Make the Most of Your Time in Bhutan

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Buddhist monks at a festival in Bhutan
How Many Days to Spend in Bhutan

Whether you have five days or an entire month, you'll have an epic experience in Bhutan with a bit of planning. Five days is just long enough for a quick Himalayan trek or for exploring the major monasteries and other sites around Thimpu and adjacent valleys. With a week or longer, you can branch out to far-flung locales or enjoy an in-depth experience such as spending 10 days checking off species of birds on a birding itinerary. With two weeks or more, you can explore the full breadth of the country.

A view from Dochu La Pass
Map of 5 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Even with just five days to spend in Bhutan, travelers have a variety of options. The classic highlights tour takes you to key attractions like Dochu La Pass and the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, while trekking tours—including one along the Dagala Trek and the other along the popular Druk Path Trek—take you away from civilization to explore Bhutan's alpine scenery. Alternatively, combine cultural sightseeing and outdoor adventure on an itinerary that features both. Read on to learn more about possible 5-day itineraries around Bhutan.

Dramatic landscapes in the Paro Valley
Map of 1 Week in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week to spend in Bhutan, many travelers choose a highlights tour that includes visits to monasteries and the opportunity to do some hiking in the mountains. If you're interested in a more active trip, consider an itinerary that combines outdoor activities—including a rafting trip and a cycling tour—with cultural sightseeing. For even more of an adventure, try a trekking trip through the Himalayas, or go off the beaten path with an itinerary that focuses on the ancient temples and quiet valleys of Western Bhutan. Read on to learn more about your itinerary options.

Chimi Lhakhang (Monastery of Fertility) in Bhutan
Map of 10 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days to spend in Bhutan, your options are plentiful. Explore the country's top attractions, from fortresses to mountain trails, on a highlights tour, or focus more exclusively on outdoor adventure with a trekking itinerary around Bhutan's dramatic landscapes. Bird lovers might opt for a guided adventure around Bhutan's top bird habitats, while travelers with children will love a family-oriented tour that includes whitewater rafting, archery, and hiking. Read on to learn more about the best 10-day itineraries through Bhutan.

The Punakha Dzong Monastery
Map of 2 Weeks in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

You can cover a lot of ground with two weeks to spend in Bhutan. One popular itinerary option is a highlights tour that features visits to the Kingdom's most famous monasteries, temples, and high-altitude mountain passes, plus the chance to do some day hikes. If it's a more active adventure you're after, consider a 14-day cycling tour around the country or a hiking tour that includes the famous trek to Mount Jomolhari. It's also possible to combine some time in Bhutan with a trip to Nepal, getting a solid introduction to both countries' cultures and landscapes. Read on to learn more about your itinerary options.