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10 Secret Tourist Places in Bhutan

Bhutan is a small, isolated country located in the Himalayas. Beautiful natural scenery, a peaceful culture, and unique tourist attractions distinguish this country from others. While Bhutan is becoming more popular as a travel destination, it remains largely unexplored, and there are many secret places to visit. If you’re looking for an adventure and want to explore some of the lesser-known places of Bhutan, be sure to check out these secret spots!

Table of Content

(1) Phobjikha Valley

The Phobjikha Valley located in central Bhutan is truly a breathtaking sight to behold. This remote highland valley is surrounded by the Himalayan Mountains and situated at an altitude of 3,000 meters. It’s dotted with beautiful meadows, little settlements, and forests filled with many species of birds and animals. The Phobjikha Valley is also famous for being a winter home to Black-necked Cranes – an endangered species of crane which can easily be spotted between late October to early February. They migrate from their home in Tibet to the Phobjikha Valley to escape extreme cold weather during winter months.

There are many cultural and spiritual festivals celebrated here all year round that allow travelers to learn about the unique heritage and customs of the local people living in this stunning location. A trip to this little known treasure of Bhutan offers travelers many unforgettable experiences that will stay with them forever.

(2) Ura Valley

The Ura Valley is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled areas of central Bhutan. Situated in the heart of Bhutan, the Ura Valley is a picturesque valley dominated by traditional Bhutanese farmhouses with slate roofs and stone walls. The majority of the locals are farmers who grow paddy. It offers breathtaking alpine views of Himalayan peaks and natural green forests that provide a stunning backdrop to an adventure traveler’s outing in this region. The area’s serene atmosphere gives it an undeniable charm even when covered in a blanket of fog during the monsoon season.

Due to its uneven terrain, it is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers. The valley is home to some of the most stunning scenery in Bhutan, including pristine forests, gushing rivers and cascaded paddy fields. It’s also a cultural hotspot, with many traditional villages and monasteries located in the area.

(3) Trongsa

Trongsa is a small town in central Bhutan in the valley of the Mangde River. Additionally, the town lies at the meeting point of two of Bhutan’s major rivers, the Mangde and the Drangme. Trongsa is the district capital and the home of Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong in Bhutan. The dzong was built in 1644 and was the seat of power of the Wangchuck dynasty from 1644 to 1907.

Trongsa Dzong, located in the kingdom of Bhutan, is an ancient fortress with a storied history. Built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the “Father of Bhutan”, it served as a powerful administrative and religious center within the country’s monarchy. Nestled at a strategic point between east and west Bhutan, it defended Tibet from invading forces during the 19th century. This defensive fortress has played a key role for centuries in protecting the people of its region from potential enemies.

Nestled in the picturesque Punakha Valley, the small town of Lobesa hosts the incredibly unique Chimi Lhakhang fertility temple. Prized as an important pilgrimage destination by the Bhutanese people, this delightful old temple contains many secrets and legends stemming from its ancient history. It’s here that followers of Buddhism make offerings for a successful family, for a healthy baby, and good luck — all blessings that are attributed to Lama Drukpa Kuenley or ‘The Divine Madman.’ Known for his unconventional teaching methods combining humor and satire with spiritual insight, he is said to be responsible for establishing this sacred site centuries ago. Each year thousands of pilgrims travel from near and far to pay homage at Chimi Lhakhang – a testament to Lama Kunley’s impact even today.

The temple is famous for its phallic symbols, believed to bless couples with children. Many houses in the area display paintings of phalluses on their walls, because they believe it brings fertility and good fortune.

(5) Trashigang

One of the hidden gems of eastern Bhutan , Trashigang is full of rich culture and heritage. This storied region will soon benefit from the National Handloom Development Project, which provides an excellent platform for reviving the handloom industry. Not only does this project provide jobs to skilled artisans and weavers who work with traditional Bhutanese designs, but it also helps keep cultural textile traditions alive. The initiative maintains traditional weaving styles while creating modern fabric compositions with a hint of time-honored designs. In addition, the materials must meet approved product standards, providing beautiful fabrics and pieces that will last for years.

Nestled in the eastern part of Bhutan, Mongar is an incredible destination. This charming town will awe you with its stunning landscapes, rushing waterfalls, and centuries worth of rich culture. Hence, it is one of the most picturesque and under-the-radar places to visit in Bhutan. One of the highlights is the Ri Daza Football Stadium. From its 5,200-foot altitude, visitors can admire the misty Himalayas beneath a backdrop of clouds and blue skies. Experience both nature’s wonders as well as a glimpse into Bhutan’s culture and history with a visit to Mongar.

(7) Chele La Pass

Chele La Pass in Bhutan is a stunning mountain pass that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. Located at 13,000 feet above sea level between Paro and Haa, Chele La Pass offers pristine natural beauty framed by majestic mountains. Misty forests, wildflower fields, and a colourful array of birds await those who attempt this trek. The air up here is also really fresh, making it ideal for brisk morning hikes accompanied by the distant cries of exotic birds. A trip during sunrise or sunset offers stunning views of the valley below and the Tiger’s Nest in Paro.

Chele La Pass is one of the most popular trekking routes in Bhutan. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is a great way to experience the country’s incredible scenery. The trail is not too difficult, making it perfect for beginner hikers, and it takes around two days to complete. It is also a biker’s paradise due to the thrill that comes with driving so steeply on the mountainside.

(8) Lhuntse

The Guru Padmasambhava statue in Lhuntse Bhutan is a sight to behold. It is the largest statue of Guru Padmasambhava in the world. This sacred site is located on a mountaintop in Takila overlooking the town of Lhuntse.

(9) Mebar Tsho

Mebar Tsho is a sacred lake located in the district of Bumthang. Monk Lingapa emerged from the lake with an unextinguished lamp, which is why they call it a “Burning Lake”. Mebar Tsho is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

(10) Thimphu Philatelic Museum

There is no better place to discover Bhutan’s postal history and unusual stamps than the Thimphu Philatelic Bureau. It serves not just as an educational hub but also as an invaluable asset for preserving and teaching Bhutan’s cultural heritage. The facility remains open from Monday to Friday between 9 am to 5 pm and on Saturday between 9 am to 12 pm. Visitors can take a closer look at an interesting part of Bhutan’s cultural identity. Artifacts on display include rare sheets of mail, antique postcards, and vintage rubber cancellation stamps that have all become treasured mementos of the country’s vibrant postage history. This museum contains fascinating stamps made out of steel, silk, vinyl records, cardboard, plastic, 3D, etc. It is located inside the Thimphu Post Office.

Explore the unexplored…

There is a mysterious and magical aura surrounding Bhutan. While most people know about popular tourist destinations in Bhutan like Paro, Thimphu and Punakha, there are many secret spots in this tiny Himalayan kingdom that remain unexplored. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas – I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Read more – The Land of the Thunder Dragon

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4 Responses

Planning a solo trip to Bhutan in April 2024.

Enjoy your trip.

Hi, For yoga, meditation from March until June is the best season to visit. there are several unexplored places across Bhutan but i would suggest Phobjika Valley is nestled in lush green mountains and green fields and one can explore it beautifully. you can do meditation, yoga etc.. as well as do beautiful photography and have a memorable trip. it depends on the days you select. in my view Punakha -> Phobjika valley is the best route and beyond that Trongsa is also worth visiting. 10 days would suffice to cover these destinations. Turuhi is the best platform to help you in making your trip memorable & fond memories by creating beautiful story. you can refer to my bhutan stories https://turuhi.com/destinations/bhutan so you will get fair idea.

What are the best non tourist destinations in bhutan to visit to help immerse a traveler into the local culture. Also whee should one go for qigong, yoga, and meditation in bhutan

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• Inspirations
• Bhutan's Top 10 Experiences: The World's Most Unique Travel Destination!

First, that you’ve chosen to travel to the remote Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is a truly unique experience. And each individual attraction is, of course, a bonus. Its geographic setting, its culture and its restrained tourism agenda have all led to making Bhutan one of the world’s unique countries to spend a holiday. So let’s look at some of its individual attractions.

Happiness a way of life

Ramble through national capital Thimphu to pick up the cultural nuances of the country before you go exploring other destinations. What you will love about its citizens is their happy-go-lucky attitude, which adds that special vibe to the visitors in the people-to-people connection. Join the lively crowd of spectators at the at an archery match at the Changlimithang Archery Ground to discover these rich nuances of Bhutanese culture . Whether it’s the street vendor you chat with, or the priests at a temple or a local hostess, the friendliness quotient goes a long way in encouraging you to delve deeper into Bhutanese culture. Don’t forget a lot of this emanates from a government which ranks national happiness over all else as its GDP quotient.

Buddha Speak

Introduced by Guru Padmsambhava in the 8th century, Mahayana Buddhism is at the heart of Bhutan’s daily life and cultural ethos. Epic reminders of this are the dzongs and chortens scattered across the country, as of course are its vibrant festivals. You will love the exclusive experience of a Buddhist monastery in Bhumthang where you have special permission to spend the day with the monks and discover the secret ways of their sanctified world of prayer and worship, education and learning. What is even more precious is being allowed exclusive access to a prayer room with junior monks. At Gangtey , you can experience the simple but richly symbolic prayer flag hoisting ceremony near a local shedra or monastic school.

Nature’s Ways

Bhutan is one of the 10 top bio-diverse hot spots in the world, and is a rich repository of Himalayan wilderness exotica of flora, fauna and avifauna. Get ready to enjoy up-close-and-personal interfaces with this gorgeous natural setting on a hop-on-hop-off mountain biking tour, or a leisurely drive, which takes you along some of the most picturesque trails up-country. You get to share stories with the mountain folk, catch animal sightings, and just fill your lungs with the rich unpolluted air. The scenic drive to Trongsa features torrential streams, forest-clad slopes, and misty hilltops in the distance, local peasants about their daily chores.

Riding the river

Bhutan’s gorgeous topographical beauty is a magnet for the adventure sports enthusiast. Nerve-tingling activities await both amateurs and professionals on its less wild rivers, such as Punakha’s Mo and Pho Chhu Rivers, which are attracting a lot of attention from rafters. Rapids here can vary between grades 1–4+. Unmissable on this trip is the historic Punakha Dzong , an excellent example of traditional architecture and craftsmanship, and serves as a winter home for the monks.

Phallus Worship

Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “The Divine Madman”, is a legend as an enlightened Buddhist master and one of Bhutan’s most revered saints. A walk to the Chorten Nyingpo Monastery with a guide reveals the legends about the lama. As you travel across Bhutan, you will discover a predominance of the phallus icon painted on walls, as signage and artefacts in metal and wood sold in souvenir shops. The phallus, in Bhutan, is considered a venerated esoteric symbol, said to avert the evil eye, and brings good luck. It’s also a fertility symbol, as you will discover at the Chimi Lhakhang temple. They associate phallus worship with “The Divine Madman”, who used his penis like a weapon to drive evil away from a woman.

Trek the Trails

Bhutan’s rich biotic resources can be best explored on one of its many trekking trails through its forests and mountain scapes. Almost 60 percent of Bhutan lies under forest cover. As you pass along some of those designated trekking trails, you will savour each moment in these pristine environs rich in bird life, wild flora and scenic splendour. Interfaces with the local village communities are one of the best ways to enjoy this eco-friendly adventure. Amongst the popular low altitude treks is the Gasa Hot Springs trail, where you can enjoy a soak in a hot spring. Trekking to the legendary Tigers Nest or Taktsang Dzong in Paro is an unmissable otherworldly experience. Legend has it Guru Padmasambhava made the perilous journey here in the 8th century on the back of a tigress to meditate.

An unforgettable culinary experience, which is intertwined with centuries old Bhutanese food culture, is the love for chillies–Oh! And cheese as well. And how well have the twain met in the Bhutanese family kitchen. Chillies, you will discover, are a big part of Bhutanese culture, tradition, and life. Not only are they used to spice up dish… they burn chillies to ward off evil and even give a nice twist to a glass of ara. On your travels, you will not only find chillies being sun- dried like curtains on roofs and carpeting sidewalks. Sample ‘Ema Datshi’ the national dish at least once! This spicy stew favours green chili peppers, onions, tomatoes and lots of cheese made from cow’s milk–and it’s teamed with red rice.

Mushroom magic

Gourmet experiences of a different kind are in the offing, in the Bhutanese kitchen when you join your host in foraging for mushrooms in a forest. These are seasonal forest produce and locals even camp out for days on end in the forests to procure these delicacies. Not only does the experience enhance your knowledge about mushrooms, you can also hone your skills in cooking these delicate offerings in the most delicious ways from the Bhutanese. A top favourite, of course, is a mushroom, chillies and cheese dish!

Hot-Stone Bhutanese Bath

You will love this refreshing, reviving, body-tingling home grown spa treatment. The hot stone bath is a very ancient tradition in Bhutanese culture. It involves the use of uses Menchu (medicinal water) or fresh river water mixed with Artemisia leaves. They heat the water using river stones that are heated to a fiery red. They can increase the temperature of the water by adding more heated stones into a wooden chamber via a chute. There are holes in the chamber through which they infuse the heat into the bath; the stones release key minerals into the water with medicinal properties.

