11 Days Bhutan tour itinerary
The 11 days Bhutan tour itinerary offers an incredible journey through the heart of Bhutan, encompassing the highlights of central and western regions. This adventure includes visits to seven districts, allowing you to explore pristine villages and vibrant towns rich in culture and history. Bhutan, home to countless Buddhist monasteries and temples, provides a deeply spiritual experience. Key highlights include the serene Phobjikha Valley, known for its scenic beauty and as the winter home of black-necked cranes, and the majestic Cheli La Pass at 3,988 meters, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range. This itinerary promises an unforgettable blend of culture, spirituality, and natural wonders.
The beautiful Paro Valley.
Highlights of the trip:
- Ancient monasteries, temples & dzongs.
- Most scenic landscapes.
- Visit to the beautiful villages and farm house.
- Meet local people.
- Archery matches.
- Panoramic mountain flight.
Sketch itinerary:
- Day 1. Arrive Paro – Thimphu sightseeing | 54 km | Drive: 1 hour | Altitude: 2334 m.
- Day 2. Thimphu sightseeing | Altitude: 2334 m.
- Day 3. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing | 76 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 1242 m.
- Day 4. Punakha – Wangdue Phodrang – Gangtey sightseeing | 75 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 3000 m.
- Day 5. Gangtey – Trongsa sightseeing – Bumthang | 185 km | Drive: 5 hours | Altitude: 2600 m.
- Day 6. Bumthang sightseeing | Altitude 2600 m.
- Day 7. Bumthang – Ogen Choling palace museum | 40 km | Drive: 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Day 8. Bumthang – Paro sightseeing | By Mountain flight | 25 minutes | Altitude: 2200 m.
- Day 9. Paro – Haa sightseeing – Paro | 60 km | Drive: 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Day 10. Paro – Hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery | 7 km | Hike: 4 hours.
- Day 11. Paro – Departure.
11 Days Bhutan tour cost:
The rate given below is inclusive of sustainable development fee (SDF) of US $ 100 per person per night and Bhutan visa fee US $ 40 per person.
Entrance fees for monuments and festivals visits to be paid separately.
- Solo travel: US $ 3120 per person.
- 2 Persons: US $ 2640 per person.
- 3 People or more: US $ 2275 per person.
11 Days Bhutan tour - Detail itinerary.
Day 1. Arrive Paro – Thimphu sightseeing | 54 Km | Drive: 1 hour | Altitude: 2334 m.
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, your guide and driver will meet you and drive you to Thimphu Valley. On the way, make a brief stop to visit Tamchog Monastery, built in the 15th century by Thang Tong Gyalpo, a revered Buddhist figure. In the afternoon, explore Thimphu’s key sights including the Memorial Chorten, the towering Buddha Dordenma statue (51.5 meters), Changangkha Lhakhang, and the Takin Preserve Center, home to Bhutan’s national animal.
In the evening, enjoy views from Sangaygang Viewpoint, visit the Dupthop Lhakhang (Thimphu’s oldest nunnery), and take time to stroll the town for shopping and photography.
Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 2. Thimphu sightseeing | Altitude: 2334 m.
In the morning, visit the National Postal Museum, where you can even print your pictures on official Bhutanese stamps. Then, explore the Textile Museum, showcasing traditional Bhutanese textiles, followed by a visit to the School of 13 Arts and Crafts, where you can learn about Bhutan’s intricate craftsmanship. Stop by Simply Bhutan, a cultural museum where you can enjoy Ara (local alcohol), experience a folk museum, and watch a traditional cultural show.
In the afternoon, witness a thrilling archery match at Changlimithang Stadium.
In the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong, the royal secretariat, where the grand Thimphu Festival is held in early autumn.
Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 3. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing | 76 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 1242 m.
Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. On the way, enjoy a scenic stop at Dochu La Pass (3140 m), where you can take in breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Just a few kilometers below, visit Chimi Lhakhang, built in 1499 to honor Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the “Divine Madman.” This temple is popularly called the Temple of Fertility due to Drukpa Kuenley’s unorthodox methods of teaching Buddhism.
After lunch, explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Then, take a hike to the beautiful Khamsum Yulley Monastery, built by Her Majesty Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck.
In the evening, walk across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan (160 meters) over the Pho Chu River, with stunning views of Punakha Valley below.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 4. Punakha – Wangdue Phodrang – Gangtey sightseeing | 75 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 3000 m.
In the morning, drive to Gangtey and Phobjikha. Take a short stop along the way to view Wangdue Phodrang Dzong.
Note: The lower part of the valley is Phobjikha, and the upper part is Gangtey.
The Gangtey Monastery, perched on a hilltop, offers stunning views of the Phobjikha valley below. This valley serves as the roosting ground for the rare black-necked cranes in winter.
Visit the Gangtey Gompa Monastery, built in 1613 by Gyaltse Pema Thinley. The annual Black-necked Crane Festival is held here, celebrating these migratory birds.
Afterward, visit the Crane Information Center, where you can learn about the conservation efforts for the black-necked cranes.
In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Phobjikha Valley.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 5. Gangtey – Trongsa sightseeing – Bumthang | 156 km | Drive: 5 hours | Altitude: 2600 m.
In the morning, drive to Bumthang. En route, visit the Trongsa Dzong, a grand fortress built in 1648 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa. The dzong is an architectural marvel and is the venue for the Trongsa Festival, held in late autumn.
Next, stop at the Ta Dzong, built in 1652 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, which has now been converted into the Royal Heritage Museum. The museum offers insight into Bhutan’s royal history and artifacts.
In the afternoon, continue your journey towards Bumthang, crossing scenic landscapes.
Dinner and overnight in a hotel in Bumthang.
Day 6. Bumthang sightseeing | Altitude: 2600 m.
