Bhutan 4 Day Itinerary

Bhutan 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Acclimatization

  • Arrival: Fly into Paro International Airport (PBH) from your preferred destination.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in Paro, such as the Zhiwa Ling Hotel or similar.
  • Morning: Visit the Paro Dzong, a historic fortress that houses the administrative offices of Paro district.
  • Afternoon: Explore the National Museum of Bhutan to learn about the country’s history and culture.
  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll around Paro town, visiting local shops and cafes.

Things to Know

  • Bhutan is a Buddhist country, and it’s essential to dress modestly when visiting monasteries and dzongs.
  • Remove your shoes before entering temples or holy areas.
  • Try the local cuisine, which includes dishes like ema datshi (chili peppers and cheese) and jowo (rice).

Day 2: Paro to Thimphu

  • Morning: Drive to Thimphu (approximately 1.5 hours), the capital city of Bhutan.
  • Visit: The Buddha Point, a massive statue of Lord Buddha, offering stunning views of the valley.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Thimphu Chorten, a beautiful Buddhist stupa in the heart of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Bhutanese cuisine and folk music at a local restaurant.

Transportation

  • Hire a private vehicle or join a group tour to travel between destinations.
  • Roads in Bhutan can be narrow and winding, so be prepared for scenic but potentially bumpy rides.

Day 3: Thimphu

  • Morning: Visit the Motithang Takin Preserve, home to the national animal of Bhutan, the takin.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Thimphu Weekend Market, where you can find local handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Evening: Take a leisurely walk around the city, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

Visa Requirements

  • All tourists require a visa to enter Bhutan, which must be obtained in advance through a licensed tour operator.
  • The daily tariff for tourists is USD 250 per person, which includes accommodation, meals, and guided tours.

Day 4: Departure from Paro

  • Morning: Drive back to Paro (approximately 1.5 hours) for your departure flight.
  • Last-Minute Shopping: Visit local shops in Paro to pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts.
  • Departure: Fly out of Bhutan from Paro International Airport.

Other Things of Interest

  • Try the local tea, known as suja, which is an essential part of Bhutanese culture.
  • Learn about Gross National Happiness (GNH), a unique philosophy that measures the country’s success beyond economic growth.
  • Respect the environment and local customs by not littering and not touching or pointing at sacred objects.

Remember to plan your trip in advance, as the daily tariff system requires pre-booking of accommodations and tours. Enjoy your journey to Bhutan!