Crafting Story

You can learn all about Bhutan’s arts and craft traditions with a visit to the Choki Traditional Art School (CTAS) near Thimphu. Established in 1999 by Dasho Choki Dorji, a veteran artist, the idea of empowering underprivileged children through care and education inspired it. His zeal also drove it to keep alive the zorig chusum (13 Arts and Crafts) of Bhutan. The set-up represents hundreds of years of cultural practice. “We must preserve our values and customs, our culture and tradition. This is one of our identities; if it disappears, it’s gone forever.” Dasho once said.

From its urban spaces to the deep countryside, Bhutan offers visitors a melange of fantastic cultural experiences . One trip is simply not enough to delve into this beautifully preserved Himalayan Shangri-La. Repeat trips are definitely the way to go.

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Suggested Itineraries In Bhutan

Culturally rewarding journey through the country, exploring everything from charming villages to authentic cuisine and ancient monasteries to museums.

This itinerary promises a palate-stirring journey of discovery of culinary delight across different geographies.

Steep yourself in Bhutan’s rich culture and natural beauty while journeying through scenic vistas, spotting wildlife and witnessing the Black-Necked Crane Festival.

Gather up indelible memories of unforgettable vignettes of Bhutanese heritage, religious traditions, and great scenic beauty.

The type of holiday you are looking for, the dates you wish to travel, number of people travelling, if you have a budget in mind, or any special requirements.

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Home » Travel Guides » Bhutan » 15 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan

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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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!

10 Things You Should Not Miss in Bhutan

After their long trip to India, most travelers will extend their trip to Bhutan. It has its own beautiful architectural style, unique way of exorcism, national costumes, delicious food, and it has invented a new way to measure national success.

The average stay time of most tourists is 4–5 days. This is enough time to see spiritual monasteries or seek happiness from the Bhutanese. However, it is worth more of your time to delve deeper into the trip if you are willing to extend your stay in Bhutan.

We created a summary for what to see and do in Bhutan. It's great for first time and return visitors.

• While you are in Thimphu or Paro, shop like a local in weekend markets.
• Visit some of Bhutan's famous monasteries, including the Tiger's Nest.
• Expand your spirituality by attending the Tsechu Festival.
• Learn more about Bhutan culture by attending archery lessons.
• Observe endangered black-neck cranes while visiting Phobjikha Valley.

1. Ascend to the Tiger's Nest

Recommended visiting time: Half-day

Tiger's Nest, also called Taktsang Monastery, located in the valley of Paro, 10 km north of Paro town. Perched on a steep ridge 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level, it seems to cling to the edge of a rugged cliff. Tiger's Nest is one of the most sacred places of pilgrimage because many famous saints have come here to meditate.

The temple itself has a fascinating history and unique architecture. There are many murals throughout the halls, which are similar to Thangka's painting. As the room in the temple is small, it is impossible for people to fully appreciate these exquisite statues in close range.

It's a steep 2-hour hike to the temple, extending from the beautiful shade pine forest to the mountains. During the hike you can stop for a tea break while enjoying wonderful views.

Perfect for: those who love walking

Asia Highlights Tips:

• When visiting temples, please dress appropriately and avoid wearing short skirts or inappropriate clothes. If necessary, don't forget to take off your shoes before entry.
• You can hire a horse to take you up the hill.
• No photos are permitted inside.

2. Get lost in charming Thimphu

Recommended visiting time: 1 day

Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, allows visitors to stop the typical tourist experience and become part of something unique. Thimphu is an interesting blend of modern and ancient. As one of the only capitals in the world that does not use traffic lights, it is a common sight to see traffic police control the traffic manually.

Tashichho Dzong is the landmark of the city. It has the National Assembly and the king's residence in its courtyard. In addition, the National Memorial Chorten and Folk Heritage Museum are worth visiting. Visiting the National Library will show you some valuable Buddhist documents. Head to Kuensel Phodrang hill to watch the peaceful sunset. From the top of the mountain, a huge statue of Buddha Dordenma stands on top of Thimphu.

Walk around the center and enjoy a cappuccino at a roadside cafe. You can observe how the new business boom is seamlessly integrated with the old traditional culture.

Perfect for: all travelers

• Thimphu is a city known for its nightlife.

3. Dominate the Magnificence of Punaka Dzong

Recommended visiting time: 2–3 hours

In Western Bhutan, Punakha Dzong is located at the confluence of the beautiful Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Punakha Dzong means "palace of happiness." It is one of the oldest and largest suzerain cities in Bhutan.

Until the mid-1950s, Punakha Dzong was Bhutan's capital and government. The fortress is often described as one of the most beautiful in the country, with sparkling white walls and intricate roofs. Towers that overlook the town provide excellent views.

When monks move here from Thimphu for the winter, tourists are usually not allowed to enter the clan, but it is worth viewing from the outside.

Perfect for: those who love architecture

• Visit Punaka Dzong depending on whether the monks are at home, and whether they allow you to enter their monastery.
• On the way between Thimphu and Punaka, the Dochula Pass is worth a stop.

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4. Immerse Yourself in the Tsechu Festival

Recommended visiting time: 1 day for each

Take part in this amazing festival at least once to witness the unique mask dance and get close to the real Bhutan with a friendly community. There are many religious and popular festivals in Bhutan, which have become an important tourist attraction for many people.

Tshechu is a religious festival corresponding to the birthday of Guru Rinpoche, the man who introduced Buddhism to the Bhutanese people. It is celebrated on the 10th day of the month in Bhutan. However, the exact month of Tshechu varies from place to place and from temple to temple.

During the festival, there is a prayer ceremony and mask sword dance performance. A celebration is held throughout the country. Two of the most popular Tshechu in the country are Paro and Thimphu in terms of participation and audience.

Paro Tsechu Festival is annually celebrated in early April or late March , and lasts for 4 to 5 days to commemorate Rinpoche. On the last day of the festival, a huge religious painting of Buddha will be presented.

Thimphu Tsechu Festival is held in the capital for 3 days in memory of Guru Rinpoche. The celebration will be held in September, which will be one of the best experiences. It's also a social gathering for the Bhutanese people, where you can see beautiful clothes, jewelry, and food.

• Photographs and asking the king to take a photo are not encouraged during this time.
• During the festival, it may be overwhelming for foreigners, because of the crowds and noise.

5. Explore the Weekend Market

In Bhutan, a visit to the market should not be excluded from your to-do list. Over here, almost every city and town has a weekend market. Every Friday thousands of farmers from all over the country come together, bringing locally produced vegetables, fruits, meat, and cheese.

You will find locals haggling over vegetables and eggs, and everyone is chatting or bargaining. People gather here as a way to catch up and end their week.

From 7:00 AM on Friday to 7:00 PM on Sunday, anyone can enter the market.

Perfect for: travelers who like to observe locals

• It is a good place to buy hand crafts and souvenirs.
• Don't accept their first price — bargain.

6. Try Your Hand at an Archery Tournament

Archery is a national sport in Bhutan, where each village and town have their own dedicated venue. Archery has been an important means of hunting and defense in Bhutan for centuries. In peaceful Bhutan, archery has evolved into a form of martial arts practiced by the royal family and was given a fashionable image.

If you want to try archery for yourself, take a class in Thimphu or Paro. With an experienced teacher by your side, you can transform from a zero into a hero. Before letting the arrow fly, feel the excitement of pulling back the bow, try to hold your heart steady, and experience the excitement of seeing the arrow hit the target.

Archery classes range from a couple of hours to a full day. Courses can be customized based on all levels of experience, from beginners to experienced.

Perfect for: travelers who like sports

• Your visit may be coincide with a big tournament.

7. Go Trekking in the Mountains

Recommended visiting time: 3–27 days

For those looking for an off-the-beaten-track adventure, trekking in Bhutan is the best enjoyment! When it comes to hiking, Bhutan offers beauty and diversity. The kingdom is home to one of the world's most challenging high-altitude journeys, as well as countless easy walks through the wilderness.

If you're looking for a challenging, high altitude journey, try a 27-day Snowman Trek . It's one of Bhutan's best treks and is loved by trekkers from all over the world. You'll need to cross the mountain border between Tibet and Bhutan. You will pass through 4 passes of 5,000 m (16,400 ft) height.

Along the way, you will see beautiful mountains in Bhutan, Tibet, and India, including Mt. Jomolhari with a 7,000 m (23,000 ft) altitude. This trail takes you through valleys, alpine meadows, pastures, and past azaleas. You will pass impressive waterfalls and lakes. You'll see many animals, such as blue sheep, yaks, and griffins. It starts from Paro to Luna.

If you don't have enough time, or just want to stretch your legs more gently, then consider the 6-day Druk Path Trek. It is a fairly easy trek. Although it is 4,000 m (13,000 ft) high, the distance between the rest stations is not long, so there are many opportunities to rest.

This trail passes through pine and rhododendron forests, villages, and ancient dzongs. This is the best choice for beginners to hike. It shows the magnificent natural landscape of Oka Mountain, the highest unscaled peak in the world. This trek goes between the two towns of Paro and Thimphu.

The Owl Trek is also worth considering, it's a 3-day trek, famous among those who lack time. It will take you along the famous downrange pass, which is 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) high, with beautiful azaleas, bamboo forests, and temples. It starts from Dhur, a traditional local village.

Perfect for: outdoor adventurers

• To avoid any natural disasters, please plan your trip and check for the best time for a Bhutanese hike.

8. Go through Dense Forests in Haa Valley

Haa Valley is 30 kilometers (20 miles) away from Paro. One of the most picturesque places in the southwest of Paro, also known as the smallest dzong (district) in Bhutan. Haa Valley is the only place in the world where cream-colored blue poppies can be found.

Its location is in a remote area with little attraction, but the Haa Valley offers a surreal view of Bhutan. It is the home of nomadic herdsmen and inhabits a very small population of Bhutan. The main crops planted here are rice, barley, and wheat, so Haa Valley is called "hidden rice."

Bhutan's best trekking and mountain biking routes are organized around this area. One of the most popular festivals for Haa tribes and nomads in the Haa Summer Festival, which is usually held in July.

• October to November is the best time to visit this area.

9. Watch Birds at Phobjikha Valley

Located in Wangdue Phodrang, also know as Gangtey. Against the background of the Black Mountains, the Phobjikha Valley offers amazing views of green fields. It is home to the black-necked crane. It has the largest number of cranes in the country, and is a designated protection area for cranes.

The valley is 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level, so it is relatively cold. The black-necked crane flies from Tibet to avoid the severe winter. The cranes arrive at the end of October and stay until the middle of February. This is a paradise for birdwatchers. If you are a nature photographer, it's even better.

Phobjikha Valley has many trekking trails, with the most charming views of the landscape. Visit villages to observe rural life.

Perfect for: nature lovers

• Winter is the best time to visit.
• The Black-Necked Crane Festival is held in November.
• You can rent a high-powered telescope from the Crane Information Center.

10. Soak in a Stone Bath

Recommended visiting time: 1–2 hours

A trip to Bhutan without a hot-stone bath is incomplete. The Bhutanese hot-stone bath is the ideal way to relax after a long day's trek and is considered to have many health benefits.

The traditional Bhutanese hot-stone bath is unique. It uses freshwater mixed with medicine and herbs. Water is heated with burnt stones. Adding more heated stones can raise the water temperature. Stones are said to release hundreds of minerals into the water, which are believed to have medicinal value to soften muscle pain.

Hot-stone baths are offered in many hotels in Paro and Thimphu.

• The prices of hot-stone baths may vary depending on the facilities and additional services/amenities provided.

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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 .

• 5 Days Iconic Bhutan Tour to Paro, Thimphu & Punakha - Highlights of Bhutan >>
• 6 Days Bhutan Essence Tour to Paro, Thimphu, Punakha & Phobjikha Valley >>
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Uncover Bhutan's rich culture and hidden gems. Explore Gangtey, Haa, Bumthang, and more in the Land of Happiness!

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• 10 Days Impressive Bhutan Wonders Tour: Exploring History, Spirituality & Hiking >>

Find serenity in the footsteps of royalty: Wander the paths treasured by the King of Bhutan, where untouched beauty whispers tales of peace. Hiking Tours >>

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• Bumthang Cultural Trek - 11 Days Bhutan Trekking Tour to Bumthang >>

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."

• 7 Days Paro Tshechu Festival Tour of Bhutan (March 21-25, 2024) >>
• 7 Days Thimphu Tshechu Festival of Bhutan Bhutan (Sep. 13-15, 2024) >>
• 7 Days Punakha Festival Tour Bhutan ( Drubchen & Tshechu Feb. 17-21, 2024) >>

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.

• Intimate Getaway, Spark Romance : 7 Days Como Uma Bhutan Luxury Tour >>
• Mixed Vibe, Premium All the Way: 7 Days Bhutan Luxury Tour - Le Meridien & COMO Uma >>
• Serene Valley, Share Universe with Wildlife Creatures 8 Days Luxury Tour with Gangtey >>

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

• 7 Days Bhutan Wedding & Honeymoon Tour: Love & Happiness >>

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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Top 40 Places to Visit and Things to Do In Bhutan

Fill the thrill today, visit Bhutan

Monasteries from the past, vibrant Festivals, distinct culture & heritage, landscapes that take your breath away, food that is delicious, spirituality of the highest order – It’s no surprise that Bhutan, a once-remote kingdom, has been named Lonely Planet’s Top Country to Visit in 2020.