Bumthang is one of Bhutan’s most picturesque valleys and the spiritual heartland, known for its sacred temples and pilgrimage sites. It is also the birthplace of Pema Lingpa, a revered Bhutanese saint.
In the morning, visit the Jakar Dzong (The Castle of White Bird), a majestic fortress overlooking the valley. Then, explore Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, followed by Chakhar Lhakhang and Kenchosum Monastery, both important cultural and spiritual landmarks.
In the afternoon, visit Mebar Tsho (The Burning Lake), an iconic pilgrimage site, and then explore Tamshing Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang, two sacred temples associated with Pema Lingpa.
In the evening, enjoy some free time to stroll around Bumthang town, soaking in the local atmosphere.
Dinner and overnight in a hotel in Bumthang.
Day 7. Bumthang – Ogen Choling palace | 40 km | 1 hour 50 minutes.
In the morning, drive to the picturesque Tang Valley, known for its serene beauty and cultural significance. On the way, visit Mebar Tsho or the “Burning Lake,” a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated. In Tang Valley, explore the Ogen Choling Palace Museum, which was once the residence of a noble family and has been converted into a museum. It preserves the legacy of Bhutanese nobility and serves as a center for religious studies and research. The museum’s well-curated exhibits provide a fascinating insight into Bhutanese aristocratic life. After the visit, enjoy some free time to stroll through the valley and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Dinner and overnight in a hotel.
Day 8. Bumthang – Paro sightseeing | By Mountain Flight | 25 minutes | Altitude: 2200 m.
In the morning, drive to the airport and fly to Paro. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and drive you to your hotel.
In the afternoon, visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan, where you can explore the country’s rich history, culture, and artifacts.
Next, visit Rinpung Dzong, a majestic fortress built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This dzong is known for its architectural beauty and is also the venue for the famous annual Paro Festival. It’s so impressive that scenes from the 1995 film “Little Buddha” were filmed here.
In the evening, enjoy some free time to stroll around the town for shopping and photography.
Dinner and overnight at your hotel in Paro.
Day 10. Paro – Haa sightseeing – Paro | 60 km | Drive: 1 hour 20 minutes.
In the morning, drive to the picturesque Haa Valley, making a stop at Cheli La Pass, the highest motorable road in Bhutan at 3,988 meters. The pass offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Jomolhari, and features a nearby sky burial site to explore. Upon reaching Haa Valley, visit the Haa Dzong, a relatively new structure that serves as the valley’s administrative center. In the afternoon, explore the historic Chorten Nagpo (Black Temple) and Chorten Karpo (White Temple), built in 659 AD by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo on the same day as Paro’s Kichu Monastery. Conclude the day with a visit to the serene Kila Gompa Nunnery, a retreat housing around 90 nuns. Enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 9. Paro sightseeing – Hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery | 7 km | 4 hours.
In the morning, drive to Satsam Chorten and embark on a 2-hour hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), the highlight of the 8-day Bhutan tour itinerary. This breathtaking monastery, perched on a cliff, is perhaps the most photographed monument in Bhutan and a UNESCO World Heritage site. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this site on the back of a tigress.
In the afternoon, visit Drugyel Dzong, built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This fortress played a key role in defending Bhutan from invasions.
Next, explore Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries, built in 659 AD by Tibetan King Srongtsen Gampo. He constructed 108 temples in a single day across the Himalayan region to subdue an ogress, with Kichu Lhakhang being one of the most prominent.
In the evening, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse to experience local life and hospitality.
Day 11. Paro – Departure (End of 9 days Bhutan tour itinerary).
After breakfast, bid farewell to the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan as you drive to Paro International Airport. Your guide and driver will assist you with departure formalities, ensuring a smooth and memorable end to your journey. Safe travels!
FAQs - 11 Days Bhutan tour itinerary
Is Bhutan a suitable destination for solo travelers or families?
Yes, Bhutan is an excellent destination for both solo travelers seeking spiritual journeys and families looking to experience a new culture. The Bhutanese are welcoming, and the country offers a safe and enriching environment for all types of travelers.
Do I need to be physically fit for a Bhutan Tour?
While cultural tours involve some walking and light hiking, such as visiting monasteries or hiking to Tiger’s Nest, they are generally suitable for most fitness levels. However, certain hikes may require a moderate level of fitness, especially those leading to higher altitudes.
What is the food like in Bhutan?
Bhutanese cuisine is simple but flavorful, with a focus on rice, vegetables, meat (mainly pork, chicken, and beef), and chili. A popular dish is Ema Datshi, a spicy cheese and chili dish. Tea is a staple, and butter tea is commonly consumed.
Can I participate in Bhutanese cultural activities?
Yes, many cultural tours allow visitors to participate in traditional activities like learning archery, Bhutanese cooking classes, and craft workshops, as well as attending local dances and music performances during festivals.
What should I pack for a cultural tour in Bhutan?
Pack modest, comfortable clothing for visiting monasteries and temples. In the cooler months, bring warm clothing as temperatures can drop, especially in the highlands. It’s also advisable to carry a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks.
Tour cost includes
- All meals [breakfast / lunch / dinner].
- Accommodation [twin / double sharing basis]. Single room supplement is extra.
- All transportation within the country including airport transfers.
- Sustainable development fee (SDF).
- Bhutan visa fee.
- English speaking local guide.
- Sightseeing.
- Bottled water.
Tour Cost Excludes
- Entrance fees for museums and monuments.
- Domestic/International flight (Drukair / Bhutan Airlines fares).
- Insurance premiums.
- Payments for service provided on a personal basis.
- Cost incurred due to mishaps, strikes, political unrest etc.
- Cost for any services not mentioned in the “Cost Include head”.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, soft drinks, etc...
- Tips for guide and driver.
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