Tourist Attractions in Bhutan

Fondly known as ‘The Land of the Thunder Dragon’, Bhutan is an astonishing country in South Asia. The country enthralls travelers with its unexplored mountains, forests, scenic valleys and exquisite Buddhist monasteries and temples. From snow-capped mountains to historical relics & monuments, Bhutan has a lot to offer its visitors coming from different parts of the world. It spellbinds travelers with its amazing natural & bountiful beauty. It is the only existing theocracy in the world and has many interesting things to do and see in the country.

Places to Visit

Thimphu

The largest city and capital of Bhutan, Thimphu is a spectacular place and one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Asia. It is spread over the western slopes of the Wang Chhu River Valley. The city exhibits unspoiled natural beauty that is surrounded with forests that make this place look greener and more beautiful. August to October is the best time to visit Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Try and plan your Bhutan trip around local festivals as it opens a whole new window to the exciting Bhutanese culture.

Paro

Located in the South-West of Bhutan, Paro is a historic town with many sacred sites and historical buildings scattered through the area. The Taktsang Monastery, perched on the edge of a 1200 meter cliff, offers a notable site, and is the unofficial site of Bhutan. Then there is the National Museum of Bhutan, where artifacts for ancient Bhutan are displayed. Other places of interest include Rinpung Dzong, Drukgyel Dzong, Drakhapo, Kichu Lhakhang and Jangsarbu Lhakhang.

Bumthang

The Bumthang region encompasses four major valleys- Chokhor, Tang, Ura and Chhume. It is also known as the spiritual heartland of India. Some of the most important dzongs, temples and palaces are located in the large Chokhor Valley, commonly referred to as the Bumthang Valley. The valley is supposed to be shaped like a bumpa, the vessel of a holy water that is usually found on the altar of a Lhakhang.

Trongsa

Located in the centre of Bhutan, Trongsa is the home to his majesty King Ugyen Wangchuk and his son king Jigme Wangchuk. The most important attraction is the Trongsa Dzong, an awe-inspiring and impregnable fortress. It has a series of temples, corridors and offices holding court over the local community. It is one of the most charming of all Bhutanese towns.

Phobjika

Located on the western slopes of the Black Mountains, bordering the Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park, Phobjika is a bowl-shaped glacial valley and a well-known conservation area. The rare endangered black-necked cranes are found here in winters. Some other animals that are found here include barking deer, wild boars, leopards, red foxes and Himalayan Black Bear. The Satkeng Wildlife Sanctuary is also located nearby. Tourists can view their roosting places with permission from relevant authorities.