General Information
Start/ End: Paro/ Paro
Duration: 7 Days/ 6 Nights
Tour Route: Paro - Thimphu - Punakha
Tour Customizable: Definitely! ( Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Paro - Thimphu
Day 2: Thimphu - Punakha
Day 3: In Punakha
Day 4: Punakha - Paro
Day 5: In Paro - Sightseeing
Day 6: Paro - Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Day 7: Paro depart
Full Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival Paro - Thimphu
Arrive in Paro aboard Druk Air, Bhutan’s national airline, on a breathtaking flight that glides past some of the world’s highest peaks before landing in the lush green Paro Valley. As you step off the plane, you’ll be greeted by Bhutan’s first gift – cool, crisp, and refreshing mountain air. After completing customs and visa procedures, meet your guide and transfer to Paro for lunch.
Later, enjoy a scenic drive of about one and a half hours along the Pa Chhu River to Thimphu, the capital city and the first stop on your Bhutan 7-day itinerary. Upon arrival, visit the Buddha Dordenma Terrace for sweeping views of the valley, followed by a trip to the Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s unique national animal – a curious creature often described as a cross between a moose and a goat.
Continue to admire the grandeur of Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the Bhutanese government, and circle around the Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Conclude the day with visits to the Centenary Farmers Market, the Authentic Craft Bazaar, the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, and the Folk Heritage Museum, housed in a 300-year-old traditional Bhutanese home – offering a perfect cultural introduction to your 7 days in Bhutan.
Day 02: Thimphu - Punakha
After breakfast, embark on a scenic three-hour drive to Punakha, one of the highlights on any Bhutan itinerary 7 days. The road climbs up to the spectacular Dochula Pass (3,140m), where, on a clear day, travelers are rewarded with sweeping views of the Eastern Himalayas. From the pass, descend through verdant forests before arriving in the fertile Punakha Valley.
Here, enjoy a short hike across emerald-green rice fields to Chimmi Lhakhang, a hillside temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, affectionately known as the “Divine Madman.” This sacred site, set amid the rice terraces, has become an important pilgrimage destination for childless couples seeking blessings.
Conclude the hike with tea and light snacks while admiring the picturesque valley landscape, a perfect cultural and scenic experience woven into your Bhutan 7-day itinerary.
Day 03: Punakha
After an early breakfast, set out on a rewarding hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, built in 2002 by the Queen Mother in honor of the present King. This intricately designed temple, considered one of the finest examples of Bhutanese craftsmanship, offers panoramic views over the lower valley and provides insight into three different sects of Mahayana Buddhism. It’s a spiritual and scenic highlight often featured in a classic Bhutan itinerary 7 days.
In the afternoon, explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, dramatically situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (male river) and Mo Chhu (female river). Renowned as one of the most impressive dzongs in the country, this masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture stands as a must-see cultural treasure for anyone spending 7 days in Bhutan.
Day 04: Punakha - Paro
Begin the day with a drive to the hilltop nunnery of Sangchen Dorji Lhundrup Chholing, a serene retreat that offers stunning views and a chance to interact with the resident nuns. The main temple here is dedicated to Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, and the complex also features a graceful stupa and intricate slate carvings of sacred figures. This peaceful visit is a cultural gem often highlighted in a Bhutan 7-day itinerary.
Afterward, re-cross the scenic Dochula Pass and stop in Thimphu for lunch. Later in the afternoon, continue your journey to Paro, where you will check into your hotel – another memorable step in your immersive Bhutan tour in 7 days.
Day 05: Paro
After breakfast, step off the usual tourist trail for a short hike to the 15th-century Zurig Lhakhang, perched above Paro Dzong and offering sweeping views of the valley, including the majestic Ta Dzong (Watch Tower) and the striking Paro Rinpung Dzong. This hidden gem is a highlight for those seeking a deeper cultural touch within a Bhutan itinerary 7 days.
Continue with a visit to the iconic 17th-century Paro Rinpung Dzong, meaning “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels.” From here, descend to the traditional covered cantilever bridge, flanked by giant stupas, before driving about 30 minutes to admire the exterior of the remote Drukgyel Dzong ruins (entry not permitted).
On clear days, the journey rewards travelers with a breathtaking view of the snow-capped Mt. Jhomolhari, Bhutan’s third-highest peak, making it one of the unforgettable moments of any Bhutan 7-day itinerary.
Day 06: Paro - Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery
This morning, set out on an unforgettable excursion to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic landmark. Perched dramatically on a sheer cliff face at 2,950 meters above sea level, it is both a spiritual symbol and an architectural wonder, often considered the highlight of any Bhutan itinerary 7 days. For active travelers, a two-hour hike rewards you with even more striking views of the monastery; alternatively, a pony ride can be arranged at an additional cost.
Later, just outside Paro Town, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples. Here, you’ll also have the chance to experience authentic rural life by meeting villagers in a traditional farmhouse - a meaningful cultural encounter that completes the journey for those spending 7 days in Bhutan.
Day 07: Paro Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. As you bid farewell to the remote and mystical Dragon Kingdom, watch Bhutan’s guardian mountains fade into the distance - marking the perfect conclusion to your enriching Bhutan tour in 7 days.
