Top 10 Places to visit in Bhutan | 10 Must See Places in Bhutan
Bhutan “The Land of Thunderbolt” is still one of the least heard or traveled destinations, even by the young travel enthusiasts of its neighboring country – India. But it’s a long list of forts, monasteries, and other Buddhist relics, trekking spots, and shopping areas are surely worth a visit. Known as the Last Shangri-La, the entire country comprises panoramic valleys, majestic Himalayas, and an abundance of rare fauna and flora. The rivers, arising from the Himalayas, meander through the valleys and mesmerize with their beauty. Offering a kaleidoscope of sceneries and experiences, the best tourist places in Bhutan must feature on your itinerary while visiting the Land of the Thunder Dragon. If not all, at least a few of the below-listed places to visit in Bhutan deserve a visit by you and your travel buddies. From wildlife sanctuaries to monasteries, a vacation to Bhutan is all about tranquility and serenity that is unmatchable.
About Bhutan
Bhutan is a small country located in the southern foothills of the Himalaya mountains. The country is in between the Republic of China and the Republic of India. The elevation level is here 38,394 km² and the population is 735553. Southern Bhutan is respectively hot and has a humid atmosphere, but the climate always varies from 15 to 30 degrees. In the northern areas, the temperature is low and cold, as it is near the mountains. In this region the mountains tops usually stay covered in snow thus, the lower parts stay cool.
Bhutan is rich with precious culture and diversity. There are so many celebrations that are held here from time to time. Every single village in this country has their own celebration and one of the well-known is the annual Tshechu and it’s a very religious festival of this place. In Tshechu the people dress up in colorful clothes and join at the nearest monastery or temple. This celebration is usually done to pray to the second Buddha, the Guru Rimpoche. The people gather to have their traditional dance, they share meals which includes, red rice, spicy pork, ema datshi and momos which is generally made by pork or beef. They also drink the traditional rice wine known as Ara. This is the celebration where families gather and catch up with everyone.
♦ Rinpung Dzong – Admire Bhutanese Architecture
♦ Punakha Dzong – Second-Largest Dzong In Bhutan
♦ Dochula Pass – Ideal For A Picnic Day
♦ Tiger’s Nest – Must-Visit Place Of Bhutan
♦ Tashichho Dzong – Largest Landmark Of Thimpu
♦ Tashichho Dzong – Largest Landmark Of Thimpu
♦ National Museum of Bhutan – Know More About Bhutan
♦ Motithang Takin Preserve – Explore Different Species Of Animals
♦ Drukgyel Dzong Ruins – Dig Into Bhutan’s History
♦ Simtokha Dzong – Colossal & Alluring
1. Rinpung Dzong – Admire Bhutanese Architecture
Rinpung Dzong is a beautiful dzong (fort), with towering walls, built in the 16th century. Known as the Fortress on a Heap of Jewels, Rinpung Dzong is among the best tourist places to visit in Bhutan and a classic example of Bhutanese architecture and deep rooted traditions. You can look at the Bhutan tourist places map for its exact location.
The entire area is filled with various shrines and temples in Bhutan. Some of the shrines are, Kungarwa, Monk’s assembly hall, Sandalwood stupa, protector’s shrine and so on. Every year there is an annual festival of tshechu and it is held in Rinpung Dzong and it starts from the eleventh day to the fifteenth day and the day is marked in Bhutan’s lunar calendar. If you want to know the months properly then it’s the months of March to April.
In this festival holy images are carried in a procession, and this very thing is followed by the mask dances which tells many stories and these are performed by the monks for many days. On the fifteenth day before dawn breaks a sacred banner which consists of eight manifestations of Padmasambhava is shown for the public in those early hours and the tradition is that there will be no sunlight to fall on the banner.
Location: Paro District, Bhutan
Key attractions: Beautiful temple and wall paintings related to Buddhism
Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm
How to reach: You can take a taxi or hire a bike from anywhere in Paro to get to this spot.
Places To Stay: Norwangs Villa, Nirvana Inn, The Village Lodge Paro, Hotel Ratna Vara
2. Punakha Dzong – Second-Largest Dzong In Bhutan
Punakha Dzong is the second largest dzong in Bhutan(The Land of Thunderbolt) and is known for its brilliant structure. Among the best tourist places in Bhutan, the dzong speaks volumes about the beautiful stories and traditions of the Buddhist culture. Do not miss this on your Bhutan sightseeing tour.
