10-14 Days in Bhutan: From Western Bhutan to Spiritual Bumthang
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With 10-14 days, you unlock a completely different Bhutan experience. This travel duration not only allows you to visit all the classic western highlights but also leads deep into the spiritual heart of the country – the Bumthang Valley with its oldest monasteries and the remote Phobjikha Valley, winter home of the rare black-necked cranes. Instead of a tightly packed schedule, there's time for spontaneous encounters, hikes, and immersion into Bhutanese daily life.
Why 10-14 Days is the Ideal Travel Duration
While 7 days provide a good first impression of Bhutan, 10-14 days offer a journey of a different quality. The key difference: You leave the well-developed western tourist regions and reach Central Bhutan – a region that few visitors experience. The longer drive times are rewarded with more authentic experiences and the opportunity to experience the country beyond the main attractions.
The Classic 10-Day Route
This route takes you from Paro via Thimphu and Punakha to Bumthang and back via Phobjikha Valley. The route plan is a proven suggestion that can be adapted based on your interests and festival dates.
Days 1-3: Arrival, Thimphu, and Punakha
The journey begins with a spectacular flight into Paro airport and transfer to the capital Thimphu. After a night to acclimatize, you explore on day two the world's only capital with no traffic lights – from Buddha Dordenma to the bustling Weekend Market. On day three, the route goes over Dochula Pass (3,150 m) with its 108 chortens to Punakha, home to Bhutan's most beautiful dzong.
Day 1-3 Highlights
- Buddha Dordenma: 51-meter statue with panoramic views over Thimphu
- Tashichho Dzong: Seat of government and religious center
- Dochula Pass: 108 chortens with Himalayan panorama in clear weather
- Punakha Dzong: Masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture at the confluence of two rivers
Days 4-6: Bumthang – The Spiritual Heart
Day four brings the longest driving leg of the journey: approximately 215 km via Trongsa to Bumthang, which takes about 8-9 hours. On the way, you pass the imposing Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan's largest. The following two days belong to Bumthang – the spiritual heart of the country. Here stand some of the oldest and holiest temples: Kurjey Lhakhang with the body imprint of Guru Rinpoche, Jambey Lhakhang from the 7th century, and Tamshing with the country's oldest wall paintings.
Day 4-6 Highlights
- Trongsa Dzong: Strategic fortress, birthplace of the royal dynasty
- Kurjey Lhakhang: Holiest temple, body imprint of Guru Rinpoche in rock
- Jambey Lhakhang: One of Bhutan's oldest temples (7th century)
- Tang Valley: Remote valley with traditional villages
- Red Panda Brewery: Local craft beer at 2,600 m altitude
Days 7-8: Phobjikha – Valley of the Cranes
From Bumthang, the route leads back via Trongsa and then to Phobjikha – a vast glacier valley, counted among the most beautiful landscapes in the Himalayas. From October to February, rare black-necked cranes overwinter here, flying in from Tibet. On day eight, you explore the valley on foot: The Gangtey Nature Trail passes by the monastery of the same name through pine forests and traditional villages.
Day 7-8 Highlights
- Gangtey Goenpa: Important Nyingmapa monastery with panoramic views
- Gangtey Nature Trail: 4 km hike through the valley (1.5-2 hours)
- Black-Necked Cranes: November to February: 300-500 birds in the valley
- Traditional Villages: Authentic rural life away from tourist trails
Days 9-10: Paro and Tiger's Nest
On day nine, the long drive back to the west takes you past Wangdue and Thimphu to Paro. The last full day belongs to the iconic Tiger's Nest – Taktsang Monastery. The hike to this sanctuary nestled against the cliff face is the crowning conclusion of any Bhutan trip. Depending on flight time, day of departure may still offer time for Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples, located directly near Paro.
Day 9-10 Highlights
- Taktsang (Tiger's Nest): Iconic monastery at 3,120 m, hike 4-5 hours
- Kyichu Lhakhang: One of Bhutan's two oldest temples
- Paro Dzong: Impressive fortress above the city
- National Museum: Bhutan's history and culture in the Ta Dzong
Extending to 14 Days
With 14 days, you have two attractive options: Either explore the remote Haa Valley in the west – one of the least visited valleys – or deepen your time in Bumthang with the Ura Valley, the easternmost point of this route. Both variants reward you with authentic experiences off the beaten path.
| Day | Option A: Haa Valley | Option B: More Bumthang |
|---|---|---|
| Day 11 | Paro → Haa via Chele La Pass (3,988 m) | Bumthang: Explore Ura Valley |
| Day 12 | Haa: Lhakhang Karpo, Lhakhang Nagpo | Bumthang: Hiking, local villages |
| Day 13 | Haa → Paro, final explorations | Travel back westward |
| Day 14 | Departure | Departure |
Highlights of the Extended Route
These places distinguish the 10-14-day route from shorter trips. They offer experiences that few Bhutan visitors have – and that last long in memory.