Bhutan is divided into 20 dzongkhags, or districts. The number of districts you visit will be determined in part by the number of days you have in the nation. On a typical 5-day trip to Bhutan, you will be able to visit the districts of Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. If you have 7 days to explore, you can go further to the charm of Gangtey, and if you have 10 days, you can travel to central Bhutan to see the magnificent Bumthang and serene Trongsa.

Speak with one of Druk Asia’s friendly travel consultants, and we’ll put together the best itinerary of the various places to visit in Bhutan based on your interests.

The following are some of the best things to see and do in Bhutan.

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and unique culture, Thimphu is the administrative capital and largest city of the scenic kingdom of Bhutan

Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital and largest city, is located in the western region of the country. Thimphu is also the country’s political and economic hub, housing the majority of the country’s important political structures. Many locals from rural areas migrate to Thimphu in search of work. This vibrant city has a rustic charm and has a lot to offer to all travellers.

#1 Buddha Dordenma

The Buddha Dordenma is located atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park and overlooks the Southern entrance to Thimphu Valley

In Bhutan, Buddha Dordenma, also known as Buddha Point, is a must-see. This 51.5 meter-tall sitting Buddha statue is one of the world’s largest sitting Buddha statues. The Buddha Dordenma statue is composed of solid bronze and gilded with gold paint, and it contains all of the 125,000 smaller Buddha sculptures that have been placed within it; 100,000 of them that are 8 inches tall, and 25,000 of them that are 12 inches tall. Visitors can enter a magnificent meditation hall with gold-painted pillars and a statue of the four-face Buddha. 

While Buddhist murals are artistically painted on the walls. You may also get a good view of Thimphu city from Buddha Point, one for your instagram feed.

#2 Tashichho Dzong

Discover your new trip, explore the capitals fortress

Tashichho Dzong (fortress), often known as Thimphu Dzong, is a magnificent monument located in Thimphu’s northern district. The throne room and offices of the king, the secretariat, and the ministries of home affairs and finance are all housed in Tashichho Dzong, which has been the seat of the government since 1952. 

Tourists are not permitted to see the Royal and government buildings, but they are welcome to visit the monastery and marvel at the dzong’s magnificent architecture. The Bhutanese national flag, which is fluttering proudly outside the dzong, is one of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive. 

If you visit Bhutan between April and July, you will be greeted with a length of vibrant rhododendron blooms along the pathway. If you arrive in March, you could be lucky enough to view the cherry blossoms!

#3 Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory

The Jungshi handmade paper factory uses traditional methods to produce the authentic Bhutanese paper known as Deh-sho

Pay a visit to the Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory to see how deh-soh, or Bhutanese paper, is manufactured. These deh-soh papers are made in the traditional way, which has been passed down through the years. This old craft is one of Bhutan’s thirteen traditional handicrafts that are still being practiced today. 

The papers are made from the bark of the daphne and dekap trees. Deh-sho papers were first employed in monasteries for woodblock printing, manuscripts, and prayer book writing.

This is an ancient craft that you can try your hand at. Other items, such as stationery and greeting cards, can be found to create one-of-a-kind mementos.

#4 Shopping at The Craft Gallery

A showroom/sales outlet for the products of Bhutanese artisans

Visit The Craft Gallery, a store in Thimphu town, for the best Bhutanese items you’ll discover in Bhutan. The two-story boutique displays some of the finest works of art created by local craftspeople. The Craft Gallery is a project of Queen Mother Sangay Choden Wangchuck’s Gyalyum Charitable Trust.

The Gallery aims to give a sustained stream of revenue to the artists in addition to promoting high quality Bhutanese products. As a result, by purchasing from the Gallery, you are directly supporting non-profit organizations and local craftsmen.

Shawls, honey, needlework products, jewelry, and textiles are among the many local products available. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for souvenirs for friends and family back home, this is definitely the place to go.

#5 Royal Textile Academy

The nation’s first institution dedicated to the conservation of Bhutanese textiles

Bhutanese weaving is an important component of their culture and history. You may learn about the textile tradition, numerous weaving styles, and the subtleties of Bhutanese textiles at the Royal Textile Academy. You will be able to see the various intricate designs seen on Bhutanese textiles as well as learn about the patterns that originated in various areas.

You will be able to appreciate the magnificent traditional costumes, Kira and Gho, that the villagers wear on the street after touring the center.

#6 Simply Bhutan

an interactive ‘living’ museum that gives a quick introduction to various aspects of traditional life in Bhutan

Simply Bhutan is an interactive museum that provides a wonderful guided tour of various facets of traditional Bhutanese living. This place is a great place for your induction to Bhutan.

For example, you’ll learn how to dress in traditional Bhutanese clothing, how to distill ara (rice wine), and enjoy some local butter tea while watching a local dance performance. You’ll also discover how they build their gorgeous homes out of rammed earth.

This museum’s infrastructure mostly depicts old Bhutanese architecture. The museum’s structure is made from reusing old wood, door and window frames, and other elements from demolished houses. Unlike other museums, where you are not permitted to touch or photograph the objects, you are free to do so here.You can also take part in archery and the local dart game known as Khuru .

You will also have the opportunity to meet Pema Tshering, a gifted foot artist with cerebral palsy. Pema does his wood carving and painting with his foot at a little shop inside Simply Bhutan. If you encounter him, don’t be shy about saying hello and supporting his work; he will undoubtedly greet you with his beautiful smile!

#7 Folk Heritage Museum

The Folk Heritage Museum dedicates itself to connecting people with the rich Bhutanese Folk heritage and rural history through exhibits, demonstrations, educational programs and documentation of Bhutanese rural life

The Folk Heritage Museum is housed in a three-story typical house from the nineteenth century. Visitors can see traditional Bhutanese lifestyles and artifacts in a typical household at the museum. In a typical Bhutanese home, you’ll find a collection of household products, tools, and equipment.. 

The museum perfectly replicates the rural location and atmosphere of a traditional household, with paddy, wheat, and millet fields, a traditional water mill with mill stones that is over 150 years old, and traditional kitchen gardens and hot stone baths that are famous throughout the country. After the visit, you will definitely have more information regarding the  local culture, customs and traditions.

#8 Motithang Takin Preserve

The takin, Bhutan’s unusual national animal

The Takin Preserve is a wildlife reserve area for Takin, the national animal of Bhutan. It’s also commonly known as the Takin Enclosure/Takin Zoo. The mini zoo was converted into a preserve when it was found that the Takin refrained from inhabiting the surrounding forest even when set free. 

The declaration of Takin as the national animal was based on a local myth dating back to the 15th century. Takin, a gnu goat that resembles an ox but is more closely related to a sheep, is supposed to have been created by the great Tibetan saint Drukpa Kunley, also known as the “Divine Madman.”. For most locals, Takin is said to be one of the most queer-looking animals that they have ever seen.

Tips : After visiting the Takin Preserve, request for your guide to bring you to the BBS Tower. Just a 5 to 10 minutes drive to the upper part of the road will lead to Sangaygang BBS (Bhutan Broadcasting Station) Tower at 2,685 meters. There you can have a splendid bird’s eye view of the entire Thimphu town. You will get to see a lot of colourful prayer flags surrounding the BBS tower.

#9 Centenary Farmers Market

The Thimphu market sells local produce and produce from India.

The Centenary Farmers Market in Thimphu, often known as the weekend market, is Bhutan’s largest domestic market. Farmers used to sell their produce in the open air under rows of tents before the market opened in 2008. Now it’s a two-story structure with over 400 stalls that allows farmers from all over the country to display their produce while also encouraging others to support local agriculture.

On Thursday and Friday, vendors from all across the region arrive in Thimphu and stay till Sunday evening. During these three days, when the market is most active, is the ideal time to examine the market. It’s also a great way to meet locals and learn about the ingredients used in Bhutanese cuisine.

#10 Bhutan Postal Museum

The postal museum captures the story of the evolution of communication, transportation and postal services in Bhutan

The Bhutan Postal Museum houses the world’s largest photo book and the strangest collection of Bhutanese stamps, which would pique any philatelist’s interest. There are five galleries in the museum that trace the development of the Bhutanese postal system, from the earliest mail runners to Bhutan’s often unusual and highly collectable stamps.

One of the coolest things to do in Bhutan is to get your own legal stamps from the General Post Office for 500 ngultrum (about 7 US dollars). Contains 12 stamps with a total value of 30 Ngultrum, 45 Ngultrum and 50 Ngultrum.

Go ahead to pick up some postcards and start sending some greetings and share some Bhutan love with your family and friends! Imagine the pleasant surprise of your family and friends when you send them a postcard with your face on the stamp!

#11 National Memorial Chorten

one of its most iconic monuments in the region

The National Memorial Chorten is a prominent stupa constructed in 1974 in honor of His Majesty Jiqme Dorji Wangchuck, the father of modern Bhutan and the country’s third king. With its golden spires and bells, the stupa is a conspicuous landmark in the middle of Thimphu city. The Memorial Chorten, also known as the Jangchub Chorten, is a Tibetan-style chorten with a classical stupa pattern and a pyramidal pillar crowned with a crescent moon and sun.

The distinctive feature of the chorten is the outward flaring of the rounded part giving it a pyramidal shape of a vase. Do always remember to circumambulate in a clockwise direction while you are there as with any religious structures in Bhutan. You can see many elderly Bhutanese hanging out near the large prayer wheels, catching up with one another or offering prayers with the prayer beads clutched on their hands.

#12 Dochula Pass

The pass is a popular location among tourists as it offers a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range.

At an elevation of 3,100 meters, the Dochula Pass connects Thimphu with Punakha. The eldest Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, created 108 memorial chortens or stupas in honor of 108 Bhutanese soldiers who died in the struggle against Assamese militants in 2003. It is one of the must-see places to visit in Bhutan.

Near the monastery is a small shrine called Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, which was established in honor of Bhutan’s fourth king, His Majesty Singye Wangchuck, who spearheaded the combat that led to the country’s victory.A Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival is conducted yearly on December 13th in the open area in front of the temple to commemorate the occasion.

This scenic spot is definitely a photography haven for the photo enthusiasts. If you are lucky and the sky is crystal clear, you can even see the gorgeous himalayan mountains from the pass including Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan.The temperature will be particularly cold throughout the winter season, so remember to bring your jacket! The pass may even be snow-covered at times.

#13 Have a drink and chill at Mojo Park

The place has great live music with cheap food and alcohol

If you’re wondering if there’s nightlife in Bhutan, Mojo Park is one of the most popular pubs, attended by both locals and visitors. If you want to sit out with some chilled beers and watch local live musicians, this unassuming pub provides a pleasant atmosphere.

Craft beers, cocktails, and mojitos are also available. The pub sits in the heart of Thimphu and is open seven days a week, even “dry Tuesdays,” when the sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. If music and mingling are your thing, make your way to Mojo Park for a fantastic night in Thimphu.

The main district/dzongkhag for rice production

Punakha was the capital of Bhutan and the seat of government until 1955, when it was relocated to Thimphu. Punakha is also the main district in Bhutan for rice crop production. When visiting Punakha, you will be met by stunning views of paddy fields and rice terraces. The district’s beautiful landscapes and historical sites make it one of the most popular tourist destinations.

#14 Chime Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)

Chimi Lhakhang, a dedication to Lama Drukpa Kuenly who subdued a demoness with his mighty penis.

Chimi Lhakhang (also known as Chimi Lhakhang or the Fertility Temple) is one of Bhutan’s must-see attractions! Tourists and couples from all over the world come to seek fertility blessings at the temple. This holy temple is affiliated with Drukpa Kuenley (“the Divine Madman”), a prominent Tibetan saint noted for his odd and unconventional teachings that challenged preconceived notions of Buddhism.

He is famous for guiding others to enlightenment and subduing demons with his phallus. For these reasons, you see phalluses as a symbol all over the country, from souvenirs to wood sculptures and wall paintings.

You would normally start your stroll from Sopsokha Village, where you can see shop buildings in traditional Bhutanese architecture, before reaching the temple. A few handcraft businesses provide phallic symbol souvenirs in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes! To reach the entrance of the monastery, you will have a pleasant 20-minute journey from the village, passing through a vast mustard and paddy field.

#15 Pho Chu Suspension Bridge

a masterpiece of engineering work dating back to the era of Zhabdrung Ngwang Namgyal in 1637

If you’re not afraid of heights, the Punakha suspension bridge, Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge, is a must-see. It’s the ideal place to shoot all your OOTD photos with lush green slopes as backgrounds. The 160-metre-long bridge spans the vast and turbulent Pho Chhu River.

Traditionally, the bridge was built to allow the lamas of Punakha Dzong to access the surrounding villages. Admiring mother nature while standing on the bridge with the wind brushing at you and the fluttering prayer flags brings an indescribable sensation of tranquility and peace.

#16 Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong was built at the confluence of two major rivers in Bhutan, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, which converge in this valley.

This majestic dzong (fortress) is the country’s second oldest and largest dzong. It was once known as Pungtang Dechen Phodrang Dzong, or “The Palace of Great Happiness.” Because of its stunning design and historic history, the Punakha Dzong is one of Bhutan’s major attractions.