Punakha is the winter capital of this country and the head clergy of Bhutan spends the winter in this popular Dzong. The Punakha Dzong is situated on the 1,200 meters and on this height no one ever suffers from height sickness or oxygen shortage, so if you are thinking about hiking in Bhutan, then you can aim for the higher place such as Paro Taktsang or tiger’s nest and it’s a very ideal place for beginners.
This dzong is considered the most beautiful one in the country and the very first national assembly was held here in 1953. This is the second-largest fortress in Bhutan and the most popular one as well. To finish the building of this dzong took a year and the most interesting fact is that this building has no usage of nails. Almost every national treasure of the country is kept here, and in here the king of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck got married to the Queen Jetsun Pema in 2011.
Location: Punakha, Bhutan
Key attractions: The intricate paintings and the architecture of the fort, sacred relics of the southern Drukpa Lineage of Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, and the sacred remains of Ngawang Namgyal and the tertön Pema Lingpa.
Opening hours: 8 am – 5 pm
How to reach: Take a bus or taxi from Paro or Thimphu to Punakha. Further, take a taxi or bike to this point in Punakha.
Places To Stay: Hotel Vara, The Four Boutique, Hotel Zangto Pelri, Damchen Resort, Chimi Lhakhang Village Homestay
3. Dochula Pass – Ideal For A Picnic Day
Dochula Pass is a beautiful pass consisting of 108 Chortens or Stupas, built in the memory of the Bhutanese soldiers who died in a war against the insurgents from India. The beautifully built temple and stupas, with the picturesque Gangkar Puensum peak in the background, makes the Dochula Pass one of the most beautiful tourist places in Bhutan. Dochula pass is situated on the way to Punakha and Thimphu.
This very pass is a popular location for every tourist who visits the country. From the pass, you can have a panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range, and you must know the view is very beautiful from the top. You will get to see the snow covered mountains and the amazing backdrop of the place. So many Bhutanese families enjoy their holidays in this area, they have small picnics, and some just come here to enjoy the view. You can have your lunch and tea in a flask and come here to enjoy the food and hot tea.
Location: East-West Road from Thimpu to Punakha
Key attractions: Panoramic view that gives a glimpse of the peak of the sacred Himalayan mountain – Chomolhari, Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple, and the fusion paintings on the temple walls
How to reach: Take a taxi from Thimphu or Punakha to get to this point.
Places To Stay: Mendrelgang Homestay, Yangki Guest House, Thori Resort, Hotel Pundarika, Choni Apartment
4. Tiger’s Nest – Must-Visit Place Of Bhutan
Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang Monastery is one of the must visit places in Bhutan. It is known for the beautiful and the sacred monastery of Guru Rinpoche. It is considered as a place of pilgrimage and is an easy half trek, which gives you the panoramic views of the Paro valleys.
According to the legends, Guru Rinpoche also considered as the second Buddha rode to this place on a tigress’s back to suppress a local demon and thus he meditated here for 3 months. This place is Bhutan’s most religious site and it hangs on the cliff as it stands above the lush forest of thousands of species of rhododendrons and blue pine. Due to this, it is counted in the list of places to visit in Bhutan.
Tourists can come to this monastery by standard permits which your guide will arrange for you. Also, you have to register your at the entrance deposit your cameras and bags because photography is prohibited inside of the temple. If you are backpacking in Bhutan, then you must consider visiting this place.
Location: Taktsang trail BT, Taktsang trail, Bhutan
Key attractions: The tiger’s nest, the cave temple inside the monastery, the majestic views, and the many small temples inside the premises of the monastery.
How to reach: Take a shared cab to the starting point of the path leading to the monastery. Trek to the top.
Places To Stay: Norwangs Villa, Nirvana Inn, The Village Lodge Paro, Hotel Ratna Vara, The chhodens, Zhideychen Resort
5. Tashichho Dzong – Largest Landmark Of Thimpu
Located at the northern end of the city, Tashichho Dzong is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Bhutan. A popular fortress set on the edge of the city’s border, this monastery is a delight to watch as it is set on the western banks of River Wang Chu.