Phobjikha Valley
The Phobjikha Valley (also called Gangtey Valley) is a vast glacier valley at approximately 3,000 m elevation. Its specialty: From October to February, 300-500 black-necked cranes overwinter here, flying in from Tibet – a sacred animal in Bhutan's Buddhist culture. Gangtey Goenpa, an important monastery of the Nyingmapa tradition from the 17th century, overlooks the valley. The wide, open landscape with wetland meadows and pine forests provides ideal hiking conditions.
Hikes in Phobjikha Valley
- Gangtey Nature Trail: 4 km, 1.5-2 hours, easy – through forest and villages
- Shasa Village Trail: 6 km, 3 hours, moderate – to traditional village
- Crane Walk: In season: viewing points for cranes
Bumthang – Four Sacred Valleys
Bumthang is the spiritual heart of Bhutan and consists of four valleys: Chokhor, Tang, Ura, and Chumey. Here Guru Rinpoche spread Buddhism in the 8th century, and the country's oldest temples bear witness to this history. The Chokhor Valley houses the most important shrines, while the Tang Valley impresses with its remoteness and Ura Valley with its authenticity. Surprisingly: In Bumthang you'll also find a Swiss cheese-making facility and Bhutan's only craft brewery.
| Valley | Character | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Chokhor | Main valley, administrative center Jakar | Kurjey, Jambey, Tamshing Lhakhang |
| Tang | Remote, traditional villages | Ogyen Choeling Museum, Burning Lake |
| Ura | Easternmost valley, most authentic | Ura Lhakhang, Ura Yakchoe Festival |
| Chumey | Transit valley, known for crafts | Yathra Weaving, Prakar Lhakhang |
Trongsa Dzong
Trongsa Dzong is Bhutan's largest dzong and has guarded the important east-west route since the 17th century. Here began the rise of the Wangchuck Dynasty – all Bhutanese kings were first Penlops (governors) of Trongsa. The structure spans multiple levels down the mountainside and is an impressive sight from the road. In the nearby Ta Dzong, the Tower of Trongsa Museum houses the history of the royal family.
Drive Times and Distances
In Bhutan, 100 kilometers often take 3-4 hours of driving time. Winding mountain roads rarely allow more than 30-40 km/h, but reward you with spectacular views. Plan generously and consider transfers as part of the experience.
| Route | Distance | Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paro → Thimphu | 60 km | 1 hour | Well-developed road |
| Thimphu → Punakha | 85 km | 2-2.5 hours | Via Dochula Pass (3,150 m) |
| Punakha → Trongsa | 130 km | 3 hours | Mountain roads, many curves |
| Trongsa → Bumthang | 70 km | 3 hours | Via Yotongla Pass (3,425 m) |
| Bumthang → Phobjikha | 150 km | 5-6 hours | Back via Trongsa |
| Phobjikha → Paro | 180 km | 6-7 hours | Via Wangdue, Thimphu |
| Paro → Haa | 65 km | 2 hours | Via Chele La Pass (3,988 m) |
Cost Overview for 10-14 Days
Bhutan trip costs consist of three main components: Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), visa fee, and tour package (accommodation, transport, guide). The longer travel duration means higher total costs, but a significantly better ratio between investment and experience.
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| SDF (9 nights) | 900 USD | 100 USD per night, valid until August 2027 |
| Visa | 40 USD | One-time, non-refundable |
| Tour Package | 2,400-3,000 USD | 3-star hotels, includes transport, guide, meals |
| Bhutan Total | 3,340-3,940 USD | Excluding flights |
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| SDF (13 nights) | 1,300 USD | 100 USD per night |
| Visa | 40 USD | One-time |
| Tour Package | 3,200-4,000 USD | Depending on accommodation category |
| Bhutan Total | 4,540-5,340 USD | Excluding flights |
Additional Costs
- Flights from Europe: 800-1,500 USD depending on season and route
- Entrance fees/Festivals: 50-150 USD for special events
- Tips: 120-180 USD for guide and driver (10-14 days)
- Extras/Souvenirs: At your discretion
For detailed calculations, comparisons between different accommodation categories, and cost optimization tips, visit our Bhutan travel costs page.
