Bhutan offers its visitors numerous adventure spots, sightseeing places, and more. The country is undoubtedly one of the greenest kingdoms in the entire world. Besides, the country is prominent for its textiles all over the world. The serene land is also famous for its spirituality and dramatic landscapes. Travel to Bhutan and explore the fantastic spots that surround this profuse kingdom.
Paro Valley
The Paro Valley, also known as the Tiger's Nest, is the most visited site in Bhutan. The city is dotted with ancient history and numerous spiritual sites which date back to the 14th century. The valley is also often referred to as The Last Shangri-La. The place blended with rich culture, semi-modern lifestyle, natural beauty, and colorful traditions. It is also prominent for terraced farming and red rice cultivation. Besides, the valley also houses the National Museum, which displays uncountable Bhutanese artifacts and artworks. The best time to visit is from September to November, as the weather is pleasant during these months.
Punakha Valley
Punakha Valley is a scenic valley that can be visited throughout the year. This iconic valley was once the capital of Bhutan. The valley shelters Punakha Dzong- The Palace of Bliss dating back to the 17th century, which is a prominent source of tourist attraction. The fortress is located amidst the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers and is famous for hosting the Tshechu festival featuring mask dance and music. Besides, it is also the main area for the cultivation of red and white rice. The valley experiences a moderate climate and is surrounded by flourishing beauty, hospitable locals, and diverse Buddhist culture. The best time to visit is from March- July when one can experience a combination of cool and pleasant climates.
Trongsa
Trongsa means new village; the town perched on an elevated hill is renowned for its scenic beauty and picturesque views. This pictorial place leaves its visitors spellbound with its history, white-washed buildings, and beautiful plants spreading across the perimeters of the town. This town, once ruled by Bhutan's Wangchuck Dynasty, has a political tradition where the heir to the country's throne must first become the governor. The town holds important tourist destinations such as Trongsa Dzong, Trongsa Watchtower, and Museum. It also hosts Trongsa Tsechu, a religious festival in December or January to commemorate Guru Rimpoche's arrival in the 8th century.
Phobjikha Valley
Phobjikha Valley is one of the most enchanting tourist destinations in Bhutan. It is a glacial valley that shelters the rare black-necked cranes. The place, unique from the rest of the country, is adorned with heartwarming culture and rich biodiversity. The lofty Black Mountain and the vast expanse of evergreen fields add grace to this bowl-shaped valley. Although the valley remains surreal throughout the year, the best time to visit is from Oct to December. Some major tourist attractions located here include Gangtey Goemba, Kumbhu Lhakhang, Khewang Lhakhang, Damchen Lhakhang, Nyingma Dzogchen, and Kuezang Chholing Shedra.
Mount Chomolhari
The Chomolhari Mountain is a part of the great Himalayas located on the border of Bhutan. This mountain is fondly known as Bride of the Kanchenjunga as its proximity matches the latter. This is a sacred site among the Buddhists as it is believed to be the home of Goddess Jomo, the protector of The Kingdom. The mountain remained unclimbed until 1924, and according to the local folklore, whoever attempted to scale the mountain would be thrown. At present, the mountain is a famous spot among adventure seekers and trekkers. The best time to visit the mountain is between March to May and from September to November.
Wangdue Phodrang
Located between the Punak Tsang Chhu and the Dang Chhu, the high ridge is popular for showcasing the magnificent view of the valley below. The place is enriched in history as it was the second capital in the early days. At present it is the largest district of Bhutan and has plenty in stock for its visitors including temples, monasteries, wildlife, and rustic villages. The region is surrounded by rich subtropical forest in the south and cold snowy areas in the north. The place is also home to Wangchuck Centennial Park and Jigme Dorji National Park. Several plant species like orchids, rhododendrons, blue poppies, and rare animals such as black bears, red pandas, snow leopards, and blue sheep can be found in this region. Tourists can visit the region at any time of the year.
Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Situated in Paro Tiger’s nest is one of the most popular places in Bhutan. This monastery is a sacred Buddhist site located on the cliffside of the upper Paro valley. This monastery is a one-of-a-kind experience as it is a temple along a cliff with a beautiful view which makes it a picture-perfect destination.
