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15 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan

Bhutan is the original land of smiles (sorry Thailand!). With a national manifesto that’s based on cumulative, community happiness and cohesion, the country has only recently stepped out of the shadows. And while it can still be difficult to get visas and permits to travel here, the treasures that await really do make the admin worth all the bother.

In the east, soaring villages hide between the clouds and the mighty peaks of the Himalaya. In the west, towns dress the valley bottoms with whitewashed dzongs (traditional Bhutanese fortress-monasteries). Meanwhile, totemic Buddhist relics and revered sites of ancient gurus can be found in the hills, high-perched monasteries cascade from the summits, and there are trekking trails so wonderful you’ll hardly believe they’re real. So, no matter if you’re a culture vulture, a history lover, or just a budding adventurer pining for one of the world’s less trodden corners, you can rest assured that beautiful Bhutan has you covered!

Lets explore the best places to visit in Bhutan :

1. Taktsang

Cut straight into the vertical rises of the Bhutanese mountains just north out of the charming town of Paro, the breathtaking rooms of the Taktsang monastery are perhaps the most-photographed and legendary in the entire Himalayas.

First constructed in the late 17th century, the site marks the fabled spot where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated for three whole years.

Today, the revered Guru is hailed as Bhutan’s patron, and the figure who brought Buddhism to the nation.

Visitors come and explore this fascinating story between the precariously-perched cloisters and golden-topped prayer rooms of Taktsang: the awesome so-called Tiger’s Nest of the Paro Valley.

Paro sits nestled in the heart of a wide valley at the western end of the Bhutanese Himalaya.

A handsome place whose paved roads and neatly-painted, half-timbered cottages belie its modern construction (Paro was largely rebuilt in the 1980s, with all the work adhering to the traditional architecture of the region), it’s home to the whitewashed rises of the great Rinpung Dzong.

Part monastery, part fortress, this great citadel of timber-topped walls is one of the finest examples of military-religious architecture in the country.

Above it is where travelers will find the National Museum of Bhutan, hidden in an old watchtower on a hill.

When it comes to Bhutan’s whitewashed dzong complexes, there are few that can live up to the sheer size and breathtaking beauty of the Trongsa Dzong.

Yep, this colossal medley of half-timbered halls and high-perched prayer rooms makes its home on a craggy outcrop above the Mangde River.

It was once the ancestral seat of the Wangchuck dynasty, who are now the royal family of Bhutan.

And while the mechanics of state have largely moved to Thimphu, this great palace still holds great political and religious importance, and displays a mosaic of gorgeous 15th and 16th-century architecture typical of the region.

Straddling the meanders of the Raidak River in its own little crack in the middle of the western Bhutanese Himalaya, Timphu is a curios place.

With its ancient temples and monastery complexes it oozes with age-old Buddhist charm, while the recent arrival of motorized traffic and modern business gives it the energy and flair of a new capital.

Landmarks abound too, from the 15th-century Changangkha Lhakhang to the grand bronze effigy of Sakyamuni Buddha with its views over the mountains.

Also, don’t miss the colossal Trashi Chhoe Dzong, which is now the home of Bhutan’s government.

Small and sleepy Jakar sits in the midst of the impossibly-beautiful Choekor Valley – an area hailed as Little Switzerland for its sweeping vistas of fir forests and alpine hills.

A religious center, and the gateway to the eastern beauties of the Bumthang District, it’s peppered with gorgeous whitewashed monasteries.

Atop the town, the great Jakar Dzong keeps watch, representing one of the largest fortified monasteries in the country, while sites like the Kurje Lhakhang below tell stories of the 8th-century Indian master Guru Rinpoche, who helped bring Buddhism to this far-flung corner of the mountains all those centuries ago.

Encompassed by sweeping valleys of rice paddy and agricultural terraces, the onetime capital of Punakha is around three hours by car from Thimphu.

Every traveler who makes it here, deep in the heart of the Himalayan range, will instantly be drawn to the huge complex of the Palace of Great Happiness.

This is one of the most iconic buildings in all of Bhutan, and the winter residence of their national Buddhist order.

Surrounding this are clutches of traditional farmer hamlets, like the enchanting adobe town of Ritsha, which ooze rustic character and come dotted with earthy teahouses touting curries.

7. Gangteng

The great Gangteng Monastery emerges from the cascading fir and spruce forests of the Wangdue Phodrang District in central Bhutan.

It’s unquestionably one of the most revered religious sites here, known for its veneration of the terchen king Pema Lingpa – one of the country’s great spiritual patrons.

Located on a high bluff of stone that pokes up above the town of the same name (Gangteng Village) the great monastery is a real wonder to behold.

Check out the carved timber frontispieces and the glowering garuda gargoyles, all before hitting the famous trekking trails of the greater Phubjika Valley – the stomping ground of the rare black crane.

8. Trashigang

The oriental end of the high-perched Lateral Road that runs right through the heart of Bhutan, Trashigang can be found sat up on the peaks above the meanders of the Drangme Chhu River.

Perhaps the most important town in the eastern districts of the country, it’s topped by its very own breathtaking dzong: a medley of gilded roofs and whitewashed walls that sits high above the forest canopies and over the alpine valley bottoms below.

In the center itself, visitors will discover an earthy folk bazaar, where all the stalls and sellers crowd around an elaborate public prayer wheel.

9. Bumthang

Known to locals by its official name – the Chokhor Valley – the word Bumthang (which actually refers to the whole of central Bhutan) has become the de facto moniker of this stretch of mountains in the northern reaches of the country.

Home to a series of truly impressive monasteries, it’s actually one of the top destinations to come and witness traditional dzong architecture.

You can start with a trip to the mighty walls of Jakar Dzong, before casing out the nearby monastery of Tamshing Goemba.

Then, there are more mysterious religious sites in Shinyer Village, not to mention the traditional arts and crafts center of Chhumey – the place to buy Himalayan wool!

10. Phuentsholing

Sat right on the edge of the mountains, where the great phalanx of Himalayan peaks begins to rise against the Indian border, thriving little Phuentsholing is one of the most up-and-coming cities in Bhutan.

Made rich thanks to its ease-of-access and close connections to the town of Jaigaon in West Bengal, it’s a center for trade and selling.

Markets pepper its middle, while there’s a distinctly built-up character to the looks of the place – you’re not likely to see so many concrete structures and paved roads anywhere else in the country! Phuentsholing is also a great place to see the Indian border gate, and the relaxed patrols that are common there.

11. Wangduephodrang

Another breathtaking mountain town shrouded by the chiseled peaks of the Himalaya, another mighty dzong fortress from the 17th century.

Yep, Wangduephodrang has its own monastery-citadel complex, which can be found glowering down on the small town from its misty shelf in the middle of the peaks.

Unfortunately, the whole structure suffered immensely after a destructive fire in 2012. Reconstruction projects on the site are still underway, although it remains a great stopover on the Lateral Road between the Phobjikha Valley and Bumthang.

One of the favored stepping stones in the east on the way to the provincial hub of Trashigang, Mongar occupies its own hilltop on the plateau of the Bhutanese Himalaya.

Visitors enjoy eye-wateringly wonderful views from the get-go, with sweeping valleys and wide mountain massifs dressed in fir unfolding on all sides.

Add to that Mongar’s reputation as an educational center, and its lively daily marketplace, which bursts with woven goods and organic lemon oils, and it’s easy to see why so many folks opt to linger a while.

13. Lhuntse

Lhuntse (or Lhuntshi as it’s also known) is another jewel of eastern Bhutan.

Hidden in a steep-sided valley of verdant green woods and mist-clad summits, its setting is pure drama.

And then there’s the pint-sized dzong at its center, which rises on an escarpment of wooded rock like some mighty palace out of Game of Thrones.

However, that half-timbered citadel is just a part of the attraction, because Lhuntse is also known for its accomplished local wool products, and as a fine jumping off point for the trekking trails that weave through the mountains to the villages of Gangzur and Khoma – both pictures of rustic Bhutanese life.

14. Kilung Lhakhang

Tiny little Kilung Lhakhang is just a speck on the map.

Sat nestled between the verdant Himalaya close to aforementioned Lhuntse, it’s an off-the-beaten-track place to say the least.

However, there’s a deep and fascinating history to learn about here, with a revered chain mall relic that is said to have performed miracles.

The very location is also worth seeing, with the town spilling over the ridges in a medley of old Tshanglas homes and tin-roofed concrete builds.

In all, it’s a fascinating picture of backcountry Bhutan!

Tang is the hardest-to-get-to section of the aforementioned Bumthang Valley; a place of beautiful greenery and fir-peppered hillsides, where a smattering of awesome Buddhist relics continues to magnetize monks and intrepid travelers alike.

The Mebar Tsho (or the so-called Burning Lake) is one of the great treats here, being a location associated with the miracles of Pema Lingpa back in the 14th century.

The museum at Ogyen Choling is also worth a visit, where there are collections of local crafts and preserved living quarters of age-old Buddhist monks to help unravel the deep connections between this nation and its religious faith.

15 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan:

• Phuentsholing
• Wangduephodrang
• Kilung Lhakhang

7 Days In Bhutan Travel Itinerary: Best Things To Do & See

Bhutan is a wonderful, secluded little country in the Himalayas. It’s definitely not the easiest country to visit, but it’s worth the effort if you’re looking for a really unique travel experience. I spent one week in Bhutan recently and enjoyed every moment.

Most people spend 5 to 7 days in Bhutan, and an itinerary like that gives you enough time to see many of the top highlights of the country, although you’ll still probably be sad to leave.

Bhutan is full of interesting culture and nature, and yet it’s pretty unspoiled by tourism. Even places that would normally be very crowded and touristy, like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery , still feel refreshingly authentic and personal.

In this travel blog, I’ll share my ideal Bhutan itinerary and some of the best things to do if you have one week in the country! This is basically the same itinerary I used in Bhutan, with a few improvements based on my experience.

Table of Contents show 1) Best Bhutan Tour Company 2) Bhutan Itinerary Day 1: Paro Acclimatization 3) Bhutan Itinerary Day 2: Thimphu 4) Bhutan Itinerary Day 3: Gangtey Valley 5) Bhutan Itinerary Day 4: Punakha & Wangdue 6) Bhutan Itinerary Day 5: Revisiting Thimphu 7) Bhutan Itinerary Day 6: Tiger’s Nest Monastery 8) Bhutan Itinerary Day 7: Paro Farewell 9) 5 Days In Bhutan Itinerary 10) More Bhutan Travel Tips

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike was one of my favorite experiences in Bhutan

Best Bhutan Tour Company

For most nationalities, the only way you can visit Bhutan is with a visa and tour organized by a local Bhutanese tour company. There’s also a daily tax of $100 USD per person, which is a rule established by the Bhutanese government to try to ensure ‘quality over quantity’ tourism.

I visited Bhutan with this tour company on GetYourGuide. It was a great experience, and I would happily recommend them to anyone! The owner of the company, Tsenrig, helped me craft the perfect 7-day Bhutan itinerary, with a visit to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and lots of other great sights around the country of Bhutan.

Their most popular itineraries are 5 or 7 days , but they also have tours of 9 or 10 days , or even as long as 15 or 20 days. The itinerary is very flexible and you can choose the sights you most want to see on each day you spend in the country of Bhutan.

My private tour guide, L. Dorji, was fantastic and very helpful, staying at my side every step of the way. He even kindly insisted to carry my heavy backpack for me, and helped me swap between my camera lenses whenever I was taking pictures.

Dorji knew every detail about the history of Bhutan, and he’s been giving tours for decades. He was one of the best tour guides I’ve had anywhere in the world. Overall, I would highly recommend this company for your travel to Bhutan!

Book Now: Bhutan Tour 5 / 7 / 9 Days

Bhutan Itinerary Day 1: Paro Acclimatization

Welcome to Bhutan! You’ll probably be tired after your flight to Paro. Start your itinerary with a low key visit to Ta Dzong, located just a 20 minute drive from the airport.

This odd looking cylindrical building is a 17th century watch tower that now serves as the national museum of Bhutan. Inside, there are Bhutanese paintings, statues, weapons, and other artifacts.

For me, the best part was seeing the outside and the view of the valley below.

Ta Dzong — the national museum of Bhutan

• Paro Dzong

For most tourists, the Paro Dzong will be your first real experience with a Bhutanese fortress-monastery (called a ‘dzong’). These are kind of like the castles of Bhutan.

Also known as the Rinpung Dzong, this is the main fortress and monastery in Paro town, and it was built in the 17th century overlooking the river and valley. The name basically means “fortress of the heap of jewels.”

The outside walls are impressive, and so is the inside of the courtyard. Don’t miss the giant bee hives hanging from the windows!

You can walk through this fortress in just 30 minutes or so, but it’s well worth a visit! The best photo spot is on the path leading to it.

The 17th century Rinpung Dzong in Paro

• Kyichu Lhakhang

Kyichu Lhakhang is a small Buddhist temple that dates back to the 7th century, making it one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.

This one is just a 10 minute drive north of Paro town, so it’s easy to visit even if you’re short on time.  

• Archery Match

Archery has been the national game of Bhutan since 1971, and the locals are always practicing their skills with a bow and arrow. It’s fun to watch an archery match and some of these guys are really skilled.

I decided to skip this since I was exhausted and wanted to save energy for other things, but I still got to witness some archery matches from a distance later on when we were driving around the countryside of Bhutan.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to see archery while you’re traveling in Bhutan.  

• Paro Town

If you still have energy, you can spend the rest of the day roaming around Paro town and shopping for souvenirs. There are lots of shops on the main street and they have a good selection of Bhutanese crafts, plus the usual shirts and fridge magnets, and other items for sale.  

• Overnight In Paro

Stay overnight in Paro, which has an altitude of about 2,200 meters (7,200 ft). I stayed at Hotel Olathang, which is a historic 3-star hotel on a hill, surrounded by pine forests and overlooking the Paro valley. It was a little dated, but the location is nice.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 2: Thimphu

• drive to thimphu.

After breakfast, you’ll drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Even though the distance from Paro to Thimphu is only 45 kilometers, the drive takes 60-90 minutes because of the winding mountain roads.

Along the way, you’ll pass another monastery across the river called Tachog Lhakhang, as well as an old iron suspension bridge. Your guide can make a quick stop to let you take some photos of it before continuing to Thimphu.  

• Taschichho Dzong

The Tashichho Dzong is a giant fortress-monastery that also serves as the seat of the government in Thimphu.

I was lucky to visit Bhutan during the annual Tshechu festival, which is usually held in Thimphu in late September or early October, so I was able to watch the mask dance here, together with thousands of locals wearing their colorful national clothes.

It was pretty fascinating, and I consider it one of the highlights of my trip to Bhutan!

Thousands of locals gathered at Tashichho Dzong for the annual Tshechu festival

Mask dance at the Tshechu festival

• Cheri Monastery

The Cheri monastery hike is a nice little excursion into the forest near Thimphu, where you can see some wildlife and a 17th century monastery on the hillside.

This hike takes about 45-60 minutes going up, depending on your pace, and a bit less going down. Most of it is uphill, but it’s not as hard as the famous Tiger’s Nest hike , so most people won’t have any problem with it.

We saw birds, mountain goats, and langur monkeys here. My guide told me you could sometimes hear tigers roaring in the distance during the 1980s, and they still occasionally see Himalayan black bears in this area since it’s on the edge of the Jigme Dorji National Park.

Cheri Monastery requires a bit of hiking

We saw grey langur monkeys near the monastery

• Overnight In Thimphu

Stay overnight in Thimphu, which has an altitude of about 2,300 meters (7,500 ft). I stayed at a 3-star hotel called Kisa Villa, which has a garden and close up views of the Taschichho Dzong. You can even see the dzong lit up at night.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 3: Gangtey Valley

• dochula pass & drukwangyel.

Day three begins with the drive from Thimphu to Phobjikha. This takes about 3 hours because of the usual zigzag roads of Bhutan, but there’s lots of great scenery to enjoy along the way.

After about 45 minutes of driving, you’ll stop at Dochula Pass, a high mountain pass with an altitude of 3,150 meters (10,335 feet). Morning is the best time to come here.

On a clear day, you can get some great views of the snow capped Himalayan mountains in the distance. One of these is Gangkhar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan and the highest unclimbed mountain in the world!

There’s also a monastery at Dochula Pass with 108 stupas, which were built to commemorate 100 years of monarchy in Bhutan. The weather was cloudy when I went, but we were still able to catch some glimpses of the mountains in the distance.

Drukwangyel temple in the clouds

• Gangtey Monastery

After more driving, you’ll reach Phobjikha and visit the Gangtey Monastery, a colorful 17th century building that overlooks the valley.

When I visited, the place was packed with locals and they were practicing their dance moves for another upcoming festival.

Another festival at the Gangtey Monastery

• Kwewa Village Nature Trail

From the Gangtey monastery, there’s a nice little point-to-point nature trail that goes down the hill, through the forest, and across the valley of Phobjikha.

Most of this hike is mild and easy, but it takes about 1 hour or more to reach the end of the trail, where your driver will be waiting for you and your guide.

You can see horses in the valley, and black necked cranes also migrate here during the months of November to February.

Phobjikha valley

• Black Necked Crane Center

After seeing the Phobjikha valley, you have the option to visit an information center for the black necked cranes that tells more about the birds, and they also have telescopes for bird watching.

I decided to skip this and rest at the hotel, since the black necked cranes were out of season when I visited in September.  

• Overnight In Phobjikha

Stay overnight in the Phobjikha valley, which has an altitude of about 3,000 meters (9,800 ft). This is the highest place you’ll stay in this Bhutan itinerary.

I was expecting the hotel here to be a little rough since it’s a more remote location, but actually it was very comfortable. I stayed at the 3-star Gakiling Guest House, which had nice views of the valley, fast WiFi, good food, and friendly staff.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 4: Punakha & Wangdue

• punakha dzong.

After breakfast, it’s time for the 2 hour drive from Phobjikha to Punakha, which will start to take you back west again, in the same direction you came from earlier.

The first place to visit in Punakha is the Punakha Dzong, which is one of the oldest and biggest fortresses in Bhutan. The view from across the Mo Chu river is an iconic photo of Bhutan.

You can go inside this dzong and wander the courtyard. There are lots of nice details on the inside, including an impressive gold door. Overall, I’d say it’s the best dzong I visited in Bhutan.

The altitude in Punakha is only roughly 1,200 meters (about 4,000 feet), so it’s a lot lower than the other places you’ve visited in Bhutan so far. That also means it’s warmer, so you may want to dress lighter here.

When I visited Punakha in September, I was hot even without a jacket! I felt like swimming in the river to escape the heat.

The iconic view of Punakha Dzong across the river

• Chimi Lhakhang

The Chimi Lhakhang is probably one of the oddest temples in Bhutan. It’s a fertility temple with phalluses and other sexual symbols, established by the ‘divine madman’ in the 15th century.

Childless couples often come here to pray for a child, and when you go inside the temple, they even have a bizarre tradition where they bop you on the head with a wooden phallus as a blessing.

The temple is set on a hill, so in order to reach it you have to do a mini trek up the hill for about 15 to 30 minutes, making it a bit harder to access than some of the other temples in Bhutan.

Chimi Lhakhang

• Pho Chu River Bridge

One of the best sights in the Punakha area is the bridge over the Pho Chu river, which is actually known as the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan!

You can walk across the entire 200 meter bridge to the other side, and it has wonderful views of the valley and the turquoise glacier water of the Pho Chu river.

Amazing views at the Pho Chu river bridge

• Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

My favorite view in the Punakha area was on our last stop of the day, when we hiked up to a stupa in the mountains. The name of this one is hard to say: Khamsum Yulley Namgyal.

Hiking to this spot takes about 1 hour, and it’s all uphill. Along the way, you get some amazing views of the rice terraces and the Punakha valley. The top has a 30 meter tall stupa and great views of the mountains.

If you’re reasonably fit and don’t mind a bit of hiking, this spot should definitely be on your Bhutan itinerary. It’s one of the best things to do in the country!

Mountain view at the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal

Green rice fields of Punakha

• Overnight In Punakha

Stay overnight in Punakha, which has an altitude of about 1,200 meters (4,000 ft). I stayed at a new hotel called Divine Heritage House, which had lots of windows so you could enjoy the views of the rice terraces.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 5: Revisiting Thimphu

• buddha dordenma.

After breakfast, retrace your route back to Thimphu by driving over the Dochula Pass again. The drive will take a total of about 2 hours from Punakha to Thimphu. Welcome back to the capital!

Start your fifth day of sightseeing in Bhutan with a visit to the giant golden Buddha statue on the hill overlooking Thimphu valley. It’s one of the famous icons of Bhutan.

The Buddha Dordenma statue, as it’s called, is also one of the biggest Buddha statues in the world, with a height of 52 meters (169 feet). At a cost of more than $100 million USD, it was built to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Bhutan’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

The giant Buddha Dordenma statue

• Sangay-gang Viewpoint

En route to the Takin Preserve, make a quick stop at the Sangay-gang viewpoint for a good picture of Thimphu city from above.

After a 20 minute drive up the mountain, you can see the entire city of Thimphu below you, and there are some nature trails here if you want to explore a bit longer.  

• Motithang Royal Takin Preserve

The Takin (pronounced ‘tah-kin’) is the national animal of Bhutan. Before my trip, I didn’t even know these animals exist! They look kind of like a cross between a goat and a buffalo.

The Takin Preserve near Thimphu is home to almost two dozen takins, plus a few sambar and barking deer. There’s a metal walkway that runs along the outside of the sanctuary, so you can get a good view of the animals and easily take pictures.

The Takin is a protected animal in Bhutan, and they’re not seen very often in the wild except in places like Jigme Dorji National Park. The Takin preserve allows you to photograph them from a fairly close distance, while still giving them space to roam around and be themselves.

The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan.

Another photo from the Takin Preserve

• National Memorial Stupa

After the Takin Preserve, we made a quick stop at the National Memorial Stupa, which is located in the center of Thimphu city.

This white stupa was built in 1974 to honor the third king of Bhutan, and elderly Buddhist believers come here to circumambulate (walk around the stupa) in a clockwise direction while praying.

The Memorial Stupa in Thimphu city. Notice the people walking around it in circles.

• Zorig Chusum Arts & Crafts School

Zorig Chusum is a school in Thimphu where young people in Bhutan learn how to make traditional arts and crafts. This includes things like calligraphy, painting, carving, sculpting, textiles, and more.

There’s nothing for sale here, but you can watch the students working and training, which is interesting to see. Each room has a different art being practiced, and some of their designs are very good.

You can see all kinds of arts and crafts at the Zorig Chusum school in Thimphu

• Farmer’s Market

Our last stop of the day was at the farmer’s market in Thimphu, where we saw all kinds of fruits and vegetables for sale.

There was quite a selection and it was fun to walk through all the aisles and look at everything, even though I didn’t buy. Chili peppers were everywhere since they’re such an important ingredient in Bhutanese food.

There were even some of the more exotic fruits for sale, like dragonfruit, which I didn’t expect to see in a mountain country like Bhutan.

Veggies for sale at the farmer’s market

Stay overnight in Thimphu once again. I was happy to be back at the familiar Kisa Villa, enjoying the good food and nice views of the Thimphu fortress from my window.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 6: Tiger’s Nest Monastery

• drive to paro.

It’s your sixth day in Bhutan, and that means it’s time to head back to the town of Paro where you started. After breakfast, you’ll drive approximately 1.5 hours to Paro and then a short distance past Paro to do the hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery.  

• Tiger’s Nest Hike

It’s finally time for the grand finale of your Bhutan itinerary: the Tiger’s Nest Monastery !

A lot of tours in Bhutan save this for the end of the trip because it’s such a special place, and also because it gives you more time to become acclimated to altitude before attempting the hike.

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is an amazing 17th century building that clings to the side of a steep 900 meter cliff. It almost looks unreal.

This is easily the most famous and photogenic place in Bhutan, and I consider it one of the most amazing day hikes anywhere in the world.

The famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery

You will need to spend a full day visiting the Tiger’s Nest since the hike takes about 4 to 8 hours, not including the time spent taking photos and touring the inside of the temple.

You can have lunch at the halfway point of the hike, where there’s a cafeteria with great views of the mountain. The whole experience is awesome.

The hike is a bit challenging, but most people of average fitness won’t have a problem with it. I wrote a complete guide for the Tiger’s Nest hike, which you can read in the link below.

Read More: How To Do The Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike

Up close view of Paro Taktsang — the Tiger’s Nest Monastery!

• Bhutanese Cooking Class (Optional)

In the evening, if you’re interested, you can join a Bhutanese cooking class and learn how to make local dishes like Ema Datshi, Kewa Datshi, and Jasha Maru at a farmer’s house.  

• Hot Stone Bath (Optional)

Another activity I was offered at the end of the day is a hot stone bath, where rocks from the river are heated up over a fire and then put in a wooden tub with herbs.

It’s a good way to relax and unwind at the end of your Bhutan trip, especially after hiking to the Tiger’s Nest earlier in the day.  

Spend your last night in Bhutan back in Paro, relaxing and soaking up the views at Hotel Olathang. This location was one of my favorites.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 7: Paro Farewell

• dzongdrakha monastery (optional).

It’s your last day in Bhutan. If you still have time and energy, you may want to do something extra before you leave. In my case, my flight back to Bangkok with Druk Air was at 4:20 PM, so that gave me a bit of extra time to use.

Another special place you can visit in the Paro area is the Dzongdrakha Monastery. This is a cliffside monastery similar to the Tiger’s Nest, although it’s a shorter and easier hike. Not as many tourists know about it, so you might have the place all to yourself.

Keep in mind the tour providers in Bhutan normally don’t include any activities like this on the last day of the trip, so there may be an extra charge to add it to your itinerary.  

• Go To Airport

After a wonderful 7 days in Bhutan, my driver and guide brought me to the airport, and it was time to say goodbye. Bhutan was a special experience and I was sad to leave.  

Mask dancer at the Tshechu festival in Thimphu

Shrine in the forest on the way to Cheri Monastery

5 Days In Bhutan Itinerary

If you’re not able to spend a full 7 days in Bhutan, a 5 day itinerary can be a good compromise, and it still allows you to see some of the highlights of the country.

