The airport valley
Every international flight lands in Paro, a broad valley of rice fields and painted farmhouses that is home to Tiger's Nest monastery, Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum. Most people spend their first and last nights here, and save the Tiger's Nest hike for the end of the trip when they are used to the altitude.
The capital
Thimphu is an hour away: a small, friendly capital with the giant Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, the weekend market, crafts schools and the best cafés in the country. Two days is right for most visitors.
The warm valley
Over the Dochula pass, Punakha sits lower and warmer, with the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan at the meeting of two rivers, rice terraces, the fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang and gentle rafting.
The crane valley
Further east, Phobjikha is a wide glacial valley of pine forest and marsh where endangered black necked cranes spend the winter. It is the place for quiet walks and farmhouse stays.
The sacred centre
Bumthang is Bhutan's spiritual heartland, four valleys of ancient temples, buckwheat fields and cheese, beer and honey makers. It is a long drive or a short domestic flight, and it rewards travellers with more than a week.
How to fit it together
A seven day trip covers Paro, Thimphu and Punakha. Ten to twelve days lets you add Phobjikha and Bumthang, flying back west or driving the whole way. The roads are good but slow, so allow a full day for each mountain crossing. Use the free trip planner to shape your route.