Before being relocated to Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu, the monument served as the seat of the Bhutan Government. In fact, until 1955, the Punakha district served as Bhutan’s ancient capital. In 2011, the stronghold hosted the royal wedding ceremony of the fifth monarch, His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and Queen Jetsun Pema.

If you visit Bhutan in May, you will be able to see some spectacular jacaranda blooms in the fortress courtyard. The dzong is also situated between the Pho Chhu (female) and Mo Chhu (male) rivers, making it extremely picturesque and insta worthy.

#17 Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery

perched on a hilltop overlooking the beautiful Punakha valley and Wangduephodrang valley.

The courtyard of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery overlooks the magnificent Punakha and Wangduephodrang valleys. The nunnery was built to serve as a college for the training of nuns, and it now houses approximately 120 nuns. The two-story complex is a showcase of Bhutanese architecture at its finest, skillfully built by local artisans.

The structure also serves as a meditation center for nuns and teaches them life skills such as Thangka art, embroidery, tailoring, and sculpting. You can participate in meditation sessions and watch the sisters’ spiritual practices at the nunnery. The temple also has Bhutan’s highest Avalokiteshvara statue, measuring 14 feet tall. At the enclosure, there is also a striking chorten resembling Nepal’s Boudhanath Stupa.

18. Whitewater rafting in Punakha

The rugged, untamed waterways of Bhutan will not disappoint the adventurous seekers

If you are an adrenaline junkie or thrill seeker, you can try the whitewater rafting in Punakha. It’s a great pastime to enjoy with your friends and family. You will be rafting along crystal clear rivers and will be able to see the majestic Punakha Dzong as you pass by.

Rafting requires no prior experience as long as you don’t mind getting a little wet at the end. Everyone, including young children and grandparents, can enjoy white water rafting. What better way to spend a vacation than soaking in Bhutan’s gorgeous scenery on a raft while taking images that will last a lifetime!

Paro is known for its beautiful religious sites and this blue temple has to be the most beautiful of them all

Paro is a significant district in Bhutan with many sacred sites and historical buildings. It is also where the one and only international airport for the country is located. It is the perfect blend of ancient and modern charm.

#19 Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Paro Taktsang (Dzongkha: སྤ་གྲོ་སྟག་ཚང་, also known as the Taktsang Palphug Monastery and the Tiger’s Nest), is a sacred Vajrayana Himalayan

This prominent Bhutanese monument is well-known around the world! In fact, a visit to Bhutan is believed to be incomplete without a trip to this spectacular temple towering 2,600 feet above the valley floor. Seeing this magnificent monastery for yourself will make you wonder just how this architectural miracle was accomplished in the 16th century! 

Depending on your fitness, the walk up and down Tiger’s Nest might take anywhere from 3.5 to 9 hours. It is best to start your hike early in order to escape the midday heat. For a smooth hiking trip, remember to pack light and comfy shoes. And, of course, enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the route and snap plenty of photos to capture your experiences!

Many locals of all ages, including toddlers as young as two years old, will be seen ascending the Tiger’s Nest. Parents with newborns on their backs or the elderly with walking sticks are common sights. They will undoubtedly act as an incentive for you to make your way to the summit!

#20 Paro Dzong

Paro Dzong, officially known as Rinpung Dzong, ‘Fortress of Heap of Jewels” was built in 1644 under the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal

Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong, or “Fortress of the Heaps of Jewels,” is a well-known monument in the Paro district. You can also see it when your flight arrives at Paro International Airport.  The dzong was built in 1644 under the instruction of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. 

It was previously utilized as a fort to defend Paro valley against Tibetan incursions. This ancient fortress is closely situated near Paro town and is easily accessible. It now contains the monastic body as well as the district government offices, as do other dzongs.

Thousands of people travel to the courtyard of the dzong in their best clothes to participate in the annual Paro Tshechu (masked dancing festival), which is normally held in March.

Paro Dzong was also used in scenes from Bernardo Bertolucci’s 1993 film Little Buddha.

#21 Kyichu Lhakhang

One of Bhutan’s oldest temples was purportedly built to halt a giant female ogre from preventing the spread of Buddhism across Tibet

Kyichu Lhakhang (also known as Lho Kyerchu or Kyerchu) is Bhutan’s oldest and most magnificent temple. It is also regarded as one of Bhutan’s most beautiful worship destinations and a precious pearl. Prior to the renovation, the original temple was claimed to have been built overnight and was a small monument. This magnificent temple has a rather quiet and serene atmosphere that promotes a contemplative space.

You will undoubtedly feel more calm and relaxed after visiting this sacred sanctuary. Many elderly people can be seen circumambulating the temple whilst spinning the prayer wheels. Outside the courtyard, there is also a mystical orange tree that is claimed to give fruits all year!

#22 Experience Hot Stone Bath at Aum Choden Homestay

Hot Stone Baths are an ancient Bhutanese tradition and are a popular form of medicinal practice

Showering oneself with a hot stone bath is perhaps one of the most authentic Bhutanese experiences you can have in the Land of the Thunder Dragon! Aum Choden Homestay is a 108-year-old two-story traditional Bhutanese residence. It exudes a rustic appeal that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Those who choose to immerse themselves in the local culture may soak in a medicinal hot stone bath. Locals typically soak in hot stone baths once or twice a week, and it is believed that the hot stone bath has healing effects.

Stones are roasted over a fire and placed in a wooden bath tub. Some medical conditions, such as stomach aches, hypertension, arthritis, or joint pains, can be treated by a medicinal hot stone bath.Aside from hot stone baths, there are activities such as archery, darts, trying on traditional costumes, Gho and Kira, and watching demonstrations of Bhutanese food.

#23 Chele La Pass

the highest motorable point in Bhutan, sitting 3,988 metres (13,083 ft) above sea level

Chele La Pass, at 3810m (13,000ft), is Bhutan’s highest mountain pass, located between Paro and Haa valley. The route to the pass takes you through either the Paro or Haa valleys, both of which are densely forested. If you’re fortunate and the skies are clear, you can see Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and other peaks from the pass.

The greatest time to visit Chele La pass is in the spring, from March to June, when lovely rhododendrons greet you along the way. However, during the winter season, you may enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. The breathtaking mountain views and lush green valleys will undoubtedly captivate you.

Haa Valley is cozily nestled amid the lofty mountains of Western Bhutan. Surrounded by the districts of Paro, Chhukha and Samtse

Haa is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and unspoiled areas, with undisturbed natural beauty. It is one of Bhutan’s smallest districts and least populated valleys. Haa is also known as the Hidden Land of Rice Valley. If you’re seeking a peaceful getaway, Haa valley is a terrific place to unwind and embrace some tranquility.

#24 Exploring Haa Valley

Haa is a narrow valley at the height of 9000ft but a very peaceful place

You can take a walk along the Haa Chu river, which passes through the valley’s heart. Haa valley also has a couple of wonderful picnic sites and is a great spot to go bird watching. You will also go through Bhutanese villages, across rice fields, and see traditional wooden dwellings. Rice, barley, and wheat are the main crops grown in Haa valley.

Haa valley is also a hiker’s and trekker’s paradise, with some of the best trekking and mountain biking routes organized around this area. The Haa Summer Festival, which is normally held in July, is one of the most popular festivals for the Haa tribes, nomads, and residents.

Gangtey / Phobjikha valley

The wonders of Phobjikha valley

Gangtey, also known as Phobjikha valley, is a U-shaped valley with breathtaking views and an abundance of yaks that travel from higher altitudes in search of warmth from the freezing weather. Including its bright blue skies and chilly weather, winter is the ideal time to visit Gangtey. The weather can also be rather severe at times.

Make sure to pack some thick winter clothing to keep you warm. Aside from winter, Gangtey is also a great spot to visit in the spring (March – May) because of the gorgeous blooming in the valley and the wonderful weather conditions.

#25 Experience Black-necked Cranes Festival

They are the subject of Bhutanese folktales and songs, and are painted on the walls of temples throughout the country

The black-necked cranes festival is held every year on November 11, which also happens to be the birthday of the fourth king, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck. It’s a spectacular event organized in the courtyard of Gangtey Goemba (Monastery) to commemorate the arrival of the endangered and majestic bird from the Tibetan Plateau.

The black-necked cranes are among the world’s rarest cranes, and they migrate to the Phobjikha valley throughout  the winter months from October to February. The black-necked crane is cherished as a sign of longevity, and it is honored and safeguarded by local people.

The black-necked crane festival is one of Bhutan’s most well-known events, showcasing Bhutanese cultural history through masked folk dances and songs while also raising awareness about conservation issues.

#26 Gangtey Goemba

an important monastery of Nyingmapa school of Buddhism, the main seat of the Pema Lingpa tradition

Gangtey Goemba, also known as Gangtey Monastery, is a lovely temple located on a mountaintop with breathtaking views of Phobjikha Valley. Pema Lingpa, one of Bhutan’s most famous treasure finders, constructed the shrine in 1963.

Not only do residents visit this humble and simple temple, but black-necked cranes can be seen circling it clockwise three times a year (when they arrive and before they depart from their winter residence). How sacred and mystical!

#27 Gangtey Nature Trail

immerse yourself in the alluring beauty of the Phobjikha Valley

In comparison to Tiger’s Nest, the Gangtey Nature Trail is a comparatively easy 4km hike. It takes 1.5 to 2 hours to finish and is one of the most popular options for tourists who prefer taking leisurely walks in nature. It also begins immediately below the Gangtey monastery, making it one of Bhutan’s shortest nature routes.

The journey will take you downwards through the pine forest to Semchubara, a small traditional village. The road will continue through the valley’s principal marshes before arriving at Khewa Lhakhang. You’ll be travelling through some of the valley’s most beautiful scenery. You can also see majestic black-necked cranes flying across the valleys if you visit during the winter season.

#28 Ten Khor Yuetshe Trek

ideal for those who wish to soak up the quaint surroundings of the Phobjikha Valley in a relaxed manner

This stroll takes you through a cluster of beautiful rural villages at a leisurely pace. As you travel through the stunning valleys and vast open plains of Bhutan, you will be able to observe traditional Bhutanese rural life. This trail is slightly longer than the Gangtey Nature Trail, and it will take you about 2-3 hours to complete.

Instead of following the path leading down the valley, this trail continues on a dirt road upwards into the first left side valley, where it will lead you into Jangchu Kemba Village. From there, you’ll descend through the marshland at Khewa Lhakhang on a path that takes you to charming settlements.

Bumthang literally translated as ‘beautiful field’ is one of the most historic districts in Bhutan where some of the oldest and most venerated Buddhist temples are founded including Jambay Lhakhang.Bumthang, commonly known as Jakar, is a central Bhutanese district. Buddhism was introduced to Bhutan for the first time here.

The district comprises four valleys: Chokhor, Tang, Chhume and Ura. Bumthang is also famous for the production of wheat, buckwheat, dairy products and potatoes. You can witness plenty of apple orchards and dairy farms.

#29 Kurjey Lhakhang

Three ancient temples, the Guru Lhakhang, Sampa Lhundrup Lhakhang, and Ka Gon Phor Sum Lhakhang, are enclosed by 108 chorten walls and nestled on the side of a hill. This vast temple complex is immersed with religious importance. The upper level of Kurjey Lhakhang has 1000 tiny statues of Guru Rinpoche, which serve as the main attraction.

 It is also said that behind a wall on the floor leads to a meditative cave that is prohibited for public access where Guru Rinpoche meditated for three months in the 8th century. Near the temple’s entrance is a massive cypress tree that is said to have sprouted from Guru Rinpoche’s walking stick.

#30 Jambay Lhakhang

According to legend, this temple was one of the 108 temples built in a single day by Tibetan King Songtsen Goenpo in 659 AD to pin down the body of a demon. According to legend, Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo constructed a series of temples around the Himalayas to help pin down the various parts of the ogress.

Four of them were built to pin down her shoulders and hips; four more on the elbows and knees; and four to hold down her hands and feet. It was believed that Jambay Lhakhang was built to pin down the left knee of the ogress. The one storey complex is famous for its annual festival Jambay Lhakhang Drup as much as for its legends. The festival is held to honour Guru Rinpoche who consecrated the Jambay Lhakhang temple.

#31 Jakar Dzong

 a picturesque location overlooking the Chokhor valley; the current structure was built in 1667.

The Bumthang district’s dzong is Jakar Dzong, also known as Jakar Yugyal Dzong. It’s in the Chamkhar (Chokhor) valley of Bumthang, on a ridge above Jakar town. The name Jakar refers to a white bird, therefore Jakar Dzong is known as the Fortress of White Bird. A white bird is supposed to have flown and perched on the ridge where Jakar Dzong is located. This was interpreted by a lama as a good omen.

 Traditionally, the Dzong played an important role as the fortress of defence of the eastern districts. It was also the seat of the first king of Bhutan.In comparison to other fortresses in the country, the fortress has two distinguishing traits. The Utse (central tower) is 50 meters tall, and the castle includes two parallel walls, united by reinforced towers, that give water to the population in the event of a siege.