Here’s what a good 5 day itinerary for Bhutan could look like:

• Day 1. Paro acclimatization. Visit the Ta Dzong and Paro Dzong. Watch an archery match and then explore Paro town and shop for souvenirs.
• Day 2. Paro to Thimphu. On the drive to Thimphu, see the Tamchog Lhakhang monastery and suspension bridge from a distance. Once you reach Thimphu, visit the National Memorial Stupa, the Buddha Dordenma statue, and the Tashichho Dzong, plus the farmer’s market and any other sights that interest you in Thimphu city.
• Day 3. Thimphu to Punakha. On the drive to Punakha, stop at the Dochula Pass and visit Drukwangyel monastery for views of the Himalayan mountains. Then in Punakha, visit the Punakha Dzong, the Pho Chu river bridge, Chimi Lhakhang, and the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal.
• Day 4. Punakha to Paro. Drive back to Paro where you started, and hike up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. If you still have time afterwards, visit Kyichu Lhakhang and then enjoy a hot stone bath in the evening.
• Day 5. Leave Bhutan. No sightseeing activities on this day unless you have extra time available.

Kids at the Tshechu festival

Stupa on the Cheri Monastery hike

More Bhutan Travel Tips

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this 7 day Bhutan travel itinerary. These are some of the best things to do in Bhutan if you have a week.

I’ll be adding more Bhutan tips to my travel blog , so don’t forget to bookmark it and check back later!  

• Tiger’s Nest Monastery In Bhutan: Complete Hiking Guide
• 7 Day Bhutan Tour By GetYourGuide

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15 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan: Explore the Land of Happiness

• Uncategorized
• April 15, 2024

Introduction

Bhutan, often referred to as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is a Himalayan kingdom known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual heritage. This small country nestled between India and China offers a plethora of attractions for travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience. From ancient monasteries perched on cliff faces to picturesque valleys and vibrant festivals, Bhutan has something to offer every traveler. Here are 15 of the best places to visit in Bhutan.

Table of Contents

Exploring the enchanting kingdom of bhutan.

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan is a land of breathtaking beauty and cultural richness. This enchanting kingdom, often referred to as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” offers visitors a truly unique and immersive experience. From its majestic mountains to its vibrant culture, Bhutan is a destination like no other.

One of the best places to visit in Bhutan is the Paro Valley, home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This sacred site, perched on a cliffside, offers not only spectacular views but also a deep sense of peace and reflection for visitors. Another must-visit destination is the Phobjikha Valley, known for its pristine environment and the annual migration of black-necked cranes.

Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage is also a major draw for visitors. The country is dotted with ancient temples, monasteries, and dzongs, each with its own fascinating history and architectural style. The Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of two rivers, is a prime example of Bhutanese craftsmanship and is considered one of the most beautiful dzongs in the country.

In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Bhutan is also known for its unique approach to governance. The country famously measures its success not by Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but by Gross National Happiness (GNH), reflecting its commitment to the well-being of its citizens and the preservation of its cultural heritage.

Whether you’re trekking through the mountains, immersing yourself in Bhutanese culture, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, a visit their and its best places to visit in Bhutan is sure to be a truly unforgettable experience.

Let’s Explore the best Places to visit in Bhutan

1. paro taktsang (tiger’s nest) monastery.

Location and significance: Located in the Paro Valley, the Taktsang Monastery is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan and is among its most iconic landmarks. It is perched on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters, offering breathtaking views of the valley below.

History and architecture: The monastery was first built in 1692 and has since been renovated several times. It is believed to be the place where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century, introducing Buddhism to Bhutan.

Visiting tips and experiences: The hike to Taktsang Monastery is challenging but rewarding, taking about 2-3 hours to reach the monastery. Visitors can explore the various temples and meditation caves within the complex.

2. Punakha Dzong

Historical background: Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungtang Dechen Phodrang Dzong, is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. It is the second oldest and second-largest dzong in the country, built in 1637-38 and located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers.

Architectural features: The dzong is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture, with its whitewashed walls, golden spires, and intricate woodwork. It houses several important relics and treasures of the Bhutanese monarchy.

Visitor information: Visitors can explore the dzong’s courtyards, temples, and administrative offices. The dzong is also the venue for the Punakha Tshechu, a religious festival held annually in the spring.

Capital city highlights: Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan, known for its unique blend of traditional and modern culture. It is home to several important landmarks, making it one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. These landmarks include the Tashichho Dzong, the National Memorial Chorten, and the Buddha Dordenma statue.

Attractions and activities: Visitors can explore the city’s markets, museums, and art galleries, as well as participate in cultural events and festivals. Thimphu offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses.

Cultural experiences: Thimphu offers a glimpse into Bhutanese culture and way of life. Visitors can witness traditional Bhutanese dances, taste local cuisine, and learn about the country’s history and traditions

4. Dochula Pass

Scenic views and landscape: Dochula Pass is a mountain pass located on the road from Thimphu to Punakha. It is known for its stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, making it one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. The pass offers breathtaking sights of the snow-capped peaks of the Bhutanese Himalayas.

Importance and significance: The pass is home to the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, a temple built to honor the fourth king of Bhutan. The temple is adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from Bhutanese history and mythology.

Best times to visit: The best time to visit Dochula Pass is during the winter months when the weather is clear, and the views are spectacular. The pass is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

5. Phobjikha Valley

Natural beauty and wildlife: Phobjikha Valley is a glacial valley located in central Bhutan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. The valley is a designated conservation area for the endangered black-necked crane.

Gangtey Monastery: The valley is home to the Gangtey Monastery, an important religious site in Bhutan. The monastery offers stunning views of the surrounding valley and is a popular destination for spiritual retreats.

Ecotourism initiatives: The valley is known for its sustainable tourism practices, with a focus on preserving the area’s natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can participate in eco-friendly activities such as birdwatching and nature walks.

6. Bumthang Valley

Spiritual and cultural center: Bumthang Valley is often considered the spiritual and cultural heartland of Bhutan and is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. It is home to several ancient temples and monasteries, including the Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang.

Temples, monasteries, and festivals: The valley is dotted with sacred sites and is famous for its festivals, including the Jambay Lhakhang Drup and the Kurjey Tshechu. Visitors can explore the valley’s rich religious heritage and witness traditional Bhutanese rituals.

Trekking and nature experiences: Bumthang Valley offers excellent trekking opportunities, with trails leading through pristine forests and past remote villages. The valley is also known for its apple orchards and cheese factories.

7. Haa Valley

Remote and pristine location: Haa Valley is one of the most remote and best places to visit in Bhutan. It is located close to the border with Tibet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Haa Summer Festival: The valley is known for its annual Haa Summer Festival, which celebrates the rich culture and traditions of the local people. The festival features traditional music, dance, and sports events.

Local culture and traditions: Haa Valley is home to the ethnic minority group of Haaps, who have their own unique culture and traditions. Visitors can learn about the Haaps’ way of life and sample their traditional cuisine.

8. Chele La Pass

Highest motorable pass in Bhutan: Chele La Pass is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, located at an altitude of 3,988 meters. It is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Panoramic views and hiking: The pass is a popular destination for hiking and trekking, with trails leading to several scenic viewpoints. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake on clear days.

Flora and fauna: Chele La Pass is home to a variety of alpine flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, primulas, and yaks. The pass is also a great place for birdwatching, with several species of birds found in the area.

9. Rinpung Dzong

Fortress and monastery: Rinpung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, is a fortress and monastery located in the Paro Valley. It is one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan, with its towering walls and golden roofs. Rinpung Dzong is the best Place to visit in Bhutan.

Traditional architecture: The dzong is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture, with its whitewashed walls, wooden windows, and ornate carvings. It houses several temples, shrines, and administrative offices.

Festivals and events: Rinpung Dzong is the venue for the Paro Tshechu, one of the best places to visit in Bhutan for experiencing its vibrant culture. This religious festival is held annually in the spring and features masked dances, music, and religious ceremonies.

10. Trongsa Dzong

Central Bhutanese architecture: Trongsa Dzong is the largest dzong in Bhutan and is located in central Bhutan. It is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan, known for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. The dzong features a maze of courtyards, passageways, and temples, showcasing Bhutanese craftsmanship and culture.

Historical significance: Trongsa Dzong has played a crucial role in Bhutanese history, serving as the seat of the Wangchuck dynasty before they became the rulers of Bhutan. The dzong offers insights into Bhutan’s feudal past and is a symbol of the country’s unity.

Museum and cultural insights: Trongsa Dzong houses the Ta Dzong, a museum that showcases Bhutanese art, history, and culture. The museum’s exhibits include traditional costumes, religious artifacts, and historical documents.

11. National Museum of Bhutan

Bhutanese art and artifacts: The National Museum of Bhutan, located in Paro, is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. It houses a rich collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, and cultural relics, offering insights into Bhutan’s history, culture, and spiritual heritage.

Exhibitions and collections: The museum’s exhibits include ancient thangkas (religious paintings), statues, textiles, and weapons. It also features interactive displays and multimedia presentations that provide a deeper understanding of Bhutanese culture.

Educational and cultural value: The National Museum of Bhutan plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Bhutanese culture. It serves as an educational resource for locals and tourists alike, highlighting the country’s unique cultural heritage.

12. Jigme Dorji National Park

Biodiversity and Conservation: Jigme Dorji National Park is the largest national park in Bhutan, covering an area of over 4,000 square kilometers. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the snow leopard and the Himalayan blue sheep.

Wildlife and birdwatching: The park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers, with opportunities to spot rare and exotic species in their natural habitat. Visitors can also enjoy trekking and camping in the park’s pristine wilderness.

Trekking and camping: Jigme Dorji National Park offers some of the best trekking routes in Bhutan, with trails leading through forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes. The park’s remote location and rugged terrain make it a challenging but rewarding destination for adventure seekers.

13. Chimi Lhakhang

Fertility temple: Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the “Temple of the Divine Madman,” is a small but revered temple located near Punakha. It is dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, a saint known for his unorthodox teachings and eccentric behavior. The fertility temple is the best place to visit in Bhutan.

Religious beliefs and rituals: Chimi Lhakhang is famous for its phallus symbols and fertility rites, which are believed to bless couples with children. Visitors can receive blessings from the temple’s monks and participate in the temple’s rituals.

Pilgrimage and blessings: Chimi Lhakhang is a popular pilgrimage site for couples seeking blessings for fertility and childbirth. The temple’s peaceful surroundings and spiritual ambiance make it a serene place for meditation and reflection.

14. Taktshang Goemba

Iconic monastery: Taktshang Goemba, also known as the “Tiger’s Nest Monastery,” is perhaps the most iconic monastery in Bhutan. It is perched on a cliff face overlooking the Paro Valley, making it a breathtaking sight.

Legend of Guru Rinpoche: According to legend, Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, flew to the site of the monastery on the back of a tigress. He meditated in a cave on the cliff face for three months, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan.

Hiking and spiritual experiences: The hike to Taktshang Goemba is challenging but rewarding, taking about 2-3 hours to reach the monastery. Visitors can explore the various temples and meditation caves within the complex, experiencing a sense of peace and spirituality. The Taktshang Goemba is the best place to visit in Bhutan.

15. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

Stupa and architectural marvel: Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a stunning example of Bhutanese stupa architecture, located near Punakha. It was built in 2004 to commemorate the centenary of the Bhutanese monarchy.

Views and trekking: The chorten offers panoramic views of the Punakha Valley and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike to the chorten, enjoying the scenic beauty of the area and the tranquility of the surroundings.

Symbolism and cultural significance: Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is not only a religious monument but also a symbol of Bhutanese culture and heritage. It represents the country’s spiritual values and its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

Bhutan is a land of breathtaking beauty and cultural richness, offering a unique and unforgettable travel experience. From ancient monasteries perched on cliff faces to stunning valleys and vibrant festivals, Bhutan has something to offer every traveler. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, adventure, or simply a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life, Bhutan has it all. Explore the best places to visit in Bhutan and discover the magic of this enchanting kingdom.

1. What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Yes, all foreign nationals, including tourists, need a visa to enter Bhutan. Visas must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.

3. What is the currency used in Bhutan?

The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). Indian Rupees are also widely accepted in Bhutan.

4. Is Bhutan a safe country to visit?

Yes, Bhutan is considered one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. The crime rate is low, and the people are friendly and welcoming.

5. What is the official language of Bhutan?

The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Our mission at Traveler Choice is to inspire and empower individuals to explore the world around them through travel. We achieve this by curating high-quality, tailor-made tour packages that guarantee our clients a truly memorable experience in Bhutan. What sets us apart is our exceptional team, boasting a wealth of experience in trekking and hiking. When you travel with Traveler Choice, you’re not just going on a trip; you’re embarking on an adventure led by experts who are passionate about what they do. Join us and discover the world in a whole new way.

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Bhutan visas and travel restrictions.

• Best Time to Visit Bhutan
• Top Places to Visit in Bhutan
• How Long to Stay in Bhutan
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• How to Travel Around Bhutan

A trip to Bhutan is an exciting adventure that invariably includes incredible views of the Himalayas, diverse national parks, and incredible religious and historical sites.

Bhutan is not only a joy to explore because of what you can see, but it is also incredible because of what you can experience. Enjoy the country's famous low-impact tourism, abundance of cultural experiences like festivals and celebrations, and gorgeous mountain forts and monasteries.

Most people traveling to Bhutan (except for nationals of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) need a tourist visa.

Visas must be applied for through a travel agency, and all travelers are required to visit Bhutan with a guide. Visas are approved by the Tourism Council of Bhutan once the full payment for their trip has been received by the travel agency.

Best Times to Visit Bhutan

Bhutan has four distinct seasons, but each of them has relatively pleasant weather conditions and temperatures making it a great year-round destination.

Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) are often said to be the best times to visit Bhutan, because they have the driest and most pleasant weather. And there will be more travelers during this time.

Summer (May to August) is the monsoon season, but Bhutan doesn't get as much rain as most other South Asian countries. Days are warm at above 30°C (86°F), and humid. The summer rains often happen at night, which means they don't affect daytime travel activities too much.

Winter (December to February) is cold in most areas of the country, but offers travelers the chance to explore Bhutan without so many other travelers around.

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Best Places to Visit in Bhutan

Most people who visit Bhutan will explore Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Travelers can choose to either start in Thimphu or Paro. Travelers who have more days to spend in Bhutan can consider visiting other areas, such as Jigme Dorji National Park or the Himalayas.

1. Thimphu — the Capital: History, Cultural Relics

Thimphu is the largest city in Bhutan and is located in the country's central valley. It is famous as a city that has both modern architecture and ancient customs. Thimphu is a great starting point when visiting Bhutan, as there you can see modern Bhutan and also explore some of the city's religious and cultural sites.

It is a great view to look down over the Thimphu Valley when you are visiting The Giant Buddha Dordenma, which stands at 54 meters (177 feet) tall. Not only is this one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, but it is also typically not too crowded, making for a more authentic and spiritual experience.

While in Thimphu, guests can learn more about its local culture at its Folk Heritage Museum, explore the 13th-century royal fortress of Tashicho Dzong, or take in the beautiful golden spire of the Memorial Chorten.

2. Punakha — Himalayan Views, Buddhist Temples, Dzongs

Punakha is one of the most impressive cities in Bhutan and is often a favorite among travelers for its stunning scenery and abundance of religious sites.

In Punakha, travelers should also explore the Punakha Dzong, the main government building of the city that sits between the area's two major rivers (Mo and Po, or mother and father). Climb up to the top of the temple of the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten to get a great view of the entire valley. Also make sure not to miss the Punakha Suspension Bridge, which offers gorgeous views of the river below.

If you have more time, you can try other outdoor activities in Punakha, including whitewater rafting, bird watching in a national park, and trekking.

3. Paro — Dzongs, Museums, Tiger's Nest Monastery

Paro is the summer capital of Bhutan — a small and quaint city that is full of sacred sites and historical buildings.

Paro is particularly famous for Tiger's Nest Monastery, which is only about 11 km (7 miles) from the city. Tiger's Nest Monastery is one of the major highlights of a trip to Bhutan and famously sits right on the edge of a large cliff offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

While in Paro, travelers can also explore the National Museum and Rinpung Dzong, which is not only a monastery but also a government fortress. Spend time deep in the Himalayas by driving across the Chele La Pass, which is the highest mountain road in the country reaching 3,810 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level.

4. Jigme Dorji National Park — Wildlife, Landscapes

Jigme Dorji National Park is the largest protected area in all of Bhutan and contains diverse landscapes and wildlife. The altitude of this park ranges from the lowlands at 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) above sea level to snowy mountain peaks climbing to 7,000 meters (23,000 feet) above sea level.

This park is home to many sacred mountains, such as Jomolhari, Tsherimgang, and Jichu Drake and animals such as snow leopards, Bengal tigers, black bears, sheep, and red pandas.

There you can take wildlife safaris, trek through the meadows to see blue poppies and edelweiss, visit high elevation forts like Gasa Tashi Tongmon Dzong, or just take in the views of the sacred mountains.

How Long to Stay in Bhutan: Sample Itineraries

If you are considering a Bhutan itinerary, we suggest you spend at least 5 days to visit the highlights of this country, including the major monasteries, dzongs, and national parks in Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. The following is a classic 5-day tour itinerary:

Days 1–2 (Thimphu): Visit Tashichho Dzong (headquarters of the central government), and Folk Heritage Museum to discover the Bhutanese folk heritage and rural history. On day 2, visit the National Library of Bhutan and the Bhutan Post Office Headquarters, where you can make stamps with your own photos and put them on postcards for your family and friends.

Day 3 (Punakha): Visit Simtokha Dzong and Dochula Pass. At Dochula Pass, you can have a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. In the afternoon, explore Punakha Dzong, which is the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan.

Days 4–5 (Paro): Visit Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum of Bhutan. The museum has a fascinating collection of arts and relics including religious thangka paintings. Then, take an excursion to Tiger's Nest Monastery, which is one of the most famous monasteries in Bhutan.

Top South Asia Tour Itineraries Including Bhutan

Most our clients prefer to include Bhutan in their 2-to-3-week South Asia trips. The most popular tour itineraries usually include India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Get some inspiration from our 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour .

The above suggested itineraries are just to give you an idea of what is possible and popular. You are welcomed to contact your own experienced 1:1 tour consultant for a tailor-made itinerary that perfectly fits your interests, travel time, budget, and other requirements.

Travel Costs for Bhutan

The cost of travel in Bhutan is much more expensive than other Southeast Asian countries. Because the government requires that all incoming travelers must book a tour with a travel agency and set a minimum daily cost of US$200 per person during low season and US$250 during high season. General speaking, if you are planning for a comfortable trip (mid-range hotel) in the top destinations in Bhutan, it will cost US$250–350 per day per person.

How to Get To and Around Bhutan

Getting to bhutan and connecting to other asian countries.

The best way to travel to Bhutan is by air, landing at the country's only international airport in Paro. There are no direct flights from other continents except Asia. Travelers from America and Europe are recommended to book a 1-stop flight to Paro, stopping at Bangkok, Kathmandu, or New Delhi.

There are international flights to Paro by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines that come from Bangkok in Thailand, Kathmandu in Nepal, New Delhi and Kolkata in India, Yangon in Myanmar, and Singapore. Most of our clients choose to include their Bhutan journey in a South Asia trip covering other countries like Nepal or India.

Getting Around in Bhutan

Because all visitors to Bhutan must visit through a travel agency, the only way to travel around Bhutan is with a travel-agency-supplied private car and driver. The price of your private car will be included in the cost of your tour making it a convenient and affordable way to get from one place to another.

When traveling by private car, guests have the ability to have a flexible schedule and choose when they want to leave or stop along the journey.

Traveling to Bhutan with Asia Highlights

Bhutan is a truly unique destination — the trip of a lifetime for many, full of exciting cultural experiences, great food, and incredible mountain views.

Would you like a flexible and world-class travel agency to arrange your Bhutan travels? At Asia Highlights, we specialize in creating tailor-made trips that suit the individual preferences of our clients. 

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27 Best Tourist Places in Bhutan and Things to Do

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 06/09/2024

Beautiful Bhutan was everything I hoped for and more. This small, landlocked Asian country only opened to tourists in 1974. Since then, it has become known for its gross national happiness ethos, its tourist tax and having had a King who allowed the country to become a democracy.

This is a very mountainous country, so most towns are located in valleys with temples and monasteries on the sides of the mountains around them. The country is covered in green (72% of Bhutan is forest) and home to some stunning views from those high mountains.

In addition to its spectacular natural beauty, there are also lots of fantastic tourist places in Bhutan that can be visited. Here are 27 of the most see places in Bhutan and things to do in Bhutan.

27 Tourist Places in Bhutan and Things to do

1. have a meal on a farm.

There is nothing like having a meal at a local’s home to give visitors a sense of a country’s culture and way of life. Our tour company, MyBhutan, organised a visit to Aum Deki’s farm just outside Paro. This allowed us to see the inside of a typical Bhutanese home and experience typical Bhutanese cooking.

Aunty Deki served us a mix of local vegetables prepared in a typical Bhutanese style. The Bhutanese love their chili and use it liberally. It is considered to be a vegetable rather than a spice or flavouring.

The most popular dish in Bhutan is Ema Datshi or chili cheese. This simple dish consists of split chilies, onions, garlic, tomato and yak cheese. We also enjoyed more local vegetables, including spinach, potatoes, rice and meat, all washed down with local tea.

2. National Museum of Bhutan

This cultural museum opened in Paro in 1968. The museum is home to over 3,000 Bhutanese works of art and covers 1500 years of Bhutanese history. A “new” version of the museum is housed in Ta Dzong, a stunning round building. There are some great views over Paro.

The “new” museum provides a great introduction to Buddhism for visitors. It covers the eight different incarnations of Buddha, the masks that are so critical to Bhutanese dancing and festivals and general beliefs of the religion. It is not possible to take photos inside the museum.

Once you’ve explored this stunning building (don’t miss the beautiful prayer wheels out the front), head up to the “old” museum, which sits behind Ta Dzong. Here we learned about Bhutanese festivals through exhibitions and a great video.

3. National Weaving Centre

The National Weaving Centre is a great place to begin learning about Bhutan’s weaving industry and its importance in the country’s national dress. Based on my trip, over half of the Bhutanese population choose to wear the national dress. I can see why, as they are very flattering and quite beautiful.

The kira is the national dress for women and the gho is the same for men. Many of these outfits are made by hand and can take up to a year to create. The National Weaving Centre has several women working on the actual kilns creating these detailed fabrics.

This is also a great place to do some shopping. Of everywhere I visited in Bhutan, the National Weaving Centre had some of the most attractive scarves, fabrics, purses and all other weaving-based souvenirs. They also sell the rather fabulous Bhutanese boots.

4. National Memorial Chorten

Located in Thimpu and also known as the Thimpu Chorten this stupa was built in 1974. It is known as one of the most visible religious landmarks in Bhutan and it is busy! Visitors will see some beautiful golden prayer wheels as they pass through the entrance.

Straight ahead is a Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal type bench, which is perfect for photos. Next up, join the people who are walking clockwise around the stupa. In Bhutan, walking around a stupa is often a kind of mindfulness activity. This stupa is quite popular with senior citizens.

It is possible to go inside the stupa, but no photos can be taken (photos cannot be taken inside temples in Bhutan). To the left of the stupa is a lovely traditional Bhutanese building that is home to many butter lamps. For a small offering, visitors can have one lit for them.

5. The Golden Buddha

Just outside Thimpu city, the Golden Buddha can be seen from many points in the valley. He is a big buddha and sits atop a mountain. Enter this Bhutan tourist attraction either at the same level as the Golden Buddha to the side or head up the large flight of stairs.

The Golden Buddha sits on a golden temple that features some impressive animal decorations on each side. It is possible to go inside the temple, and visitors can meditate there. There are also some great views over Thimpu.

6. Watch the traffic being directed

There are no traffic lights in Bhutan. Instead, in Bhutan’s only city Thimpu, one busy roundabout has a man at its centre literally directing traffic. He wears a very smart hat and coat and his gloved hands direct the traffic as if conducting an orchestra.

7. Plant a Tree in the World’s First Carbon Neutral country

Did you know that Bhutan was the world’s first carbon-neutral country? This is a country that lives and breathes sustainability. One of the activities planned and organized for us by our tour company MhBhutan was planting a tree near Thimpu. We had a short walk through a beautiful green valley dotted with prayer flags.

When we reached a small river, our guides handed us our trees and we trowled the earth and planted our own trees. This was a lovely experience which I would highly recommend.

8. Takin Preserve

A short walk further up the mountain from where we planted our trees was Takin Preserve. The takin is the national animal of Bhutan. It has a thick neck and short, muscular legs and is found in areas over 4000 metres in Bhutan.

The Takin Preserve is not at 4,000 metres but it is home to some takin, allowing visitors to see the national animal without heading up quite so high. The Preserve also has local deer and wild boar.

Alas, when we visited the takin seemed to be napping, so we only saw some from a distance. Luckily there was a large statue of the takin near the entrance, so we got a sense of what it is like.

9. Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Tiger’s Nest Monastery or Paro Taktsang is the most popular of the Bhutan tourist attractions and a UNESCO-listed site. It is believed that Padmasambhava (Guru  Rinpoche or the second Buddha) flew to this location from Tibet on the back of a tiger in the 8th century. He anointed the location as a site for a monastery. From the 11th century, Tibetan saints and other major figures visited Tiger’s Nest to meditate.

The first monastery was built at the location in 1692. In April 1998, it is believed that butter lamps in the monastery caused a major fire. The majority of the monastery was destroyed. Restorations took place between 1998 and 2005. Bhutanese people from all over the country traveled to help with the restoration. It reopened to the public in 2005.

Tiger’s Nest is located about ten miles south of Paro and can only be reached on foot (or partially on horseback). For a person of reasonable fitness without health issues, the trek takes about 4-5 hours including time spent inside the monastery and comfort stops.

I have written an entire article about Tiger’s Nest Monastery that contains lots of detail about the trek.

10. The Temple of Fertility/Chimi Lhakhang

The Temple of Fertility is the most famous temple in Bhutan. It also has one of the best stories of how it came into existence.

In the 14th century Lam Drukpa Kuenley, or the Divine Madman, brought his unconventional methods for teaching Buddhism from Tibet to Bhutan. He believed that he had a supernatural phallus and this was his way of “spreading” his word.

When he was in the Punakha Valley, locals were afraid of a demon that was said to sit on the top of the Dochula Pass at night. The demon would kill anyone who tried to pass at night. The Divine Madman went up to the pass one evening and used his supernatural phallus to emit fire, killing the demon.

The people of Punakha were so thrilled they decided to build a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman in 1499. Today, the temple still houses the wooden phallus he brought from Tibet. Couples who are trying to get pregnant come from all over the world to visit the temple and be blessed by the wooden phallus. Some couples even spend the night in the temple.

Little Sopsokha Village is below the Temple of Fertility. It is home to a number of handicraft shops that sell an extensive range of phalluses in every size, shape and design you could imagine. This provides the opportunity for a unique souvenir from Bhutan.

