I’d be happy to help you plan a 30-day trip to Bhutan on a budget! Bhutan is a small Himalayan kingdom known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture and strong commitment to preserving its traditional way of life.
Day 1-3: Arrive in Paro and check into budget accommodation (cost: around $30-50 per night)
- Travel method: Fly into Paro International Airport (cost: around $500-800 per person)
- Activities: Visit the Paro Dzong, the Kichu Lhakhang and the Paro Rinpung Dzong
Day 4-6: Take a bus or car to Punakha
- Travel method: Take a bus or car from Paro to Punakha (cost: around $20-30 per person)
- Activities: Visit the Punakha Dzong, the Punakha Suspension Bridge and the Chimi Lhakhang
Day 7-9: Take a bus or car to Gangtey
- Travel method: Take a bus or car from Punakha to Gangtey (cost: around $20-30 per person)
- Activities: Visit the Gangtey Monastery, the Phobjikha Valley and the Black Necked Crane Centre
Day 10-12: Take a bus or car to Bumthang
- Travel method: Take a bus or car from Gangtey to Bumthang (cost: around $20-30 per person)
- Activities: Visit the Jakar Dzong, the Jambay Lhakhang and the Kurjey Lhakhang
Day 13-15: Take a bus or car to Trongsa
- Travel method: Take a bus or car from Bumthang to Trongsa (cost: around $20-30 per person)
- Activities: Visit the Trongsa Dzong, the Chendebji Chorten and the Ta Dzong
Day 16-18: Take a bus or car to Phobjikha
- Travel method: Take a bus or car from Trongsa to Phobjikha (cost: around $20-30 per person)
- Activities: Visit the Phobjikha Valley, the Gangtey Monastery and the Black Necked Crane Centre
Day 19-21: Take a bus or car to Tongsa
- Travel method: Take a bus or car from Phobjikha to Tongsa (cost: around $20-30 per person)
- Activities: Visit the Tongsa Dzong, the Tongsa fortress and the Taa Dzong
Day 22-24: Take a bus or car to Bumthang
- Travel method: Take a bus or car from Tongsa to Bumthang (cost: around $20-30 per person)
- Activities: Visit the Jakar Dzong, the Jambay Lhakhang and the Kurjey Lhakhang
Day 25-27: Take a bus or car to Paro
- Travel method: Take a bus or car from Bumthang to Paro (cost: around $20-30 per person)
- Activities: Visit the Paro Dzong, the Kichu Lhakhang and the Paro Rinpung Dzong
Day 28-30: Depart from Paro
- Travel method: Fly out of Paro International Airport (cost: around $500-800 per person)
The total cost for this itinerary would depend on your accommodation choices, transportation choices and activities you choose to do. However, you can expect to spend around $3000-4000 for the entire trip. This will cover the cost of transportation, accommodation, and entrance fees for activities. Keep in mind that this is just a rough estimate and prices can vary depending on the season and your specific choices. Additionally, food, personal expenses and travel insurance aren’t included in this budget.
It’s important to note that Bhutan has a “minimum daily package” for tourists which includes accommodation, transportation, and a guide/driver. This can cost around $250-300 per day, and is a government-mandated fee that must be paid in advance.
Bhutan is a developing country and infrastructure and transportation may not be as developed as other countries, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
It’s also important to note that Bhutan is a relatively isolated country, so it’s important to research the local customs and language before your trip. It’s also important to note that Bhutan is one of the most eco-friendly and sustainable countries, so it’s important to research the local customs and language before your trip.
Keep in mind that Bhutan is a unique destination, and it’s important to plan accordingly. It’s also important to keep in mind that Bhutan is a relatively expensive destination, so it’s important to budget accordingly.