Trashi Chho Dzong
Located between the Punak Tsang Chhu and the Dang Chhu, the high ridge is popular for showcasing the magnificent view of the valley below. The place is enriched in history as it was the second capital in the early days. At present it is the largest district of Bhutan and has plenty in stock for its visitors including temples, monasteries, wildlife, and rustic villages. The region is surrounded by rich subtropical forest in the south and cold snowy areas in the north. The place is also home to Wangchuck Centennial Park and Jigme Dorji National Park. Several plant species like orchids, rhododendrons, blue poppies, and rare animals such as black bears, red pandas, snow leopards, and blue sheep can be found in this region. Tourists can visit the region at any time of the year.
Chele La Pass
Chele La Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan offers aa splendid viewof the snow-capped mountains along with several birds flying. The Pass separates the Paro Valley from the Haa Valley andoffers a golden opportunity to witness several flock of birds include nutcrackers, white-winged grosbeak, laughing thrushes, long-crested monal, and white-browed rosefinch besides the unmatched natural beauty.
Dochula Pass
The Dochula Pass is scenic mountain pass comprising 108 Chortens that shows a sign of peace.Thehistorical landmark offer homage to the soldiers and the king who sacrifice their life during the 2003 military operations. Dochula is situated at a distance of 20 km from Thimphu and a popular tourist destination for offering a beautiful view of the GangkarPuensum peak in its background.
Buddha Dordenma
It is one of the outstanding pieces of work and the tallest statues of the Shakyamuni Buddha statue in Bhutan. The Buddha Dordenma is a sightseeing location and a pilgrimage center for the Buddhist population of Bhutan.
Jigme Dorji National Park
Jigme Dorji National Park is the second largest national park in Bhutan. It provides an absolute treat for wildlife enthusiasts traveling to Bhutan. The park stretches over an area of about 4316 sq. km with an elevation ranging from 1400 m to 7000 m. The major attractions are wildlife species like tiger, clouded leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, Himalayan black bear, beautiful birds, and some unique flora and fauna.
Thimphu Chorten
Located on Doeboom Lam in the southern-central part of the city, ThimphuChorten is a Buddhist Stupa. Built-in 1974 to honor the third DrukGyalpo, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the stupa is a prominent landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells.
Bumthang or Jakar Valley
Enveloped around the evergreen mountains, the Jakar Valley is fondly called Little Switzerland. The rugged terrains and challenging trails of this valley are famous among adrenaline seekers. Be it indoors or outdoors, you would love to explore every bit of this valley.
Haa Valley
The smallest valley of Bhutan is a hub for hikers and trekkers. The Haa Valley is the only place in the world where the rarest White Poppy (Meconopsis Superba) blooms. Although the valley is isolated, it offers a surreal view of the entire city. It is also called Hidden-Land Rice Valley. The best time to visit is October & November.
Samdrup Jongkhar
A beautiful hill station and small town in Northeast Bhutan is probably the oldest town. The must-visit locations are Mithun-Breeding Farm (a cattle-breeding farm), Hanumaan Mandir (Hindu Temple, Dratshang (house of monks) Zangtopelri Lhakhang (monastery), and Dewathang (ancient battleground). The town is the epitome of at its best.
Trashigang
Well known as the Jewel of the East, Trashigang is a beautiful hill station in Eastern Bhutan. This serene place is the largest district renowned for trade. The Fortress of Auspicious Hill or Trashigang Dzong, is the most famous tourist spot of this district. Radhi Village, recognized for its rice fields and weaver’s skills, is a location worth visiting.
Clock Tower Square
The Clock-tower is a typical Bhutanese architectural structure decorated with carvings and paintings. The four faces of the tower are handcrafted and painted in golden dragon symbolizing the county as an independent dragon kingdom. Other sources of attraction here include the water fountains and traditional Bhutanese prayer wheels (Mani Lhalhor).
Lhuentse
Once home to the royal family, Lhuentse, is an ancient heritage district. It is known for its spectacular view, rugged mountain, wildlife, and magnificent cliffs. This place lists among the top-secret places in Bhutan. Visit Bhutan to explore this mysterious place and discover the unknown.
Phuentsholing
Phuentsholing is a town flourishing in tourism industry. Located on the foothills of the Himalayas, the town echoes unique culture and tradition of Bhutan. It is renowned for modern architecture and is the trading center of the country. While crossing the gateway, the visitors have to seek entry permission. If you want to experience solidarity and peace, this town is a must-visit.