11. The Textile Museum

If I’m honest, normally, I would not be interested in visiting a textile museum or really textiles in any form or function. However, in Bhutan, textiles and particularly the clothing they produce tell visitors so much about the culture. Plus, the information is communicated interestingly and linked to understanding the culture better.

The Textile Museum in Thimpu is a great example. Built in 2001, the museum showcases the many costumes of the different regions of Bhutan. The costumes tell visitors a lot about life in the different regions of Bhutan, particularly those that are far away.

Photos are not allowed inside the museum but don’t miss the amazing floor-to-ceiling tapestry when you walk in.

12. Try Bhutanese espresso

I do enjoy reading an inflight magazine, particularly for a unique country like Bhutan. In the magazine, on my Druk air flight, I read about the Mountain Cafe. This small chain of coffee shops was opened by a Bhutanese man who visited the United States and researched the specialty coffee segment. I visited a Mountain Cafe in Thimpu and am pleased to report it is a good place to get specialty-style coffee.

I also visited the Ambient Cafe in Thimpu, which had great coffee and a more Western-style brunch/lunch menu if you fancy a break from chili cheese. They also make some great juices.

13. Watch the locals play archery

Archery was declared the national sport of Bhutan in 1971. As you drive around Bhutan it is possible to see many people (mostly men) in their Ghos playing the national support. On the Sunday I was in Bhutan we came across a group of men playing archery by the side of the road. It is great fun to watch as the sides cheer and jeer each other on. And don’t miss the wonderful dance that happens when someone hits the target!

14. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

Said to be the most beautiful temple in Bhutan, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten was built by the Queen Mother of Bhutan in 2004. Whilst it may be younger than many of the other temples in Bhutan, it was built in strict accordance with traditional styles over a nine-year period.

The temple is very beautiful and quite peaceful. Visitors can head inside and climb up quite a few stairs to get to the watchtower, which has extraordinary views over Punakha.

Almost as lovely as the temple itself is the 30-minute trek needed to visit. After crossing the Mo Chhu river on a suspension bridge lined with prayer flags, the walk takes visitors through rice fields and very green paths. When I visited at the end of November the path was lined with red poinsettias.

15. River Rafting on Mo Chhu

Another surprise in Bhutan is that it is possible to go river rafting. The scale and danger level of the rafting will depend on what time of year you choose to visit. When I visited in November the Mo Chhu river was quite calm and we only had a few bumps (although I got quite wet!).

I enjoyed gaining a perspective of Punakha from the water and there were a couple of little beaches where we stopped on the way. Along the Mo Chhu river rafts can take visitors to just before Punakha Dzong. It is not possible to go all the way to the fortress.

16. Attend a Festival or see locals Dancing

Similar to my view on textiles, I tend to avoid local theatres and dancing. However, to do so in Bhutan would be a mistake as festivals and dances are so intrinsic to the Bhutanese culture. Bhutan loves festivals and there are many each year (May and October are the most popular months for festivals).

Festivals tend to run for several days and everyone comes out in their best and brightest outfits with a packed lunch. The dances all tell stories and act out the beliefs of the Buddhist religion. It is said that watching the dances will teach the audience lessons that will cleanse their spirits and could leave them feeling happier.

Festivals are a key element of the Bhutanese Gross National Happiness philosophy. They are more than entertainment. They are almost like having a spiritual treatment, for lack of a better term. I wasn’t able to attend a festival when I visited Bhutan, but MyBhutan organized for local dancers to come to our comfort camp one evening and perform some traditional dances for us.

17. Bhutanese Whiskey tasting

Who knew that the Bhutanese make good whiskey? Bhutan makes its own whiskey from grain spirit and also imports some malt from Scotland. The most famous whiskey in Bhutan is the K5. It was produced in 2008 to mark the coronation of the current king. I also tried some Bhutanese cognac which was my favourite.

18. Try Archery

I thought I would be very bad at archery. But it turned out to be much easier, and more fun, than I thought. MyBhutan was kind enough to set the target quite close to where I was standing so I could feel good about my efforts!

The instructions were brief and then I pulled back the bow and let the arrow fly. I didn’t hit the target but my arrows did carry quite far. Don’t leave Bhutan without trying the national sport at least once.

17. Get your own stamps

The post office in Thimpu has its own postal museum. In all honesty, the museum isn’t much, but at the museum, it is possible to get your own Bhutanese stamps produced. We borrowed a Bhutanese-style jacket from a nearby souvenir store and got a photo which was then turned it a stamp.

This marked the first time I have purchased post cards in some time – I had to send something with my own stamps!

18. Learn how to make Bhutanese food

One of the highlights of my trip to Bhutan was a cooking class with the amazing Kesang Choeden. Kesang runs a restaurant at the Folk Heritage Museum in Thimpu and runs a popular cooking school. She has somewhat single handedly kept Bhutanese traditional cuisine alive.

When Bhutan first opened to tourism in the 1970s, the government sent some of the country’s chefs to China and Italy to learn dishes that would be popular with foreigners. The first Lonely Planet Bhutan wasn’t positive about the results. This was when Kesang decided to start collecting Bhutanese recipes and change the perceptions of the quality of the food in Bhutan.

Today she runs a popular restaurant that produces traditional Bhutanese meals (some of which are generally only served in people’s homes), a cooking school and a store in Thimpu.

Kesang explained the vegetables that are unique to Bhutan and those that came over when the roads opened in the 1960s. (All meat and fish in Bhutan are imported). Kesang even convinced farmers to start growing traditional foods like millet again.

I expected Bhutanese food to be similar to Indian or Chinese. However, if anything, it is more like southeast Asian food with an Indian-level passion for chili. In Bhutanese cooking, most items are first boiled and then flavors such as garlic and ginger are added.

Kesang made a huge delicious feast for us, which was very memorable. We also visited her store in Thimpu. If you are keen to take home some Bhutanese chili or anything else food related to Bhutan, this is the place to make your purchase.

If you’re a foodie, this is a don’t miss it experience in Bhutan.

19. Folk Heritage Museum

The Folk Heritage Museum in Thimpu is housed in a three-story 19th century house and is one of the last homes of its type in Thimpu. It aims to connect visitors with Bhutan’s folk heritage. The house is decorated as if it were 150 years old.

The entrance is flanked by a giant wooden phallus and dried chilis. The ground floor is where tools are kept and cows if owned by the family. The first floor is filled with utensils. The top floor is a big kitchen area and then there is a small separate room for an altar.

There were no bedrooms in homes in Bhutan at this time. The entire family would sleep in the kitchen area, which was typically quite warm.

20. Eat dumplings with the locals

After chili cheese, dumplings are one of the most popular meals in Bhutan. One of the best places to eat dumplings is the Zombala restaurant in Thimpu. You’ll be surrounded by locals as you dig into some delicious dumplings. Do bring some mints with you, as the dumpling flavors are strong.

21. Go Shopping

Some of the best souvenirs to bring back from Bhutan are some of its stunning handicrafts. I already mentioned the National Weaving Centre. The second place where I bought souvenirs was Kelzang handicrafts in Thimpu.

Kelzang handicrafts have a great range of products and designs and their English is excellent. And when Princess Kate visited Bhutan, this is where she sourced her Bhutanese outfit!

22. Learn about Gross National Happiness

The concept or philosophy of Gross National Happiness is synonymous with Bhutan. But what does it actually mean? How is it enacted? I was keen to learn this while visiting Bhutan.

There are four elements to Gross National Happiness:

• Good government
• Preservation and sustainable environment
• Cultural Preservation
• Economic Development

The GNH policy department of the government does a survey of the Bhutanese population every three years to monitor their happiness levels. Festivals are a critical part of Gross National Happiness. Not only do they offer a spiritual cleanse and learning for the population, but the King has also set up festivals in less visited areas like the Highlands to bring them tourism and exposure.

We met with an NGO in Bhutan that runs GNH programs in Bhutan’s schools. They bring the concept of a GNH club into the school and help students get it up and running. The students can then choose which areas they would like to focus on and then develop their own programs eg, bullying or teen suicide.

If you’re keen to learn more about GNH when you’re in Bhutan, MyBhutan can organise a visit to an NGO.

23. Paro Fortress

Paro Fortress or Rinpung Dzong, sits on the banks of the Paro river. This fortress and monastery contains fourteen shrines and is considered one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture.

The fortress can trace its origins to a small temple in the 15th century. In 1646 the dzong was reconsecrated and established as the monastic and administrative center of Western Bhutan. It is still home to the government office of Paro and the monastic body. It is possible to visit some areas within the fortress but photography is prohibited.

Paro Fortress is one of several sites on Bhutan’s tentative list for UNESCO listing. Plus, some of the scenes in the 1993 film Little Buddha were filmed at the fortress.

24. Try out the National Dress

I love trying on the national dress in a country. Several souvenir stores in Bhutan allow visitors to rent a kira or a gho and be photographed against a major tourist attraction. I rented mine across the road from Paro fortress.

25. Punakha Fortress/Dzong

Punakha Fortress/Dzong is the second oldest and second largest Dzong in Bhutan. It is one of the most impressive buildings in Bhutan. It was constructed by Ngawang Namgyal in 1637-8. It contains Namgyal’s sacred remains and was the seat of government until Thimpu became the capital in 1955. It is also on Bhutan’s tentative list for UNESCO and is known as the Palace of Great Happiness.

The Dzong is huge and still very active today. Many monks decide to head for much warmer Punakha for the winter and it also has government offices. The fortress is used for many government activities and celebrations.

The temple at Punakha Fortress is said to be the most ornate and beautiful in Bhutan and it is extremely impressive. It contains 1000 paintings of the buddhas plus statues of the masters. As you exit the temple, there is a secret temple to your right that can only be entered by the head monk and the King himself. It is said to be where Namgyal’s remains are kept.

26. Dochula Pass

Dochula Pass is home to perhaps the most jaw-dropping view in Bhutan. This mountain pass (3,100 metres) on the road between Thimpu and Punakha provides a view of all seven of Bhutan’s mountains on a clear day.

It is also home to the 108 stupas. The stupas were built by Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk to honour the Bhutanese soldiers who were killed in the December 2003 battle against Assamese insurgents from India.

27. Paro airport and the flight in and out

Did you know that only ten pilots worldwide are licensed to fly in and out of Paro airport? Bhutan is a very mountainous country, so it isn’t easy to find flat land long enough to land a plane near one of its major cities.

The landing strip at Paro airport sits at the bottom of a valley and is surrounded by mountains on all sides. This means the plane needs to come down very steeply and then flatten out to land on a relatively short airstrip.

The airport itself is extremely cute. It has been painted in the traditional Bhutanese decorative style and feels like it should be a tourist attraction. Even the luggage carousel is cute.

And as if that isn’t enough, if you fly in or out of Delhi, you will be treated to some amazing views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, on your journey. Make sure you sit towards the front of the plane on the left from Delhi to Paro and then on the right when flying out of Paro for the best views.

Where to Stay in Bhutan

Bhutan spirit sanctuary hotel – paro.

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary Hotel is the first and only 5-star traditional spa resort in Bhutan. The hotel is laid out in a traditional Bhutanese style. Entering the hotel feels as much like arriving at a high-end monastery as it does a boutique hotel.

Get ready to drop your jaw when you enter the main building and see the two-story floor to ceiling windows of the Neyphu Valley. We were also invited to light butter lamps and choose our own locally-made soap for our stay.

My terrace room was huge at 54 square meters plus an 8 square meter terrace. The rooms are simply designed with wooden floors, white walls, and wooden beams on the white ceilings. My massive bed was homed in a traditional Bhutanese structure, and I had a living area with a coach, coffee table, armchair, and table with two chairs. A small wardrobe to the side of the room took care of my case.

The bathroom had two sinks, a deep tub, a walk-in shower and a walk-in toilet. The floors were heated, and bathrobes were provided. In addition to the usual toiletries, Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary provides a toothbrush and toothpaste pills (just add water) for guests.

All rooms have coffee and tea facilities, including a large range of herbal teas. We also received some wonderful chocolates and a copy of the book, which was part of the inspiration for Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, The Restful Mind by Gyalwa Dokhampa.

Dinner was a six-course farm-to-table in the lovely restaurant. We began with a quirky nachos amuse bouche followed by pumpkin soup. Grilled vegetables were next, and then a single ravioli. The dessert was a creamy custard tart. We washed all of this down with some Bhutanese wine, a cabernet sauvignon from Raven.

Breakfast the next morning was just as good. We received homemade pastries, bread, local cheeses and and fruit. A selection of “main” breakfast dishes are then available, from yogurt and granola to pancakes to porridge and more. I enjoyed a cheese and vegetable omelet.

All hotel guests can make use of the spa. The heated indoor swimming pool is huge and has floor-to-ceiling windows. There are two saunas, one steam room, and two jacuzzis. Free yoga and meditation classes are available and there is a fitness center.

The spa has six treatment rooms. A consultation with an in-house traditional medicine doctor is included in the room rate for all guests. The doctor can then advise you on the best treatments to suit whatever is ailing you. I had two fantastic massages at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary that worked miracles on my tight neck and shoulders.

After trekking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery I tried out a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary. These baths are regularly taken by Bhutanese people throughout the year but particularly in the winter. The stones are heated and then placed in a bath to heat them. It is believed that the stones contain valuable minerals that are transferred into the water and then into the guest!

I needed to add some cold water to my hot stone bath before I was brave enough to immerse myself. But wow once I did, it felt amazing!!! I managed to stay in the hot stone bath for only 10 minutes (one hour is recommended). However, the combination of my post-trek hot stone bath and massage meant that my muscles were virtually pain-free the day after the trek to Tiger’s Nest.

Zhiwaling Ascent – Thimpu

Zhiwaling Ascent is located just outside Thimpu near the Royal Takin Preserve. Its design is very simple but beautiful. The hotel makes the most of its beautiful green location with floor-to-ceiling windows on the ground floor, large windows in the room and a stunning open-air attic with 360-degree views.

The rooms are big, open, and airy, with polished wooden floorboards and lots of windows. The interior design is very simple, with lots of white with rich embroidered rugs. The room has been designed to focus your eye on the beautiful cypress trees outside with a small table and chairs and a lovely window seat.

The rooms also have coffee and tea-making facilities and a big-screen tv. The bathroom is big and lined with small pale grey tiles. There is a large bathtub with a shower.

Dinner consisted of four courses which included a choice of main. We began with lentil soup, followed by a melon salad with watercress, pomegranate, bacon and sherry vinegar. I had the grilled strip loin as my main course with beet puree, potatoes, steamed broccoli, carrots and beef jus.

The dessert was a banana cake with vanilla ice cream. Zhiwaling Ascent also has a nice wine list with some reasonably priced good international wines.

I enjoyed dinner at Zhiwaling Ascent, but I loved breakfast! We could sit outside and feel like we were eating in a forest. Breakfast began with banana bread, a muffin, and a croissant with a selection of preserves. We had the choice of four juice as well a coffee or tea. Multiple hot breakfast options were available. I chose the eggs florentine, which I very much enjoyed.

There is a second Zhiwaling Ascent hotel in Paro, which is supposed to be fantastic.

Dhumra Farm Resort – Punakha

Get ready for a very windy, very basic road that will make you extra glad you have a driver in Bhutan when you head to the lovely Dhumra Farm Resort. When you arrive, you will see that the road was worth it as the views over Punakha, particularly Punakha Dzong, are breathtaking.

This small resort is run by local people who also own Dhumra farm. Although the website says it is a 3-star hotel, it felt more like a 4-star. My room was very simply decorated but had a wonderful wooden floor and ceiling. There is a lot of wood at Dhumra resort which gives it a slight ski lodge feel. This is softened through colorful rugs.

My room and its bathroom were both huge. I could have fitted two standard-sized rooms in. The room has many windows, and a window seat, as well as a chair and table, lined up next to one of the windows. Of everywhere I stayed in Bhutan this felt most like staying at someone’s home.

The property itself is beautiful, with small paths and lovely fauna. We had a tasty dinner at Dhumra, all sourced from the farm, and they had wine! A fire pit had been lit for us outside, and we were able to enjoy stunning night views of Punakha Dzong.

The highlight of my stay at Dhumra Farm Resort was breakfast. We couldn’t resist checking out the view first thing and oh my it was spectacular. Just the right amount of fog/cloud to create some ambiance against the beautiful Punakha Dzong. And Dhumra served us a delicious breakfast outside so we could enjoy the view. This was one of the highlights of my visit to Bhutan.

MyBhutan Comfort Camp

MyBhutan offers a unique glamping experience with its Comfort Camp. The location regularly changes depending on the weather and the itinerary. We experienced our comfort camp not far from Thimpu. Each sleeping tent had its own proper bed and bedside table with electricity and a bedside table and lamp. I was able to stand in my tent which is always a key glamping test for me.

The comfort camp allowed us to experience some different elements of Bhutan. We were able to try out archery, and I am delighted to say that I was much better than I expected. This was followed by traditional dancing while we sat by the fire, followed by a Bhutanese whiskey tasting. Dinner was a tasty dish of vegetables and rice.

The camp has toilet tents for your convenience but of course no further bathroom facilities. In the morning, we were taken from the comfort camp to Zhiwaling Ascent, where an early check-in had been organized so we could use the shower facilities.

How to Travel around Bhutan

There is quite a bit of conflicting information online regarding the “rules” around visiting Bhutan. The key reason is that major changes have happened to Bhutan’s tourism policy since Covid. I will try to break down the key points visitors need to know.

In the past, most visitors to Bhutan paid a $USD65 “tourism tax” for each day of their stay in Bhutan. This also covered basic services such as a 3-star hotel. To stay in, say a 5-star hotel, visitors would have to pay to upgrade. Neighboring countries tended to pay a lower tax or none at all. Independent travel was not allowed.

Since covid 19, the Bhutanese Government has introduced a new SDF or sustainable development fee of USD$200 a day. This must be paid by all visitors to Bhutan and does not cover any services eg visitors pay the SDF in addition to all of their other costs, such as accommodation, guides, food etc. The purpose of the new SDF is to fund local programs and prevent over-tourism.

Independent travel to Bhutan is now allowed. However, if you want to visit tourist attractions, go trekking, or explore outside Paro and Thimpu, a guide will be required. Also, the roads in Bhutan are of varying quality and can be very tricky due to the country’s mountainous terrain. I would absolutely recommend having a driver rather than doing your own driving.

A visa and travel insurance are required to visit Bhutan.

I traveled to Bhutan with the wonderful MyBhutan. MyBhutan is run by an American, Matt, who spends a good deal of time in Bhutan and locals staff the company. We had a guide and a driver for our entire stay. As I have already mentioned, I would not want to drive in Bhutan.

MyBhutan put together our itinerary and booked everything. We were able to review the itinerary ahead of the trip and provide feedback for changes, as well as ask questions on everything from the quality of the accommodation to the difficulty of the hikes. I have an allergy to spicy food. MyBhutan ensured that everywhere we ate was aware of my allergy and nothing spicy appeared on my plate.

MyBhutan did cover part of the cost of my trip to Bhutan. However, I only recommend organisations with whom I have worked that offer excellent services at fair prices and I highly recommend using MyBhutan for your trip to Bhutan.

When you book your trip with MyBhutan use the code BOUTIQUE and you’ll receive a free hot stone bath with your booking.

How to Travel to Bhutan

Fewer than ten pilots worldwide are licensed to fly in and out of Paro Airport. There are only two airlines that fly to Bhutan, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines . These airlines operate from Bangkok, Kathmandu and five cities in India (New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Gaya, and Bagdogra). However, if you fly in and out of India you will need a visa, even if you are only in transit.

We flew into Paro with Druk Air and I was very impressed. It is a high-end professional airline operation with relatively new planes. We were served a full meal and they have recently introduced in flight entertainment.

MyBhutan can book flights to and from Bhutan for you as part of their service.

You might also enjoy the articles written by my travel buddy Laura on this trip. She has written about how to travel to Bhutan and the 21 top things to do in Bhutan.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Places To Visit in Bhutan

Here are the top 26 tourist places and attractions in bhutan.

1 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 37 Tourist attractions

Paro is a small town situated in the Paro Valley of Bhutan. It is one of the most fertile as well as historic valley of Bhutan which is the widest in the Kingdom. It is home to 155 temples and monasteries dating back to the 14th century and also home to Bhutan's sole international airport....

Best Time: September till November.

2 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 45 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the western central region, Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, captivates travelers with its blend of ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. As the political, economic, and cultural center of this enchanting kingdom, Thimphu offers visitors a rich ta...

Best Time: September to November, March to May

3 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 11 Tourist attractions

Punakha is one of the 20 districts (dzongkhags) of Bhutan bordered by the Gasa, Wangdue Phodrang and Thimphu districts. Located at the height of 1200m above sea level, Punakha offers a mesmerising view of the Himalayas.

Best Time: March to May

4. Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey)

4 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 9 Tourist attractions

Against the backdrop of western slopes of the Black Mountains in Wangdue Phodrang, lies the bowl-shaped Phobjikha valley that offers breathtaking views of vast expanses of green fields. It is home to the endangered black-necked crane that migrates to this area during winters. Phobjikha valley a...

Best Time: October to December

Bhutan Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Bhutan Tour Package From Bagdogra - Hike to Tiger's Nest

Mesmerising cultural bhutan tour for 4 nights - phobjikha valley excursion, bhutan itinerary for 8 days with trek to tiger's nest, bhutan 7 nights itinerary- dochu la pass, discover bhutan: a 9-day journey through the land of happiness, bhutan family tour package for 7 nights 8 days, 5. dochula pass.

5 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Nestled in the eastern edge of the Himalayas, the Kingdom of Bhutan boasts of spectacular mountain views and some of the happiest people in the world. And with this beautiful outlook of life came the creation of Dochula Pass, a breath-taking mountain pass, in commemoration of Bhutanese soldiers who ...

6. Haa Valley

6 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Known as the smallest Dzongkhang (district) of Bhutan, Haa Valley is one of the most picturesque places located at the south-west of Paro. The idyllic wooded forests and paths are ideal for enthusiastic hikers and trekkers. This is also the only place in the world where one can find the cream colour...

Best Time: October to November

7. Taste the Authentic Bhutanese Cuisine

7 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

What the Bhutanese are essentially in love with is a spice which comes across so boldly in a variety of their dishes. Vegetarian tourists could breathe a sigh of relief about their food options. What is interesting to note is that despite the existence of many popular meat-based dishes, a significan...

8 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 7 Tourist attractions

Trongsa is a hilltop town situated at the centre of Bhutan; hence known to be the heart of the Himalayan Kingdom. It's translated as "new village" in Dzongkha that has a backdrop of the black mountains offering beautiful views of the surrounding valleys.

Best Time: November to February

9. Tiger's Nest (Paro Taktsang)

9 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Tiger's Nest Monastery, or Paro Taktsang, is one of the most prominent Buddhist sites in Bhutan. Located 900 metres above the upper cliff in the Paro Valley, this monastery is undoubtedly an architectural marvel. Tiger's nest is known for the trek that has been carried on for years. With a total dis...

10. Bumthang

10 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 11 Tourist attractions

Home to four beautiful mountain valleys and an array of ancient monasteries and temples, Bumthang takes its place as the most historic of all districts in Bhutan. Considered to be the spiritual centre of the Himalayan Kingdom, Bumthang is a beautiful place to visit if one has a keen interest in reli...

Best Time: March to May and September to November

11 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 11 Tourist attractions

Nestled at the foothills of Choekhor Valley, Jakar is the largest and the most beautiful valley in Bumthang. It is popularly known as "Little Switzerland". Jakar is the principal administrative town of the district of Bumthang. Bumthang consists of four valleys - Tang, Ura, Choekhor and Chumey, out ...

Best Time: March to May, September to November

12. Wangdue Phodrang

12 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 7 Tourist attractions

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Bhutan, being a country with a mountainous landscape, is linked with a series of passes. Located at approximately 13,000 feet between the valley of Paro and Haa, Chele La Pass is the highest motorable road pass in Bhutan. The pass is famous for the stunning Himalayan views it offers, especially Mt. ...

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Bhutan travel guide – Top 12 places to visit in Bhutan

There's so much to see and do in Bhutan. So what do you prioritise? We discuss our favourite places, which include towns, villages, temples and fortresses, national parks, museums, archery grounds, and more! We also talk when to go and rules for visitors.

Bhutan is a magical place. It’s rich in history and culture, spiritual and authentic, and tucked away in the Himalayas. It’s an enticingly far cry from all that is too Western and generic in our highly globalised world. Unsurprisingly, many people are nudging the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon higher up on their bucket lists. So what many of us now need is a Bhutan travel guide. We want advice on where to visit, when, and to get there. We’re here to help.

We also touch on rules for travellers and the best time to visit Bhutan.

Where should I visit in Bhutan?

If you have limited time or don’t wish to travel too far once you’ve landed in Bhutan, we recommend you prioritise the following three northwestern districts:

• Paro (home to Bhutan’s international airport)
• Thimphu (the capital)

You can see them in the map below.

Map showing some key places in Bhutan

A little note: Most of Bhutan’s 20 districts have the same name as their capital city. We point this out so you don't get confused in your research!

Paro, Thimphu and Punakha are among the most popular districts with tourists. They don’t, however, only have easy accessibility on their side; the northwest of Bhutan is also full of gorgeous scenery, rich wildlife, fascinating history, wonderful architecture, and more.

For this reason, we introduce you to the highlights of these three districts first …

Top 12 places to visit in Bhutan

It’s time to deliver on the promised Bhutan travel guide. So here it is, our pick of the top 12 places to visit in the Land of the Thunder Dragon. We start with northwest Bhutan ...

1. Historic city of Paro

Paro is a small, valley city in a wide, lush valley. Colourful, low-rise buildings line the banks of Paro Chhu River, many built in traditional Bhutanese style.

Paro Valley and city

Rinpung Dzong (Fortress) sits broodingly a little above the city, while rice paddies on either side of the river spread out to the base of the mountains. From here, alpine trees rise up the slopes towards often-clouded mountain peaks.

Fun fact: Paro was one of very few places in Bhutan that could be considered as a location for the country's international airport. This is because the landscape of Bhutan is so mountainous that finding a place for an international-length runway was rather difficult! Thimphu, the country's capital, wasn't a viable candidate, which is why the small town of Paro has the honour of receiving all international tourists flying into the country.

A traditional monastery in Paro

Some of the must-see places in Paro include:

• The large Buddhist prayer wheel in the central plaza of Paro city.
• Ugyen Perli Palace, the gorgeous, gold-topped building that serves as the royal family's home when in Paro.
• Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang, a temple in the form of a chorten across the bridge from the city.
• Zuri Dzong, built in 1352 and one of Bhutan’s oldest

A dzong is a monastery cum fortress. They're dotted all over Bhutan.