#32 Burning Lake Mebar Tsho

one of the most sacred sites in the region as it is related to the renowned religious treasurer (Terton) Terton Pema Lingpa

This beautiful freshwater lake is also a popular attraction in Bumthang. This picturesque lake is surrounded by colourful prayers flags and there is a small altar dedicated to Pema Lingpa, the famous treasure revealer. It is said that Pema Lingpa jumped into the lake and re-emerged with a chest and a scroll of paper with a butter lamp on his hand. The locals also offer butter lamps at the lake during special occasions. 

There are also stacks of tsa tsa (small conical clay moulds) that can be found around the lake area. Tsa tsas are believed to carry spiritual power and are often engraved with Buddhist symbols and sometimes contain human ash or bone. Each tsa-tsa is an ancient prayer for the well-being of a beloved human – living or departed. The locals believe that these miniature stupas evoke the same powers as the largest stupas. You can also see tsa tsas outside the fortresses, chorten or temples.

#33 Bumthang brewery and cheese factory

Take a sip of the famous red panda beer – Hefeweizen style beer brewed by Bumthang Brewery, Ltd. in Bumthang, Bhutan

The micro-brewery and Swiss Farm in Bumthang was founded by a Swiss national, Fritz Maurer in 1996. Fritz married a Bhutanese and went on to set up the first of its kind brewery in Bhutan, producing draught beer, apple cider, wine, apple brandy and juice. This is also the brewery that produces the famous Bhutan beer “Red Panda Beer”, an unfiltered, preservative free brew. The beers are prepared in an old school manner. 

Aside from the brewery, there is also a swiss farm that produces a variety of swiss cheese and is the only commercial cheese factory in Bhutan. Fritz Maurer is also credited for the introduction of the use of modern farm equipment, green technology that is fuel efficient and smokeless wood stoves that are widely used in Bumthang and Bhutan today. Both the brewery and cheese factory are located next to each other, so feel free to pop over for some beer and cheese when you are in Bumthang.

#34 Yathra weaving centre

art of weaving is a profound metaphor for understanding the workings of the universe and our place in it

Yathra is a colourful wool weaving with intricate patterns native to Chumey valley in Bumthang. Traditionally, every household in Chumey owned a backstrap loom and young girls were taught how to weave. Yak and sheep wool were used for the weaving due to the thick fabric that is ideal for the cold weather in Bumthang.

You can see women skillfully weaving the intricate designs on their backstrap loom at the Yathra Weaving Centre in Zugney and witness the dyeing of wool using natural dyes. The women in communities weave throughout the year as it is their main source of income. Thus, yathra products are uniquely souvenirs from Bumthang.

Trongsa provides a strategic central location to control Bhutan and for centuries it was the seat of the Wangchuck dynasty of penlops (governors)

Trongsa, formerly known as Tongsa, is the capital of Trongsa district located in central Bhutan. Historically, Trongsa district is one of the most important districts as it was the headquarters for the eastern region and the seat of the Trongsa governor.

#35 Trongsa Dzong

The Trongsa Dzong, which was built in 1644, used to be the seat of power of the Wangchuck dynasty before they became rulers of Bhutan in 1907

The magnificent trongsa dzong is easily noticeable from anywhere in town. This historic fortress was established in 1644 and served as the home of the Wangchuck Dynasty before they became Bhutan’s rulers in 1907. Historically, the King of Bhutan first became the Trongsa Penlop (governor) before becoming the Crown Prince.

This magnificent dzong, built on a spur above the Mangdi Chuu river canyon, is Bhutan’s greatest stronghold. The dzong is one of the most outstanding in the country due to its scale, strategic position, and grand architecture.

Other things to do in Bhutan

#36 trying out bhutanese traditional costume, kira and gho.

The national dress of Bhutan is called the gho for men and kira for women. It was introduced during the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel to give the Bhutanese a unique identity

Everywhere you walk in the country, you will see natives proudly wearing their traditional clothes. It’s no wonder that many visitors to Bhutan wish to bring home a set of Kira or Gho as a souvenir.

During your trip, you can learn to wear the traditional costumes, Gho and Kira and find the best spot for a photoshoot session. Though it is said that getting a bad shot in Bhutan is impossible! It doesn’t matter where you point your camera, you’re guaranteed to get a postcard-worthy shot.

*If you are travelling with Druk Asia, you will be given a set of traditional costumes upon your arrival. The costume is to be returned to your guide at the end of the trip.

#37 Have a game of archery

Archery in Bhutan is a local and distinctive martial art that has been used for both fun and fighting for centuries

Archery was made the national sport in Bhutan 1971 when Bhutan became a member of the United Nations. Archery is a huge element of Bhutanese culture, and you can always find guys playing archery with their mates all around the nation.

If you want to practice archery, just let your guide know and he or she will be able to fit this into your schedule. There are numerous locations in Bhutan where archery can be practiced.

#38 Indulge yourself in Bhutanese Food

 Bhutanese cuisine is influenced by Chinese, Tibetan and Indian culture. Don’t be surprised to see mountains of rice being served

When you visit Bhutan, you should prepare your stomach to savor the delicious Bhutanese cuisine. Bhutanese people adore chilies, so if you enjoy spicy food, rejoice! Because Bhutanese take their chillies seriously, you’ll be offered ema datshi (chilli cheese) virtually every day.

Ema datshi is also Bhutan’s national dish. Even if you aren’t a fan of spicy foods, you should give it a try at least once! After that, you might want to hydrate yourself with some butter tea. Other cheese dishes include kewa datshi (potato cheese) and shamu datshi(mushroom cheese).

Shakam (dried beef), phaksha paa (sliced pork), ezay (chilli condiment), and vegetables such as ferns, turnip, spinach, pumpkin, and radish are all traditional Bhutanese foods. Vegetarian food is also easily available throughout the country.

#39 Attending a Tsechu (masked dance festival)

Tshechu are annual religious Bhutanese festivals held in each district or dzongkhag of Bhutan on the tenth day of a month of the lunar Tibetan calendar

Festival season is unquestionably one of Bhutan’s biggest events. The Mask Dance Celebration, also known as Tshechu, is Bhutan’s most important religious festival.It is held annually in the monasteries and dzongs from all the 20 districts in the different months of the year to honour Guru Rinpoche who brought Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. A Tshechu typically lasts for four or five days. 

It is observed on the tenth day of the Tibetan lunar calendar, which corresponds to Guru Rinpoche’s birthday. As a result, the exact dates of the Tshechu differ from year to year in different areas. The most popular Tshechu for tourists are in Paro during spring (Feb – May), as well as in Thimphu and Bumthang during autumn (Sep – Nov).  Thousands of residents will be dressed to the nines in their finest attire for the celebration.

40. Trekking in Bhutan

Bhutan trekking or tours will take you on a journey through the country’s ancient history

Bhutan is undoubtedly a paradise for hikers and trekkers as it is home to many breathtaking mountains. Due to the excellent climate, spring is the most popular season for trekkers to visit Bhutan. You can also go trekking in the winter if you want to avoid the crowds and have a more solitary experience.

Bhutan’s Himalayan mountains include Jitchu Drake, Jomolhari, Kangphu Kang, and Gangkhar Phuesum(the world’s highest unclimbed mountain) . The following are some of Bhutan’s most popular trekking trails.

Would you be interested to learn more about Bhutan, you can msg or call us on whatsapp and our travel advisor (+975 1714 0163) will be glad to assist you answering all your questions and guide you in planning your ideal getaway to Bhutan with us.

On arrival in Bhutan, your personal local english speaking guide will be there to receive and welcome you. You will be greeted by our traditional handwoven colorful scarves and a free sim card with an internet package so you can call your friends and family to say you have arrived in one of the happiest countries in the world. 

Since you are here, read a little of some of our engaging blogs we have for you. 

Have a good one. 

To learn more about Top places to visit in Bhutan please visit us; www.drukheritage.com

Are you struggling to plan an ideal holiday? Click the link to learn about step by step guides to planning your ideal holiday.

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21 top things to do in bhutan [2024].

A trip to Bhutan is often at the top of many bucket lists, especially for those who enjoy spiritual journeys, trekking through untouched wilderness, and admiring traditional architecture, monasteries, and temples. It’s an alluring place.

If you’re considering going, you’ll want to check out this list of the top things to do in Bhutan to see just how incredible the journey promises to be and so you’re ready to plan your itinerary.

When I went to Bhutan, I was captivated with the landscape and the traditional architecture. It’s very apparent that they take great pride in their country and want visitors to not only see and admire its beauty, but to immerse themselves in it too; to feel like you’re a part of it, so you can understand it from the inside. It was one of the most uplifting trips I’ve taken and I’d highly recommend it.

Of course, visiting Bhutan does come with challenges. The government has put into effect a daily tourist visa fee that you must pay. You also must have a tour guide while traveling in the country. There are special tour guides who have been trained and approved by the government that you can choose from. My personal recommendation is MyBhutan , which was the company I traveled with, and they were brilliant.

You can learn all about traveling in Bhutan and how to set up a trip in my full Bhutan travel guide . You can also find more Bhutan travel tips at the bottom of this post.

Table of Contents

Things to Do & See in Bhutan

Rinpung dzong.

The Rinpung Dzong in Paro is an awe-inspiring sight. This grand fortress and Buddhist monastery is located on a hilltop overlooking the city, providing stunning views of the valley. Built in 1646, the dzong has played an important role in Bhutan’s history and still serves as the administrative center for Paro district.

Inside, visitors can admire its exquisite architecture, with many intricate murals and paintings, and take in the calming atmosphere of this sacred site. Every year, thousands come to Rinpung Dzong to celebrate the annual tsechu festival in the second month of the traditional Bhutanese lunar calendar, which is usually March or April.

National Museum of Bhutan

The National Museum of Bhutan in Paro is an incredible place to explore the culture and history of this unique country. Located in a former watchtower, the museum features a wealth of exhibits detailing Bhutan’s history, from ancient artifacts to modern items. There are displays highlighting the traditional handicrafts and textiles, Bhutan’s unique religious beliefs, and cultural masks used for festivals.

Kyichu Lhakhang

The Kyichu Lhakhang is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Paro. Founded in 659, it is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in the country and has been a prominent pilgrimage site for centuries.

Considered to be Bhutan’s most important temples, it was built by the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo and was added onto by a number of Buddhist saints and gurus until it became the spectacular temple it is today.

Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

The Taktsang Monastery, aka Tiger’s Nest, is a legendary mountain monastery perched on the edge of a cliff in the Paro Valley. It’s one of the country’s most iconic sites. The hike to this majestic building is an amazing experience in itself and offers stunning views of the valley below. It’s not for the faint at heart though, as it’s a fairly grueling 3-5 hour hike to the top, depending on your stamina.

Here’s a photo of it from down below, which was as far as I went because I have lung issues that prevented me from doing the climb. My travel partner, Amanda from The Boutique Adventurer , made the climb.

The monastery tragically burned down on April 19, 1998, and was laboriously rebuilt with the help of many Bhutanese residents who came from all around to help. You can imagine how difficult it was to take the supplies needed to rebuild up to that remote location.

Buddha Dordenma

One of the most beautiful and iconic sites in Thimphu is the Buddha Dordenma, which was built in 2015 for the 60th anniversary of the 4th king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

Located on the hillside in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, this monumental 169-foot tall solid bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha radiates peace and tranquility. It’s the largest sitting statue of the Buddha. Inside the Buddha are 125,000 smaller Buddha statues, 25,000 12-inch statues, and 100,000 8-inch statues. 

Tashichho Dzong

Tashichho Dzong, also known as the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion”, is located in Thimphu, Bhutan. This gorgeous Buddhist monastery and fortress is the largest in Bhutan, and serves as an administrative center for the country and the summer residence of the king.

The Tashichho Dzong has been home to the Bhutanese government since the 17th century and is one of the most important sites in the country. Inside its courtyard are two large statues of Guru Rinpoche and a majestic white stupa known as Kuen Karpo.

Royal Textile Museum

The Bhutan Royal Textile Museum is a must-visit to learn more about the country’s cultural history, particularly the textile arts. Located in Thimphu, it is the only museum of its kind in the world, dedicated solely to showcasing and preserving Bhutan’s traditional textile art.

Visitors can learn about the various processes involved in the production of Bhutan’s intricately-woven fabrics, explore the museum’s collection of rare and antique textiles, and admire the stunning works created by local artisans.

National Memorial Chorten

The National Memorial Chorten, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, is a stunningly beautiful Buddhist stupa and temple located in Thimphu.

Built in 1974 in honor of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, it stands as a monument to world peace and serves as an important spiritual center for the country. The four story structure has intricate mandalas and prayer wheels that visitors can spin to bring good luck. Inside are three chapels dedicated to the past, present and future Buddhas as well as paintings of important figures in Bhutanese history.

The Memorial Chorten also serves a practical purpose for locals, who come to the temple to make offerings and pay their respects. Every day, you can witness locals circumambulating the chorten as part of their daily rituals.

Jigme Dorji National Park

The Jigme Dorji National Park is another popular attraction for nature-lovers, offering spectacular vistas of the Himalayas and an abundance of flora and fauna to explore. It is the second-largest national park and was established in 1974.

My favorite fact about this park is that it is the only park in Bhutan where the national animal (takin), flower (blue poppy), bird (raven) and tree (cypress) exist together.

