10 Day Discover Bhutan Travel Plan
Experience the best of Bhutan in just 10days – a perfectly crafted itinerary to explore stunning landscapes, ancient culture, and unforgettable moments with DeyBhutan Tours.
Bhutan Trip Itinerary – Your Gateway to the Land of Happiness
Discover the magic of Bhutan with our carefully crafted itinerary – a journey through stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant culture that will leave you enchanted and inspired. Let’s explore the Land of Happiness together
Welcome to the magical Land of the Thunder Dragon! As you arrive at Paro International Airport, your guide will greet you just outside the arrival hall. At over 7,300 feet above sea level, you’ll need some time to adjust to the altitude, so we’ll take it easy. A short drive will take you to your hotel, where you’ll enjoy a delicious Bhutanese lunch before exploring the capital city, Thimphu.
Motithang Takin Preserve: Our first stop is the home of Bhutan’s national animal, the takin. This unique creature, often described as a mix between a moose and a cow, is a must-see. The preserve was created after the king decided that keeping animals in cages went against Buddhist beliefs. Today, it’s a peaceful place to observe these gentle animals in their natural habitat.
Buddha View Point: Next, we’ll visit the 169-foot-tall Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world. From here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Thimphu Valley. It’s the perfect spot to take in the beauty of Bhutan and reflect on your first day in this enchanting country.
By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced the perfect introduction to Bhutan’s culture, nature, and spirituality.
Today, we’ll dive deeper into Thimphu’s rich culture and history. Here’s what your day will look like:
Centenary Farmers’ Market: If it’s the weekend, we’ll visit this lively market where locals gather to sell fresh produce, handmade crafts, and more. It’s a great place to experience Bhutanese daily life and pick up some unique souvenirs.
National Folk Heritage Museum: Step back in time at this museum, designed to look like a traditional 19th-century rural home. Through exhibits and demonstrations, you’ll learn about Bhutan’s rural life, art, and culture.
National Textile Museum: Discover the art of Bhutanese weaving, a living tradition preserved by the government. You’ll see beautiful textiles and learn about their cultural significance.
National Memorial Chorten: This iconic stupa, built in 1974 to honor the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, is a place of peace and meditation. Join locals as they walk around the chorten, spinning prayer wheels and offering prayers.
Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory: Watch skilled craftsmen create traditional Bhutanese paper, known as Deh-sho, using ancient methods. This paper is used for religious texts and art.
Simtokha Dzong: Just outside Thimphu, we’ll visit Bhutan’s oldest fortress, built in 1629. Legend says it was constructed to trap a demon. Today, it’s a beautiful example of Bhutanese architecture, with intricate paintings and carvings.
Thimphu Tashichho Dzong: End the day at this stunning fortress-monastery, the largest in Thimphu. It’s the seat of the king and government offices, and its unique design was built without nails or written plans!
By the end of the day, you’ll have a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s culture, traditions, and history.
Today, we’ll travel to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, with a stop at the famous Dochula Pass along the way. Here’s what makes this day special:
Dochula Pass: At 3,100 meters, this scenic spot offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayan mountains. You’ll see the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, built by the Queen Mother to honor Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in a 2003 battle. It’s a peaceful place to reflect and take in the beauty of Bhutan.
Punakha Dzong: Next, we’ll visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, built in 1637. This fortress is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, sitting at the meeting point of two rivers. It serves as the winter home for Bhutan’s spiritual leaders and has been carefully restored after fires and floods. Its grandeur and history make it a must-see.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: Our final stop is this unique temple, built by the Queen Mother to promote peace and harmony. It’s a beautiful example of Bhutanese art and architecture, with intricate details drawn from ancient religious texts. The peaceful surroundings and stunning views make it a perfect place to end the day.
By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced the perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and spirituality that makes Punakha so special.
Today, we’ll take an 8-hour scenic drive from Punakha to Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. This historic town is where the first two kings ruled Bhutan, and it holds a special place in the country’s history. Here’s what your day will look like:
Trongsa Dzong: As you approach Trongsa, you’ll see the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Built in the 16th century, this massive fortress sits high above the Mangde Chu Valley and was once the seat of power for Bhutan’s kings. Every king has served as the governor of Trongsa before becoming king, making it a symbol of the monarchy’s legacy. Explore its temples, corridors, and courtyards, and feel the weight of history in its walls.