Rinpung Dzong

Also known as Paro Dzong, Rinpung Dzong is a seventeenth-century monastery that sits next to Paro Chhu River.

Rinpung Dzong (Monastery) is lit up beautifully at night

The dzong is a gorgeous showcase of traditional Bhutanese dzong architecture: imposing fortress walls encompass an interior complex of administration offices, monks’ accommodation, a temple and a courtyard. 

Inside the fortress you can see colourful wall paintings of religious scenes, highly decorated arches and intricate wood carvings, and also learn the story of the dzong's founding.

Courtyard of Rinpung Dzong

As Rinpung Dzong was built on a low mountain spur, a small, round watchtower was built higher up the mountain. This now houses the National Museum of Bhutan . The galleries of the museum showcase, among other things:

• Religious festival masks.
• Delicate thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist religious paintings).
• Statues of rare animals.
• A model of Tiger’s Nest.

Colourful windows of Rinpung Dzong

How to get there

Paro Airport is an international airport and so is the entry point for anyone flying into Bhutan.

Paro Airport is the country's only international airport

2. Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Arguably the main – almost non-negotiable – activity to do in Paro District is hike to Tiger’s Nest.

This famously picturesque Buddhist temple complex is perched compellingly on a cliff ledge about 900 m above the Paro Valley floor. It’s properly known as Paro Taktasang, and was built in 1692 in honour of Guru Rinpoche. Rinpoche is the eighth-century Buddhist master credited with introducing Buddhism to what is today Bhutan.  

Tiger's Nest, or Paro Taktsang, as seen in winter, reminding you that Bhutan can get very cold!

The various buildings that make up the Tiger's Nest complex are connected via stone steps as well as rickety wooden bridges. Visitors are allowed to explore the complex as well as go inside some of the buildings to see the monastery's many treasures. These include historically important thangkas (religious paintings on silk) and wall paintings.

Tiger's Nest is a C17th monastery that's a popular day hike among visitors to Bhutan

To reach Tiger’s Nest, we recommend you drive the short distance from Paro to the Tiger's Nest parking lot. From here, you must hike or take a horse ride along the Taktsang Trail.

It requires some decent leg work to reach Tiger's Nest

The route to Tiger's Nest is 4.3 km (2.5 miles) each way. You should give yourself around three to five hours to hike up to Tiger’s Nest. The descent obviously goes a lot quicker. It’s an incredibly beautiful trail with the changing scenery keeping you nicely entertained along the way.

You can learn more in All you need to know to climb Tiger's Nest .

3. Capital city of Thimphu

Thimphu, the capital and most populous settlement in Thimphu, is a true must see. You get so much bang for your buck, as there are just so many world-class treasures on your doorstep here.

Tashichho Dzong is the capital fortress of Bhutan

We’ll limit ourselves to a brief description of each of the places we advise visiting:

• Buddha Point. Here you can see Buddha Dordenma, a massive and iconic bronze Buddha statue, as well as several other religious statues. They all sit on a platform high above Thimphu, offering tourists a fantastic view of the valley and city.  

Buddha Point in Thimphu

• Folk Heritage Home Museum. As the name suggests, this museum offers insights into the traditional Bhutanese way of life. You can time your visit to see a demonstration of traditional rural tasks, skills and customs. 
• Dochula Mountain Pass. Drive up to Docula Mountain Pass (3,150 m) just outside of town to see the beautiful Druk Wangyel Monastery and iconic Dochula Chorten. 

The iconic Dochula Chorten of Dochula Pass just outside of Thimphu

• Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre. Watch women weave beautifully patterned, high-quality, traditional Bhutanese fabrics and clothes on looms. Who knows, a gorgeous silk scarf or a kira (traditional Bhutanese dress) might find its way into your suitcase!
• Centenary Farmers’ Market. If you love to explore the foods of different cultures, head to the weekend Farmers’ Market. A packet of spice or herbs could make the perfect souvenir of your Bhutan trip! You can also head across the river to visit the clothing, textiles and crafts market. 
• Changlimithang Archery Ground. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and, boy, are they good at it! Watch local archers hit impossibly far targets, and then give it a try yourself for a moment of humility!

Monks in training in Thimphu

Tashichho Dzong

Also known as Thimphu Dzong, this fortress is the administrative hub of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Its name means “fortress of the glorious religion”.

The enormous Tashichho Dzong

The best time to visit is 100% during Tshechu, the annual religious festival held between the 11th to the 15th day of the eighth month of the Bhutanese calendar. (This usually falls in late September or early October.) Tashichho Dzong is at the heart of Thimphu Tshechu, and here you’ll see colourful and traditional masked dances, be able to shop local wares at the pop-up market, and much, much more.  

Thimphu Tshechu (Festival) in Tashichho Dzong

It takes just 75 minutes to drive from Paro to Thimphu.

4. Old capital of Punakha

Punakha is a gorgeous valley city that was the capital of Bhutan up until 1955.

It’s a relatively warm valley with milder winters than Thimphu. Punakha is where the first king of a united Bhutan, Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned in 1907.

Punakha should definitely be on your Bhutan travel itinerary, as it has a heady mix of history, culture, natural beauty and exciting outdoor activities to offer.

White water rafting along the Po Chhu and Mo Chhu is a fun way to see more of the treasures of Punakha

Punakha Suspension Bridge

The Punakha Suspension Bridge is an iron-chain suspension bridge of about 160 m long that connects the town of Punakha with the rest of the valley. It’s the second-longest suspension bridge in all Bhutan. One of the reasons necessitating the bridge is the occasional flash flood in the valley caused by melt from glacial lakes up river.

Punakha Suspension Bridge is 160 m long and one of the oldest suspension bridges in the world!

Punakha Suspension Bridge is extremely popular with visitors to Punakha. It offers fantastic views of the dzong and the valley. And it can get the adrenaline going when the wind picks up and the bridge starts to sway!

Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong is the largest and second oldest dzong in Bhutan. It’s official name is the lengthy Pungthang Dewachen Gi Phodrang, which means 'Palace of Great Happiness'.

Punakha Dzong, built in the C17th, sits at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Po Chhu

The dzong sits at the confluence of Po Chhu and Mo Chhu Rivers. For this reason, you’re able to raft past the dzong and see it from the water, which is popular with Bhutan tourists.

The dzong is especially attractive in spring when the purple blooms of the jacaranda trees around it are in flower.

Gorgeous jacaranda blooms show up all over Punakha in spring

Fertility Monastery of Bhutan

The Fertility MOnastery of Bhutan (more accurately known as Chimi Lhakhang) is a modest, traditional monastery that dates as far back as 1499.

It sits a a little ways outside of Punakha, and you can hike there along a beautiful trail. The temple is known worldwide for its success in helping couples to fall pregnant. If you're looking to conceive, the temple welcomes visitors to partake in its fertility ritual.

It takes a little over three hours to drive from Paro to Punakha. You’ll be on a highway the whole time. If you're heading there from Thimphu, the drive is just two and a half hours.

5. Beautiful Haa Valley

The Haa Valley in Haa District is a gorgeous region that makes for a perfect day’s outing from Paro.

Part of the fun is the drive there, which is a two-hour jaunt meandering up zigzag mountain roads to reach the lookout point at Chele La Pass (3,988 m). The view from here over the lush Haa Valley and towards the snow-capped Himalayan peaks is glorious. 

Haa Valley is a gorgeous traditional Bhutanese and Himalayan valley village

The Haa Valley consists of traditional buildings, terraced fields and thickly forested mountains on either sides of the Haa Chhu River. If you visit in summer, you’ll be treated to the Haa Summer Festival, which includes displays of archery and spear throwing.

Hike to Kila Nunnery

We also recommend making time to visit Kila Nunnery. This ninth-century nunnery – the oldest in Bhutan – is home to around 50 nuns.

Kila Nunnery

Similarly to Tiger’s Nest, the temple complex sits precariously on a mountainside ridge, offering dramatic views of the valley below.

You can reach Kila Nunnery via a one-hour hike from Chele La (Pass). On the hike you’ll walk through forest, encounter prayer flags and chortens (shrines), and get the chance to spot many gorgeous birds including Gould’s sunbird and the Himalayan bluebird.

A forest of prayer flags on Chele Pass

Has Valley is a 65 km drive from the town of Paro. As mentioned above, the drive is part of the appeal of the trip, as the scenery is spectacular.

Traditional architecture on display in Haa Valley

6. Jigme Dorji National Park

Jigme Dorji National Park covers a whopping 4,316 km² and is Bhutan’s second largest protected area. It extends into five districts and ranges in elevation from 1,400 to 7,000 m above sea level. The park was named after King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who reigned from 1952 to 1972 and helped to modernise and stabilise Bhutan. 

The mighty Kang Bum (6,494 m) in Jigme Dorji National Park

World Heritage Site

Bhutan has eight fantastic national parks, all with their own special offerings, so it can be hard to pick which to visit. That said, we feel Jigme Dorji National Park definitely deserves to be near the top of the list. For starters, its immensely rich ecology has earned it a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

A little bird on a moss-covered rock in the park's Jangothang campsite

The scenery of Jigme Dorji NP is simply sublime, and naturally varies greatly across the park. It’s a fantastic place for day hikes as well as longer treks. You can find towering peaks, glaciers, alpine meadows, conifer forest, scrubland, broadleaved forests and fast-paced rivers. Many of the 300+ plant species are used in traditional medicines.

Close up of a delicate Himalayan blue poppy

Keep your eyes open for the incomparably delicate and delightful Himalayan blue poppy, as well as edelweiss, orchids and rhododendrons. 

Bhutan's best trekking

Some of Bhutan's very best multiday treks take place inside of Jigme Dorji National Park.

One of our favourites is the Jomolhari trek , which lasts seven days and gives you great views of Mt Jomolhari, a sacred mountain to the Bhutanese and therefore not open to climbers.

Mt Jomolhari rises to 7,326 m (24,035 ft) above sea level

Another world-class trek is the Laya trek , which takes you far north into the park and lets you visit the very remote Layap community in the town of Laya.

The wildlife of the park includes a stellar roundup: Bengal tigers, snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, takins, red pandas, blue sheep, musk deers, marmots and pheasants.

A mighty Bengal tiger

Jigme Dorji National Park is the only place in the world where snow leopards and Bengal tigers have overlapping habitats.

It takes a little under five hours to drive from Paro to Jigme Dorji National Park. It’s only a three-hour drive if you’re heading there from Punakha.

We now head to the south of Bhutan …

7. Royal Manas National Park

Speak to any Bhutanese and they’ll tell you that the Royal Manas National Park is a special park. It’s the oldest in the country, a conservation showpiece, and has been dubbed Bhutan’s Crown Jewel.

The Manas River flows from Bhutan into India where it join the Brahmaputra River

The park, which covers 1,057 km², is home to roughly 5,000 people, who live in remote, isolated villages.

The park is a true wildlife sanctuary , showcasing numerous animals not found in the north of the country.

A gorgeous clouded leopard – spotting one of these has to be nirvana

Some of the precious species you can look for on safari include endangered Bengal tigers, clouded leopards, Asian elephants, Himalayan black bears, gaurs (Indian bisons), greater one-horned rhinos, wild buffalos, golden langurs, pygmy hogs, pangolins, hispid hares (bristly rabbits), and Ganges river dolphins. Need we say more??

An Asian elephant spotted in Manas

The quickest way to reach Royal Manas National Park from Paro is to fly to Gelephu Domestic Airport, then drive the remaining 80 km to reach the park. The flight is only 40 minutes. One of the drawbacks, however, is that there aren’t flights there every day.

To drive there from Paro along the Wangdue–Tsirang Highway takes nearly eight hours, but there are plenty of very worthy destinations along the way, including Thimphu, and the scenery is gorgeous!

A greater one-horned rhino, also called an Indian rhino

And now to central Bhutan ...

8. World Heritage Site of Gangteng Valley

If you visit Bhutan, a great place to include in your itinerary is Gangteng Valley, also known as Gangtey Valley or Phobjikha Valley. A World Heritage Site, Gangteng Valley in Wangdue Phodrang District is a great place for learning about local Bhutanese culture and traditions.

There are numerous traditional Buddhist temples in the valley to visit such as Gela Drechagling Lhakhang and Gangteng Monastery. 

Ganteng is also very popular with trekkers as it’s included in the Gangtey trek route. The relatively easy trail winds through beautiful forests of juniper, bamboo, magnolia and rhododendron.

A dancer performing in the Wangdue Phodran Tshechu (Festival)

It’s also a great birdwatching location. In November of every year, Ganteng Village and Monastery celebrate the Crane Festival in honour of the arrival of endangered black-necked cranes from Tibet, who come south for the winter.

Ganteng Monastery

Ganteng Monastery, established in 1613 and is also known as Gantey Gonpa, can be reached by hiking part of the popular Gangtey trek route from the valley floor up to the gonpa.

The front of Gangteng Monastery, which was renovated in 2008

The monastery was renovated in 2008, so the colours, architectural details and statues are now visible in their full glory. Seriously, this is one very attractive monastery you don’t want to miss!

The best and most affordable way to reach Gangteng Valley from Paro is to drive there. It's 204 km away and the drive takes about three hours.

Gangteng Valley (or Phobjikha Valley) with prayer flags in the foreground

9. Mediaeval town of Trongsa

If we were to serve as your Bhutan travel guide, we’d encourage you to pair a visit to Gangteng Valley with one to the mediaeval town of Trongsa.

Chökhor Raptentse (or Trongsa) Dzong with the eastern Himalayas in the background

Trongsa, like Gangteng Valley, sits pretty much smack dab in the middle of Bhutan.

Moreover, the drive connecting the two is very scenic. You pass through traditional villages, forests and pasturelands, and also cross both Lawa Pass (3,360 m) and Pele Pass (3,420 m). These passes offer awesome views of the snow-capped peaks of Jomolhari (7,326 m) and Jitchu Drake (6,662 m), among others.

Chökhor Raptentse Dzong

Chökhor Raptentse Dzong – or simply Trongsa Dzong – is an imposing, sprawling and very striking dzong.

Chökhor Raptentse Dzong used to control the trade road between east and west Bhutan

The fortress sits on a spur high above the Mangde Chhu River.

It was built in 1644 to be the seat of power of the Wangchuck Dynasty. Together with its watchtower higher up on the mountain, the dzong helped the Wangchucks to control the trade route between east and west Bhutan.

In 1907, the House of Wangchuck became rulers of all Bhutan, and remain the country's royal family.

The best way to reach Trongsa from Paro is to drive there along the Bumthang–Ura Highway. The journey takes about six hours. Alternatively, if you’re planning a visit to Jakar as well (which we advocate!), you could fly to Bathpalathang Airport (this takes just 35 minutes) and then drive west to Trongsa. The journey lasts about two hours.

10. Historic city of Jakar

Jakar is the capital of Bumthang District in north-central Bhutan.

Bumthang boasts some of the oldest and most spiritually important sites in all Bhutan. This heritage, together with the quiet valleys, rivers, forests, pretty hiking trails, apple orchards and dairy farms, attract many tourists to the district.

The Wangduechhoeling Palace ruins in Bumthang

Three of the main attractions in Jakar that we’d recommend visitors to Bhutan make an effort to see are:

Jakar Dzong

Jambey lhakhang.

Jakar Dzong, built in 1667, is believed to be the largest dzong in Bhutan, having a circumference of 1.5 km.

The courtyard of Jakar Dzong

The dzong sits on a ridge above Jakar town and you walk up a stone-paved path to reach it. Your efforts are rewarded with magnificent views of the valley. The dzong is unusual among Bhutanese dzongs as its central tower doesn’t sit in the middle of the complex, but rather is attached to the outer wall. 

Jakar Dzong (fortress) shrouded in mist

Membartsho is an incredibly picturesque holy site that sits on the banks of the Tang Chhu River. It’s believed to be the spot where the treasure hunter Pema Lingpa found some of the hidden teachings of Guru Rinpoche in the fifteenth century.

Some of the nuns of Pema Choling Nunnery stand on the bridge above Tang Chhu River in Membartsho | Image by Doctor 17

Guru Rinpoche (also known as Padmasambhava) was an eight-century Buddhist master who many in the Himalayas consider a kind of ‘second Buddha’.

Membartsho is cared for by the nuns of Pema Tekchok Choling Nunnery.  Devotees often leave offerings on the banks and rocks of Tang Chhu. It’s a fantastic site to explore for both its culture and religious significance and its natural beauty.

Jambey Lhakhang is a well-maintained temple in Bumthang that's steeped in legend. The temple was commissioned in the seventeenth century by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. But that said, legend says it was built in the seventh century along with over 100 others in a single day!

Two enormous prayer wheels at Jambey Lhakhang

We recommend visiting the temple to appreciate its traditional architecture, detailed artwork, and learn of its legends. Perhaps it goes without saying, but you should hire a local guide if you want to learn the full story behind this temple.

Colourful exterior woodwork of Jambay Lhakhang

If you’re coming from Paro, you could choose between flying or driving to reach Jakar. There’s the option of hopping on a domestic flight to Bathpalathang Airport in Jakar. This takes 35 minutes.

Alternatively, you could drive there along the Bumthang–Ura Highway, but this is a long journey of nearly eight hours so we’d recommend you break it up by visiting other attractions along the way, like Trongsa.

A traditional home in Bumthang

And finally, let’s look at eastern Bhutan ...

11. Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary

Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary in northeastern Bhutan is a varied and breathtakingly beautiful park of 1,500 km². It ranges in elevation from 1,500 m and 6,400 m and contains floodplains, broadleaved forests, green valleys and deep gorges, scrubland, glacial lakes, alpine meadows and snowy mountain peaks.

The unique architecture of Bhutan's dzongs are a major tourist attraction

The sanctuary is also home in the lower regions to many communities as well some important cultural and religious sites, including the Rigsum Gompa and Dechen Phrodrang (Palace of Great Bliss).

Here, as elsewhere in Bhutan, you can learn the skill of archery, the national sport.

The sanctuary is home to many endangered species, including the red panda.

Red pandas are an endangered species

Red pandas are fast and nimble carnivores who live in trees and spend much of the day sleeping. They’re also incredibly attractive animals with their fluffy, multi-coloured coats, short legs, whiskers, and striped tails.

Bumdeling Sanctuary also has 150 known butterfly species and is one of the country’s two wintering spots for the endangered black-necked crane.

Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary covers much of Trashiyangtse District in northeast Bhutan. The closest airport is Yonphula Airport in Trashigang District, 64 km to the south. The fastest way to reach it is therefore a short domestic flight from Paro Airport to Yonphula Airport, followed by a drive.

In 1971 archery was declared the national sport of the Kingdom of Bhutan

12. Ancient and remote Lhuentse

Lhuentse, or Lhuntse, in northeastern Bhutan is one of the most ancient, remote and untouched parts of Bhutan. It’s home to many sacred pilgrimage sites.

Some of the windows of Lhuentse Dzong

Weaving is a mainstay in Lhuentse, and the textiles produced are the best in Bhutan.

Much of the district is given over to environmentally protected land. For tourists wanting to leave the beaten track behind and experience ancient culture and isolated villages, this is your destination! 

The entrance door to Lhuentse Dzong

The town of Lhuentse, though the HQ of the district, is more a small, mountain village than a town. Lhuentse Dzong sits on a spur above the village and the river, as is the way in Bhutan. Be sure to take time to walk to the suspension bridge for awesome views up and down the valley.

Take a drive

While in Lhuentse, be sure to take a leisurely drive both north and south out of town along the Monggar-Lhuntse Highway. The road snakes along the side of the Kuru Chhu River for miles, offering amazing views of the river valley and taking you through small, traditional villages and past forests and terraced fields.

An archery tournament in Lhuentse – archery is the national sport of Bhutan | Image by muddum27

Just north of Lhuentse town is the incredibly attractive Gangzur Village, which is definitely worth a visit. Keep driving and you'll reach the unbelievably pretty temple of Dungkar Nagtshang at the road's end.

It takes some commitment to get to Lhuentse, as it really is very, very remote. The town is 175 km from Paro Airport. You’ll want to get your Bhutan tour guide to drive you there, or you can catch a bus there from Paro or Thimphu on some weekdays.

If you were to fly to Bathpalathang or Yonphula Airport and then drive, you’d still have a pretty long journey ahead of you.

A blessing by the Buddhist religious leader Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche | Image by A. Zwegers

Best time to visit Bhutan

As we discuss in more detail in Best time to visit Bhutan , you can have a fantastic trip to Bhutan at any time of the year.

The best time to visit Bhutan is in spring or autumn.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for visiting Bhutan

As Bhutan is in the northern hemisphere, we’re talking late March to early June for spring, and September to November to autumn.

Here are a few notes about each season in Bhutan to help explain our reasoning …

Winter (December to February) in northern Bhutan can be very cold – even downright icy. Let’s not forget that Bhutan encompasses part of the eastern Himalayas!

A stone footpath on Dochu La, a mountain pass connecting Thimphu and Punakha

There can be heavy snowfall in winter, which can mean certain roads get blocked, certain places and trails are closed, and some activities (like river rafting) become a no-go. 

Spring (March to May) is a fantastic time to visit Bhutan. The temperatures are gentler, snow melt gluts the rivers, and the countryside is covered in fresh greenery. Rhododendron, jacaranda, foxgloves, cosmos, Himalayan poppies, lilies and many other beautiful flowers emerge , painting the Bhutanese landscape with vivid colours. 

A beautiful spring-time tiger lily in Thimphu

Summer (June to August) isn’t a great time to visit Bhutan as the Indian monsoons bring rain and high humidity to much of the country. And if you’re wanting to hike in Bhutan, summer equals slippery trails.

Wreathed hornbills can be found in Bhutan

Autumn (September to November) in Bhutan is a dream. The rains and humidity start to dissipate, and the temperatures are pleasant. It’s a perfect season for outdoor activities and exploration.

While the tshechu (religious festival) of each district varies year by year, the Black-necked Crane Festival is on 12 November every year. To witness this special occasion and its festivities is a cultural highlight of a visit to Bhutan.

A black-necked crane

Around 50 species of migratory birds from northern Tibet and Mongolia also come to Bhutan in September and October to roost there for the winter. These birds include the black-necked crane, of course, as well as ducks, waders, birds of prey, thrushes, finches and buntings.

Who should visit Bhutan?

If you love to explore cultures different from your own, taste new foods, hear new sound, and just basically experience something outside of your own 'normal', then you should definitely make the time to explore Bhutan!

At Follow Alice we love to bring together adventurous people from around the world who are young at heart and curate an exceptional holiday that will live in your memory for a lifetime. Our trips are great for groups and solo travellers alike. Want to know more, or have a burning question you need answered? Give us a shout and we'll be happy to talk Bhutan with you!

Discover Bhutan with Follow Alice!

Most Beautiful Places in Bhutan

Bhutan , a place where thunder dragons whisper amidst ancient dzongs and monasteries, a place where happiness is all about spiritual life rather than material wealth. Bhutan itself is a must-visit place itself in the world. So what are the Places to Visit in Bhutan?

The breathtaking Himalayan landscape and the famous Tiger's Nest in Paro can be found in the western part of Bhutan. In the central region of Bhutan, you'll find fertile valleys and traditional Bhutanese fortresses known as dzongs. The eastern region of Bhutan, on the other hand, is renowned for its lush rainforests and tranquil villages. And black-necked cranes dance in Phobjikha 's glacial embrace. Hike through rhododendron forests, trek to Chomolhari's snow-kissed peak. Phobjikha and Chomolhari are among The Most Beautiful Places in Bhutan .

Bhutan, a place of enchanting beauty and happiness, is ready to welcome you. Check out "The Places to Visit in Bhutan" with this list of 10 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan ! See how Happiness shines in all the most beautiful places in Bhutan!

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1. Tiger's Nest: The Most Iconic Place in Bhutan

Bhutan's most iconic place to visit, the Tiger's Nest, majestically soars 3,120 (10,233 feet) meters above the Paro Valley. The Tiger's Nest, named after the legend of Guru Rinpoche flying to this location on a tigress, is a place of mystique . The monastery's unique architecture, with four main buildings clinging to the cliffside, offers a mesmerizing sight.

Highlights: A Place of Sacred Pilgrimage

As a sacred pilgrimage site, Tiger's Nest is a place that holds significant spiritual value . Visitors can light butter lamps, spin prayer wheels, and soak in the serene atmosphere. This iconic landmark, perched on a cliffside, is a beautiful architectural marvel and a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site, symbolizing Bhutan's rich cultural heritage.

Things to Do: Hike to Get the Most Beautiful View

The Tiger's Nest Monastery Hike offers breathtaking views of the Paro Valley and the Himalayas. Explore its temples, halls, and courtyards, and witnessing the colorful Tsechu Festival if you're lucky enough to visit during this annual event. These experiences make Tiger's Nest the best place to visit in Bhutan.

For more details on Tiger's Nest Tiger's Nest Monastery .

2. Thimphu: A Place That Perfectly Fuses Past and Present

Nestled within the grandeur of the Himalayas, Thimphu , the lively capital of Bhutan , is a place presents a harmonious mix of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and an intriguing peek into the everyday life of Bhutanese people. As the nerve center of the Bhutan's political, economic, and spiritual activities, Thimphu buzzes with a dynamic energy. In the meantime, the place exudes a traditional allure and extends a warm welcome to its visitors, making it a captivating place for those seeking a unique travel experience.

Highlights: Center Place & Center Stage in Bhutan

Tashichho Dzong : As one of the best place to visit in Bhutan, this majestic fortress-monastery, situated on a hill with a panoramic view of the Thimphu River, is a significant site. The place is the home of the Bhutanese government and the King's throne room. The grand architecture of this Bhutanese place, embellished with detailed carvings and paintings, is a reflection of the artistic prowess of Bhutan.

Buddha Dordenma : This enormous Buddha Shakyamuni statue, located on a hill, is not just a spiritual landmark but also a symbol of peace and prosperity in Bhutan. The vistas from this place are truly awe-inspiring, particularly at sunrise, making it a must-visit place in Bhutan.

National Folk Heritage Museum : This museum is a place where you can dive deep into Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. It displays traditional Bhutanese textiles, masks, handicrafts, and artifacts, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of Bhutan's cultural diversity and history.

Other Best Places to visit in Thimphu : Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang, Takin Preserve, Dechen Phodrang, Clock Tower Square, Paper Factory, National Library, Motithang Takin Preserve, Postal Museum.

For more details on Thimphu Attractions 10 Best Places to Visit in Thimphu .

