Welcome to Trip Trek Tales, a place where we bring you the best travel guides. In this blog, we are going to take you on a tour of Bhutan. This blog will help you plan your Bhutan trip with ease. We have curated an informative list of the best places to visit in Bhutan.
Bhutan is the final Himalayan kingdom that epitomises happiness, a land where mystical mountains meet fertile plains and tradition meets contemporary life. This picturesque haven is bounded by India and China and presents an enchanting combination of unique natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. With a variety of sites to see in Bhutan that guarantee long-lasting memories for those who seek tranquilly, adventure, or an insight into the ancient ways of life, this country will give you all that you want from it.
Here are the ten most glamorous destinations to consider when touring this captivating kingdom.
1. Thimphu: The Royal Capital
Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is without doubt among the best places to visit in Bhutan. It is situated in the western-central region of the country, on the banks of the Raidak River. A fusion vibrant between tradition and modernism makes up Thimphu, which is ornamented with views ranging from 2,000–3,800-metre mountain peaks towards its busy streets.
Thimphu displays vibrant culture and traditions in stunning ways. Being a commercial hub for this nation, it boasts numerous sights to see, such as luxury resorts or even modern facilities, with some major attractions including Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), Tashichho Dzong Memorial Chorten, and Centenary Farmers’ Market, whereas the National Library of Bhutan and the National Institute of Traditional Medicine give insights into the rich culture this state possesses.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May
- Tourist Attractions: Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), Tashichho Dzong, Memorial Chorten, Centenary Farmers’ Market, National Library of Bhutan, National Institute of Traditional Medicine, The Folk Heritage Museum, Changangkha Lhakhang, Dechen Phodrang, Dochula, Takin Preserve, Zangto Pelri Lhakhang
- Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (54 km)
- Weather: summer (September to November), winter (November to March), monsoon (June to September)
2. Paro: The Last Shangri-La
Paro Valley, termed “Last Shangri-La,” has historical significance and holy sites around it, making it an attractive destination with magnificent landscapes mixed with cultural heritage and a partially developed lifestyle. Paro is known for its terraced cultivation, like red rice-growing farm plots.
Paro is one of the most iconic destinations in Bhutan, home to the popular “Tiger’s Nest” monastery, alias Taktsang Monastery. Located on the cliff, Taktsang Monastery provides a breathtaking view of the valley beneath. Other popular attractions are Ugyen Pelri Palace, Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and Haa Valley.
- Best Time to Visit: September to November
- Tourist Attractions: Taktshang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest), Ugyen Pelri Palace, Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, Jangsarbu Lhakhang, Haa Valley, Chelela Pass, Kila Goemba, Druk Choeding, Dungtse Lhakhang, Ta Dzong, Drukgyel Dzong
- Nearest Airport: Paro Airport
- Weather: summer (June to August), winter (December to May), monsoon (September to November)
3. Punakha Dzong: The Lost Capital of Bhutan
Throughout the year, Punakha Valley, which was once the capital of Bhutan, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bhutan. Majestic Punakha Dzong, or “Palace of Great Happiness or Bliss,” is prominent in this valley that stands at 1200 metres above sea level with its peaceful and calm surroundings.
Punakha can be reached by road from Thimphu for about three hours, as it is situated where Pho Chhu joins Mo Chhu. The valley has mild weather patterns, a verdant landscape, warm-hearted locals, and profound Buddhist traditions, whereas some notable sites include Punakha Dzong itself, Chimi Lhakhang, Jigme Dorji National Park, and Rishta Village.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination
- Tourist Attractions: Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lakhang, Jigme Dorji National Park, Rishta Village
- Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (122 km/3 hours)
- Weather: summer (July to September), winter (October to April), monsoon (May to June)
4. Trongsa: The Balcony of Bhutan
Trongsa town is located on the hilltop, offering panoramic viewpoints along with scenic beauty, making it known as “The Balcony of Bhutan.” The historical background of this town, together with its traditional architecture and colourful flora, makes it an attractive place to visit in Bhutan.
A major attraction here is Trongsa Dzong, which looks like a flying dragon made up of stone walls. This dzong, built in 1648, has immense historical significance and reveals some aspects of life during ancient times in Bhutan to tourists who want to see this country’s past, while other wonders include Ta Dzong, Chendbji Chorten, Kuenga Rabten, Chökhor Raptse Dzong, and Thruepang Palace.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination
- Tourist Attractions: Trongsa Dzong, Ta Dzong, Chendbji Chorten, Kuenga Rabten, Chökhor Raptse Dzong, Thruepang Palace, Trongsa Tower
- Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (230 km/6 hours)
- Weather: Summer (April to June), Winter (September to April), Monsoon (July to September)
5. Bumthang or Jakar Valley: The Switzerland of Bhutan
Bumthang, also called Jakar Valley, is fondly referred to as “Little Switzerland” due to its picturesque natural beauty and the charm it exudes. The valley has no Swiss Alps, but its unspoiled splendour and tranquil atmosphere make it one of the best destinations in Bhutan.