If you can catch a glimpse of a takin, you should. It’s a really unique looking animal (pictured above). Like a mix between a horse and a mountain goat. It’s associated with Bhutan’s religious history and mythology, so it’s a special animal in many ways.

Folk Heritable Museum and Restaurant

Founded in 2001, this award-winning museum takes visitors back in time to experience Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Boasting a collection of over 3,000 artifacts, the museum also offers traditional Bhutanese dance performances and educational programs.

The museum has a few exhibits that you can look at, featuring items from Bhutan’s history, as well as a glimpse into the rural way of life, so it can be preserved for future generations. While we were visiting, a monk was performing an incantation in the traditional house on the property.

Punakha Traffic Conductor

There are no traffic lights in Punakha, despite it being a fairly large city center with a strong flow of traffic. Instead of a traffic light, they have installed a traffic-control police officer who directs traffic from a stand in the center of the intersection. It’s a really fascinating thing to watch.

They control traffic expertly with hand gestures, much as a music conductor would direct the musicians in an orchestra. You’ll definitely want to stop by the intersection to watch this take place.

Dochula Pass

Dochula Pass, located in Bhutan, is a stunning site of natural beauty and cultural significance. The pass is situated at an altitude of 10,000 feet, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains and the sprawling valley below.

It’s also known as Druk Wangyal Chortens because of the 108 stupas that line the pass, which were built in memory of Bhutan’s soldiers who fought in the 2003 India-Bhutan war. The Druk Wangyal Chortens are a popular tourist attraction and an important symbol of Bhutanese pride and culture.

Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan. Built in 1637, it has become an important symbol for the nation and is one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. The dzong stands on the confluence of two rivers – Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu (where we went rafting later in the day). A 17th century covered wooden cantilever bridge leads over to the dzong.

This Dzong is the second-oldest and second-largest in Bhutan and it’s considered the most majestic as well. It’s gorgeous inside and out. Though you can’t go inside all parts of it, you can admire the architecture from the outside and

In the spring, the lilac-colored jacaranda trees start to bloom around the Dzong and it’s an incredible sight. If you plan to visit in the spring, you’ll see a lot of these jacaranda trees throughout the country, but you’ll also be giving up the clear view of the mountains, which happens more in the fall.

Khamsum Yuelley Monastery

Khamsum Yuelley Monastery is an awe-inspiring structure nestled on a hilltop overlooking the Mo Chu River. Built by Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck in 2004, the monastery was constructed with a unique blend of traditional Bhutanese and Tibetan architecture.

The monastery is home to many religious artifacts, ancient manuscripts and murals depicting the life of Buddha and it is meant to drive away evil spirits and bring peace and harmony. It takes about a one-hour hike to get to the monastery. At the top of the monastery is a rooftop with a spectacular view of the valley and the river.

Chimi Lhakhang

Chimi Lhakhang is a unique fertility temple located in the Punakha valley of Bhutan. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for people who are seeking divine intervention to have children. Many visitors have come here as a couple to be blessed with a child and there are plenty of stories of it working.

Legend has it that in the 15th century, a Tibetan monk Drukpa Kunley (also known as the ‘Divine Madman’) subdued a demon using his ‘Thunderbolt of Flaming Wisdom’ (aka his penis). The thunderbolt is said to unnerve demons and demonesses, thus rendering them into submission. Must have been one powerful penis.

To this day, giant phalli are painted on the side of the building, and throughout Bhutan, to ward off the evil eye and malicious gossip. It’s part of many rituals and is a powerful symbol in Bhutan. You might be tempted to snicker at it when you see it, but try to embrace it.

Cooking class with Kesang Choeden

At the Folk Heritage Museum there is a traditional restaurant helmed by chef Kesang Choeden. We received a very informative cooking demonstration by her and her staff, introducing us to many of the traditional dishes of Bhutan, as well as ingredients that are part of the cultural heritage of the country.

Choeden is a great ambassador of food culture for Bhutan, having received many recipes from her grandmother, who recalls making these dishes growing up in rural Bhutan. Choeden is capturing these recipes so they can be preserved and shared with future generations, even as the food culture becomes more modern in Bhutan.

You can eat at her restaurant, or ask MyBhutan to set up a cooking class with her while you’re visiting. We learned so much about the cheese, the vegetables, and cooking methods from her.

Hot Stone Bath

A traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath is another experience you must have when visiting. The water, known as menchu, or medicine water, is the powerful element of this ritual bath that Bhutanese have been doing at home for centuries.

A hot stone bath uses rocks from the river that are heated in a fire until they are extremely hot. When the stones are placed in the bath water, they crackle and steam, releasing minerals and healing properties into the water. You then climb into this luxurious water and receive the benefits which are said to alleviate various aches, pains, and aliments.

You can partake in a hot stone bath in many places throughout the country, though perhaps the easiest to set up is at your hotel. I did the hot stone bath at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, a 5-star spa resort in Paro, and it was magnificent – albeit VERY hot.

Comfort Camping

If you want to experience the mountain setting, MyBhutan has a Comfort Camp that they set up for their visitors, where you can camp in the wilderness in relative comfort. It’s not exactly glamping, but the tents are set up with nice amenities, comfortable cots in the tents, a kitchen tent , and lots of fun things to do.

They arranged for an archery lesson, a whiskey tasting, and a performance of the festival dances by local dancers that was put on just for us. It was magical. All a very unique and incredible experience for us.

River Rafting

River rafting in Punakha is an adventure that no traveler should miss! This valley offers some of the world’s best white water rafting experiences. While there are exhilarating rapids during the spring and summer, you can also have a gentler experience, as we did, during the fall, when the rapids aren’t so exhilarating.

Along the river, you’ll have the most spectacular views of the mountains, you’ll see some wildlife along the banks of the river, and be able to see some of the monasteries high up in the mountainside.

Since the 7th century, archery has been a traditional sport in Bhutan and is deeply embedded within Bhutanese culture. The game of archery is played by two teams of twelve players, each team shooting from either end of a field that is roughly 140-150 meters long.

Each player has three arrows, and the goal is to hit the target, which is a round wooden board with a diameter of about 1 foot. It’s a great place to watch an age-old tradition in action and take part in some friendly competition with locals!

If you like to bring back something from your trip or buy souvenirs for your family, there will be plenty of options for places to do that. My favorite store was at a traditional textile factory. You can see the workers making the textiles downstairs, and purchase their wares upstairs. So much time and skills goes into making everything from clothing to bags and tapestries.

Our Recommended Tour Company

To travel in Bhutan, you must have a tour guide. While in the past the visa fee paid for a tour guide, it no longer does, so you’ll need to find the right guide for you and your budget.

I worked with a company called  MyBhutan  to plan my trip. They are very well connected and organized within Bhutan, so I felt they could provide the best experience overall. Full disclosure, they subsidized part of my trip in exchange for this review, but all of my opinions expressed here are my own.

I was in touch with  MyBhutan  numerous times throughout the planning process. My travel companion and I were able to choose what type of activities we wanted to do, level of accommodations we wanted, food preferences, and the level of physical activity we preferred. They thoroughly explained all of the activities they had planned for us.

Bhutan has something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking to explore the country’s stunning forests and mountains, or a cultural enthusiast keen on experiencing traditional Bhutanese culture. Typically, tourists choose between a trekking or cultural itinerary when spending a week, or combine the two when staying longer.

With MyBhutan as your tour company, you are in control of your trip as much as you want to be. If you want to leave it up to them, that’s possible too.

When you book a trip with MyBhutan using coupon code SAVORED, you’ll receive a free traditional hot stone bath with your booking!

Tips for Traveling in Bhutan

Traveling to Bhutan can be both exciting and overwhelming. It’s a completely different culture than you’re used to, different foods, different customs, different challenges. It’s a good idea to be aware of these things and take the proper precautions.

Visa Process

To make sure you have a successful trip abroad, understanding the visa process of each country you travel through is essential; this way, you can avoid any headaches down the line.

Another important factor is understanding what type of currency you will need. It’s always helpful to do your due diligence ahead of time. In Bhutan, you can use Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). Currently $1USD is equal to 82 BTN. I like to consider it a 1:10, so 100 BTN is like $10 (~$12). That makes it easy to remember how much you’re spending.

Tipping is expected in Bhutan. Tourism is one of the main industries there, so they rely on tips. For this reason, you should have small bills of BTN or USD to leave tips. 

Driving & Car Sickness

I would highly advise that you take motion sickness pills with you to Bhutan. Many of the roads are windy and mountainous, with switchbacks like you’ve never seen before. I only usually get mildly car sick and usually only if I’m in the back seat and reading, but I was sick every time we got in the car in Bhutan.

It’s nothing to laugh at. If you have pills with you, you can avoid the sickness. Take them 30 minutes before you go on longer car rides between regions.

Where to Stay

• In Paro, we stayed at the amazingly luxurious  Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary .
• In Thimphu, we stayed at the Zhiwaling Ascent. They also have the gorgeous  Zhiwaling Heritage  hotel in Paro.
• In Punakha, we stayed at the rustic modern  Dhumra Farm Resort  with an incredible view of the valley.

More Reading

Also check out these guides from my friend and travel partner, Amanda, from The Boutique Adventurer:

• What It’s Really Like to Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
• 27 Best Tourist Places in Bhutan
• Best Times to Visit Bhutan

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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27 Best Tourist Places in Bhutan and Things to Do

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

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.

What are the top tourist attractions in Bhutan?

Some of the top tourist attractions in Bhutan include the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, the Fertility Temple, and the National Museum of Bhutan.

Is Bhutan a safe place to visit?

Bhutan is generally considered a safe place to visit. The crime rate is low, and the country has a strong focus on preserving its cultural traditions and natural environment. However, as with any destination, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

The best time to visit Bhutan depends on what you want to do and see. The weather can vary greatly depending on the region and altitude, so it is important to research the specific areas you plan to visit. In general, the best time to visit Bhutan is from November to February for cultural trips or from March to May for trekking, when the weather is mild and dry.

Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Yes, all visitors to Bhutan must have a valid visa. Visas can be obtained through a Bhutanese tour operator or through a Bhutanese embassy or consulate. It is not possible to obtain a visa on arrival in Bhutan.

What is the currency used in Bhutan?

The currency used in Bhutan is the Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN). The ngultrum is pegged to the Indian rupee, and both currencies are accepted in Bhutan. It is also possible to use US dollars in Bhutan, but it is recommended to have small denominations as change can be an issue. There are many ATMs in Paro and Thimpu.

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. Hike Up the Tiger's Nest - Trek & Trekking Trail

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

Being one of the largest Dzongkhangs (District) of Bhutan, Wangdue Phodrang has everything from monasteries and temple to wildlife and rustic villages. The reason why the region is different as compared to others is that it is very diverse in terms of subtropical forests in the south to cold, snowy ...

13. Chele La Pass

13 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

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. ...

14. Phuentsholing

14 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 5 Tourist attractions

The second largest town in Bhutan, Phuentsholing shares its borders with the Indian State of West Bengal. Serving as an entry point for travellers from Kolkata and Siliguri, it is an important economic hub of Bhutan. An urban centre, it is more developed than most of the towns of Bhutan, yet it has ...

Best Time: April to June

15. Samdrup Jongkhar

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

Samdrup Jongkhar is a small town in South-Eastern Bhutan and is located at the border of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Its proximity to the Indian border with multiple Indian shopkeepers and hawkers setting up shops here makes it one of the largest urban centres of Bhutan.Samdrup Jongkhar, a beautifu...

16 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 5 Tourist attractions

Mongar is a small town situated in Eastern Bhutan, widely known for its lemongrass production in the country. It is also one of the oldest education centres in the country. With a population of about 40,000 people, Mongar is one of the fastest developing districts in Bhutan. It is also the site ...

Best Time: September to November

17. Lhuentse

17 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 6 Tourist attractions

Lhuentse is a small town located 67 kilometres away from Mongar in Eastern Bhutan. The town is remote and one of the least developed districts in Bhutan which was formerly known as Kurtoe. It is the ancestral home of the Royal family; hence keeping the most distinct art forms of the country intact.

18. Trashigang

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

Trashigang, called the 'Jewel of the East', is a beautiful hill station located in Eastern Bhutan, spread across an altitude ranging from 600 m to over 4000 m. It is the largest district of Bhutan and is immensely beautiful and serene. Trashigang is also a renowned town for trade-in Bhutan, serving ...

Best Time: October to December, April to May

19. Royal Manas National Park

19 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

The oldest national park in Bhutan, Royal Manas National Park is one of the largest national parks in the country. Known as the "conservation showpiece of the Kingdom", it is the largest example of tropical and sub-tropical ecosystems in Bhutan. Occupying south-central Bhutan, it shares its southern...

20. Laya Gasa Trek

20 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Laya Gasa trek is one of the most popular and scenic long-distance treks in the northern Himalayan region of Bhutan, along the border with Tibet.

21. Mountain Biking in Bhutan

21 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Speeding up your bike en route to the top of the hill and playing with wind and speed while enjoying the beautiful sights from there is one of the best experiences that a man can fathom in his lifetime. And what's a better way to get your adrenaline racing than mountain biking in Bhutan? With its vi...