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Thing to Do: Cultural Tradition & Grandeur Nature at Bhutan Capital

Hike to Tango Monastery : This beautiful monastery, one of the best places to visit in Bhutan, is nestled on a cliffside. It offers breathtaking views of the valley and provides a unique insight into the lives of monks, making it a must-visit spot in Bhutan.

Thimphu Tshechu : Experience this lively Thimphu Festivals in September, one of the best times to visit Bhutan. It showcases vibrant dances, traditional music, and performers in masks, offering a rich cultural experience.

Trekk the Druk Path : Druk Path in Bhutan treks through stunning Himalayan vistas, past glacial gems and lush forests. Experience Bhutan's natural beauty! Starting Place could be either Thimphu or Paro.

3. Paro: Bhutan's Crown Jewel Place

Serving as Bhutan's only international air gateway, Paro is the fist best place to visit for travelers seeking cultural immersion amidst the majestic peaks of Bhutan. Paro is a place that offers an unforgettable experience with its vibrant Festivals , stunning treks, and ancient monasteries perched precariously on cliffsides.

Highlights: Bhutan's Best Place Right After You Land in Airport

• Paro Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) : This iconic monastery, Tiger's Nest Monastery , perched precariously 3,000 meters, or 9842.52 feet above the valley on a cliffside, is Bhutan's spiritual landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a must-visit place in Bhutan.
• Kyichu Lhakhang : Immerse yourself in the ancient aura of this 7th-century temple, one of the oldest in Bhutan. Marvel at the architectural wonder and the sacred Jowo Shakyamuni statue, believed to be brought by Guru Rinpoche. It's one of the best places to visit in Bhutan.
• National Museum : Delve into the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan at this museum. It houses artifacts, thangkas (religious paintings), and exhibits showcasing Bhutanese traditions and lifestyle. It's a place that offers a glimpse into the best of Bhutan's culture.
• Paro Airport : A unique and intriguing Place, a gateway to Bhutan. While it may not be a typical tourist spot, its stunning location, challenging landing, cultural significance, and beautiful architecture make it a noteworthy stop on your journey.

Other Places to Visit in Paro includes : Rinpung Dzong, Chele La Pass, Kyichu Lhakhang, Tachogang Lhakhang, Drukgyel Dzong, Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang.

Things to Do in Bhutan's First Best Place for Traveler

• Shop at Paro Craft Market : Discover unique souvenirs and handicrafts, from intricately woven textiles to hand-painted masks, at the bustling Paro Craft Market. It's a place to visit for the best shopping experience in Bhutan.
• Try Archery : Experience the thrill of Bhutan's national sport at an archery range and test your skills against the locals. It's one of the best activities to try when you visit Bhutan .
• Trek to Chomolhari Base Camp : Embark on a challenging yet rewarding Jomolhari Trek to the base camp of Chomolhari, a sacred mountain offering breathtaking views of the Himalaya . It's the best trekking place in Bhutan for adventure enthusiasts.

4. Punakha Dzong: Most Beautiful Dzong in Bhutan

Constructed in 1637-38 by Ngawang Namgyal, Punakha Dzong is a place that served as the administrative heart of Bhutan until 1955. This Dzong in Punakha holds a special place in the hearts of Bhutan's royal family, having been the best venue for the wedding of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Jetsun Pema. A visit to Punakha Dzong offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Bhutanese tradition, with its massive, inward-sloping walls, few windows, and a broad band of red ochre crowning the structure, making it one of the best places to visit in Bhutan.

Highlights of the Best Dzong to Visit in Bhutan

• Intricate Woodcarvings & Murals: Marvel at the detailed woodcarvings and colorful murals throughout the dzong, showcasing the best of Bhutanese artistic heritage.
• Grand Dzongkhag Courtyard: This place, the former administrative center, now housing government offices and a museum, depicting Bhutan's history.
• Utse Courtyard: Being home to the sacred Machen Lhakhang temple, adorned with exquisite murals and statues, radiating a serene spiritual aura, Puanakha Dzong would be one of the most special places in Bhutan, and the most essential Dzong in Bhutan.
• Other Best Places to Visit in Punakha: Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Chimi Lhakhang , Punakha Suspension Bridge, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang, Jigme Dorji National Park, Dochula Pass, Ritsha Village

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Best Things to Do at Punakha Dzong

• Visit Tsechu Festival: If your visit coincides with the vibrant Tsechu Festival (Usually in February or March), enjoy colorful masked dances, traditional music, and a festive atmosphere. It's the best cultural experience in Bhutan.
• Guided Tour: Embark on a guided tour for insightful narratives about the dzong's architecture, history, and significance. It's the best way to learn about this place.
• Climb the Watchtower: Ascend the watchtower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Punakha Valley and the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers. It's the best viewpoint in Bhutan.
• Mo Chu River Rafting: Embark on an adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting adventure on the Mo Chu River amidst the stunning Himalayan scenery.

5. Wangdue Phodrang: The Place with Glorious History and Natural Scenery

Nestled amidst the lush valleys of western Bhutan, Wangdue Phodrang , formerly known as Wangdi, offers a unique blend of historical charm, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. It was once the Bhutan's second capital and holds a significant place in Bhutan's past. Here's an overview of what awaits you in Wangdue Phodrang:

Highlights of Wangdue Phodrang: Nature Allure, Historical Sites

• Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: This imposing fortress-monastery, one of the best places in Bhutan, is perched on a ridge overlooking the Punatsang Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers.
• Punatsang Chhu River & Pho Chhu River: Enjoy the serene beauty of the Punatsang Chhu River, a must-visit place in Bhutan, with its turquoise waters and lush riverside trails ideal for hiking and picnicking, river rafting.
• Wildlife Haven: Spot diverse wildlife like the golden langur, Himalayan black bear, and even the elusive red panda in the region's protected areas, making it one of the best places for wildlife spotting in Bhutan.

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Best Things to Do in Wangdi: A Place to Embrace Wildlife

• Visit Festivals and Celebrations: Witness the vibrant colors and sounds of Bhutanese festivals like Tsechu, featuring masked dances, music, and traditional attire. It's one of the best cultural experiences in Bhutan.
• Visit Dochula Pass: Take a scenic drive or bike ride through the Dochula Pass, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and the iconic 108 chortens (Buddhist monuments) built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers. It's one of the best places to visit for breathtaking views in Bhutan. Find out Best Things to Do in Bhutan .

6. Bumthang: A Place Teeming with Cultural Fascinations

Bumthang, the best place to visit in central Bhutan for Culture Exploration , The place stands as a tapestry of ancient monasteries, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here's a glimpse into this enchanting region:

Highlights of Bumthang, Divine History Preserved in Nature

Sacred Valley: Bumthang, considered a sacred valley in Bhutan, is Bhutan's spiritual powerhouse, housing some of the country's oldest and most revered Buddhist temples and monasteries.

Kurje Lhakhang: Visit this revered monastery where Guru Rinpoche meditated, its cave adorned with stunning murals and statues. It's one of the best places to visit in Bhutan.

Red Panda Habitat: Spot the elusive red panda, Bhutan's national animal, in the protected areas of the valley. It's the best place for wildlife spotting in Bhutan.

Other Places to Visit in Bumthang: Jambey Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Swiss Farm, Trongsa Dzong, Bumthang Valley, Red Panda Trek, Ura Bumthang Trek, Choekhor Valley.

Best Things to Do in Central Place in Bhutan

Yak-Caravan Trek: Embark on a unique journey through the valley alongside yak caravans, learning about their traditional role in Bhutanese life. It's one of the best activities to do in Bhutan.

Visit Local Family via Homestays and Farm Stays: Immerse yourself in local life by staying with a family in a traditional homestay or farm stay, savoring Bhutanese cuisine and hospitality. It's the best way to experience Bhutanese culture.

Visit Swiss Cheese Plantations: Visit the unique Swiss cheese plantations, home to a vast network of caves used for mushroom cultivation. It's one of the best places to visit for food lovers in Bhutan.

7. Trongsa: Original Place for Bhutan Royal History

Trongsa , nestled amidst towering mountains in Bhutan, is the central administrative hub and one of the best places to visit. It boasts a rich history, strategic significance, and a unique blend of cultural flavors, making it a most important place in Bhutan. Here's a glimpse into this captivating place:

Highlights of the Best Place to Visit in Bhutan

Wangchuck Dynasty: Trongsa, the seat of the Wangchuck dynasty for centuries, has shaped Bhutan's political landscape. The ancestors of Bhutan's current royal family ruled from Trongsa Dzong, playing a crucial role in unifying the country.

Trongsa Dzong: This imposing fortress-monastery, perched on a cliff overlooking the Mangde Chhu River, is a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture. It's one of the best places to visit in Bhutan for Bhutan's history.

Traditional Wooden Houses: Wander through the charming town of Trongsa, lined with traditional wooden houses adorned with colorful flags and intricate woodwork. It's one of the most beautiful places with work of top-notch craftsmen in Bhutan.

Other Top Places to Visit in Trongsa: Chendebji Chorten, Yutong La Pass, Korphu Village, Nabji Lhakhang, Semji Village, Threupang Palace, Kuenga Rabten Palace, Mangdue Foot Trail.

Best Things to Do in Bhutan: Unveil the Bhutan Dynasty in Trongsa

Trek the Chorten Trail: Follow the scenic Chorten Trail, lined with 108 chortens (Buddhist monuments), offering breathtaking views of the valley and a peaceful atmosphere. It's one of the best activities to do when you visit Bhutan.

Visit Trongsa Museum: Learn about the region's rich history and culture at the Trongsa Museum, housing artifacts and exhibits from the Wangchuck dynasty era. It's one of the best places to visit in Bhutan for history enthusiasts.

8. Gangtey: Valley of Cranes and Serenity

Gangtey , a picturesque village in the heart of Bhutan, is nestled amidst the stunning Phobjikha Valley. This place is a haven for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and seekers of spiritual serenity, making it one of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Bhutan. Here's a glimpse into this captivating destination:

Highlights of the Serene Retreat Place

• Phobjikha Valley : Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Phobjikha Valley, a potential UNESCO World Heritage Site . The lush meadows, glacial lakes, and soaring mountains paint a picture of pristine tranquility, making it one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan.
• Gangtey Monastery : Visit the majestic Gangtey Monastery, perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley. This Nyingma Buddhist monastery offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views, making it one of the best places to visit in Bhutan.
• Other Top Places to Visit in Gangtey : Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, Chendebji Chorten

Best Things to Do in Most Beautiful Landscape in Bhutan

• Visit Black-Necked Cranes : Witness the graceful dance of the black-necked cranes, Bhutan's national bird, who migrate to the valley every Winter , creating a mesmerizing spectacle. It's one of the best experiences in Bhutan.
• Hiking and Cycling : Explore the valley's hidden trails, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and soak in the panoramic views on foot or by bicycle. These are some of the best activities to do when you visit Bhutan.

9. Haa Valley: Not the Most Famous Place, yet a Must-visit

Haa Valley, nestled amidst the pristine mountains of western Bhutan, is a most beautiful place that offers a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and ancient traditions. Often referred to as the " Land of Happiness ," Haa is the best place to visit for a unique and authentic Bhutanese experience away from the usual tourist crowds . Here's a glimpse into this hidden gem:

Highlights of Bhutan's Hidden Gem

• Traditional Villages : Wander through charming villages like Haa Dzongkhag, Katsang, and Lhakhang Gewog, where time seems to stand still and traditional customs thrive. These places, while lesser-known, are some of the best places to visit in Bhutan.
• Alpine Paradise : Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Haa Valley, characterized by snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and cascading waterfalls. It's one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan.
• Other Places to Visit in Haa : Haha Lhakhang, Wangchuk Tsho (Chewang Chhidling), Katsang Chhunzom Bridge, Ugyen Pelri Palace, Dobong Monastery, Gewang Village, Lhakhang Karak, Taktsang Monastery

Best Things to in Most Beautiful Place in Bhutan with Unspoiled Nature

• Hike through Chele La Pass : Hike or drive through the iconic Chele La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and a glimpse into the lives of nomadic herders. It's one of the best activities to do when you visit Bhutan.
• Dive in Deep to Hidden Valleys : Discover lesser-known valleys like Kabji Chhu and Gakil Chhu, offering untouched beauty and a chance to encounter local communities. These are some of the best places to visit in Bhutan for foot-on-the-ground travel experience.

10. Mount Chomolhari: Sacred Place for Pilgrims and Travelers alike

Mount Chomolhari, also known as Jomolhari, is a majestic peak straddling the border between Bhutan and Tibet, China. With its towering presence at 7,314 meters (23,997 ft), it's no surprise that Chomolhari is one of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Bhutan , holding a special place in the hearts of adventurers and locals alike.

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Highlights of the Mountain Place to Visit in Bhutan

• Stunning Scenery: Chomolhari's snow-capped peak dominates the landscape, offering breathtaking views from various vantage points in both Bhutan and Tibet. It's one of the most beautiful sights in Bhutan.
• Glacial Delights: Surrounded by glaciers and icefalls, Chomolhari creates a dramatic and awe-inspiring atmosphere, especially during the spring when the ice melts and waterfalls cascade down the mountainside. It's one of the best natural spectacles in Bhutan.
• Diverse Flora and Fauna: The region around Chomolhari is home to a rich variety of plants and animals, including rhododendrons, blue poppies, yaks, marmots, and even the elusive snow leopard. It's one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan for wildlife spotting.

Best Things to Do at Bhutan's Sacred Mountain

• Visit Sacred Mountain itself: Chomolhari is considered a sacred mountain by both Bhutanese Buddhists and Tibetan people. It is believed to be the abode of one of the Five Tsheringma Sisters, powerful protector goddesses. Visiting this place is one of the best spiritual experiences in Bhutan.
• Trek the Pilgrimage Route: The Jomolhari Trek , a challenging route leading to the base camp, is also a spiritual journey for many pilgrims. It's one of the best activities to do when you visit Bhutan.

Tips for Best Places to Visit in Bhutan

• As you prepare for your adventure to the most beautiful places in Bhutan, it's crucial to arrange your tours with licensed guides well in advance, especially during the high seasons from March to May and September to November. Here's How to Visit Bhutan in general.
• Upon landing at Paro Airport, make sure to obtain your visa. Keep in mind that some of the best places to visit in Bhutan, such as the Phobjikha Valley, might necessitate special permits. It's advisable to confirm this with your tour operator.
• While discovering the places to visit in Bhutan, opt for eco-friendly Bhutan Hotels , strive to reduce waste, and travel light. Bhutan greatly values sustainable tourism!
• When photographing the best places to visit in Bhutan, always seek consent before taking pictures of locals, particularly children. Honor the no-photo rules in monasteries and during festivals.
• Mountain weather can be capricious, so adopt a flexible Altitude . Be ready for potential alterations to your schedule and pack clothing for all types of Bhutan Weather .
• When visiting the most beautiful places in Bhutan, take a break from technology. Set your phone aside and soak in the peacefulness of Bhutan. Engage with nature, introspect, and interact with the local community.
• Finally, think about engaging a professional travel agency. They can assist with permit procedures, Visa and Bhutan Tourist Tax , offer insights into the culture, and tailor your experience in the attractions places to visit in Bhutan. Have a fantastic trip!

How to Plan Your Bhutan Journey

To Visit the very essence of Bhutan allow at least 3-6 days to cover the major cities and attractions including Paro , Thimphu , Punakha . If you prefer a more detailed guide

Check detailed guide on How to Visit Bhutan .

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Want to truly capture the spirit of Bhutan? Plan your trip around a lively festival and join the celebrations! When you see the joy and magic flowing through the land, you'll understand why it's called the "Land of Happiness."

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For Traveler in Bhutan, luxury whispers a different tune. It's the embrace of inner peace, the serenade of tranquility, the hushed elegance of a spiritual retreat. It's a grand symphony of calmness, a state of mind untouched by the everyday mundane. This is the true Luxury Hotels you won't find elsewhere. So, let your journey begin here.

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Bhutan is Also a Perfect Destination for Loving Couples. From "I do" to "Happiness Forever".

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Travel with AOT, Your Journey to Happiness Starts Here

In Bhutan , where clouds dance with prayer flags and mountains pierce the sapphire sky, your soul finds its melody. Hike through emerald valleys kissed by cool mountain mist, where ancient dzongs whisper secrets of the past. Dance with masked deities beneath a tapestry of stars, their vibrant costumes echoing the hues of spring wildflowers. Here, happiness blooms like rhododendrons on sun-drenched slopes, leaving you forever changed, a symphony of memories forever playing in your heart.

Asia Odyssey Travel has been actively introducing Bhutan to the world, opening up an amazing journey for those who seek a unique trip to Bhutan. With AOT's experienced Bhutan Local Team and our professional travel consultantteam, we offer comprehensive services as your outstanding travel agency . Moreover, we act as a reliable travel companion on your journey to inner peace and happiness . Plan your lifetime Bhutan journey with AOT. Contact us now, let's embrace happiness in Bhutan together!

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23 Top Places to See and Things to Do in Bhutan

Published: 06 oct, 2022 by nidhi singh.

Bhutan Travel and Tourism Update, 2022: Bhutan finally reopened its border for international travellers on September 23rd, 2022 after two years of the pandemic. The country introduced new tourism policies to reinforce tourism with betterment. Most importantly, there are no Covid-19 rules to enter. So, if you were waiting for your dream trip to Bhutan for the past two years, it’s finally time to revise the plan. Read this blog to know all details of places to visit, things to do and the rules you need to know before planning a Bhutan trip.

Bhutan is the last Himalayan kingdom, shrouded in amazing snow Peak Mountains and shadowy forests that create picturesque landscape. But that’s not all; the unique and best thing about Bhutan is that it is the only country that is 72% covered in forests making it not only carbon-neutral but the world’s only carbon negative country. Apart from this, Bhutan is a place where traditional Buddhist culture meets majestic fortress like dzongs and monasteries, it is undoubtedly a magical and mystical place to be. Its unique monastic architecture and the graffiti on the walls that bear paintings of penises as a sign to drive away the evil make Bhutan a sui generis destination. Reputed to be the last Shangri La, this one of its kind country is certainly the best place to visit for family vacation, honeymoon tours and even for adventure holidays . And to be a part of this enthralling place you can have your own share of Bhutan experience through this guided list of the top tourist attractions that you must see and do.

Best Places to Explore While in Bhutan

Wangdue phodrang.

• Jigme Dorji National Park
• Mount Chomolhari

Phuentsholing

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8 Days & 7 Night

Simply bhutan tour by land.

7 Days & 6 Night

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3 Days & 2 Night

Bhutan short tour.

6 Days & 5 Night

Home of happiness tour.

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Punakha Tshechu Festival Package 2021

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16 Days & 15 Night

Bhutan bird watching expedition.

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Memorial Chorten, Photo: https://goo.gl/JVCqPx

Thimphu is an intriguing destinations and the capital of Bhutan. The city nestled in the higher ranges of the Himalayas offers astonishing sights of their emerald forests and beautiful view of the Raidak or Chuu River. Thimphu is culturally a must visit place graced with old world charms and modernity. You might just be amazed to witness their red light to be a traffic policeman. Interestingly, the red light lasted in the city for mere three days until the locals disliked and found the light to be rather negative, hence replaced with the human traffic controller. Today, the city is flooded with camera-wielding tourists exploring the unique treasures of Bhutanese culture, cuisine and lifestyle.

Basically, the top sightseeing places that are popularly explored in Thimphu are Buddha Dordenma , Memorial Chorten , Dechencholing Palace, Clock Tower Square, Motithang Takin Preserve . Other tourism places include Dzong such as Tashichho and Simtokha ; Monasteries such as Dechen Phodrang, Tango and Cheri. For an excursion breaker, Thimphu also offers charming cafes and bars as well as nightclubs and restaurants to socialise and meet like-minded people.

Paro Taktsang, Photo: https://goo.gl/lnkmYG

Its peaceful serene beauty and clean air, surrounded by unlevelled mountains, lush green fields and historical buildings make Paro the foremost popular destination in Bhutan. It is here in the city, where the only international airport can be found. Thus, Paro receives maximum number of tourists year round. There are frequent visits to the attractive dzongs such as Paro and Zuri; monasteries and palaces like Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) , Pelri Goemba , Ugyen Pelri Palace.

Other best tourism places include temples, monuments and museums such as Bondey Lhakhang, Khangkhu Lhakhang, Tago Lhakhang, Druk Choeding and National Museum . Paro is a historic town with peaceful atmosphere and it is best explored on foot. It is worth a stroll witnessing the everyday life of the locals which ultimately makes it a must visit place in Bhutan.

Punakha Dzong, Photo: https://goo.gl/nMSiFj

Another breathtaking destination in Bhutan is Punakha and this place is widely visited by adventure seekers. ‘The best place to be’ for those who enjoy the adrenaline rush of river rafting in the two rivers/chhus – Mo and Pho. However, Punakha is widely famous for the 17th-century fortress Punakha Dzong which sits majestically besides the Pho and Mo Chhu. This Himalayan town hosts masked dances and traditional music during Punakha Tshechu – a religious festival of Bhutan.

The feeling the place offers is surreal, and thus many people visit here mostly to understand the Bhutanese culture and history as well as to relish its divine natural beauty. Surrounding the town in the Punakha Valley, it has some must visit attractions like Chimi Lhakhang and Namgyal Chorten. From these points, one can get a grand view of rivers and mountains. Punakha Dzong and Limbhukha are also best places to see while in Punakha.

Trongsa Dzong, Photo: https://goo.gl/19Fky0

Trongsa sits in the central Bhutan and its lush flora creates a beautiful place to surround your senses and simply meditate. This must see place in Bhutan is conveniently placed in the centre with a strategic junction connecting roads to Bumthang, Gelephu and Punakha. A noteworthy attraction in Trongsa is the Trongsa Dzong . This is one of the best Buddhist monasteries beautifully topped with red roofs and white wash walls set down above a valley. Trongsa is a sleepy little town and apart from sightseeing the only thing one can do to pass the time is to take a stroll along the shops that are beautifully decorated with pot plants and crowded by gleeful locals.

Jakar Dzong, Photo: https://goo.gl/b3JCWl

Nearing the foothills of Choekhor Valley lays Jakar, locally known as Chamkhar. This region is mainly known for its trading centre and the famous attraction in this place is the Jakar Dzong . Peacefully sited above the town in the Chamkhar Valley of Bumthang, this popular dzong is most probably the largest all over Bhutan. Jakar most likely may take several days for a complete tour of the surrounding valleys. Here, apart from the Jakar Dzong, other interesting and widely visited attractions are Wangdicholing Palace which was built in 1857, Bumthang Brewery, Lhodrak Kharchu Goemba founded in the year 1970s by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche; Cheese Factory which is the only commercial cheese factory in Bhutan and the 14th-century Jakar Lhakhang. The domestic airport in Jakar is Bathpalathang Airport which is located on the east bank of the Chamkhar Chhu.

Photo: https://goo.gl/6aXmtW

Phobjikha is an enormous U-shaped glacial valley bordering the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park. This ever enchanting land is where the beautiful black-necked cranes are found during winters. Not just that, as picturesque and quiet this place may be Phobjikha witnesses thrilling festivals as well. Held every year in the confines of the Phobjikha Valley, Tsechu Festival and the Crane Festival that welcomes the black-neck cranes are vigorously celebrated in the Gangteng Monastery courtyard.

However, this abode on the western slopes of the Black Mountains offers spellbinding views of beautiful valleys, marshy land and grassy pastures. In addition to the cranes, since Phobjikha is close to Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, you can sight muntjacs (barking deer), wild boars, sambars, serows, Himalayan black bears, leopards and red foxes in the surrounding hills. Apart from the wildlife in Bhutan , other attractions in Phobjikha are Gangte Goemba, Nyelung Dechenling, Khewang Lhakhang, Kumbu Lhakhang, Damchen Lhakhang, White Chorten and Wangmo Hand-Woven Carpet Factory.

Wangdue Phodrang dzong,  Photo: https://goo.gl/r34aOi

Yet another place to visit in Bhutan is Wangdue Phodrang, it is a beautiful and calm town. This place is located in Central Bhutan located and is a border town near Punakha. Wangdue Phodrang is widely famous for its bamboo products, slate and stone carvings. Another noteworthy attraction here is the Wangdue Phodrang dzong which is opened for visitors only during Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu celebration held during autumn. With the confluence of Punakha Chhu and Tang Chhu, Wangdue Phodrang provides rich pastureland for cattle and offers attractive scenery. While here, the tourist interest places that are widely visited are Radak Neykhang, Archery Ground, Vegetable Market, Army Training Centre, Dzong Gate and Eight Chortens.

Jigme Dorji National Park, Photo: https://goo.gl/RZgTya

Jigme Dorji is a National Park located in Bhutan and is one of the top travel destinations in Asia for wildlife . This park is the second largest national park covering the districts such as Gasa District , Thimphu District, Paro District, Punakha, and Wangdue Phodrang Districts. Why Jigme Dorji National Park is famous because, it has the best of both worlds, including wildlife, there are cultural sites within the park as well. In fact, the park consists of about 6,500 people living within the park taking care of the agriculture and animal husbandry; it has been listed as a tentative site by the UNESCO. However, aforementioned national park is home to various flora and fauna.

Here, there are about 37 known species of mammals as well as endangered species such as clouded leopard, snow leopard, takin, Bengal tiger, Himalayan blue sheep, Himalayan black bear, black musk deer, red panda and Ussuri dhole. Nonetheless, this national park is also home to the sambar, serow, barking deer, marmot, goral, pika and more than 300 species of birds. Jigme Dorji National Park is the only park that has national animal – Takin, National Flower – Blue Poppy, National Bird – Raven and National Tree – Cypress existing together in the same premises. These features make the park one of the best places to visit in Bhutan .

Mount Chomolhari/Jomolhari

Around 50 kilometres away from Paro Airport, situated at 2,700 metres above sea level, Chomolhari or Jomolhari Mountain is one of the amazing places to visit in Bhutan. Spread along the border between Tibet, China and Bhutan, the mountain is often referred to as the ‘the bride of Kanchenjunga’ because of its proximity to the Kanchenjunga. Considered a sacred place among Tibetan Buddhists, Jomolhari is believed to be the residence of Goddess Jomo, who is the protector of Tibet and Bhutan.

The breathtaking views of this Himalayan Mountain attract throngs of trekkers and thrill seekers from all across the globe every year from March to June. While trekking through the stunning nature trails at the foothills of Jomolhari, you will also visit Jomolhari Temple, elevated at 4,150 metres. It is a popular place to stay among pilgrims. There is also a place called Tseringma Lhatso, within an hour’s walk from the temple. It is referred to as the ‘spirit lake’ of Tsheringma by the pilgrims.