Chendebji Chorten: On the way to Trongsa, we’ll stop at the Chendebji Chorten, a large white stupa built in the 19th century. Located by a peaceful river, this chorten was constructed to subdue an evil spirit. Its design is inspired by the famous Swayambhunath Stupa in Nepal, and it’s a serene spot to pause and reflect.
By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced the rich history and royal heritage of Bhutan, leaving you with a deeper connection to this magical kingdom.
Today, we’ll explore the Bumthang Valley, known as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. This sacred valley is where Buddhism took root in Bhutan, and it’s filled with ancient temples, legends, and stunning landscapes. Here’s what your day will look like:
Kurjey Lhakhang: We’ll start at this sacred monastery, where a rock bears the body imprint of Guru Rinpoche, who meditated here to subdue a powerful demon. The temple is a deeply spiritual place and a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage.
Jambay Lhakhang: Next, we’ll visit one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in 659 AD. Legend says it was one of 108 temples built in a single day to pin down a giant demoness blocking the spread of Buddhism. Every October, this temple hosts a vibrant festival filled with music, dance, and color.
Tamshing Goemba: Built in 1501 by the Buddhist saint Pema Lingpa, this monastery is a treasure trove of ancient art and history. After exploring, we’ll hike to the Thangbi Valley and cross a suspension bridge to visit Thangbi Lhakhang, a 14th-century temple surrounded by serene landscapes.
Kenchosum Lhakhang: This rural temple dates back to the 7th century and was restored in the 15th century by Pema Lingpa. It houses three sacred Buddha statues representing the past, present, and future. Legend says the bell inside can be heard as far as Lhasa, Tibet!
Jakar Dzong: Known as the “Castle of the White Bird,” this fortress was built in 1549 on a hill where a white bird signaled its sacred location. It’s a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture and history.
Swiss Farm: End the day at this unique farm, owned by a Swiss-Bhutanese family. Here, you can taste Swiss-style cheeses and Bhutan’s only locally brewed beer, Red Panda.
By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced the spiritual, historical, and cultural richness of Bumthang, leaving you with a deeper connection to Bhutan’s heritage.
Today, we’ll travel to Gangtey, passing through Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. This historic town is where the Wangchuck dynasty began, and every king has served as the governor of Trongsa before becoming king. Here’s what your day will look like:
Trongsa Dzong: We’ll stop at this impressive fortress, built in 1543. Known as the “New Town,” Trongsa has played a key role in Bhutan’s history. The dzong is a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture and a symbol of the monarchy’s legacy.
Trongsa Museum (Taa Dzong): Perched on a hill above the dzong, this ancient watchtower was built in 1652 to protect the town. Today, it’s a museum showcasing the history of the Wangchuck dynasty and the region. You’ll see Buddhist art, royal artifacts, and even a 500-year-old jacket worn by Ngagi Wangchuck, an ancestor of the royal family. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Bhutan’s past.
By the end of the day, you’ll have a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s royal heritage and the history that shaped this beautiful country.
Today, we’ll travel to the stunning Phobjikha Valley, also known as Gangtey Valley. This peaceful, bowl-shaped valley is a wildlife sanctuary and the winter home of the rare black-necked cranes, which migrate here from Tibet between November and March. You might also spot other native animals like muntjac, sambar, serow, or yak.
Gangtey Goemba: Perched on a hill overlooking the valley, this 17th-century monastery is a beautiful example of Tibetan architecture. Its prayer hall features eight grand pillars, and the site holds deep spiritual significance. According to legend, the Buddhist saint Pema Lingpa predicted a temple would be built here to spread his teachings. His grandson fulfilled this prophecy in 1613. Nearby, the Kuenzang Chholing building is where monks meditate for three years, three months, and three days.
Homestay Experience: For a truly unique experience, you can stay overnight in a local farmhouse. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with a Bhutanese family, learn about their daily life, and enjoy their warm hospitality.
By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced the natural beauty and spiritual serenity of Gangtey Valley, leaving you with unforgettable memories.
Today, we head back to the beautiful Paro Valley, home to some of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries and the country’s only international airport. This mix of ancient traditions and modern life makes Paro a special place that connects Bhutan’s past, present, and future.
Chomolhari Mountain: The valley is dominated by Chomolhari, Bhutan’s third-highest mountain at 24,035 feet. Known as the “wife” of Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, Chomolhari’s glacier waters feed the rivers of Paro Valley, creating a stunning natural backdrop.
Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong): This 15th-century fortress, also called the “Fortress on Jewels,” is one of Bhutan’s most impressive dzongs. Built with stones instead of clay, it’s a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Today, it serves as the administrative center of Paro.