This is one of the famous Dzong in the country and regarded as the largest landmark of Thimphu. The dzong is situated two kilometers away from the actual town and holds huge importance as it is the main secretariat and its houses are the office of the throne room and the King as well.
Some of the central monastic bodies and some people from the ministry live here and this is the summer residence of the monks too. If you have a plan to visit this place then try not to miss the 5 pm changing of the flag, as it’s very important to watch and it begins in the courtyard and ends outside in the front.
Location: Chhagchhen Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Key attractions: It has not only served as the summer capital of the country but also as the royal seat of Druk Desi who is also called the Dharma Raja.
Timings: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM, and 5:30 PM to 6 PM; Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
How to reach: Take a taxi from anywhere in Paro to get here.
Places To Stay: Sambhav Service Apartments
6. Buddha Dordenma Statue – Gape At The Bronze Statue
The Buddha Dordenma Statue is a 169 feet tall statue of Buddha, built at the foot of the hills in Thimphu. This iconic gold and bronze statue is visible from almost anywhere in Thimphu and is among the best tourist places in Bhutan.
This is a statue of Buddha and it’s a giant one at the top of the mountains in Thimpu and it’s also known as the Kunzang Phodrang. The presence of this giant statue of Buddha symbolizes the dominant religion of Bhutan. This very religion plays a solid part in this country and in the everyday life of the country’s people which is what makes it one of the best places in Bhutan for sightseeing. You will see the string of flags at the roadsides and the several praying wheels around the clock tower, which is in the midst of the town.
There are small temples and various paintings that adorn the walls that are made of cement and rock. Buddha dordenma is the largest statue and it’s 52.5 meters tall and made of bronze. Inside this figure, there are 125,000 small figurines of the same. There are 25,000 and 12 inches ones and 100,000 8 inches one.
Location: Kuenselphodrang, Thimphu, Bhutan
Key attractions: The 169 feet tall Buddha statue, thousands of smaller bronze and gold statues of Lord Buddha, and the surrounding Kuensel Phodrang nature park
How to reach: Take a taxi from anywhere in Thimphu to get to this statue.
Places To Stay: Hotel Oro Villa, Hotel River Valley
7. National Museum of Bhutan – Know More About Bhutan
The National Museum of Bhutan tops the list of Bhutan tourist attractions. Built in the year of 1968 and set above the famous Rinpung Dzong, it was constructed to exhibit the famous Bhutanese art. From contemporary paintings to ancient statues, the museum today houses about 3000 masterpieces and exhibits more than 1,500 years of cultural heritage of Bhutan. This place is also the photo gallery of the country and many Bhutanese hold their dance ceremonies in this place as well.
The building is currently under some temporary building but you can visit the other parts of it as the museum is divided into portions for wildlife, masks, and so on. In the evening, the museum lights up and you can visit the place to take amazing photos. Apart from masks and wildlife, you will get to experience the pretty flora and fauna in this place and get to view the brief history of Bhutan as well.
Key attractions: Do not miss out on the bronze statues, galleries, and the ancient paintings.
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
How to reach: Take a taxi from anywhere in Paro to get here.
Places To Stay: Norwangs Villa, Nirvana Inn, The Village Lodge Paro, Hotel Ratna Vara, Hotel Dorjee Ling
8. Motithang Takin Preserve – Explore Different Species Of Animals
Did you know about the national animal of Bhutan? Well if your answer is no, then you’re not alone in that. Located in the district of Motithang in Thimphu, Motithang Takin Preserve serves as the home of the famous species of takin. Many travelers consider visiting this zoo-converted-reserve as one of the best tips while traveling to Bhutan. The Takin is a rare type of animal and falls under the goat species and their actual habitat is the eastern Himalayas. These animals live in the high altitudes of the country, also found in Northwest Myanmar, northwest India as well. These odd-looking animals according to the local legends were assembled by a 15th-century saint who agreed to create a miracle.
This saint joined the head of a goat at the top of a cow’s skeleton and brought this new type of animal to life. Apart from myths, this animal is the result of evolution and has a protracted nose, large head, and strong torso provides it a different look. The Takins live around 8.4 acres from the rainforest and the Bhutan government is taking good care of them by preserving the species and they do not keep the animals in a zoo because they believe in the non-confinement of animals in a Buddhist country.
