Bhutan, officially known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a country located in South Asia, in the eastern Himalayas. It is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. The country has a total land area of 38,394 square kilometers and a population of approximately 797,765 people as of 2021.
The capital and largest city of Bhutan is Thimphu, with a population of around 100,000 people. Other major cities and towns in Bhutan include Paro, Punakha, Phuntsholing, and Wangdue Phodrang.
Bhutan has a diverse climate due to its varied topography, which ranges from subtropical to alpine. The southern region of Bhutan has a subtropical climate with high temperatures and high humidity, while the northern region has an alpine climate with colder temperatures and snowfall. The central region of Bhutan has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall.
The monsoon season in Bhutan occurs from June to September, with heavy rainfall and strong winds. The best time to visit Bhutan is from September to November, when the weather is dry and clear, and the landscapes are lush and green. The winter season in Bhutan is from December to February, with colder temperatures and snowfall in the higher elevations.
Bhutan is known for its unique culture, which is heavily influenced by Buddhism. The country is also known for its commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage through the concept of Gross National Happiness, which prioritizes the well-being of its citizens over economic growth. Bhutan is also one of the few carbon-negative countries in the world, meaning that it absorbs more carbon dioxide than it emits.
In conclusion Bhutan is a small country located in the Eastern Himalayas, surrounded by India and China. It has a population of about 797,765 people and its capital is Thimphu. It has a diverse climate and it’s best to visit from September to November. Bhutan is known for its unique culture heavily influenced by Buddhism and its commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage through the concept of Gross National Happiness.
7 days Bhutan itinerary informations
Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Visit to Paro Dzong
Upon arrival in Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, you will visit the Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong, which is a fortress-monastery that dates back to the 17th century. The dzong is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture and is currently used as the administrative center of Paro district.
Day 2: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Today, you will hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Taktsang Monastery. The hike takes about 4-5 hours round trip, and is considered to be a moderate to strenuous hike. The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is a sacred Buddhist site that is said to have been visited by Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) in the 8th century. The monastery is located on a cliff face and offers stunning views of the Paro valley.
Day 3: Drive to Thimphu
Today, you will drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. The drive takes about 2 hours. Upon arrival in Thimphu, you will visit the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in memory of the third king of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. You will also visit the Tashichho Dzong, which serves as the administrative and religious center of Thimphu.
Day 4: Sightseeing in Thimphu
Today, you will continue your sightseeing in Thimphu. You will visit the Folk Heritage Museum, which offers a glimpse into the traditional Bhutanese way of life. You will also visit the Textile Museum, which showcases the art of Bhutanese textile weaving. Other places of interest in Thimphu include the Statue of Buddha Dordenma, the Zilukha Nunnery and the Changangkha Lhakhang.
Day 5: Drive to Punakha
Today, you will drive to Punakha, which takes about 3 hours. Punakha was the former capital of Bhutan and is home to the Punakha Dzong, a 17th century fortress-monastery that is considered to be one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan. After visiting the Punakha Dzong, you will visit the Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, also known as “Divine Madman”.
Day 6: Drive to Paro
Today, you will drive back to Paro. You will have free time in the afternoon to explore Paro on your own or relax at your hotel.
Day 7: Departure
Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.
Note: This itinerary is just a sample, It’s up to you how you want to customize your trip depending on your preference, interest and time.