Ta Dzong (National Museum of Bhutan): Perched above Paro Dzong, this cylindrical watchtower was built in 1649 and later turned into a museum in 1968. Inside, you’ll find ancient artifacts, traditional art, textiles, weapons, and household items that tell the story of Bhutan’s rich history and culture.
By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced the perfect blend of natural beauty and historical wonders that make Paro Valley so unique.
Today is the highlight of your Bhutan trip – a visit to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery)! Here’s what your day will look like:
Tiger’s Nest Monastery: We’ll take a 2-hour hike to this sacred monastery, perched on a cliff over 10,000 feet above sea level. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tiger to meditate in a cave for three years. The hike is an adventure, with colorful prayer flags lining the trail and stunning views of the Himalayas. It’s a spiritual and physical journey you’ll never forget.
Drukgyal Dzong Ruins: After the hike, we’ll visit the ruins of this 17th-century fortress, built to defend against Tibetan invasions. Although destroyed by fire in 1951, the ruins stand as a proud reminder of Bhutan’s military victories. On clear days, you can even see the snow-capped peak of Chomolhari Mountain in the distance.
Kyichu Lhakhang: We’ll end the day at one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century by a Tibetan king. Legend says it was one of 108 temples built in a single day to pin down a giant demoness blocking the spread of Buddhism. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place to reflect on your journey.
By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced the perfect mix of adventure, history, and spirituality that makes Bhutan so special.
Today, it’s time to say goodbye to the magical land of Bhutan. After an unforgettable journey, we’ll take an early flight back to Singapore. We hope you’ve made wonderful memories, captured countless photos, and maybe even made a few friends along the way.
Thank you for letting us be a part of your adventure. We hope to welcome you back someday to explore more of Bhutan’s beauty, culture, and warmth. Until then, Tashi Delek (good luck and blessings)!
Conclusion About Bhutan Trip Itinerary
“Your Bhutan trip itinerary is more than just a travel plan – it’s a transformative journey into a world of culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. From the awe-inspiring heights of the Tiger’s Nest to the serene valleys of Punakha, every moment in Bhutan is a lesson in mindfulness and connection. You’ll learn about the deep-rooted traditions of Buddhism, witness the harmony between nature and humanity, and experience the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality. This is a land where time slows down, allowing you to reflect, recharge, and rediscover what truly matters.
By choosing DeyBhutan Tours and Travel, you’re not just planning a trip – you’re embarking on a life-changing adventure. We’ll guide you through ancient monasteries, vibrant festivals, and hidden gems, ensuring you leave with a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s rich heritage and values. From the stories of Guru Rinpoche to the intricate art of traditional crafts, every experience will enrich your soul. Let us create a journey that’s not only memorable but also meaningful. Together, we’ll uncover the magic of Bhutan – a place that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Culture Tours to Deya Bhutan Tours And Travel
Bhutan is a very safe country with friendly people and a strong focus on visitor safety. The government and local communities work hard to ensure tourists are protected. In case of emergencies, there are hospitals, police stations, and tourist help centers in major towns. Guides and tour operators are trained to handle emergencies and will assist you quickly. Always carry your travel insurance and emergency contact numbers. By following local guidelines and staying aware, you can enjoy a safe and worry-free trip to Bhutan!
Deya Bhutan Tours has a clear and flexible cancellation policy to make your travel plans stress-free. If you need to cancel your Bhutan tour, they will work with you to find the best solution. Depending on how close your cancellation is to the tour date, you may receive a partial or full refund, as per their policy. They understand that plans can change, so they aim to be fair and helpful. For exact details, it’s best to check their website or contact their team directly. Deya Bhutan Tours is committed to making your experience smooth and worry-free!
Deya Bhutan Tours takes pride in having highly qualified and professional guides. Their guides are officially certified by the Bhutan Tourism Council, which ensures they meet high standards of knowledge and service. They are well-trained in Bhutan’s history, culture, and traditions, and many speak excellent English. With their friendly and helpful nature, they make your tour informative and enjoyable. Deya Bhutan Tours’ guides are dedicated to providing you with a memorable and authentic experience in Bhutan!
Yes, you can absolutely request a specific tour guide or driver for your trip with Deya Bhutan Tours! They understand that having a familiar or preferred guide can make your experience even better. Simply let them know your preference when booking your tour, and they will do their best to accommodate your request. Deya Bhutan Tours is committed to making your journey personalized and enjoyable!