22. Archery in Bhutan

22 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Seeing the level of enthusiasm that Bhutanese have for this sport, it would not be wrong to say that archery is the crown jewel of the country. And it must be the aura of Bhutan that even the tourists can't resist themselves to enjoy one or more matches of archery. The joy of seeing an arrow leaving...

23. Rock Climbing in Bhutan

23 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

While many tourists love conquering the high cliffs by hiking, some take the adventure a few notches higher with rock climbing which take mental and physical determination, body strength, agility, perfect balance, endurance and also control over the mind. It was in early 1998 that Bhutan first opene...

24. River Rafting in Bhutan

24 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

With a number of rugged, untamed rivers meandering through its map, Bhutan offers the perfect destination for river rafting. Mo Chhu, Paro Chhu in Punakha, Sankosh River, Mangde Chhu, Wang Chhu, Puna Tsang Chhu and the Dangme Chhu are considered to be the best for rafting due to their easy access an...

25. Trekking in Bhutan

25 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Trekking in Bhutan is undoubtedly a most astonishing and adventurous experience for hikers around the globe. No matter whether you are an amateur or an expert in trekking, you will get your fair share of adrenaline on whichever trekking route you choose as per the difficulty levels. Just ensure that...

26. Visit the Motithang Takin Preserve

26 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

The crown jewel of Thimphu, Motithang Takin Preserve is a protected area where the national animal of Bhutan, Takin, is preserved. A half an hour walk here would unveil many exotic birds and animals to you, who wander around the area freely and in the most natural of habitat. Overflowing with sereni...

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Everything you need to know to plan your trip to Bhutan

Sep 26, 2022 • 10 min read

Visiting Bhutan's spectacular temples and villages is worth the price tag © Andrew Peacock / Getty Images / iStockphoto

Bhutan has long had a reputation as an exclusive, remote destination that only opens its doors to a lucky, well-heeled few. Its golden-roofed temples, magnificent fortress-like monasteries and timeless rural villages are as close to a Shangri-La as you can find in the modern world. Unfortunately, visiting paradise comes at a hefty price.

Bhutan’s tourism mantra has long been “high value, low impact,” and its aim is simple: to maximize the financial benefits of tourism while minimizing its environmental and cultural impact. It’s a perfect example of the country’s guiding policy of “Gross National Happiness.”

The country kept its doors locked tight during the Covid-19 pandemic and only reopened to tourism in September 2022, but with this reopening has come a major overhaul of the country's strict tourism regulations . If you are tempted to take the plunge on a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Bhutan , here’s the lowdown on Bhutan's new travel rules and exactly how to arrange a trip to this unique and magical Himalayan country.

What are the new tourism rules?

Until 2020, foreign tourists were charged a flat minimum fee of US$250 per person per day for a fully organized tour, of which US$65 went to the government to help fund free education and healthcare for Bhutan’s citizens.

Beginning September 2022, foreign tourists are now charged a US$200 per person per day Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) that the government says will further contribute to sustainable tourism development, tourism training and carbon offsetting. 

The other major change is that tour prices are no longer fixed, leaving tour companies free to charge what they want depending on the levels of service or activities, thus giving visitors some choice over things like hotel costs. The bad news is that travel costs are now in addition to the US$200 per day fee, not included. Comb through the small print, and you'll find that families get a small break, paying 50% of the SDF (i.e., US$100 per day) for kids aged six to twelve, and children under five being exempt from the fee entirely.

Another change is that foreign tourists now must pay entry fees to the main sights, ranging in price from Nu 2000 (US$25) for the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery to Nu 1000 (US$12.50) for most other popular temples and dzongs (fortress-like monasteries). This will add US$100-200 to most tours. Most of these religious sites will now close to tourists on popular Buddhist holidays, which is a shame as these are often the most colorful times to visit.

How Will This Change Tourism in Bhutan?

For starters, trips to already-exclusive Bhutan just became even more expensive. Given this, it’s likely that fewer foreign tourists will visit the country, and those that do will choose shorter trips close to the popular sights around Paro (Bhutan's international airport) and the capital Thimphu. Longer trips to the fascinating but more remote central and eastern regions now come with a much higher price tag, as does trekking, which is generally more expensive to arrange than a cultural tour.

For example, Bhutan's famous 27-day Snowman trek (often called the “world's hardest trek”) now costs at least US$3500 more per person than it did under the old rules. The hike’s fees could well make Nepal's equally unspoiled Himalayan regions, such as upper Dolpo and Mustang (which have their own fees of US$500 for ten days), more financially appealing.

What about regional Indian tourists?

The main exception to the new fee rule is Indian tourists, who pay a much smaller SDF fee of just Nu 1200 (US$15) per person per day. Indian visitors must pre-arrange a guide, hotel accommodation and permits to travel east of Thimphu. This can be arranged through a Bhutanese agent or independently.

Many Bhutanese travel agents point out that with Indian tourists making up 77% of annual visitors to Bhutan (243,000 out of a total 315,600) and many arriving in their own vehicles and cooking their own food on budget trips, it’s hard to see how Bhutan can justify its fee system in the name of either sustainable tourism or avoiding cultural impact. 

How much does a trip to Bhutan cost now?

Including the US$200 SDF per person per day, most Bhutanese agencies will now charge between US$350 and US$450 per person per day for a fully inclusive tour, up from the previous US$250 per day. Trekking will likely be a bit pricier, and small groups of two or three will be more expensive than larger groups.

What the new rules do allow for is overnights in guest houses, heritage farmhouses or rural homestays, which are a bit cheaper than tourist hotels. Under the old rules, you paid the same daily rate regardless of whether you stayed in a comfortable four-star hotel or on the floor of a local homestay, which limited the appeal of community tourism. Now you pay for what you get. The downside is that even if you stay in a simple rural homestay, you will still pay around US$300 per day for your trip, leaving you with budget travel at a top-end price.

How to plan your trip

Until 2022, tourists had to arrange their travels through a registered Bhutanese travel agent. Now tourists are allowed to book trips directly with hotels, so if you are just planning a visit to Thimphu and Paro towns, you can theoretically just book a hotel, a guide and a couple of airport transfers directly with a hotel, cutting down on transportation costs.

For a more complicated itinerary involving multiple overnight stops, cultural programs, day hikes, trekking and other activities, you are still better off booking with an experienced agency. Bhutanese tourism infrastructure isn't yet developed enough to offer easily bookable separate transportation and guide services.

Start planning early. You will need at least a month to pin down your itinerary, pay the tour operator and get your visa approval. If you are visiting in the high season months of October, November, March and April, you will want to book your flights to Bhutan further in advance.

Planning your itinerary

Because Bhutan is expensive, many travelers are tempted to limit their visit to just a few days around the Paro Valley. There are definitely some fabulous medieval temples, monasteries and museums here, as well as some intriguing sights in nearby Thimphu, where the 16th and 21st centuries manage to coexist seamlessly.

Stick to these easily accessible sights, however, and you'll only see the most touristed parts of Bhutan. With a few more days, you can visit the delightful valley of Punakha or stay overnight in the little-visited valley of Haa, accessible from Paro over the country's highest motorable pass. Anyone wanting to really get off the beaten track should head out to the center or east of the country.

Perhaps the best way to plan your trip is to use an agency’s itinerary as a starting point and modify it to your interests. If you have a specific interest in embroidery, hiking or Buddhism, a good agency will adapt the tour to your preferences. This is also the time to mention any extras, such as a traditional hot-stone bath, an overnight in a rural homestay or a day of rafting or mountain biking. Be sure to time your visit with one of Bhutan’s fabulous festivals. 

We always recommend throwing in a few lesser-visited temples and day hikes to get you off the tourist circuit. Even with a limited amount of time, you can detour to a lesser-known temple, nunnery or hermitage to experience Bhutan at its most authentic.

Not to miss places in Bhutan

Taktshang goemba.

Hike up to Bhutan's most iconic temple, the Tiger's Nest Monastery , whose medieval shrines are said to be attached to the cliff face by the hairs of angels.

Punakha Dzong

Bhutan's most beautiful fortress is lined with purple jacaranda flowers in spring and hosts several of Bhutan’s most spectacular festivals.

Bhutan's capital is home to historically important monasteries, protector deities, a takin reserve, archery tournaments, a fabulous weekend market and the magnificent former seat of government at Tashi Choe Dzong .

Top Bhutanese experiences

Attend a tsechu (religious dance festival).

Almost every dzong or temple in Bhutan has an annual festival featuring sacred monk dances, colorful costumes and local fairs. The main ones in Thimphu and Paro are a highlight of the Bhutanese year, but it's also worth seeking out a lesser-visited event.

Explore Bhutan on foot

Even a short walk in Bhutan leads up to a sacred meditation center, a Buddhist pilgrimage site or through ancient forests of blooming rhododendrons. It's easily the best way to experience the country's pristine rural charm. For an overnight trip, try the Bumdrak trek, which takes you on a back-door hiking route to the famous Taktshang Monastery.

Relax in a traditional hot stone bath

Soaking in a traditional Bhutanese wooden bathtub in water heated by medicinal hot stones and fragranced with mountain herbs is simply the perfect way to end a long day of sightseeing.

Best time to visit

The best months to visit Bhutan are March/April – for warm temperatures and stunning rhododendron blooms – and October/November – for clear Himalayan views and the most popular festivals. 

Now that there are no longer discounts for off-season travel, there's little incentive to visit in the cold winter (December to February) or wet monsoon months (June to September).

How long should I spend in Bhutan?

As long as you can afford it without raiding your kids’ college fund! With a four-day trip, you could see the highlights of the Paro Valley and the quirky capital Thimphu. If you have a week, you can continue over the Dochu-la mountain pass into the charming Punakha Valley.

To get to the central Bumthang Valley or the fascinating but remote far east, you will need a couple of weeks, though a domestic flight from Thimphu can speed things up here.

The bottom line is that you will likely only make one trip to Bhutan in your lifetime, so be sure to make the most of it.

How to get a Bhutan visa

Once you’ve agreed on your itinerary and tour price, the next step is to pay your agency (most likely via a bank transfer) to the agency's account at the Bhutan National Bank. If you are lucky, this will only involve one visit to your bank. Be prepared to explain where Bhutan is.

Once the wire has gone through, you will fill out a visa form and send your agency a digital photograph and scan of your passport photo page. Getting a visa is just a formality, and the agency will email you a copy of your visa authorization after a few days. The visa costs US$40 and will likely have been included in your tour price.

If arranging things yourself, you will have to pay the SDF fee directly to the government and apply for your visa through the Department of Immigration , though the exact process for this hasn't yet been revealed.

On arrival at Paro airport or at the land border with India, you will simply present your visa authorization, and immigration will stamp the visa into your passport.

How to get to Bhutan

Most visitors fly into Bhutan's Paro airport from Delhi , Bangkok or Kathmandu on the national airline Druk Air. It’s essential to print out a copy of your visa authorization before check-in.

With the reopening of tourism in September 2022, foreign tourists can once again enter Bhutan overland through one of three border crossings with India. In reality, the crossing to Phuentsholing is the only one that sees much tourist traffic, mainly with adventurous travelers combining Bhutan with the sights of nearby Darjeeling or Assam .

This article was first published Jun 24, 2019 and updated Sep 26, 2022.

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20 Places to Visit in Bhutan for Extraordinary Experience

Explore the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Punakha Dzong, and witness the vibrant markets of Thimphu. Discover Phobjikha and Haa Valley’s natural wonders, and visit the historical Trongsa Dzong. Bhutan’s famous places showcase its unique charm and provide unforgettable experiences for those seeking the best places to visit in Bhutan.

1. Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)

To reach Tiger’s Nest, visitors have to cross a challenging but rewarding hike through scenic trails and lush forests. As they walk, breathtaking valley vistas unfold, adding to the sense of wonder and anticipation. Crossing a suspension bridge and ascending stone steps, travellers arrive at the monastery on the edge of the dramatic cliffs.

The sound of chanting monks and the aroma of incense fill the air, immersing visitors in a truly mystical experience. You can witness the intricate murals, prayer wheels, and sacred aura.

Standing on the terrace, overlooking the valley below, one can’t help but be awe-struck by the sheer magnificence of the surroundings. Paro Taktsang is a testament to faith and perseverance. It offers not only a glimpse into Bhutan’s religious heritage but also a chance to connect with the divine amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Bhutan’s tourist places.

Suggested Stay Duration: 5-6 hours

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2. Punakha Dzong

Constructed in the 17th century, Punakha Dzong served as the seat of government until the capital was moved to Thimphu. The dzong’s whitewashed walls, towering golden roof, and intricately carved wooden beams exude a sense of grandeur.

Punakha Dzong also holds historical significance as the site of royal weddings and the coronation of Bhutan’s kings. The annual Punakha Tshechu, a vibrant festival featuring masked dances and religious rituals, is celebrated within the dzong’s courtyard.

Surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil flow of rivers, Punakha Dzong radiates a sense of serenity and spiritual energy. It stands as a living testament to Bhutan and is known as one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. 

Suggested Stay Duration:  1-2 hours

Thimphu is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. You’ll encounter a mix of ancient traditions and contemporary influences. The city’s streets are adorned with colourful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and traditional architecture beautifully blends with modern structures. Thimphu, a tourist place in Bhutan, offers a range of experiences, from bustling markets where locals trade fresh produce and handicrafts to serene monasteries. 