Phuentsholing or spelled as Phuntsholing, is the entry point of Bhutan for Indian travellers who enter the Happy Kingdom by road. It adjoins Jaigaon, the Indian town and the Kingdom of Bhutan. Also treated as the main business centre for Indians and Bhutanese, Phuentsholing is the second largest town in the country. Similar to all tourist places in Bhutan, it also showcases a pleasant, clean and safe environment to the tourists.

However, unlike other places in Bhutan, where you cannot go without a permit, Phuentsholing is the only place for Indians where they do not need any travel permit. The place has no Dzong, but needless to say, numerous tourist attractions make Phuentsholing one of the charming places in Bhutan. Places like Amo Chuu, Bhutan Gate, Karbandi Monastery and Zangthopelri Lhakhang are some of the popular attractions to visit for tourists.

In the Bhutanese language, Bumthang, the word means ‘beautiful fields’ and it truly means what it says. Bumthang is a place where you can spend days in the lap of nature, breathe the fresh mountain air and visit awesome places. Named from Jambay Lhakhang, Bumthang is referred to as the spiritual heartland of the country. Fringed by several ancient monasteries and Buddhist temples, the place attracts flocks of history lovers and travellers who have a keen interest in spirituality and religion.

Bumthang comprises four picturesque valleys, Ura, Chumey, Tang and Choekhor. The valleys are flanked by glaciers, which are now transformed into green cascading fields of rice, potato and buckwheat. Bumthang is often called the ‘Switzerland of the East,’ because of its Switzerland-like landscapes of broad valleys, snow-clad mountains with streams falling down and the easy-paced lifestyle of people living here. If you are in Bumthang, do not forget to visit Kurjey and Tamshing Lhakhang, two of the main attractions here.

Top Things to Do in Bhutan

Rafting in paro chhu, trekking in mt. jomolhari, kayaking in paro chhu, mountain biking, rock climbing.

• Angling & Fishing

Wildlife Safari

The tiger’s nest monastery trek, attend bhutanese festival, bird watching, hot spring therapy ‘gasa tshachus’.

Photo: https://goo.gl/ZNlvQd

River Rafting is a thrilling water sport and it excites all adventure junkies to embark on a new current every time. However, rafting in Bhutan’s Paro Chhu will offer you a unique experience. Apart from racing against the rapids screaming with thrill and zest, you can glide down the gurgling river surrounded by beauty and exhilarating rapids. Along with enjoying the rafting, you will be surrounded by exquisiteness lush green valley where one can notice rare birds flocking around and the majestic Paro Dzong. Rafting in Paro Chhu is graded as moderate so now every adventure lover can try this famous water sport activity during their Bhutan tourism.

Photo: https://goo.gl/CXl6Ru

Trekking is an ultimate adventure activity and the Mountain of Jomolhari will give the best travel experience for endurance travellers. This is the most popular trekking route in Bhutan and as you trek along the emerald forest you will be surrounded by a wide range of beautiful landscapes, fauna and flora. The highlights of this scenic Jomolhari trek are its virgin forest and soaring peaks, you will be passing high pastures where yaks graze and ancient dzongs stand and house red dressed monks that chant prayers. In fact, you can get a spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari from the base camp of the same name as well. Surrounded by splendid desolation, Jomolhari trek offers a unique experience traversing the spellbinding beauty of blue poppies and whispering winds, this trek has something or the other for all kind of trekkers.

Photo: https://goo.gl/2JpDCd

Kayaking is yet another adventure sport in Bhutan after rafting that catches the eyes of adrenaline junkies. The river tributaries in Bhutan provide a variety of courses for both, amateur as well as veteran kayakers. And the Paro River locally known as Paro Chhu offers a heady mix of rapids where one can enjoy the thrill of the river as well as enjoy the beautiful forest and the attractive Paro Dzong which makes a picturesque sight. Despite the tourism in water adventure sport being rather new in Bhutan, it is enjoyed by every tourist visiting this country. With the rivers’ currents slowly changing from slow to fast, it gives a perfect opportunity to traverse and encountering the fort, meandering forests, rare birds and finally savouring the adrenaline rush in the white water raft Paro Chhu offers.

Photo: https://goo.gl/pWaZCK

Mountain biking is an adventurous eco-friendly sport and Bhutan has outstanding trails with vivid landscapes for every biking lovers. Being a culturally and naturally rich place, you can paddle through the rugged terrain, climb and descent through many villages while taking a peek into local lifestyle. You can enjoy this thrilling activity mainly in places such as Paro Valley, Phobjikha Valley, Punakha, Tongsa, Wamrong, Wangthang La and many other locations in Bhutan. However, it is not just the uneven roads you can embark on traversing the beautiful backdrops of Bhutan, in fact, through this expedition, one can also witness the Buddhist culture and visit the monasteries that pass the tracks. Mountain biking, undoubtedly is the best way to see, feel and enjoy the destination with fun and ease.

Photo: https://goo.gl/dgpRgT

Rock climbing is a thrilling activity that is full of adventure and ‘good feel’ ambience. Rock climbing in Bhutan is a must experience adventure sport that you can engage in the thick of the breathtaking view of the country. This exciting sport was first introduced in Bhutan by the Vertical Bhutan Climbing Club. And this club offers a full climbing session by training the climbers. The climbing rock, this club provides is called the Nose and it is located not far from the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu. This rock has several climbing routes and they all vary from moderate to difficult. You can test your skills in some of the climbing trails such as Dead Man Walking, Reach N Preach, Easy Peasy, Wedding Present and Half Moon.

Photo: https://goo.gl/0ung4L

A recreational activity in Bhutan that can be enjoyed at ease is fishing. And in Bhutan you will find a number of glacier fed rivers and beautiful lakes that provide a great place for fishing. The Bhutanese rivers are full of fishes and one can find species such as brown trout, snow trout and also golden mahseers in the southern regions of Bhutan. However, there are special permissions that are to be taken before venturing on this activity. And also, there are few laws one needs to look at, for instance, fishing is allowed only on catch and release basis. Besides, fishing is a perfect activity for families who are looking to spend some quality time with each other. Bumthang Valley , Paro Valley , Thimphu Valley , Trongsa Region and Lhuentse Region are few places great for fishing.

Photo: https://goo.gl/Jb2LdY

While travelling in Bhutan, one must witness Archery competitions held during festivals. The national sport of Bhutan Archery is played with high spirit every year during tournaments and festivals. Even before the officials declare of Archery as the national sport in 1971, this activity gained popularity in the late 1920s. Today, archery is an important Bhutanese sport and tournaments are held every year in Bhutan as a sign of festivities and competition. In fact, you may notice that on celebration of any festival in Bhutan, archery is often kept as a competition for entertainment. There are two types of archers; the traditional archers are made of bamboo arrows and bows. However, during the competition the participants of the tournament use modern equipments which are made of laminated carbon-fibre fitted with a bowstring which is made from synthetic fibre.

Photo: https://goo.gl/9K3fJI

Holidays in Bhutan is incomplete without exploring the wildlife. And as beautiful the country is, Bhutan is blessed with rich emerald forests as well as various flora and fauna. In fact, it is the only country to have 72% of forested area, which evidently make it a perfect place for varied animals, birds and plants. Unarguably, Bhutan is a land of Himalayan kingdom and it is a paradise for nature lovers. Here, there are multiple national parks and reserves that take you to wildlife safaris, tiger safaris and bird watching tours as well. Some wildlife places to visit are Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, Jigme Dorji National Park, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve etc. Here, you can find some enchanting animals like Asiatic elephants, black bear, golden langur and leopards. You also have the chance to see the majestic mighty beast, Tiger during the wildlife visits.

Photo: https://goo.gl/3IdCGA

Clinging to a cliff, Taktsang Palphug Monastery or more suitably called as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery is one of the best places to see. This pilgrimage place is also one of the most visited tourist destinations in Bhutan . Sited on the Upper Paro Valley, this monastery is located 3120 meters above the sea level and it showcases great traditional values of the country by its architecture. This unique monastery is ringed by the scenic beauty of the emerald forest and soothing ambience. The structure itself gives goose bumps every time you see with white building topped with the red and golden roof and wooden bordering windows. A visit here will give an unforgettable experience with blue sky backdrop and lush green hills that make this century old structure look stunning and more mystical. The best part is, this isolated monastery can only be reached by trekking through gruelling and rugged mountain paths.

Thimphu Tshechu Festival, Photo: https://goo.gl/zz4UyM

Festivals in Bhutan are quite unique filled with mask dance, gastronomic delights and of course archery contests. Bhutan has a number of traditions and festivals that are celebrated with much rigour and gusto throughout the country. And one must attend festival like Thimphu Tshechu, which is held during the month of September; and is said to be the biggest festival in Bhutan. This auspicious jubilee is a long three day celebration that offers one the opportunity to experience vibrant and traditions of the locals. In this eventful week, various temples, monasteries and dzongs are decorated throughout the country marked by blend of colours, dance, music and food. Other than that, there are other festivals that must be attended as well such as Paro Tshechu held during the month of March, Jambay Lhakhang Drup in October, Punakha Drubchen in February and Haa Summer Festival in July. It is recommended to attend at least one of the Bhutan beautiful and vibrant festivals in your lifetime.

Photo: https://goo.gl/HW4xdS

Birding is a popular and recreational activity enjoyed by everyone. And if you are in Bhutan you will get a chance to witness some rare and beautiful species. This mystic land is endowed with rich natural beauty and thus this land houses over six hundred bird species. During your birding tour in Bhutan, you may catch a glimpse of some endemic and endangered species such as Cuckoos, Swifts, Bee-eaters, Warblers, Flycatchers, Imperial Heron and Black-Necked Crane as well as Nuthatch and Blyth’s Kingfisher. Bhutan truly is a paradise for the bird watchers and it is an important place of biological significance in the world. The country boasts of rare bird species and flora and fauna in locations such as Phobjikha Valley, Bomdeling, Trongsa, Bumthang, Tingtibi, Punakha and Thimphu. These places are ideal for bird watching.

Photo: https://goo.gl/guP0vp

It is always comfor ting to lay in the hot springs and gaze at the breathtaking sight of the surroundings. Luckily in Bhutan there are many such places where one can rejuvenate his tired body. Locally known as Tshachus in Bhutan, there are many hot springs across the country, and all require small treks through the surrounding beautiful forests to be reached. It so happens that, for centuries, the people of Bhutan visit the hot springs in order to seek or cure them from health problems. Evidently, these hotsprings are believed to have healing properties. The hot springs are best visited during the winter months and you can find them in places such as Dur Tshachu located in Bumthang, Gelephu located in Tshachu of southern Bhutan and Duenmang Tshachu located on the riverside of Mangde Chu. Amongst them all, Gasa Tshachu is a popular hot spring in Bhutan where one is required to do a ten hour trek from Punakha. Hot Spring Therapy is an interesting thing to experience in Bhutan and hence it must not be missed.

Whether you are spotting blue poppies or strolling alongside rhododendron field, Bhutan is a vibrant country that offers motley of sceneries and landscapes. Now, I am sure you are half packed for the ultimate Bhutan tour but if you need a hassle free travel experience, you can always book with us to have a trip to remember as we offer a wide range of tour packages depending on your budget and interest.

Other Interesting Blogs to Read

• Latest Bhutan Tourism Update Information
• How to Plan a Perfect Bhutan Tour from India?
• Best Places to Visit in Thimphu

10 Family Attractions to Visit in Bhutan

• Bhutan: The Ultimate Pilgrimage Destination in the Himalayas
• Trans Bhutan Trail Information
• 10 Fairs and Festivals You Must See in Bhutan
• Top Reasons Making Bhutan the Happiest Country in the World

Quick Answers to Some Frequently Asked Questions:

What to know before going to bhutan for a vacation.

The things you need to know before going to Bhutan for a vacation are:

• First of all, you can now travel in Bhutan on your own.
• There are some codes of conduct or behaviours which you must avoid in the country.
• The travel visa which is required to enter the country is different from visas in other countries.
• Take all the precautions from AMS, Acute Mountain Sickness.
• Bhutan does not offer micro-SIM cards, so you have to arrange beforehand.
• The names of the places could be confusing for travellers. Try to remember the main points where you will get help for any reason.

What are the top five places that every traveller must visit in Bhutan?

Top five places to visit in Bhutan for every traveller:

How much fee will Indian tourists have to pay on visit to Bhutan?

After two years of the pandemic, Bhutan is reopened on September 23rd. Indians are now charged to pay a sum of Rs. 1,200 per day per head to travel in Bhutan.

What are the new entry rules for tourists in Bhutan?

Some of the new entry rules are:

• There are no Covid-19 vaccination protocol requirements to enter Bhutan. However, there is a health declaration to fill up while getting a travel permit. You may be subjected to a random test at free of cost. If the results come negative, you have to quarantine at your own cost.
• There is a SDF, Sustainable Development Fee you have to pay. A sum of USD 200 for foreign travellers and Rs. 1200 for Indians.
• Indian passport holders do not need a visa but they need a permit to enter Bhutan.
• You can travel Bhutan on your own, no need to go through the government-approved travel agents.
• Bhutan accepts multiple currencies. Indian rupee is equivalent to Bhutanese ngultrum and the country also accepts US dollars.

How are the accommodation facilities for tourists in Bhutan in terms of Budget, Luxury, homestays and guest houses?

There are plenty of accommodation facilities for tourists in Bhutan.

Some of the popular Budget Hotels in Thimphu, Bhutan are:

• Hotel Om Tara
• Thimphu 180 View

Some of the popular Luxury Hotels in Thimphu, Bhutan are:

• Le Meridien Thimphu
• Terma Linca Resort & Spa
• Six Senses Thimphu

Some of the popular homestays in Thimphu, Bhutan are:

• Olakha Homestay
• Little Village
• Aum Om Homestay
• Damchoe’s Homestay

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About the author

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

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• Ten Best Places to Visit in Bhutan

The Kingdom of Bhutan is a small nation in South Asia , nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. The country is famous for its natural splendor, which features tall, ice-capped peaks, mountain rivers, massive glaciers, lush green forests, and rich biodiversity. There are several popular historical, cultural, and religious destinations for tourists. Here is a list of some of the best places to visit in Bhutan:

10. Phobjikha Valley And Gangtey Treks

The Phobjikha Valley is well known for its scenic beauty. The famous Gangteng Monastery of Bhutan is located here. Every winter, rare black-necked cranes from Tibet visit the valley to roost. Interestingly, these cranes are known to circle the Gangteng Monastery three times as they arrive in the valley near the last week of October. As they depart the valley, they perform the same act of circling the monastery three times. The Crane Festival is held each year at the monastery to welcome the cranes into the valley. The Phobjikha Valley is also rich in biodiversity, and hosts 13 globally threatened species. The Phobjikha Valley and Gangtey treks are popular activities for tourists visiting the region.

9. Royal Manas National Park

Stretching from the banks of the Manas River to the ice covered tops of the Himalayan mountains, the Royal Manas National Park is a treasure of Bhutan waiting to be explored. It is the country’s oldest national park and occupies an area of 1,057 square km. The park is home to the nation’s charismatic megafauna, such as Bengal tigers, elephants, wild water buffalo, and rhinoceroses. A large number of birds, including four species of hornbills and other rare species, also inhabit the park.

Punakha is a town and administrative center of the Punakha dzongkhag (district), and served as the capital of the Bhutanese government until 1955, when it was replaced by Thimphu. Punakha is located at an elevation of 1,200 meters and is most famous for the Punakha Dzong. Also known as the Palace of Great Happiness, construction of the Punakha Dzong began in 1637 and was completed within two years under the command of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It is the most beautiful Dzong of Bhutan and houses sacred Buddhist relics. The first king of Bhutan was coronated at this site in 1907. Located at the junction point of two mountain rivers, the Punakha Dzong is vulnerable to flash flooding when the glaciers melt during warm periods. Tourists to Punakha can also visit the tiny Ritsha village nearby, which features homes made from pounded mud with stone foundations. Rice fields and gardens surround these houses. The rice grown here is famous throughout Bhutan.

7. Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary

The Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area spanning parts of Bhutan's Trashigang and Samdrup Jongkhar Districts. The sanctuary is home to several endemic species of flora and fauna, like the eastern blue pine and the black-rumped magpie. The origins of the sanctuary are associated with an interesting tale. Unlike most other protected areas of the world that are established to protect the wild flora and fauna of the region, the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary was established to protect the migoi, a cryptid creature similar to a yeti. Although there is no scientific evidence to prove the creature's existence, locals strongly believe that the migoi lives in the region.

6. Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary

The Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses an area of 1,520.61 square km in northeastern Bhutan and is one of the top natural attractions in the country. The elevation of the sanctuary ranges between 1,500 meters and 6,000 meters. The Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1998 and features a rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, alpine lakes, and picturesque valleys. The sanctuary is a favorite destination of bird lovers around the world. In fact, it has been identified as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Black-necked cranes, grey-crowned prinias, and wood snipes are some of the notable birds of the sanctuary.

5. Lhuntse Dzong

The Lhuntse Dzong is a Buddhist monastery and dzong located in eastern Bhutan’s Lhuntse District. The Kuri Chhu river flows near the dzong along a scenic valley surrounded by high peaks. The monastery was built in 1543 and underwent a series of modifications since then to attain its present form. The dzong served as the ancestral home of the Wangchuck Dynasty in the past. The Lhuntse Dzong features five temples and an assembly hall for monks. The Khoma village is a nearby attraction, famous for the Kishu Thara, which is an intricate woven silk cloth.

Paro is a town that is home to several important sacred and historical sites in Bhutan. It is located in the Paro Valley and hosts the country's only international airport. One of the major attractions in Paro is the Rinpung Dzong, a Buddhist fortress and monastery, which has been included in Bhutan's Tentative List for inclusion as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The famous Taktsang Monastery is also accessible from Paro. The town also features examples of traditional architecture, boutique shops, and local restaurants.

3. Taktsang Monastery

Renowned for its beauty and uniqueness, the Taktsang Palphug Monastery, also known as the Paro Taktsang and the Tiger's Nest, is a Buddhist sacred site precariously located on a cliffside high on the Himalayas in Bhutan’s upper Paro valley. The monastery was established in 1692 and is believed to be the site where Guru Padmasambhava, the tutelary deity of the country, meditated for years. The monastery is visited by both ordinary tourists and renowned personalities from across the world. After trekking for three hours, Prince William and Kate Middleton visited the site on April 15, 2016.

2. Jigme Dorji National Park

The Jigme Dorji National Park is a picturesque wilderness area in Bhutan. The park was established in 1974 and now occupies an area of 4316 square km. The elevation of the park ranges between 1,400 and 7,000 meters and encompasses a wide variety of habitats that change with altitude. The Jigme Dorji National Park is a perfect destination for wildlife lovers, as it home to more than 37 species of mammals. These include fierce predators like the Bengal tiger, Himalayan black bear, clouded leopard, snow leopard, and the Indian leopard. The national park is also rich in herbivore fauna, like the takin, barking deer, goral, and sambar. Additionally, the park hosts several birds of vibrant colors that are a pleasure to watch. The Jigme Dorji National Park also offers a spiritual experience to the visitor and several sites of cultural importance.

Thimphu is the capital and only city of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Located in the heart of the country, it is the world’s third highest capital city by altitude. It stretches along the western bank of the Raidāk River Valley. Thimphu fully reflects the culture of Bhutan and therefore is the country's most visited destination. The most notable attraction in Thimphu is the Tashichho Dzong, a fortress and Buddhist monastery at the city’s northern edge that has traditionally served as the seat of the head of the Bhutan's civil government, known as Druk Desi. Other attractions in Thimphu include the Simtokha Dzong, Dechen Phodrang Monastery, Dechencholing Palace, Tango Monastery, Buddha Dordenma, and Memorial Chorten. The Motithang Takin Preserve is a top nature attraction in Thimphu. Originally founded as a mini-zoo, the attraction has been upgraded to a preserve and houses a significant population of the national animal of the country, the takin.

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23 essential things to know before visiting Bhutan

Feb 2, 2024 • 15 min read

You'll want to observe proper etiquette at Bhutan's Buddhist sites, such as Punakha Dzong © Kateryna Mashkevych / Shutterstock

Perched in the Himalayas between India and China, tiny Bhutan , with cliff-hanging monasteries, golden-roof temples and colorful prayer flags strung along trails and peaks, stands as the last Buddhist kingdom on earth.

Its careful tourism policy has allowed it to slowly open to the outside world without compromising its culture and traditions or degrading its pristine natural environment – two pillars of  Gross National Happiness (GNH), a unique philosophy that guides the government of Bhutan. 

Having traveled extensively in Bhutan on assignment, I’ve come to embrace its diverse seasons and activities, from horse trekking in Bumthang to rafting down the purple-jacaranda-lined Punakha River to learning how to make hoentey (a specialty buckwheat dumpling eaten during Lomba, the New Year) in the semi-remote Haa Valley.

This quick guide navigates Bhutan's cultural landscape, highlighting its local customs and quirks, as you plan your journey to the country known locally as Druk Yul, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. 

1. Independent travel is finally possible, but a tour operator is still the way to go

Since reopening in 2022, Bhutan has scrapped its all-inclusive tour-package minimum, and initially raised the Sustainable Daily Fee (SDF) to US$200 before reducing it to US$100 , valid now through September 2027. There is a 50% discount for kids ages six to 11, with no SDF for those under six. A one-time US$40 visa-application fee  also applies.

Fees are significantly lower for travelers from India, who can visit with a special permit. Indian travelers need to have a passport or voter ID card. Indian Aadhar cards are not accepted. Meanwhile, Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals are  eligible for visa upon arrival , but must pay the SDF.

The good news is that adventurous travelers planning a trip can now independently book accommodations, guides (mandatory for any journey beyond Thimphu and Paro) and transportation. You can also, for the first time ever, extend your visa while you’re there, and you can even drive your own car – for a fee. 

However, for activities like trekking, attending festivals or engaging in more specialized interests, such as birding, horse trekking or cycling, using a tour operator will undoubtedly enhance your overall experience – and is generally required. Lists of certified tour operators, guides and accommodations, including hotels and homestays, can be found on the official Bhutan Travel website .

2. Book early for festivals and trekking in the high season

Since reopening, there are no longer incentives for offseason travel, except for occasional hotel deals. This means you may as well time your trip with autumn and spring, when the most famous tsechus (monastic festivals) take place and the leaves change or rhododendrons bloom, respectively. Book far ahead if you’re considering attending a celebration or going trekking.

That said, locals argue that anytime of year is wonderful to visit Bhutan – and that summer and winter are just as wonderful, with plenty of lesser-known festivals. But these seasons are not ideal if you’re planning a multiday trek, due to muddy trails and chilly camping.

Still, the winter holiday season is auspicious, offering crisp air, clear skies and perfect light for photography, with few travelers. Plus, if you go for the December 17 National Day celebrations at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu , you may even get the chance to meet the king! 

3. Travel insurance is mandatory 

Per Bhutan’s Tourism Rules and Regulations 2022 , you must have travel insurance that covers accidental death, permanent disability due to accidents, emergency medical evacuation and hospital charges in case of sickness. You’ll need your proof of insurance coverage – in English – in order to apply for your visa. 

If you do find yourself feeling unwell during your trip, consider a visit to Thimphu’s National Institute of Traditional Medicine . A doctor will assess your pulse, temperature and ask about your bowels. In turn, you’ll receive a prescription for ayurvedic medicine crafted from local plants, all at no cost. (A small donation is appreciated.) Another moniker for Bhutan is “Menjong,” which aptly means “Land of Medicinal Herbs.”

Alternatively, head to the nearest hospital or health clinic for treatment geared towards Western medicine. The Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital , also known as the National Referral Hospital, is the biggest in Bhutan and located in Thimphu. 

4. Only two airlines fly to Bhutan

Bhutan is served by two national airlines: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines . Because of the challenging landing conditions at Paro International Airport, surrounded by peaks as high as 5500m (18,000ft), only a select few pilots are authorized to fly there.

Direct flights to and from Paro connect you to various destinations, including Bangladesh (Dhaka), India (Bagdogra, Guwahati, Kolkata and New Delhi), Nepal (Kathmandu), Singapore, Thailand (Bangkok) and, from March 2024, the UAE (Sharjah). While Bangkok and Delhi are common entry points, Kathmandu promises the most epic route, with glimpses of Mt Everest on clear days. Request a window seat on the left-hand side when flying to Bhutan. 

Note that it’s not possible to check your luggage through to your final destination, so you’ll have to claim it before boarding your Bhutan connection. 

You can also reach Bhutan overland via India. (Bhutan has border disputes with China. Transit is not possible.) 

5. Bhutan is the world’s first carbon-negative country

Bhutan gained global attention for being the world's first carbon-negative country. Aside from its relatively underpopulated and underdeveloped status (being roughly the same size as Switzerland with only 10% of its population), a key factor in sustaining this achievement is a landmark constitutional mandate requiring the country to maintain a minimum of 60% forest coverage at all times. This is further supported by the environmental conservation pillar of GNH. 

Plastic has also been banned since 1999, though it's not regularly enforced. Nevertheless, do your part to keep the environment clean. There’s plenty of signage to remind you along the way: “Clean & beautiful environment is a feast to the soul,” says one placard en route to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery . 

6. Bhutan is exceptionally safe

Bhutan, a happy and devout Buddhist nation, maintains a low crime rate, with violent crime being scarce. One of the safest countries you’ll ever visit, it’s ranked the 25th-least-corrupt nation out of 180 countries by Transparency International. 

As a single woman, I never felt unsafe on any of my trips to Bhutan. I was also never truly “alone” since I was always under the watchful eye of my guide or local friends. In recent years, the number of female guides has increased, which is more good news for solo women travelers . 

7. Save the hike up to Tiger's Nest for the end

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can occur when travelers are above 2500m (8202ft). Given that the most commonly visited cities Thimphu and Paro are just 200m to 300m below that threshold, and that several treks in the Bhutanese Himalayas traverse mountain passes reaching heights of 5000m, AMS is a risk in Bhutan.

Ascend slowly, take rest days when needed, and if you begin to feel ill, stop. If it's not managed carefully, AMS can develop into life-threatening forms of altitude sickness, so pay close attention to how you're feeling. If your symptoms don’t ease, descend right away. Helicopter rescue is always an option in case of emergency.

Note: Due to the altitude, acclimatization may be necessary. I recommend waiting a few days or until the end of your trip – saving the best for last! – before embarking on the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery trek , which ascends about 1000m (3000ft). Make sure to schedule a traditional hot-stone bath afterward as well.

8. Stay current on your vaccinations

No vaccines are required for entry into Bhutan. This includes the COVID-19 jab, although you may need proof of it if you’re traveling via India.

