing bowls, Gongs, prayer flags and traditional masks are some amazing things to buy to remember your trip.
Paro Weekend Market |
This is the most prominent market in Paro. It’s situated by the Paro Chhu (river) and offers a mix of fresh local produce (including unique Bhutanese chilies, yak cheese, and various vegetables), traditional handicrafts, textiles, and local snacks. It’s an excellent place to experience local life and find authentic souvenirs.
 Best things to buy: Red rice, Bhutanese chilies (often dried), various herbs, and organic vegetables, scarves, shawls, and cushion covers, woven baskets, trays, and other decorative items made from bamboo and cane, phallic keychains, Dzi beads and much more! |
Thimphu Craft Bazaar |
These are collective terms for various shops and designated areas along Norzin Lam Street (the main shopping street) specializing in authentic Bhutanese handicrafts. Here, you’ll find a wide range of products including hand-woven textiles (kira, gho, scarves), thangkas, wooden carvings, masks, jewelry, and handmade paper products. These places are generally government-supported or run by associations promoting local artisans.
 Best things to buy: Wooden carved masks, Thangkas, red rice, local honey, singing bowls, gongs and more! |
Norzin Lam Street |
While not a single “market” in the traditional sense, Norzin Lam is the main commercial artery of Thimphu, lined with numerous shops and boutiques. You’ll find a mix of souvenir shops, textile stores, general stores, and eateries. Many of the specialized handicraft shops are located along or just off this street. |
Shops around Punakha Dzong |
The area surrounding the famous Punakha Dzong often has small shops and vendors selling traditional Bhutanese crafts, religious artifacts, and souvenirs that cater to tourists visiting the Dzong. |
Bhutanese Festivals
Bhutan offers a unique opportunity to experience vibrant and culturally rich festivals. Each festival is unique and culturally relevant and offers a glimpse into the Bhutanese people’s traditional and religious practices.
- Paro Tshechu is one of Bhutan’s most popular festivals, attracting thousands of attendees. Held in the stunning courtyard of Paro Dzong, it features spectacular masked dances that narrate religious stories.
- The Black-Necked Crane Festival in November celebrates the cranes’ arrival in the valley.
- The Jomolhari Mountain Festival, held in October at the base of Mount Jomolhari, celebrates the culture of the communities living near endangered snow leopards.
- Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival is a vibrant celebration held annually at the ancient Jambay Lhakhang temple in Bumthang. It showcases captivating masked dances and traditional music.
- Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu takes place in the courtyard of Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. This festival provides a unique opportunity to experience central Bhutan’s cultural richness through folk songs, traditional dramas, and community participation that fosters a sense of unity among attendees.
Also Read: Festivals in Bhutan: Celebrating Culture and TraditionsÂ
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FAQs
Is 7 days enough to explore Bhutan?
7 days is sufficient to explore Bhutan. You can visit cities and towns like Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha to explore the beautiful, majestic monasteries, villages, and gorgeous landscapes. You can even trek to Tiger Nest, stop at the Dochula Pass, and explore the best Dzongas in Bhutan.
What is the average daily cost for a 7-day itinerary in Bhutan?
The average daily cost for a 7-day itinerary in Bhutan is â‚ą4,000-â‚ą5,000. The sustainable development fee is mandatory for Indians and must be paid at Immigration.
Which is the best month to visit Bhutan?
The best time to visit Bhutan is generally considered to be during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and the opportunity to witness vibrant blooms and clear views of the Himalayas.
How much money to take to Bhutan for 7 days?
You should carry â‚ą70,000 to â‚ą1 lakh for your trip to Bhutan for a week. The cost depends on your lifestyle, hotel budget, and means of transportation.
Which area of Bhutan is best to stay in?
The best areas to stay in Bhutan are Paro, Punakha, and Thimphu. These cities and towns are home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest, Punakha Dzong, National Memorial Chorten, Thimphu cafe,s and Dochula Pass.
How do I get around in Bhutan?
The best way to travel in Bhutan is by a hired taxi. Bhutan is a mountainous country, and you need a professional driver to navigate the sharp, hilly curves and narrow roads.
What does a 7-day Bhutan itinerary include?
Your 7-day Bhutan itinerary should include Paro, Punakha, and Thimphu. These cities and towns are the perfect blend of modernity, tradition, and nature. You can hike to the Tiger’s Nest in Paro, enjoy karaoke in Thimphu, and visit the fertility temple and Punakha Dzong in Punakha.