Location: Motithang, Bhutan
Timings: Tuesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM; Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee
Locals: INR 10 per person
SAARC National: INR 30 per person
Foreigners: INR 50 per person
How to reach: Take a taxi or hike to Motithang Preserve from Thimphu.
Places To Stay: Sambhav Service Apartments, Namseling Boutique Hotel, Hotel Golden Roots, The Pema
9. Drukgyel Dzong Ruins – Dig Into Bhutan’s History
Once a massive fortress that stood tall and served as one of the greatest Buddhist monasteries, only ruins remain on the site of the famous Drukgyel Dzong. Located in the upper district of Paro, this monastery was established in 1649 by the famous Tenzin Drukdra after they were triumphant over Tibet’s invasion.
This is one of the famous Dzong in the country and regarded as the largest landmark of Thimphu. The dzong is situated two kilometers away from the actual town and holds huge importance as it is the main secretariat and its houses are the office of the throne room and the King as well.
Some of the central monastic bodies and some people from the ministry live here and this is the summer residence of the monks too. If you have a plan to visit one of the best tourist places in Bhutan, then try not to miss the 5 pm changing of the flag, as it’s very important to watch and it begins in the courtyard and ends outside in the front.
Location: Paro District 11001, Bhutan
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 6 PM
How to reach: Take a taxi from anywhere in Paro to get here.
10. Simtokha Dzong – Colossal & Alluring
Simtokha Dzong translates to Temple Fortress and it’s every bit colossal and alluring. Built in the year 1629, the temple has now been converted to a museum that lures a huge number of visitors every year and is among the most popular Bhutan tourist spots. If you are a lover of linguistics and wish to learn the local language of Dzongkha, then you can learn the language here. Do not miss this place during your Bhutan sightseeing.
Location: Simtokha, Bhutan
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
How to reach: Take a taxi or bus from Thimphu to get to Simtokha.
Places To Stay: Yangki Guest House, Thori Resort, Hotel Ugyen, Hotel Pundarika, Choni Apartment, Hotel River Valley
Frequently Asked Questions About Tourist Places In Bhutan
A. October to December is one of the best time to visit Bhutan. The weather is sunny during this time with some snow at higher elevations. If you want to see the flowers blooming and the magic of spring months, then plan your visit from March to May.
Q. Do we need a visa for Bhutan?
A. No, there is no need for Bhutan visa for Indian nationals to travel to the country. They only need to carry any one of the two documents:
1) Voter identity Card, issued by the Election Commission Of India; or 2) Indian Passport, with a validity of at least 6 months.
Q. What is Bhutan well known for?
A. Bhutan is well known for its natural beauty, forts, monasteries, trekking spots, great culture and heritage and rich biodiversity.
Q. How can you reach Chele La Pass?
A. Chele La Pass can be reached from Paro or Thimphu by taking a car or a motorbike. It takes approximately one and half hours from Paro and two and a half hours from Thimphu to reach Chele La Pass.
Q. How hard is the Tiger’s Nest hike?
A. Tiger’s Nest hike difficulty level ranges from moderate to difficult. One can do it if they have an average level of fitness and can complete it between 3 to 5 hours depending upon the pace.
Q. What can you buy in Paro Bhutan?
A. Paro is a major hub for shopping in Bhutan. One can check out the following popular things to buy:
1. Woven bags
2. Traditional jewelry
3. Carpets
4. Handmade paper
5. Thangkas
6. Yak-bone jewelry
Q. How many days do I need in Bhutan?
A. Bhutan is a wonderful country to explore and it involves some within-the-country traveling too. So, at least 5 to 7 days are needed to experience Bhutan.
Q. How much does it cost to visit Bhutan?
A. The cost for a minimum of 3 days and 2 nights in Bhutan starts from INR 12,500. This includes hotel charges, breakfast, and sightseeing.
Q. What are some top attractions in Bhutan?
A. There is no dearth of tourist attractions in Bhutan with the top ones being Buddha Doredena Statue, National Museum of Bhutan, Haa Valley, Zuri Dzong Fort, Gasa Tshachu, Motithang Takin Preserve, Simply Bhutan, and Dochula Pass.
Q. How far is Rinpung Dzong from Paro airport?
A. Rinpung Dzong is located in the vicinity of the Paro airport. It is around 6 kilometers away and takes approximately 12 minutes to cover the distance between the two.
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