Bumthang lies in the eastern part of central Bhutan and is famous for its scenic trails, tough terrain, and outdoor activities. It is where you will find places such as Kurje Lhakhang, Zangtopelri Lhakhang, Jambey Lhakhang, Wangdicholing Palace, Jakar Dzong, etc. that have an important place in the country’s history. One can also enjoy Swiss cheese made here.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May), Winter (December to February)
- Tourist Attractions: Jakar Dzong, Wangdicholing Palace, Kurje Lhakhang, Zangtopelri Lhakhang, Jambey Lhakhang, Lhodrak Kharchhu Lhakhang, Tamshing Gompa, and Chakhar Lhakhang
- Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (309 km/9 hours)
- Weather: summer (June to August), winter (December to February), monsoon (September to November)
6. Phobjikha Valley: Land of Black-Necked Cranes
Phobjikha Valley is a glacial valley, which makes it one of the most beautiful destinations in Bhutan because of its aesthetic value and rich biodiversity. This area serves as a habitat for endangered black-necked cranes that attract bird watchers and fans of nature.
This bowl-shaped valley, surrounded by lush green fields and the majestic Black Mountains, offers visitors a surreal experience regardless of when they come here. Some cultural sites include Gangtey Goemba, Damchen Lhakhang, the Black Necked Crane Information Centre, etc.
- Best Time to Visit: May, July, April
- Tourist Attractions: Black Necked Crane Information Centre, Gangtey Goemba, Damchen Lhakhang, Nyingma Dzogchen, Kuezang Chholing Shedra, Khewang Lhakhang, and Kumbhu Lhakhang
- Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (173 km/5 hours)
- Weather: summer (June to July), winter (December to February)
7. Mount Chomolhari, Bride of the Kangchenjunga
Jomolhari, or Chomolhari, is a huge peak guarding the borders of Bhutan majestically against other nations. It stands at approximately 2700 metres above sea level, hence it is often referred to as the “Bride of Kangchenjunga.”.
For Buddhists, this mountain top, known as Mount JomoLhari, remains sacred since they believe the goddess Jomo still dwells there, serving as the protector of Bhutan. According to local legends, this mountain remained unclimbed until 1924, but today it is a favourite place for many trekkers and climbers. Even if you are not planning to climb up there, you still need to enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Chomolhari.
- Best Time to Visit: March to June (Peak Trekking Season)
- Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (49 km, 1 hour)
8. Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan’s Unification Capital
It is a beautiful area situated at an impressive altitude of approximately twenty-eight thousand feet, hence making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bhutan as well as the second largest district in terms of size. It has a variety of climates with sub-tropical and snowy seasons due to its geographical location, which makes it unique and attractive.
Some of the outstanding tourist sites that can be identified within Wangdu Phodrang include Rinchegang Village, Nahee Village, Temple of Sha Radap, and Wangdu Phodrang Dzong, together with Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park, among others. Another point is situated here, this being the Phobjika Valley, famous for black-necked cranes.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination
- Tourist Attractions: Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, Temple of Sha Radap, Nahee Village, Rinchegang Village, Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park, Phobjika Valley
- Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (107 km/2.5 hours)
- Weather: Summer (June to August), Winter (December to February), Spring (March to May)
9. Jigme Dorji National Park: The Wild Side of the Himalayan Kingdom
Jigme Dorji National Park is the epitome of natural beauty and biodiversity in Bhutan, covering Gasa District and parts of Thimphu, Paro, Wangdue Phodrang, and Punakha. This national park, spanning 4,315 square kilometres, hosts many endangered wildlife species.
If you cherish wildlife, then Jigme Dorji National Park is one place in Bhutan that you should make sure you visit before leaving; it inhabits over thirty different wildlife species, including the Bengal Tiger, Takin, Snow Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Himalayan Blue Sheep, etc. Also, more than three hundred birds have been seen in this park, which makes bird watching an interesting activity here. The park also acts as a starting point for popular treks like Jomolhari, Snowman, Lunana, and Gasa-Laya.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination
- Operational Hours: Monday to Friday (09:00 a.m.–05:00 p.m.)
- Non-Operational Hours: Weekends
- Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (161 km/5 hours)
- Weather: Varies by elevation; generally, a temperate climate with variations due to altitude
10. Phuentsholing: The Gateway to Bhutan
Phuentsholing, located on the southern border of Bhutan and India’s Jaigaon town, is the gateway into Bhutan; the town stands at the southern foot of the Himalayas. It is also one of the most easily accessible towns in Bhutan for tourists from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, as it does not require a tourist visa to enter Bhutan.
Being close to India, this city has become a cultural melting pot. Nevertheless, it still maintains its own unique character. Notable sites include Amo Chhu, Chukha Hydrothermal Project, Zangto Pelri Lhakhang, Karbandi Monastery, and Bhutan Gate, among others. The journey to Thimphu takes about 5–6 hours, while that to Paro lasts approximately 5 hours by road.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination
- Tourist Attractions: Bhutan Gate, Karbandi Monastery, Chukha Hydrothermal Project, Amo Chhu, Zangto Pelri Lhakhang
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (167 km/5 hours)
- Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (155 km/4 hours)
- Weather: summer (March to June), winter (November to February), monsoon (July to August)
Conclusion
Bhutan is known worldwide for being rich in natural beauty spots and spiritual solace points. Each of the ten places listed above provides unique experiences catering to different tastes and preferences. For those who are keen on history, love nature or adventure, or just want a quiet place away from home, Bhutan offers all this. As you plan your journey to this happiest kingdom, make sure to include these destinations in your itinerary to truly capture the essence of Bhutan.
Visiting these places in the country, either as a resident or as an outsider, would enable one to witness architectural marvels besides magnificent landscapes and also allow one to learn about the vibrant culture and warm hospitality offered by its people. This enchanting kingdom seamlessly fuses old-world charm with modernity, making any trip there an unforgettable experience. So grab your bags, get ready for an exciting trip, and discover why everyone falls in love with the magic that is so much part of Bhutan’s essence when they visit there today!