Best Time to Visit for This Route
For the 10-14-day route with Phobjikha and Bumthang, seasonal factors play a larger role than on shorter trips. Black-necked cranes are only in Phobjikha from November to February, and Bumthang hosts some of Bhutan's most atmospheric festivals.
| Period | Rating | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| March-April | Excellent | Blooming season, Paro Tshechu, clear views |
| May | Good | Late blooms, before monsoon, fewer tourists |
| June-August | Limited | Monsoon: Roads to Bumthang sometimes difficult |
| September | Good | End of monsoon, Thimphu Tshechu |
| October | Excellent | Autumn festivals, crane arrival in Phobjikha |
| November | Excellent | Cranes guaranteed, Black-Necked Crane Festival |
| December-February | Good | Cold, but cranes in Phobjikha, few tourists |
Learn more about the best time to visit Bhutan
Comparison: 7 Days vs. 10-14 Days
The choice between 7 and 10-14 days depends on your available time, budget, and priorities. This overview helps with the decision.
| Aspect | 7 Days | 10-14 Days |
|---|---|---|
| Regions | Paro, Thimphu, Punakha | + Bumthang, Phobjikha, possibly Haa |
| Pace | Tight, little buffer | Relaxed, time for spontaneity |
| Depth | Highlights tour | Cultural immersion |
| Encounters | Limited | Time for local contacts |
| Hikes | Tiger's Nest | + Gangtey Trail, Bumthang Trails |
| Costs (Solo, Standard) | Approximately 2,400-2,800 USD | Approximately 3,300-5,300 USD |
| For Whom? | First-time visitors with limited time | Those wanting to explore deeper |
In Bhutan, we measure time not in hours, but in experiences. The more time you bring, the richer you will return home.
To the 7-Day Route | To the 14-21 Day Route (East Bhutan)
Planning Tips
Recommendations for the 10-14 Day Route
- Plan at least 2 nights in Bumthang: After the long drive, your body needs rest. With only one night, you see Bumthang only superficially and miss the special atmosphere.
- Build in flexibility for festivals: With 10+ days, you can adjust the route to festival dates. Experiencing an authentic Tshechu is an unforgettable highlight.
- Watch the crane season: If black-necked cranes are important to you, travel between November and February. Outside this period, Phobjikha is still beautiful, but without the natural spectacle.
- Book early during high season: Particularly during festivals and crane season, good accommodations in Phobjikha and Bumthang fill up quickly. 3-6 months advance notice recommended.
What This Route Does NOT Cover
Despite all its variety, the 10-14-day route has its limits. These destinations require even more time:
- East Bhutan (Trashigang): Requires at least 14-21 days
- Multi-day treks: Druk Path (5-6 days) or Jomolhari (8-11 days) require additional time
- Haa Valley: Only with 14-day option or as day trip from Paro
- Merak & Sakteng: The Brokpa region requires at least 3 weeks
Learn more about longer trips and East Bhutan
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 2 weeks in Bhutan really worth it?
What do I see in 10 days that I don't see in 7 days?
With 10 days, you reach Bumthang – Bhutan's spiritual heart with its oldest monasteries – and Phobjikha Valley with black-necked cranes (November-February). These regions are only accessible with more time and offer more authentic insights than the well-developed western tourist areas.
Is the long drive to Bumthang exhausting?
When is the best time for the cranes in Phobjikha?
Can I do the route in reverse?
Do I need special fitness for this route?
Is 14 days too long for Bhutan?
Further Information
These pages will help you plan your 10-14-day route in detail:
Phobjikha Valley
Everything about the glacier valley of black-necked cranes: hikes, Gangtey Monastery, accommodations, and best visiting times.
Bumthang
Bhutan's spiritual heart: Four sacred valleys, oldest monasteries, local specialties, and hiking routes.
Birdwatching
Black-necked cranes and more: Discover Bhutan's bird life with over 700 species.
Plan Your 10-14 Day Bhutan Journey
We help you create the perfect route for your interests and travel time – including Bumthang, Phobjikha, and all highlights.