Not only cultural richness, but Thimphu boasts an emerging art and culinary scene, with contemporary art galleries, trendy cafes, and restaurants offering a fusion of Bhutanese and international flavours. Thimphu is not just a city; it’s a vibrant hub where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. Read More

Suggested Stay Duration: 3-4 Hours

4. Dochula Pass

On clear days, visitors are treated to a mesmerising spectacle of the Himalayan range stretching as far as the eye can see.

The pass is adorned with 108 stupas known as the “Druk Wangyal Chortens,” built by the Queen Mother to commemorate Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in a military conflict. The colourful prayer flags fluttering in the wind add to the spiritual ambience of the place.

Aside from its scenic beauty, Dochula Pass offers a tranquil and refreshing respite from the lowland heat. The cool mountain air, the serene environment, and the stunning vistas make it a perfect spot for meditation, reflection, or simply enjoying the awe-inspiring natural surroundings. Read More

5. Wangdue Phodrang

The centrepiece of Wangdue Phodrang is the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, an impressive fortress that overlooks the town. With its towering walls and intricate architecture, this majestic structure is a testament to Bhutanese craftsmanship and an important administrative and religious centre.

Wangdue Phodrang is also famous for its annual Tshechu festival, a vibrant celebration of Bhutanese culture that showcases colourful masked dances and religious rituals. During this time, locals and visitors come together to honour their spiritual beliefs and witness the lively festivities. Surrounded by rolling hills, terraced fields, and pristine forests, Wangdue Phodrang offers a serene and picturesque setting. Visitors can explore nearby villages, hike through scenic trails, or simply immerse themselves in the tranquil ambience of the region. Read More

Suggested Stay Duration: 1 Day

6. Trongsa Dzong

The dzong’s strategic location on the ancient trade route between eastern and western Bhutan was vital in controlling and governing the region. It has served as the ancestral home of the royal family and holds great historical significance as the birthplace of the first king of Bhutan.

Trongsa Dzong provides a captivating insight into Bhutan Tourist Places’ rich past. Its architectural splendour, cultural significance, and breathtaking views of the surrounding valley create an unforgettable experience. Exploring its corridors, witnessing religious ceremonies, and soaking in the aura of this majestic fortress is a journey into the heart of Bhutanese heritage and tradition. Read More

Suggested Stay Duration: 2-3 Hours

7. Gangtey Valley

The valley is renowned for its unique and harmonious blend of stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. It is a designated conservation area home to the endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate from Tibet during the winter months. Seeing these graceful birds in their natural habitat is a truly remarkable experience.

Gangtey Valley also boasts the magnificent Gangtey Monastery, commonly known as Gangtey Gonpa, which is one of the spiritual places to see in Bhutan. This 17th-century monastery is an important spiritual centre for the local community and offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Visitors to Gangtey Valley can enjoy peaceful nature walks, explore charming traditional villages, and immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the surroundings. The valley’s untouched beauty and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and enriching experience in Bhutan.

8. Chele La Pass

Bhutan’s Tourist place Chele La Pass is a popular destination among nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The journey to the pass takes travellers through winding roads surrounded by dense forests, blooming rhododendron trees, and picturesque landscapes. 

The snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and pristine alpine meadows paint a magnificent picture on a clear day.

Chele La Pass is also an excellent spot for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. Various trails lead to nearby monasteries and villages, allowing visitors to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and interact with the local communities. Read More

The town of Jakar offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient temples, and traditional Bhutanese architecture. It is often called the “Switzerland of Bhutan” due to its picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and pristine valleys. 

One of the prominent attractions in Jakar is the Jambay Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple considered one of the 108 sacred temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. It hosts the vibrant Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival, a colourful celebration featuring masked dances and religious rituals.

Jakar, Bhutan’s famous place, is known for its exquisite textiles and handicrafts. Visitors can explore local shops and markets to witness the craftsmanship of Bhutanese weavers and artisans.

The valley offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nearby natural wonders such as the Tangbi Goemba, Kurjey Lhakhang, and Burning Lake.

With its rich history, scenic landscapes, and cultural significance, Jakar is a destination is the most visited place in Bhutan. Read More

10. Royal Manas National Park

The park’s diverse ecosystems encompass lush forests, grasslands, and river valleys, offering visitors opportunities for wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and nature walks. With its pristine beauty and conservation efforts, Royal Manas National Park showcases the natural treasures of Bhutan and provides a memorable experience for those seeking an immersive encounter with the country’s wildlife and natural wonders.

This place in Bhutan is an attractive spot for people visiting with families. Read More

11. Tashichho Dzong

Perched on the western bank of the Wang Chhu River, Tashichho Dzong showcases traditional Bhutanese architecture with its towering white walls, red and gold accents, and intricately carved wooden windows and doors.

 The fortress is a masterpiece place to visit in Bhutan, adorned with beautiful gardens, courtyards, and meticulously maintained structures.

Apart from its administrative functions, Tashichho Dzong is also a vibrant centre for Bhutanese culture and religion. It houses tourist places in Bhutan as it has several temples and chapels, including the most revered temple, the Temple of the Bodhisattva of Compassion (Avalokiteshvara).

During special occasions, such as the Thimphu Tshechu festival, the dzong comes alive with colourful mask dances, religious rituals, and festivities that attract locals and tourists alike.

It symbolises Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and offers a glimpse into its deep-rooted traditions and governance. Read More

Suggested Stay Duration: 1-2 Hours

12. Chimi Lhakhang 

The temple is amidst picturesque rice fields and terraced hills, creating a serene and peaceful ambience. It is renowned for its colourful exterior adorned with phallic symbols, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring fertility and good fortune.

Chimi Lhakhang is a popular places to visit in Bhutan pilgrimage site for couples seeking blessings for fertility and childbirth. Visitors often receive a special blessing from the resident monk, who uses a phallus-shaped wooden implement as part of the ritual.

Beyond its association with fertility, Chimi Lhakhang offers visitors an insight into Bhutanese folk traditions and religious practices. The temple’s tranquil surroundings and idyllic location make it a pleasant spot for a stroll or a picnic.

Travellers to Chimi Lhakhang can immerse themselves in the site’s cultural significance, admire the vibrant artwork, and witness the faith and devotion of the Bhutanese people. It is a unique and fascinating destination that showcases the distinctive blend of spirituality, tradition, and symbolism that characterises Bhutanese culture. Read More

13. Rinpung Dzong

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Paro Valley, Rinpung Dzong is an imposing sight with whitewashed walls, ornate golden roofs, and intricate woodwork. It is surrounded by lush gardens and the meandering Paro Chu River, creating a picturesque setting.

The dzong houses numerous temples, assembly halls, and administrative offices. The main temple, the Assembly Hall, showcases exquisite murals depicting Buddhist legends and stories. It is a place of religious worship and annually hosts various festivals and ceremonies.

Rinpung Dzong is not only an architectural marvel but also an embodiment of Bhutanese history, spirituality, and cultural heritage. It stands as a symbol of the country’s rich traditions and provides visitors a glimpse into Bhutan’s past and present. Read More

14. Trashigang

The district is also home to Bhutan’s highest mountain peak, Gangkhar Puensum, which attracts adventurous trekkers and mountaineers.

Trashigang is renowned for its traditional weaving industry, producing exquisite textiles such as the renowned “bura” and “yathra” fabrics. 

The district is dotted with charming villages and ancient temples, including the Trashigang Dzong, a majestic fortress perched on a hilltop. The dzong is the administrative centre and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Travellers to Trashigang can immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in traditional festivals, exploring rural communities, and indulging in authentic Bhutanese cuisine.

With its untouched natural beauty and cultural richness, Trashigang offers a rewarding and immersive experience for those seeking an authentic glimpse into Bhutanese life and traditions. Read More

Suggested Stay Duration: 2-3 Days

15. Lhuentse

Lhuentse is dotted with ancient monasteries and sacred sites, including the majestic Lhuentse Dzong. Perched on a hilltop, the dzong provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and serves as an administrative and religious centre.

Lhuentse offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore its unspoiled wilderness through hiking trails, birdwatching, and camping. The region’s hidden beauty and tranquillity provide a perfect retreat for those seeking peace and serenity.

With its cultural treasures, natural wonders, and a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life.

Suggested Stay Duration: 1-2 Days

Samtse is renowned for its tea plantations, which produce high-quality tea leaves that contribute to Bhutan’s thriving tea industry. Visitors can explore the tea gardens, learn about the tea-making process, and savour freshly brewed cups of Bhutanese tea.

The town is surrounded by verdant forests and rolling hills, offering opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and birdwatching. 

The nearby Phuntsholing Wildlife Sanctuary is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. 

Samtse is also known for its cultural heritage, with several temples and monasteries dotting the landscape. The Dophuchenma Goemba and Samtse Dzong are famous religious sites that showcase Bhutanese architecture and serve as centres of worship and community gatherings.

It provides a serene and off-the-beaten-path destination for those seeking a peaceful escape amidst Bhutan’s scenic landscapes. Read More  

17. Phuentsholing

Phuentsholing offers a unique blend of Bhutanese and Indian influences, with its bustling markets, diverse cuisine, and a fusion of architectural styles. The town is known for its lively border crossing, where travellers can witness the bustling activity and experience the cultural exchange between the two countries.

The town is also an excellent place for shopping, with its markets offering a wide range of goods, including handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce. It is a perfect opportunity to browse and purchase traditional Bhutanese artefacts and souvenirs.

Phuentsholing is a convenient starting point for further exploration of Bhutan, with its proximity to other popular destinations like Thimphu and Paro. It provides a vibrant and culturally rich introduction to the wonders of Bhutan for those entering the country from India. Read More

18. Buddha Dordenma Statue, Thimphu

Perched atop a hill in the Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, the bronze and gold-plated statue overlooks the Thimphu Valley, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and cityscape.

The Buddha Dordenma statue holds great religious and cultural significance and is a place to see in  Bhutan. It symbolises peace, happiness, and prosperity and represents the teachings of Lord Buddha. Inside the statue, there are 125,000 smaller statues of Buddha, adding to its spiritual grandeur.

The serene atmosphere and the colossal presence of the statue create a sense of tranquillity and reverence.

The Buddha Dordenma Statue is not only a spiritual site but also a Bhutan tourist place. 

19. Lhuentse Dzong

Lhuentse Dzong is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan as it serves as an administrative and religious centre, housing government offices, monastic quarters, and temples. Its whitewashed walls, intricately carved woodwork, and ornate golden roofs testify to Bhutan’s rich craftsmanship and architectural heritage.

The dzong is also known for its role in preserving Bhutanese culture and traditions, which is why its Bhutan’s famous place. It hosts annual religious festivals, known as tshechus, where masked dances, religious rituals, and cultural performances occur. These festivals attract locals and visitors, providing a glimpse into the vibrant cultural fabric of Bhutan.

The tranquil setting, surrounded by scenic mountains and terraced fields, adds to the enchantment of the place.

It offers a captivating experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in Bhutanese culture and witness the grandeur of its fortresses.

Suggested Stay Duration: 6-7 Hours

20. Jomolhari Base Camp Trek

Starting from the Paro Valley, Bhutan Tourist places take adventurers through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and remote villages. Along the way, trekkers can witness the diverse flora and fauna, including blue sheep, yaks, and various bird species.

The highlight of the trek is reaching the Jomolhari Base Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,080 meters (13,385 feet). Here, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of Jomolhari’s majestic peak and the surrounding Himalayan ranges.

The trek also provides opportunities to visit remote monasteries, encounter Bhutanese nomads, and experience the country’s rich cultural heritage. The pristine beauty of the landscapes, coupled with the physical challenge, makes the Jomolhari Base Camp Trek a memorable and rewarding adventure.

Suggested Stay Duration: 6-7 Days

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q: 1. what are the top tourist destinations in bhutan, q: 2. are there any religious or cultural sites to visit in bhutan, q: 3. are there any hot springs in bhutan that i can visit, q: 4. are any restrictions or permits required to visit certain areas in bhutan.

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We at WanderOn are a modern travel community that provides end to end travel packages in India and abroad. We design the best travel itineraries that encourage group traveling for like-minded people. Our services include road trips, trekking expeditions, corporate trips, and customized tour packages. On our trips, we ensure hassle-free traveling, top-notch accommodation and guided sightseeing that too in a budget that won't burn a hole in your pocket. Just give us your dates and be ready to experience traveling like never before.

• Bir Billing
• Chopta Tungnath
• Kasol Kheerganga
• Tirthan Valley
• Manali Solang

Himalayan Escapades

• Kasol Manali
• Parvati Valley
• Mcleod Bir Tirthan
• Mcleod Bir Barot

Backpacking Trips

• Himachal Backpacking
• Ladakh Trips
• Meghalaya Backpacking
• Kashmir Backpacking
• Beautiful Places to Visit in Spring in India
• Workcations: The New Trend of Travel
• Breathtaking Monasteries of Ladakh
• Soul-Satisfying things to do in Spiti Valley
• Mesmerising Waterfalls of Meghalaya to Visit

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WANDERON EXPERIENCES PVT LTD

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