10 Days in Bhutan: Our Recommendations
Ten days might sound like a lot of time to spend in this tiny blob of green below the eastern Himalayas. But trust us when we say that a trip to Bhutan has a lot to offer, ranging from ancient monasteries and centuries-old dzongs (fortresses), to challenging trails and highland lakes hidden amid the mountains above Paro and Thimphu. Whether you want to go on a hiking trip of a lifetime, visit temples or just soak up the laid-back vibes of its cities, there is a lot to see and do during 10 days in Bhutan. In fact, you can combine multiple experiences in the country within this time frame.
Below are our top three Bhutan itineraries that last for 10 to 11 days.
- Petra Giessen
- From Switzerland
10 days in Bhutan: Druk Path Trek with Bhutanese Cultural Experience
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bhutan and explore Paro’s Rinpung Dzong |
| Day 2 | Hike up to Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous monastery |
| Day 3 | Trek to 15th-century ruins at Jele Dzong |
| Day 4 | Venture through alpine and rhododendron forests to Jangchulakha |
| Day 5 | Cross a mountain pass and camp close to Jimilangtsho lakes |
| Day 6 | Ascend to summit overlooking Janetsho Lake, overnight near Simkota Lake |
| Day 7 | Hike in the backdrop of Mount Gangkar Puensum |
| Day 8 | Drive from Thimphu to Punakha, stop at Dochula Pass |
| Day 9 | Drive to Paro, visit Chimi Lhakhang and Druk Wangyal Monastery |
| Day 10 | Depart Paro for your onward journey |
:Bhutan’s rich nature and deep-rooted Buddhist culture are on the offing during this ten-day trip. Soak up its gorgeous landscape of colossal cliffs, high ridges, blue pine forests and crystalline lakes as you follow the trails used by muleteers and shepherds in the past. Spend your nights near highland lakes. Next, cover the highlights of Thimphu, Paro and Punakha. Visit Punakha Dzong, which was built in the 17th century, see Chimi Lhakhang, and cross Dochula Pass.
10 days in Bhutan: Ancient Monasteries and Shrines
| Day 1 | Arrive in Paro and drive to the Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu |
| Day 2 | Explore Thimphu Valley, see its highlights |
| Day 3 | Enjoy scenic drive across Dochula Pass with views of eastern Himalayas |
| Day 4 | Drive across Pelela and Yutongla passes en route to Bumthang |
| Day 5 | Discover Bumthang Valley, see its Buddhist temples and monasteries |
| Day 6 | Continue to Punakha and enjoy free afternoon |
| Day 7 | See the highlights of Punakha, including Punakha Dzong |
| Day 8 | Drive to Paro with stopover at Simtokha Dzong |
| Day 9 | Hike up to Tiger’s Nest, see ancient Kyichu Lhakhang |
| Day 10 | Bid farewell to Paro |
You have ample time to explore the country’s fascinating mix of ancient traditions and stunning landscapes during 10 days in Bhutan with this private tour. Starting from the capital city of Thimphu, this trip takes you to historic temples, ancient monasteries and fortresses that have stood for centuries. Also included are scenic drives across mountain passes and hikes through Bhutan’s dramatic landscape.
11 Days in Bhutan: Druk Path Trek
| Day 1 | Arrive in Paro |
| Day 2 | See the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong in Paro |
| Day 3 | Hit the trail to Jele Dzong, enjoy views of eastern Himalayas |
| Day 4 | Trek to Jangu Lakhang |
| Day 5 | Follow a ridge to Jimilangtso Lake |
| Day 6 | Hike through dwarf rhododendron forests, camp near Simkota Lake |
| Day 7 | Reach the highest point of the trail en route to Phajoding |
| Day 8 | Take the downhill trail to Thimphu, overnight in Punakha |
| Day 9 | Cover the highlights of Punakha, including Punakha Dzong |
| Day 10 | Discover Thimphu during a sightseeing tour and drive to Paro |
| Day 11 | Transfer to the airport for your flight home |
While technically not a 10-day Bhutan itinerary, this eleven-day trip is more than worth it as it gives you the chance to experience Bhutan’s fabled trails. Cover the major sights of Paro before strapping on your hiking boots and heading for a six-day trek through the hills around the Paro Valley. Spend your nights in high-altitude camps and stay near alpine lakes as you continue to the capital city of Thimphu. The eastern Himalayas provide a beautiful backdrop to your journey, and the relatively short day hikes feature a welcoming collection of beautiful ridge walks.
With 10 days in Bhutan, you have enough time to see jaw-dropping mountains, looming dzongs and ancient monasteries that come to life at prayer time. Just in case the above itineraries do not meet your requirements, we have travel experts in Bhutan who can help you plan the perfect itinerary. Check out our guide on how many days to spend in Bhutan for more advice and trip ideas. If you're ready to go, connect with our travel experts based in Bhutan.
