Bhutan in 7 Days: The Classic Round Trip Through West Bhutan

The 7-day route through West Bhutan is the perfect introduction to the last Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas. It combines the three most fascinating regions of the country – the historic Paro Valley, the vibrant capital Thimphu, and subtropical Punakha – and leads you to the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery. This route has become the ideal travel plan for first-time visitors: you experience Bhutan's essence in a week and can easily align the trip with a week of vacation.

Route Overview

Who is this route ideal for?

The 7-day route is the most booked itinerary for Bhutan – and for good reason. It offers the ideal balance between cultural highlights, impressive nature, and a realistic time frame.

Day-by-Day Route

The following daily schedule is the classic itinerary that has proven itself in practice. Depending on flight times and personal interests, your guide can adapt the route flexibly.

Day 1: Arrival in Paro - Transfer to Thimphu

The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular flying experiences in the world. The plane navigates between snow-capped Himalayan peaks, glides through narrow valleys, and finally lands on one of the world's most challenging airports – at 2,300 meters altitude in the narrow Paro Valley.

Already at the airport, you notice the difference from other travel destinations: The terminal building is constructed in traditional Bhutanese style, the clear mountain air fills your lungs, and an unusual calm surrounds you. Your guide is already waiting and escorts you to your vehicle.

The drive to Thimphu leads through the picturesque Paro Valley, past terraced fields and traditional farmhouses. Depending on arrival time, you may have time in the afternoon for first explorations in the capital – perhaps a visit to the Memorial Chorten or a walk along the main street Norzin Lam.

Day 2: Thimphu - Full Day Exploration

The day begins with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, the impressive monastery-fortress that serves as the seat of government and royal residence. Built in 1641 and expanded many times, it's a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture that unites worldly and religious power under one roof.

Next is the National Memorial Chorten, an important pilgrimage site for Bhutanese. The white stupa was erected in 1974 in memory of the third king. Here you can observe locals praying, walking clockwise around the Chorten while spinning their prayer wheels.

In the afternoon, you encounter the 51-meter-high Buddha Dordenma statue at Kuenselphodrang. Inside this bronze statue are over 100,000 smaller Buddha figures. The panoramic view from here over the entire Thimphu Valley is spectacular – especially at sunset.

Day 3: Thimphu - Punakha (via Dochula Pass)

In the morning, you leave Thimphu heading east. The road winds upward to Dochula Pass at 3,150 meters. Here awaits one of Bhutan's most impressive photo subjects: 108 white Chortens (Buddhist stupas), erected in 2003 in memory of fallen soldiers. Colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind.

With clear visibility – especially in autumn and winter – the pass opens a spectacular panorama of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The highest visible mountains exceed 7,000 meters. Take time for photos and a cup of hot tea at the café on the pass.

The drive descends into the much warmer Punakha Valley at only 1,300 meters. The subtropical climate enables rice and orange cultivation – a noticeable contrast to the cooler mountain regions you just left.

In the afternoon, you visit Punakha Dzong, considered the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan. It majestically overlooks the confluence of Mo Chhu (Mother River) and Pho Chhu (Father River). Built in 1637–38, it serves as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo, the religious leader of Bhutan.

Day 4: Punakha - Full Day Exploration

The day begins with a hike through golden rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple. The temple is dedicated to the "Divine Madman" Drukpa Kunley, an eccentric saint of the 15th century. Couples wishing for children pilgrimage here for a blessing.

The path leads through typical Bhutanese villages with traditional farmhouses. The rice fields shimmer in different shades of green depending on the season or glow golden. An easy hike of about 30 minutes each way – with time to pause and photograph.

In the afternoon, several options are available: a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten (approx. 1 hour uphill with lovely valley views) or a walk to Punakha Suspension Bridge, Bhutan's longest suspension bridge. The gentle sway of the bridge over the turquoise river is an experience in itself.

Day 5: Punakha - Paro

The drive back to Paro again crosses Dochula Pass – a second chance at the Himalayan panorama if it was cloudy the first time. The total driving time is about 4 hours with breaks, enough time to enjoy the changing landscape.

In the afternoon, you explore Paro Valley. Rinpung Dzong ("Fortress of Jewels") is one of the most impressive Dzongs in the country. The covered wooden bridge over Paro Chhu creates a picturesque entrance – a favorite photo spot.