That said, you should stay up-to-date with your vaccines and consult a healthcare professional at least eight weeks before your departure in case you need any boosters. Standard recommendations include vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, diphtheria, tetanus, and typhoid, in addition to childhood vaccinations for measles-mumps-rubella and polio.  

For longer trips, including travelers who are moving to Bhutan, you may wish to consider vaccinations for Japanese encephalitis and rabies. Rabies is particularly noteworthy since friendly animals, like monkeys and dogs, can all transmit the virus, and untreated infection is fatal. If you are bitten by an animal, such as a stray dog, immediately go to the nearest health clinic and get a postexposure prophylaxis shot (you’ll need a total of four). 

9. Pack a few medical essentials

Be wary of mosquito-borne illnesses when visiting in the summer months and in the southern regions. Because of climate change, Bhutan had its first nation-wide dengue epidemic in 2019. Dengue is deadly, and there is no vaccine to protect against it. (Malaria, which can be prevented with drugs, is rare and – fingers crossed – anticipated to be eliminated by 2025 .)

You’ll need sunscreen too. Bhutan's average elevation is 3280m (10,760ft), making it one of the highest countries in the world. It also shares the same latitude as Texas, Egypt and the Bahamas, so the sun is strong. Protect your skin – and your eyes. 

There are no tunnels in Bhutan, which means the mountain roads are windy. You may want to consider bringing Dramamine for car sickness and Diamox for altitude sickness – consult your healthcare provider before you travel to discuss whether they're right for you. Pack your own diapers and tampons, if you use them; you can, however, find menstrual pads in stores and at select hotels and restaurants. And don’t forget earplugs – at night, howling dogs can be disruptive to sleep, especially in downtown Thimphu. 

10. Bhutanese food is surprisingly delicious – and spicy!

For decades, Bhutanese cuisine suffered in reputation because travelers were mostly exposed to mediocre buffets at their three-star hotels, featuring Indian, Chinese and continental dishes tailored precisely to their palates.

Thankfully, those buffets are slowly being phased out. The local cuisine, emphasizing fresh and seasonal ingredients, is on the up and up and proving to be extremely tasty, if you know where to go. Ask your tour operator or guide for recommendations. 

And while Bhutanese cuisine is defined by hot chili peppers, such as with ema datse (chilies with cheese) and kewa datse  (potatoes, chilies and cheese), dishes can be modified according to your taste if requested in advance. Still, you may need antacids. 

11. Don’t drink the tap water

Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Bhutan unless it has been boiled or purified. Ask your hotel or guesthouse for boiled water, or purchase bottled water to have on your person. 

Do, however, drink the local whiskey and lager (Bhutan has a flourishing craft-beer scene). 

12. Learn local etiquette

“ Kuzu zangpo la ” means “hello” in Dzongkha, a Sino-Tibetan language and the national language of Bhutan, most commonly spoken in the western part of the country. Recite this while bowing (shaking hands is less common). The deeper the bow, the greater the respect. 

Aside from Dzongkha (and the many other local languages and dialects), English is widely spoken because it is the language of instruction in schools. When Bhutanese converse in English, it is common to hear the word “la” at the end of a sentence or question as a sign of respect; for example, “Thank you, la.” Feel free to reciprocate. 

If you find yourself invited into someone’s home and offered food, tradition dictates that you say the words “ meshu meshu”  while covering your mouth with your hands. After two or three offers, it is customary to accept. Similarly, if you are the one making an offer, or even giving a gift or tip, expect similar resistance. (Do consider giving a small tip if someone has invited you into their home and served you food or arra, a local spirit distilled from rice.)

13. Tipping is appreciated (but not mandatory) 

Even if you’ve paid in advance for your all-inclusive trip, show appreciation to your guide and driver by tipping them at the end. On a trek, extend this gesture to the crew – ie the cook, any helpers and the horsemen. While 10–15% is normal, the amount and currency are up to you. 

Tipping is not necessary at restaurants and hotels. A 10% service charge is already added to your bill when you dine out. 

14. Bhutan has nightlife

While most people are drawn to Bhutan for its serene landscapes, peaceful Buddhist monasteries and imposing fortresses ( dzongs ) such as  Punakha Dzong , the country is hiding a buzzing nightlife and music scene that is equally worth exploring. 

Thimphu's nightlife centers around Chang Lam near the stadium, featuring diverse options like the Zone (a popular bar hangout), Mojo Park (a fantastic music venue, where the band Misty Terrace got its start), the Grey Area (Bhutan’s first gastropub) and nightclubs Space 34 and Viva City, which are open to the wee hours.

Note:  Bhutan has ended dry Tuesdays and bars ars are now open throughout the week. 

15. It is finally legal to smoke in Bhutan, but be discreet

Bhutan was long known for its drastic yet visionary health law that forbade smoking and the trade of tobacco products. While the law was recently reversed, smoking must be done “out of sight,” ie behind buildings. The same goes for vaping.

Despite cannabis growing prolifically throughout the country, it remains illegal. Possession can land you in jail for up to one year. The only “drugs” produced in the country are traditional medicines. 

Note: While vaping products are sold in a few places in Thimphu, they’re not widely available. It’s advisable to bring your own. 

16. Keep an open mind

Whether it’s migoi  (yeti) sightings in Bhutan’s wild east, the significance of phalluses as symbols of protection or the flying tiger bringing Guru Rinpoche to the cave where the gravity-defying Tiger’s Nest Monastery now stands, folktales, myths and legends are an integral part of Bhutan’s culture and national pride – and believed to be true.

Approach Bhutan with an open mind. Westerners may find it challenging to suspend logic and reason, but be kind when pushing back, and consider setting aside your own preconceptions. Do as the new tourism tagline says: Believe. 

17. Pack layers

You’ll want layers for fluctuating temperatures and varying terrains, and modest clothing for entering temples and monasteries, including socks for cold temple floors. Aside from a good pair of hiking boots, bring a nicer shoe to wear with a gho  or kira  (Bhutanese national dress for men and women, respectively), should you decide to buy an outfit  – highly recommended if you’re attending a festival or meeting with a dignitary. For inspiration, follow Bhutan Street Fashion on Instagram or Facebook.

18. Carry small change

Cash is necessary for buying souvenirs, leaving small donations at monasteries, nunneries and temples (particularly if you’d like a blessing from a monk), and giving tips to your guide, driver and trekking crew, as mentioned earlier. 

If you’re an independent traveler, you’ll want to have small bills on hand to pay for entrance fees to sites and museums. Few – as in almost zero – businesses accept credit cards.

19. Stay connected

SIM cards used to be challenging to obtain, but now you can easily get them upon arrival at Paro International Airport. You can also rent a pocket Wi-Fi device there – useful if you’re planning to visit remote regions and need to be online. 

20. Bring cash and download these apps

It’s easier to bring your own money (make sure the bills are crisp) rather than rely on and seek out ATM machines in the country. The official currency in Bhutan is the ngultrum, which is pegged 1:1 to the Indian rupee. Do exchange at a bank or hotel so that you can have some small ngultrum notes for butter-lamp offerings and such. 

Most Bhutanese businesses accept cash or payments through either goBoB or the  BNB MyPay app . Foreign visitors can activate the app by downloading it from Google Play or Apple's App Store, inserting a local SIM purchased at the airport and funding the digital wallet with their credit or debit card. While goBoB is more popular among locals, some tour operators argue MyPay is better for foreigners because it is linked to more international card networks and is powered by Stripe.

21. Spin prayer wheels clockwise, and other temple tips

When visiting Buddhist monasteries, nunneries and temples, observe proper etiquette: remove shoes and hats, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, refrain from photography in altar rooms, avoid pointing, never lean against a stupa and consider leaving a small donation on the altar or with a monk. If seeking a blessing, it's customary to offer a small donation.

Be it in a car or on foot, circumambulation of a Buddhist temple or shrine, such as a stupa or chorten, must always be clockwise. To go counterclockwise, whether it’s out of ignorance or on purpose, is seen as offensive, culturally insensitive and unlucky. Similarly, prayer wheels, which help purify karma, should be spun in a clockwise direction. 

22. Don’t bargain hard

Unlike some other places in Asia, like India or Vietnam, where you’re expected to haggle, Bhutan’s market scene is a lot more straightforward. You typically pay the price that’s listed – aggressive negotiating tactics are a foreign concept. 

That said, be prepared to spend a pretty penny if you plan to shop. Your eyes will be undoubtedly drawn to abundantly colorful textiles crafted from natural fibers, like silk and cotton. These can take months to assemble, and the prices – which can top four figures – reflect the meticulous work and cultural richness woven into each piece, often done by women.

Note: Geometric yathras , textiles made of yak wool and commonly found in central Bhutan’s Bumthang region, are more budget-friendly.) 

23. Consult the lunar calendar

The Bhutanese calendar is based on Tibet's, which follows the lunar calendar. Buddhist festivals, like tsechus, follow the lunar calendar, meaning the dates change from year to year. There are other cultural festivals, like Bhutan National Day and the Black Necked Crane Festival in Phobjikha Valley, that follow the Gregorian calendar and therefore stay the same.

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The Best Places to Visit in Bhutan: 7 Amazing Destinations

Bhutan is a splendid country with much to see and do. There are plenty of monasteries, temples, hikes, lush valleys, mountains, and more. However, it would take ages to see everything. So the typical tourist visits for 7 days, keeping in mind the daily charge to stay in the country. This duration is ideal to see the places and key attractions that give you the essence of this wonderful country.

So, here is the list of the best places to visit in Bhutan, along with the top things to do at these places.

Paro is a beautiful small town that has Bhutan’s only international airport. Therefore, it will probably be the way you enter Bhutan (unless travelling by road from India). The town is mainly lined with cute cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. I loved wandering on the main street and in the lanes; you could try it too!

Top Things to Do in Paro, Bhutan

Tiger’s Nest Monastery : The Tiger’s Nest Monastery, or Paro Taktsang, is Bhutan’s postcard icon and undoubtedly a bucket-list affair. It is a monastery perched precariously on a cliffside, 900 metres above the ground, that can only be reached via a 2-3 hour easy-moderate difficulty hike. Don’t let that deter you! The hike is a beautiful one that you’ll remember for the rest of your life for all the right reasons.

Location : 20-minute drive from Paro Town

Best months to visit : March-April and September-November

Time for visit : 6-7 hours

Timings : 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Read our Tiger’s Nest Hike Guide for all the details, tips, and must-knows for this hike.

Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath : After the Tiger’s Nest Hike, soak in a hot stone bath that Bhutan is so famous for. Don’t worry! The hot stones won’t burn you, as they aren’t placed in your bathtub but in an adjoining chamber. The minerals released by the heated stone along with the properties of Artemisia leaves gives the water medicinal benefits known to heal stomach disorders, arthritis, joint pains, hypertension and other minor ailments. It is the  perfect way to relieve sore muscles are the tiring hike. 

Visit Bjagoe Menchu in Paro for a low-cost option else, you can also indulge in such a bath at Punakha, Bumthang or Gangtey.

Paro Dzong or Rinpung Dzong : Firstly, let me elaborate on what Dzongs are. They are traditional Bhutanese fortresses that were built in the 17th century to defend against attacks from Tibet. The exteriors are constructed in traditional Bhutanese architecture, and the interiors are adorned with intricate art. They now serve as administrative offices and religious residences. The Rinpung Dzong has massive buttressed walls that tower over the town and are visible throughout the valley. When here, appreciate these massive walls, colourful decorations, and intricate wooden carvings. Do not miss peeping from the windows of the building to admire the terraced farms of Paro Valley—a sight to behold.

Location:  10-minute drive from Paro Town Best months to visit: March-April and September-November Time for visit: 6-7 hours Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM.

Chele La Pass: Chele La is the highest motorable point in Bhutan, sitting 3,988 metres above sea level. If you’re a nature lover, you will love visiting this pass for the panoramic mountain views and a glimpse of magnificent Mt. Chomolhari, Bhutan’s most sacred and highest peak at 7329 metres. If you’re visiting on a snowy day, just ask your driver to take you to the point where it is safe to drive. Here, you can have a good time playing with snow. Do try red rice porridge from the trucks selling light snacks at this point. Made of rice, cheese, ginger, and chilies or peppers, it is happiness in a bowl!

Location: 1.5 hours from Paro, between Paro and Haa Valley.

Best months to visit: April to June

Time for visit: 1-2 hour

You can also visit the National Museum of Bhutan and try beer from the Namgay Artisanal Brewery just out of town.

Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan. But it isn’t your regular capital city. Why? There is no hustle-bustle, no flashing billboards, and no skyscrapers, despite it being the largest city in the country. It is rather peaceful and serene, but with a great café culture.

The Best Things to See and Do in Thimphu, Bhutan

Dochula Pass: Unlike other passes, the Dochula Pass is adorned with 108 stupas, or chortens, built in the memory of martyred Bhutanese soldiers. Here, you’ll see many Bhutanese people offering prayers by walking around the circular or sitting between the Chortens, enjoying a picnic. To know why this is one of the top things to do in Bhutan, do not forget to look at the breath-taking view of the Himalayas from here.

Location: a 40-minute drive from Thimphu towards Punakha. The best months to visit : March to May and September to November Time for visit: 1 hour Timings: NA

Buddha Dordenma: The Buddha Dordenma is a 169-feet-tall bronze Shakyamuni Buddha statue symbolising indestructibility – an awesome sight! It is built on top of a hill in Thimpu and can therefore be seen as a speck from all over the city. This statue sits on top of a meditation hall that houses 1,25,000 small gold-gilded bronze Buddha statues.

Mind-Boggling Fact : The construction cost a whopping $100 million. Location: 15-minute drive from Thimphu Town Best months to visit: Year-Round Time for visit: 1.5 hours Timings: 9 a.m.–5 p.m., closed on Mondays and other national holidays.

Thimpu Dzong or Tashiccho Dzong: This Dzong, located 2 km away from Thimphu Town at its border, is of major importance as it houses the office and throne room of the King of Bhutan and serves as the main secretariat of the Bhutanese government. Time your visit precisely at 5 PM to see the changing of the flag (change of guard) ceremony. Stay till nightfall to see the Dzong lit up beautifully.

Location: 7km from Thimphu Town Best months to visit: Year-Round Time for visit: 1.5 hours Timings: Open weekdays only from 5 PM- 7 PM. Saturday & Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM. (please check these timings with a local guide or travel agency or your driver before you visit as there is a lot of different information given by whomever you ask).

You can also visit the National Memorial Chorten (daily pilgrimage for local people), Changangkha Lakhang (Bhutanese temple), Motithang Takin Preserve (to see the national animal of Bhutan -Takin), Walk around Clock Tower Square (the heart of Thimphu), and the Weekend market (to see local life and buy food, and souvenirs)

Punakha is a scenic valley known as the rice bowl of Bhutan where rice is grown on terraced fields in a traditional manner. It is the place where two of the most important rivers of Bhutan meet. When visiting you’ll be rather shocked to see Phalluses painted on the walls of buildings. 

Things to See in Punakha Bhutan

Punakha dzong.

The Punakha Dzong is the second-largest and second-oldest but considered the most beautiful. And boy, it is magnificent with a super picturesque location between two rivers. Take your time inside to let the grandiose and colour of the interiors be etched upon your mind since photography isn’t allowed inside the buildings. It is definitely one of the most beautiful places to see in Bhutan. 

Mind-Boggling Fact : The dzong is built without the use of nails! Location: 30-minute drive from Punakha Town Best months to visit: March-May and September-November. The best time to visit the Punakha Dzong is mid-May when lavender coloured jacaranda trees blossom. Time for visit: 2 hours Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM. The dzong is shut from 1.30-2.30 so plan your visit accordingly.

Chimi Lhakhang: Chimi Lhakhang is a temple of fertility perched on a small hill amid rice fields at Sopsakha village. It is where childless couples are blessed by keeping a wooden penis on the head. Couples even get their baby here to get a name, which is always Chimi. According to a legend, a Divine Madman used his penis to defeat a demoness. Since then the Phallus is used as a symbol of protection to drive away evil and hence painted over houses in the area. I’m sure you can see why it is one of the top Bhutan tourist places.

Location: 25-minute drive from Punakha town Best months to visit: March to May and in October when the paddy is beautiful green and gold. Time for visit: 1-2 hours Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM.

While the towns mentioned above are the most popular Bhutan tourist places owing to distance and time, there are other places that you should visit if you have more than 7 days to spend in Bhutan. Here are the less frequented places to see in Bhutan.

4. Phobjikha or Gangtey Valley

This is a glacial valley in central Bhutan which is famous for two reasons-  the Gangte Monastery and the rare black-necked cranes that visit here in the winter. These cranes arrive in the last week of October, they circle around the Monastery roof three times before landing in the valley’s wetlands and repeat this process as they leave for Tibet in March. Hundreds of birdwatchers come to this area in October and March to witness the amazing spectacle of the cranes. Besides the cranes, the valley is home to more than ten protected species of birds and animals. The valley is best seen on a three day trek through it. Read this amazing  Gangtey Valley experience  to decide if you should visit here.

Best months to visit: October to March to witness the cranes. November is best to see the Crane festival at Gangtey Monastery.

5. Bumthang

Bumthang is the spiritual heartland of Bhutan as it has some of the country’s oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. It consists of four valleys – Chokhor, Tang, Chhume and Ura –  but Chokhor Valley is normally referred to as Bumthang! Bumthang is amazingly picturesque with stunning – meadows and forests dotted by villages- so walking and admiring this beauty is one of the best things to do here. Read this complete guide to Bumthang for more details.

Best months to visit: March to May and September-November

Trongsa, located at the centre of Bhutan on a steep gorge ridge, is a sleepy town with traditional whitewashed shops mostly run by Tibetan Bhutanese.

Trongsa is home to the largest most impressive Dzong in Bhutan, Trongsa Dzong, which is built on a mountain spur high above the gorge. What’s interesting to note is that the crown prince has to serve as the Penlop of Trongsa (governor of the province of Trongsa) before he becomes a king. From the Trongsa Dzong, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the whole valley. Also visit the Watchtower of Trongsa which is now a museum that is the perfect place to learn about the history of the kingdom. 

Other things to do : Kuenga Rabten Palace, Yathra Weaving Centre, Mangdu-Chu River hikes.

Best months to visit: March to October

7. Haa Valley

Haa is a beautiful valley with the scantiest population in all of Bhutan and known for its ancient tradition and culture. Surrounded by mountains and filled with paddy fields and grasslands, it makes for an amazing hiking and biking area. When here ensure you get an insight into the indigenous life of the local people and learn about the shamanistic rituals practised here. Places to visit include Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple), Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple) and Wangchuklo Dzong. To know more read this article  on what to see, do and eat in the Haa Valley .

Best months to visit: September – November  for mild weather with conditions conducive for trekking and hiking.

Hope you enjoyed this post on the best places to see and things to do in Bhutan. Do tell us in the comments which of these places or things to do in Bhutan interests you the most? Also, would you visit the four offbeat places and if so, which ones?

This blog post on the ‘The Best Places to Visit in Bhutan’ has affiliate links that enable us to earn a small commission when you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and activities we like and those that might interest you. If you like any suggested product, do buy from the given links.

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• 30 Joyful Things To Do In Bhutan To Lose Yourself In The World’s Happiest Country in 2024!

Trekking to sublime mountains, exploring the colorful villages, meditating inside the peaceful monasteries, and learning the history of the dzongs—there are plenty of things to do in Bhutan that are sure to leave you mesmerized. Tourist flocking to the happiest country in the world are lured by its natural beauty, old monasteries, its colorful festivals, and warm Bhutanese hospitality.

So, are you ready for the ultimate things that you can do in Bhutan? Let’s dive in!

Top 30 Things To Do In Bhutan

India’s beautiful neighboring country has something for all; it attracts families, friends, and hundreds of bikers and solo travelers every year. A rare place on this planet Earth where one hardly sees any signs of commercialization, Bhutan is a perfect place to visit. And it is primarily because for travelers, there is no dearth of places to see and things to do in Bhutan .

• Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest) – Go For A Trek
• Trongsa Dzong – Dig Into Bhutan’s History
• Bumthang Valley – Explore The Switzerland Of East
• Trashiyangtse – Hike To This Heavenly Place
• Wildlife Sanctuaries – Go For Bird Watching
• Punakha & Semtokha Dzongs – See Ancient Art Come To Life
• The Memorial Stupa – Rediscover Yourself
• Bhutanese Cuisine – Relish The Delicacies
• Shopping – Explore The Local Stores Of Bhutan
• Changlimithang Archery Ground – Try Archery
• River Rafting – Treat Your Adventurous Soul
• Kayaking – Try A New Adventure
• Suspension Bridge – Capture Postcard-Worthy Images
• Wildlife Safari – Explore The Wildlife Of Bhutan
• Fishing – Go Catch Them
• Mountain Biking – The Adventure Ride
• Attend Festivals – Get Acquainted With Culture
• Dochula Pass – An Auspicious Destination
• Camping – Make Those Tents
• Cycling – Hustle To Perfection
• Enjoy The Hot Springs – For Ultimate Wellness
• Horse Riding – Ride Through A Grand Journey
• Tour The Museums – Learn More About Culture
• Haa Valley – Hike Through Dense Forests
• Trek To Dagala Trail – A Beautiful Place
• Rock Climbing – An Adventure Of A Lifetime
• Hot Spring Therapy – For Soulful Rejuvenation
• Bird Watching – Explore The Rich Fauna
• Chele La Pass – A Gorgeous Area

1. Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest) – Go For A Trek

The trek to Taktsang monastery in Paro, popularly called the Tiger’s Nest, is one of the best adventure activities in Bhutan . After being destroyed by fire, the monastery was rebuilt in 1998. Rising 9480 ft above the ground, it challenges the trekkers to walk the rocky winding path.

Taktsang Cafeteria is the only rest point on the way offering lip-smacking vegetarian Bhutanese food . The colorful prayer flags, the rattling sounds of prayer wheels, the view of Paro Valley, and the calming chants will accompany you throughout the trek. Remember to start your trek early as the monastery closes at 1:00 pm.

Duration of the trek: 3-4 hours Suitable for: Beginners Things to know: Cameras, phones, lighters, and backpacks are not allowed (Deposit at the entrance). Take off your shoes before you step inside the altar.

Must Read: 10 Best Restaurants In Paro For A Yummy Scrummy Bhutanese Palette

2. Trongsa Dzong – Dig Into Bhutan’s History

Image Source

If you love to explore historical places, then Trongsa Dzong – the ancestral home of the Royal Family is one of the best tourist places in Bhutan . Built approx 463 years ago during the times of Trongsa Penlop Chogyal Minjur Tempa , the fortress boasts of a great location overlooking the Mangde river . Also, it has witnessed many major events that have shaped the kingdom’s history.

As you wander through Trongsa Dzong, don’t miss visiting its 24 chapels and the museum in the watchtower. The street-like corridors, beautiful courtyards, and stone stairs tell you the tales of bygone times.

Timing: 06:00 am – 05:00 pm How much time to spend in Trongsa Dzong: 2 hours

Suggested Read: Bhutan In November: Which All Exciting Experiences To Add To Your List

3. Bumthang Valley – Explore The Switzerland Of East

Among the best things to do in Bhutan is to take the Bumthang Cultural Trek and explore much more than the beauty of the Bumthang valley. The cultural trek offers picturesque views of the monasteries, temples, and the quaint villages. You also get to explore the beautiful villages and experience great hospitality. Until the 1970s, the area was only accessible by muddy trails and mules.

Ura Valley is another place lost in the mist of time in Bumthang. You’ll find quaint villages with clustered houses, potato fields, and sheep pastures. This is the kind of valley where you can go on a photo walk.

Besides the breathtaking mountains and the natural beauty, Bumthang valley is blessed with some of the oldest Buddhist temples in Bhutan . Bumthang is the place where Buddhism was first introduced and where saint Pema Lingpa was born.

Suggested Read: Bhutan In August: Explore The Himalayas On A Budget

4. Trashiyangtse – Hike To This Heavenly Place

If nature mesmerizes you, a visit to Trashiyangtse is going to be captivating, to say the least. Born out of Trashigang district in 1992 as a separate district, it sits in the middle of a small river valley making it an ideal place for long refreshing walks in the countryside. Another one of the best things to do in Bhutan is exploring one of the most important stupas – Chorten Kora , situated next to the Kulong Chu River in Trashiyangtse.

Trashiyangtse is also a starting point for hikes to nature reserves, paper workshops, wood carving, and monasteries. If you’re interested in bird-watching nearby, then a long walk to Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary , which is home to Black-necked Cranes that migrate from Tibet in winter. Bomdeling is also popular for its brilliant woodcraft.

Best time to visit Trashiyangtse: Late October to mid February when the Black-necked Cranes visit Bhutan

Suggested Read: Reasons Why You Lose A Lot If You Miss Out On Bhutan Travel Experience!

5. Wildlife Sanctuaries – Go For Bird Watching

The kingdom of Bhutan is a paradise for bird lovers, and bird-watching is one of the most popular Bhutan attractions. The country harbors many species of birds, including Himalayan Monal , Rufous-necked Hornbill , Black-necked Crane, Ward’s Trogon, and Snow Pigeon. It is beautiful to listen to the music of birds and see them soar high in the sky spreading those colorful, smooth wings.

There are many tour guides around the sanctuaries to take you on a bird-watching tour. Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, Jigme Dorji National Park , Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park , Adjoining India’s World Heritage , and Thrumshingla National Parks are some of the protected areas in Bhutan where you can also find migrating and endangered birds.

Permit required: While Bhutan is open to tourists some areas are restricted. You’ll need a special permit from the Bhutanese government. Tour guides can help you obtain a permit.

Suggested Read: Bhutan In April: A Guide To Visit This Beautiful Place In April

6. Punakha & Semtokha Dzongs – See Ancient Art Come To Life

Bhutan focuses on preserving their culture, and their art is a major part of their culture. Bhutanese art is based on their religion and follows a certain style which is uniform. The craftworks follow traditional values rather than emphasizing innovation. The importance of their culture lies in their art and craft.

If you want to witness the beautiful art and craft, you must take a tour of the different dzongs of the kingdom, including Punakha Dzong and Semtokha Dzong . A DIY art and craft tour is one of the best things to do in Bhutan for every art lover.

Things to know: Dzongs are symbolic centers of religious and secular affairs, so one should dress modestly.

Suggested Read: 9 Compelling Reasons To Plan A Trip To Bhutan While Autumn Lasts

7. The Memorial Stupa – Rediscover Yourself

If you want to get lost in the realm of peace, then head to The Memorial Stupa built in 1974 in the memory of the third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck . The stupa is one of the best Bhutan attractions with its shining finial, beautifully carved sculptures of deities, vivid paintings attract, and ultimate peace. Some hermits and devoted Buddhists often walk into the mountains for months to meditate.