In the historic Ta Dzong, the former watchtower above Paro Dzong, is the National Museum. The collection includes Buddhist art, historical weapons, and traditional textiles – a good overview of Bhutan's cultural history and the perfect preparation for what awaits you the next day.

Day 6: Paro - The Tiger's Nest Hike

Day 6 is the highlight of your Bhutan trip: the hike to the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang). The monastery seems to cling to a 900-meter-high cliff face and is the most photographed landmark in the country. The sight is breathtaking – and the journey there is an experience in itself.

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche, who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, flew here on the back of a tiger in the 8th century and meditated in a cave for three years. The current monastery was built in 1692 and was meticulously reconstructed after a devastating fire in 1998.

The hike begins at the parking lot at about 2,400 meters. A well-maintained path leads through pine and rhododendron forest steadily uphill. After about an hour, you reach the cafeteria halfway up – here the first spectacular view of the monastery opens up. Time for a break and a photo.

From the cafeteria, it's another 45–60 minutes to the monastery. The path first descends to a bridge over a waterfall, then climbs steeply to the entrance. In total, you should plan 4–5 hours for the entire hike.

After the descent and a well-deserved rest, you can optionally visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples from the 7th century. A quiet, meditative ending to an intensive day.

Day 7: Departure

The last day is usually short. After breakfast, transfer to nearby Paro Airport – just about 15–20 minutes' drive. Most departures occur in the morning. Depending on flight time, you might have time for a final stroll down Paro's main street or last-minute shopping. And then: one last look at the mountains before the plane takes off.

Highlights of This Route

These five highlights make the 7-day route an unforgettable Bhutan experience – each one represents a different aspect of the kingdom.

Driving Times and Distances

Roads in Bhutan are winding and pass through mountainous terrain. The stated driving times already account for moderate speed – plan additional time for photo stops and breaks.

Costs for 7 Days in Bhutan

A 7-day trip to Bhutan requires an appropriate budget. The largest costs are the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and the tour package. The advantage: costs are transparent and plannable. Couples travel more cheaply per person since vehicle and guide are shared.

Solo Travelers (Standard 3-Star)

Couple (Standard 3-Star)

Additional Costs

View detailed cost breakdown

Best Time to Visit for This Route

The 7-day route through West Bhutan is possible year-round. The best time depends on your priorities – clear views of the mountains, blooming nature, or fewer tourists.

Learn more about the best time to visit

Practical Tips

Altitude Acclimatization

The trip takes you to altitudes between 1,300 m (Punakha) and 3,150 m (Dochula Pass). Most of your time is spent at 2,300–2,400 m. The route is deliberately designed so you acclimatize slowly – the Tiger's Nest at the end of the trip allows the best adjustment.

Packing List Essentials for 7 Days

• Hiking Boots – Essential for Tiger's Nest, well broken in
• Layered Clothing – Temperature variations between 10°C and 25°C
• Rain Jacket – Useful even outside monsoon season
• Sun Protection – High UV radiation at altitude, sunglasses + sunscreen
• Camera with Large Storage – You'll take many photos
• Power Bank – Not everywhere reliable power supply
• Modest Clothing – For temple and Dzong visits

Complete packing list for Bhutan

Tips for the Tiger's Nest Hike

• Start early (7–8 AM) for less crowding and cooler temperatures
• Hiking poles are recommended, especially for the descent
• Horses can be rented to the cafeteria (approx. 20–25 USD)
• Bring at least 1.5 liters of water
• Don't forget energy bars or snacks
• Cameras forbidden in the monastery – photos only from outside

Alternative: Including Phobjikha Valley

For travelers who want to see Phobjikha Valley with its black-necked cranes, there is an alternative 7-day route. This is more compact and includes more driving time, but offers the unique Phobjikha Valley.

What This Route Does Not Cover

In 7 days, you see the main highlights of West Bhutan. However, some regions and experiences require more time. These aspects are not realistic in one week:

• Phobjikha Valley – The valley of black-necked cranes, only in the alternative route
• Bumthang – The spiritual center with the oldest monasteries
• East Bhutan – The most pristine region, very remote
• Haa Valley – The hidden valley near the Tibetan border
• Multi-Day Treks – Druk Path, Jomolhari or Snowman Trek

Frequently Asked Questions

Next Steps for Your 7-Day Journey

You now know the classic 7-day route in detail. These topics will help with further planning:

The regions of this route in detail

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