Suggested Read: Bhutan In June: A Must Read Guide Before You Visit This Charismatic Nation

8. Bhutanese Cuisine – Relish The Delicacies

When we think of Bhutan, we generally imagine varieties of non-veg food offered in small & cozy cafes. While it’s true that you get various types of non-veg cuisine, there are also plenty of options for vegetarians. For instance, Datshi – a staple food of the people of Bhutan. Datshi is made in various forms and the most famous is Ema Datshi. Ema means chilli; Ema Datshi is made using cheese, chillies, vegetables, and pepper.

Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant (Thimphu), Zombala, Bukhari at Uma by COMO (Paro), Ambient Cafe (Thimphu), Galingkha (Thimphu), and Chig-ja-gye at Taj Tashi (Thimphu) are some of the best restaurants in Bhutan to try different flavours and textures of Bhutanese food.

A local food tour is amongst the best things to do in Bhutan and is highly recommended.

9. Shopping – Explore The Local Stores Of Bhutan

Norzin Lam is the city’s major thoroughfare lined with hotels, cafes, stalls, and shops. It’s one of the best places to shop in Bhutan. You can get everything from embroidered boots to handmade papers. Some of the good things to buy in Bhutan include carpets, silver, colorful masks, jewelry, hand-woven bamboo items, and wooden products. The lively market offers a wonderful photo opportunity to tourists, explorers, and photographers.

Suggested Read: Bhutan In March: All That You Need To Do In The Land Of Thunder Dragons!

10. Changlimithang Archery Ground – Try Archery

If you are in Bhutan, you must attend the archery competitions that are one of the best Bhutan attractions and its national sport too. While sauntering the highways and byways of Bhutan, you’ll find colorful gatherings of men dressed in their traditional robes taking turns to shoot arrows.

The archery competitions draw many to this social event and competitions are organized between towns, villages, and amateur teams. It’s a fantastic glimpse into their culture.

Suggested Read: Bhutan In October: Take A Trip To Bhutan For A Magical Holiday

11. River Rafting – Treat Your Adventurous Soul

Unlike the regular river rafting in strong currents, rafting in Bhutan is a pleasurable ride while floating down the river. You will get to marvel at the lush greenery, rare birds, clear skies, and blue waters of Bhutan. The best time to do this activity is after the monsoon season as the flow of water increases. Thus, you can plan a vacation in October or November.

Location: Po Chu River and Mo Chu River

Suggested Read: Visit These 53 Tourist Places In Bhutan To Change Your Worldview!

12. Kayaking – Try A New Adventure

Bhutan not only gives a chance to indulge in whitewater river rafting but also offers travelers to opt for kayaking. Six rivers in Bhutan give ample opportunity to water sports enthusiasts and amateur kayakers. You can opt for what kind of current flow you want from slow to violent.

Location: Near Paro Valley and Punakha Valley Duration: March-April, October, November

Suggested Read: Bhutan In December: A Quintessential Travel Guide For An Exquisite Vacation!

13. Suspension Bridge – Capture Postcard-Worthy Images

Near Punakha Dzong, you will get to witness the beauty of one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan. Encircled by the mountains of Bhutan, the whole setting of the suspension bridge is captivating for any nature lover. You will be surprised to know that the bridge does not shake even a little despite being such a long bridge.

Location: Punakha, Bhutan

Suggested Read: Trekking In Bhutan: An Experience Like None Other At 15 Amazing Places!

14. Wildlife Safari – Explore The Wildlife Of Bhutan

Image Credit: Charles J Sharp for Wikipedia

Bhutan is one of the splendid places to witness the biodiversity in Asia. The thick forests of Bhutan give a chance to see an amalgamation of flora and fauna. You will get to see black bears, golden langurs, Asiatic lion, tigers, and a variety of birds. To get a better view of these animals without tiring, you can opt for a wildlife safari.

Location: Forests of Mo Chhu River Duration: April-June, September-November

Suggested Read: Paragliding In Bhutan: Get All The Information You Need

15. Fishing – Go Catch Them

This might come as a surprise to you but Bhutan is also known for fishing as it is home to a number of species of fishes. The two most common types of fishes here are brown trout and snow trout. While exploring Bhutan, you can take a permit for fishing and go to one of the fishing spots.

Location: Thimpu Valley, Bumthang Valleys, and Paro Valley. Duration: March-May, September-November

Suggested Read: Top 10 Indian Restaurants In Bhutan You Need To Visit

16. Mountain Motorbiking – The Adventure Ride

Image Credits: Wikipedia

The country of Bhutan is blessed with the existence of valleys and mountains with well-maintained roads. With that being said, mountain biking becomes the most preferred choice for adventure activities to do in Bhutan. If you are planning to ride solo, then do accompany yourself with a guide. If you are a group, then you should know better about motorbiking in a foreign country. 

Either way mountain motorbiking in Bhutan is a supreme experience that will let you explore the heights of this magical world, give you a glimpse of the flora and fauna and let you taste the amazing local cuisine. Some amazing places for motorbiking include Punakha Valley, Phobjikha Valley, Khotokha Valley, Dobji Dzong and so much more.

Suggested Read: Bhutan Hill Stations: A Ride Into The Most Picturesque Landscapes

17. Attend Festivals – Get Acquainted With Culture

It becomes a great pleasure if you get to learn about a country’s culture through their festivals. So, one of the top Bhutan travel tips that we can provide is to explore the festivals in Bhutan that are a great celebration of the heritage and culture. Bhutan is Buddhist state and the festivals are a combination of vibrancy, happiness and richness that let you explore the country in a unique way. Wouldn’t you agree that this is one of the top things to do in Bhutan for cultural exploration! 

Several major Bhutanese festivals are Thimphu Tsechu Festival, Haa Summer Festival, Matsutake Festival, Ura Yakchoe, Jomolhari Mountain Festival and so much more.

Suggested Read: Street Food In Bhutan: 10 Tasty Delicacies To Relish

18. Visit The Rinpung Dzong – Gather Spiritual Greatness

The Rinpung Dzong is a large Buddhist monastery and fortress in the Paro district of Bhutan. If you are wondering about what to do in Bhutan, then this Dzong is the perfect place to be. Built in 1646, the literal conversion of the Dzong’s name means ‘the Fortress on a heap of Jewels’. The grand, harmonious and elegant structure overlooking the Paro valley charges you with a great sense of spirituality.

You can see some amazing things at the Dzong like the sacred Thogdel, the prayer hall with amazing murals, the intricate wooden designs of the walls and panoramic views of the Paro valley. The valley has a beautiful town and with multiple Dzongs which you can plan to spend on at least a 3 to 4 day trip to Paro. You can also plan to stay humbly at some of the best homestays in Paro . 

Suggested Read: Monsoon In Bhutan: Explore The Himalayan Kingdom This Rainy Season

19. Dochula Pass – An Auspicious Destination

Located at an elevation of 3,100 metres from the sea level, the Dochula Pass in Bhutan is a mountain pass located on the road between Thimpu and Punakha. Visiting here for a trek or hike can be one of the best things to do in Bhutan, considering the fact that you are an adventure freak. You will find the auspicious 108 memorial chortens also known as “Druk Wangyal Chortens”. 

Some of the top reasons to visit the Dochula Pass are the 360-degree view of Himalayas, especially the   Gangkar Puensum, which is the highest peak in Bhutan and the pass being one of the most beautiful passes in the world. Some other amazing attractions that you can find are the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple and Bhutan’s first Royal Botanical Park. 

Suggested Read: 10 Things To Buy In Bhutan On A Vacation

20. Camping – Make Those Tents

It is no wonder that Bhutan is beautiful, serene and one of the most quaint destinations. Therefore, with a herd of destinations, camping is one of the best activities to do in Bhutan to get a sense of the scenery around. Imagine a bonfire under the pleasant sunset, local music, food and your loved one sitting right by your side. With a lovely set of rivers flowing around, fishing and boating is another crazy adventure you can hop onto while camping in Bhutan .

Some of the top sites where you can enjoy all the pleasures of camping in Bhutan are Phobjikha Falls, Bumthang valley, Punakha, Limukha, Tingtibi and Gangtey valley. So, with such auspicious locations, where are you planning your camp?

Suggested Read: The Only Guide To Zhemgang In Bhutan You Need Before Your Nepal Trip

21. Cycling – Hustle To Perfection

Visiting Bhutan or not, cycling is a great recreational thing to do. While you are on a trip to Bhutan, the mysterious land of valleys, rivers and mountains, naturally, exploring it through two wheels is an experience of a lifetime. You can visit Bhutan for the endless amount of Himalayan roads, clear air and Buddhist temples that stretch from one corner of the country to another. Cycling in Bhutan is a refreshing task as your journey takes you through twisting roads, passes, ravines that eventually lead to a quaint town. 

The best places to enjoy one of the challenging activities to do in Bhutan are the valleys, especially Paro, Jigme Dorji National Park, Punakha and Thimphu. Some amazing routes for cycling that let you witness beautiful scenes are Thimphu to Jangchhub Lam, Haa to Paro, Thimphu to Yandren Lam and so much more.

Suggested Read: Backpacking In Bhutan: A Thrilling Experience For All The Travelers

22. Enjoy The Hot Springs – For Ultimate Wellness

The hot springs have been pivoted as a popular wellness therapy solution by the locals for centuries. So, you, as a tourist can get to experience this treatment for a soulful rejuvenation. The local name for these hot springs are Tshachus with medicinal properties that cure ailments like arthritis and body aches. It is a well-known tradition for the locals to enjoy hot spring dips during the winter months.

One of the top things to do in Bhutan, you must note that you need to properly research and verify about the natural health therapy before proceeding to these hot springs. Some hot springs in Bhutan provide amazing views of the surroundings, located near the river banks like at Gasa Tshachu, Dhur Tshachu, Chuboog Tshachu and Duenmang Tshachu.

Suggested Read: Phrumsengla National Park: Spot Rare Flora And Fauna As You Trek In Bhutan

23. Horse Riding – Ride Through A Grand Journey

Well are you wondering about what to do in Bhutan, now that you have gone through this crazy list. Well, you will experience the best of tracks and some fabulous places on your way if you choose to ride horses in Bhutan. There are some grand Himalayan trails that cover the ancient trade routes, lakes, mountains and some picture-perfect destinations.  

An important and popular riding path is the Druk Path Trekking route that is covered between Paro and Thimpu. This is a go-to adventure and a unique thing to do in Bhutan riding on Yueta horses along the royal trails of the country. You might get to see some popular attractions like the Taktshang Goemba, Punakha Dzong and Drukgyel Dzong, if you are lucky enough.

Suggested Read: 12 Charming Monasteries In Bhutan Every Traveler Must Explore

24. Tour The Museums – Learn More About Culture

One of the top things to do in Bhutan is understanding and learning the grand heritage that the country is. And a tour to the several museums is a perfect way to do it. Witness through the struggles of the people by going through their past tradition, history and religion. For the culture aficionados, exploring museums in Bhutan is a great pastime. 

Some amazing museums that inspire the culture enthusiast in you are the National Museum of Bhutan, the National Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum. You can also visit Simply Bhutan, Bhutan Postal Museum, Royal Heritage Museum and National Handicraft Emporium.

25. Haa Valley – Hike Through Dense Forests

Visited monasteries, went for a camp, attended the festivals and still wondering about what to do in Bhutan? It is normal to feel that way but here enters Haa Valley , a sweet sensation in the country of Bhutan. A gorgeous landscape nestled between the hills, hiking in Bhutan is not complete without a trip to Haa Valley. While hiking, you will come across some amazing Buddhist temples, the Haa Chu riverbed and a plantation trail in the valley.

You can plan for a 7-8 day trip and stay at some amazing guest houses, resorts and lodges that nestle in this peaceful valley. The hike will pass through some glorious views of Paro and Haa. Apart from adventure, you are also acquainted with cultural touring within your trek.

26. Trek To Dagala Trail – A Beautiful Place

One of the best things to do in Bhutan is to trek in the Dagala Lake trail. Adorned with pristine and crystal clear lakes, you will walk across stunning views of the Himalayan mountains. The trek will also take you through some amazing Bhutanese villages where you can get the idea of traditional Bhutanese life. It is a tedious trek but the amazing landscape makes up for it.

Location : Genekha Village, Thimphu Entry fee : None Time required : 5-6 days

27. Rock Climbing – An Adventure Of A Lifetime

Another adventurous journey that you can do while enjoying a vacation in Bhutan is rock climbing. It might not top the list of best things to do in Bhutan but for adventure seekers, it is surely a soulful sojourn. However, this is a task not meant for everyone but those with physical strength and an active mindset.

Entry fee : Depends on operator Time required : 3-4 hours

28. Hot Spring Therapy – For Soulful Rejuvenation

It’s one of the best things to do in Bhutan – the Hot Spring Therapy. Also known as “menchus,” they are found across multiple parts of the country. The therapy induces medicinal properties that instantly rejuvenate your body and soul. Do engage in these things if you are looking for some amazing activity in Bhutan.

Entry fee : Depending on the location Time required : 2-3 hours

29. Bird Watching – Explore The Rich Fauna

One of the most relaxing things to do in Bhutan is Bird Watching. Bhutan is home to a lot of national parks and sanctuaries. The landscape is full of an amazing collection of flora and fauna and so bird watching becomes an utmost enjoyable experience while in Bhutan. 

Entry fee : No entry fee Time required : As much as you want

30. Chele La Pass – A Gorgeous Area

The Chele La Pass is one of the highest motorable points in Bhutan. And so, one of the best things to do in Bhutan would be to bike to Chele La Pass sitting at 4,000 metres above sea level and in between the Haa and Paro valley. It was built in the 1990s and has sharp turns with sheer drops. The journey to the pass is truly gorgeous.

Entry fee : No entry fee Time required : 3-4 hours

Further Read: 7 Bhutan Villages That Are Best To Explore The Country Side Of Druk Yul

Bhutan is the kind of place where you’ll find hand-painted wall murals, crimson chilies drying in the sun, and cozy cafes wherever you go. Explore its vibrant culture as you indulge in your favorite activities in Bhutan. Plan your vacation to Bhutan and convince all your friends to tick off this destination from your bucket list. Wait no more, pack your bags, and get set go!

Disclaimer : TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Bhutan

What are the best experiences in Bhutan?

Some of the must-do things in Bhutan include trekking, getting an insight into the history, exploring the various valleys, hiking, bird watching, visiting monasteries and temples, indulging in local food, shopping, trying out outdoor sports, and much more.

What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

The best time to pay a visit to Bhutan is anytime between March to May. During this time the valleys are at their full bloom, one can clearly witness Himalayan peaks, and enjoy trekking without any hindrances.

What are the top places to visit in Bhutan?

The top places to visit in Bhutan are Thimphu, Paro, Trongsa, Phuentsholing, Manas National Park, Jakar, Dochula, Laya, Jigme Dorji National Park, Trashiyangtse, Gasa, Mongar, and Lhuntse.

How many days should one spend in Bhutan?

For those who don’t have much time on their hands but still wish to witness the major landmarks of the country should visit Bhutan for at least 5 days minimum.

What can one buy from Bhutan?

Bhutan is a hub for shopping. Some popular things to buy from this destination are handicrafts, silver jewelry, hand-woven textiles, wooden items, postal stamps, wooden bowls, Himalayan beads, and much more.

What should one eat in Bhutan?

The must-try food of Bhutan includes Ema datshi, Kewa datshi, Shamu datshi, Shakam ema datshi, Shakam paa, Shakam Shukam datshi, Phaksha paa, Sikam paa, and more.

What is Bhutan famous for?

There are many things that have led to Bhutan gain fame including the natural beauty, culture, heritage, forest conservation, biodiversity, and the humble crowds.

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Kiran Bisht

A journalism graduate with a love for reading, writing, and travel, Kiran has trekked through various offbeat paths in the Himalayas. She writes travel stories and indulges in landscape photography every now and then, which, considering where you’re reading this, makes perfect sense.

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Places To Visit In Bhutan

Bhutan, the last Himalayan Kingdom, is a country where you would find happiness prevailing across! Sharing international boundaries with India and China, this picturesque piece of heaven is shrouded by the mystical Himalayas, cuddled with pictorial plains and magical sub-alpine mountains. Amidst all these miraculous beauties, one would find a range of scenic places to visit in Bhutan.

Spread across 47,000sq.km, Bhutan has something for everyone! If you are on the lookout for romantic getaways, you would find Bhutan tourist places the most lovable ones. For thrill seekers, the mighty Himalayas (7,000m) and its rugged terrains would surely offer an adrenaline rush! For nature lovers, the picturesque places in Bhutan will do eternal justice. Well, if in case, you are thinking about taking a trip to this happiest kingdom, here is a list of most magnificent places to visit in Bhutan:

Suggested Read:  Things To Do in Bhutan  ,  How To Reach Bhutan & Best Time To Visit Bhutan

Planning to visit Bhutan, here are the best  Bhutan tour packages  that can be customized according to your requirements.

Thimphu – The Royal Capital

The capital city of the country, Thimphu (previously called Thimbu) is undoubtedly the first place to visit in Bhutan. Situated towards the western-central region of the country and on the banks of gushing Raidak River, this city is dotted with scenic vistas and mountain peaks that reaches 2,000-3,800m.

A city that showcases the indigenous cultures and traditions of Bhutan in the most splendid ways, Thimphu also boasts of being the commercial centre of this happy kingdom. The official residence of Bhutan’s royal family, this beautiful city has an abundance of luxury stay options, tourist attractions, places to see in Bhutan, and other modern facilities.

Best Time to Visit: March to May

Tourist Attractions: Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), Tashichho Dzong , Memorial Chorten , Centenary Farmers’ Market, National Library of Bhutan, National Institute of Traditional Medicine, The Folk Heritage Museum, Changangkha Lhakhang, Dechen Phodrang, Dochula , Takin Preserve, Zangto Pelri Lhakhang

Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (54km)

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (302km / 8 Hours)

Weather: Summer (September to November), Winter (November to March), Monsoon (June to September)

Paro – The Last Shangri-La

A city studded with glorious history and numerous sacred sites, Paro Valley is often revered as the ‘Last Shangri-La’ on earth! One of the most wonderful places to visit in Bhutan, this district is a vibrant mix of natural beauty, rich cultures, semi-modern lifestyle, and colourful traditions.

Flaunting its meticulous beauty from the confluence point of Paro Chuu and Wang Chuu rivers to the towering Mt Jomolhari, Paro is the home to the much-acclaimed Taktsang Monastery or the ‘Tiger’s Nest’. To mention here, this valley is also famed for its famous terraced farming and ‘red rice’ cultivation.

Best Time to Visit: September to November 

Tourist Attractions: Taktshang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest), Ugyen Pelri Palace, Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, Jangsarbu Lhakhang, Haa Valley , Chelela Pass, Kila Goemba, Druk Choeding, Dungtse Lhakhang, Ta Dzong, Drukgyel Dzong.

Nearest Airport: Paro Airport

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (297km / 8 Hours)

Weather: Summer (June to August), Winter (December to May), Monsoon (September to November)

Punakha Dzong – The Lost Capital of Bhutan

The once a capital of Bhutan, Punakha Valley is one of the most scenic year-round places to see in Bhutan. Home to Punakha Dzong – The Palace of Great Happiness or Bliss, this Himalayan marvel is seated at a height of 1,200m, and proves to be a serene tourist attraction in the entire country.

Tucked away amidst Pho chu and Mo Chu rivers, the Punakha Valley is around 3.5 hours’ drive away from Thimphu and can be easily reached from across the country. Pleasant climate, bountiful beauty, warm locals, and the diverse Buddhist culture and traditions make this valley a must visit place in Bhutan.

Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination

Tourist Attractions: Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lakhang, Jigme Dorji National Park , Rishta Village

Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (122km / 3 Hours)

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (376km / 10 Hours)

Weather: Summer (July to September), Winter (October to April), Monsoon (May to June)

Trongsa – The Balcony of Bhutan

Positioned on an elevated hilltop, the town called Trongsa is known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views. Owing to its topology, this pictorial place to see in Bhutan can also be called as the ‘Balcony of Bhutan’! Magnifying the enchanting charm of this town, there is its rich history, traditional white-washed buildings and colourful plants spreading all across its perimeter.

Visitors often throng this place to enjoy panoramic views of its surrounding valleys and the magical mountainous glimpses. Among the many attractions in this quaint town, the Trongsa Dzong that resembles as a flying dragon, serves as a major attraction. To mention here, the dzong is estimated to be built in 1648!

Tourist Attractions: Trongsa Dzong, Ta Dzong, Chendbji Chorten, Kuenga Rabten, Chökhor Raptse Dzong, Thruepang Palace, Trongsa Tower

Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (230km / 6 Hours)

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (484km / 12 Hours)

Weather: Summer (April to June), Winter (September to April), Monsoon (July to September)

Bumthang or Jakar Valley – The Switzerland of Bhutan

Enriched with the charm and splendour of evergreen mountains, Bumthang or the Jakar Valley if fondly called as ‘Little Switzerland’! Well, even though you may not find the scenic Swiss Alps here, you can surely savour the delicious ‘Swiss Cheese’ while touring around the magnificent Jakar Valley; thus, it got its name.

Located in central-eastern part of the country, Bumthang can easily surpass any of the places to visit in Bhutan with its bountiful beauty and natural marvels. Jakar’s rugged terrains and challenging trails also earned it a fame among the adrenaline seekers. Whether outdoors or indoors, you would surely like every bit of this valley.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March May), Winter (December to February)

Tourist Attractions: Jakar Dzong, Wangdicholing Palace, Kurje Lhakhang, Zangtopelri Lhakhang, Jambey Lhakhang, Lhodrak Kharchhu Lhakhang, Tamshing Gompa, Chakhar Lhakhang

Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (309km / 9 Hours)

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (563km / 16 Hours)

Weather: Summer (June to August), Winter (December to February), Monsoon (September to November)

Phobjikha Valley – Land of Black-Necked Cranes

One of the most enchanting places to visit in Bhutan, Phobjikha Valley is a treat to every visitors’ eyes! A glacial valley, this is also the place where one can find the rare black-necked cranes in abundance. Unique from the rest of the Happy Kingdom, the valley showcases heart-warming cultures and is adorned with rich faunal biodiversity.

Resembling much to the shape of a bowl, the grace of Phobjikha Valley is further enchanted by the great Black Mountains and endless expanses of evergreen fields. Irrespective of which month or season it is, one can always expect a surreal and serene experience in this valley; all these surely makes Phobjikha Valley one of the most sought-after places to see in Bhutan.

Best Time to Visit: May, July, April

Tourist Attractions: Black Necked Crane Informatino Centre, Gangtey Goemba, Damchen Lhakhang, Nyingma Dzogchen, Kuezang Chholing Shedra, Khewang Lhakhang, Kumbhu Lhakhang

Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (173km / 5 Hours)

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (427km / 11 Hours)

Weather: Summer (June to July), Winter (December to February)

Mount Chomolhari – Bride of the Kangchenjunga

Guarding the borders of Bhutan, the Chomolhari Mountian (also called Jomolhari Mountain) is a part of the great Himalayas. Rising around 2,700m above the ground level, this enthralling mountain is affectionately called the ‘Bride of the Kangchenjunga’ due to its proximity with the latter.

A sacred site among the Buddhists; mostly the Tibetan Buddhists, legends have it that it is the abode of Goddess Jomo, who is believed to be the protector of Happy Kingdom. Chomolhari Mountain remained unclimbed until 1924 as the folklore said that anyone trying to scale this sacred mountain will be thrown or pushed down. However, it has now become a hot-spot among the trekkers and thrill seekers alike. Even if you don’t wish to climb Mount Jomolhari, you must not miss the chance of having a close look at it!

Best Time to Visit: March to June (Peak Trekking Season)

Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (49km / 1 Hour)

Wangdue Phodrang – Bhutan’s Unification Capital

Settled at a breathtaking height of 28,000ft, Wangdue Phodrang is the second largest and one of the most surreal places to visit in Bhutan. A scenic display of how soulfully cultures meet and greet nature’s untouched beauty, this second largest district of the Land of Dragons is also expected to get enlisted as an ‘UNESCO World Heritage Site’ soon.

Dotted with an array of tourist attractions, Wangdue Phodrang is offers a unique mix of subtropical as well as cool and snowy climatic conditions. Thus, it has earned an unmatched reputation among visitors searching for wonderful places to see in Bhutan.

Tourist Attractions: Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, Temple of Sha Radap, Nahee Village, Rinchegang Village, Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park, Phobjika Valley

Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (107km / 2.5 Hours)

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (362km / 10 Hours)

Weather: Summer (June to August), Winter (December to February), Spring (March to May)

Jigme Dorji National Park – The Wild Side of Himalayan Kingdom

Spread across the length and breadth of Gasa District and some parts of Thimphu , Paro, Wangdue Phodrang , and Punakha , the enthralling Jigme Dorji National Park at 1,400-1,700m, is a natural home to many endangered and rare wildlife species. Flaunting its irresistible beauty across 4,315sq.km, this reserved area is also a tough contender name in the list of ‘UNESCO World Heritage Site’.

Home to more than 30 wildlife species, the park also has several cultural sites within its perimeter. On a visit to Jigme Dorji National Park, one can easily spot Bengal Tiger, Snow Leopard, Takin, Clouded Leopard, and Himalayan Blue Sheep are some of the dominant inhabitants of this park. It also houses more than 300 different species of birds and an array of rare floral species. Jigme Dorji National Park has also become a favourite ground for trekkers opting for Jomolhari Trek, Snowman Trek, Lunana Trek and Gasa-Laya Trek.

Operational Hours: Monday to Friday (09:00AM – 05:00PM)

Non-Operational Hours: Weekends

Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (161km / 5 Hours)

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (415km / 12 Hours)

Phuentsholing – The Gateway to Bhutan

Located at the foothills of the great Himalayas and sharing border with an Indian town called Jaogaon, Phuntsholing or the ‘Gateway to Bhutan’, is a must visit place in the list of best places to visit in Bhutan! Owing to its proximity to the Indian territory, one can always expect a mix of crowd in this magnificent town. However, the town resonates Bhutan’s unique cultures and tradition in the most vivid ways.

Located around 5-6 hours’ drive away from Thimphu and Paro , visitors from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives can reach this scenic town without any tourist visa. However, while crossing the border, national of these countries need to show valid ID proofs and seek entry permission.

Tourist Attractions: Bhutanese Gate, Karbandi Monastery, Chukha Hydrothermal Project, Amo Chouu, Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (167km / 5 Hours)

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (155km / 4 Hours)

Weather: Summer (March to June), Winter (November to February), Monsoon (July to August)

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