Bhutan, landlocked country of south-central Asia, located on the eastern ridges of the Himalayas.The world visit Bhutan to explore its ancient monasteries and indulge in its adventurous trekking expeditions.

Bhutan’s mountainous territory is dissected by numerous rivers. The main rivers from west to east are the Torsa (Amo), Wong (Raidak), Sankosh (Mo), and Manas. All the rivers flow southward from the Great Himalayas and join the Brahmaputra River in India.

There are two ways to reach Bhutan from India – by air and by road. Indian passport holders do not require any visa to enter Bhutan; you need to carry your passport or a voter ID card to get the entry permit.

If you are travelling through Nepal, you can take direct flights from Kathmandu to Paro. You can experience the most exciting journey from Kathmandu to Paro as the airplane passes over the four highest mountains in the world.

Any time of the year resonates well with a travel to Bhutan. However, the charm of the place is simply outstanding in the autumn and spring seasons which usually fall between the months of September to November and March to May respectively. The climate is warmer and pleasant at this time and the skies are clearer too. Also, many great festivals fall during these seasons.

Places to Visit in Bhutan

Buddha Dordenma, Thimphu

The Buddha Dordenma statue has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors not only for its religious significance but also for the breathtaking views it offers of the Thimphu Valley. The area around the statue often hosts cultural events, religious ceremonies, and festivals, further emphasizing its importance in Bhutanese culture.

Taktsang Palphug Monastery, Paro

Taktsang Palphug Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is one of the most iconic and sacred sites in Bhutan.Guru Padmasambhava is credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan, and his meditation cave is believed to be where the monastery stands today.To reach the monastery, visitors must undertake a trek that usually takes around 2-3 hours uphill, though the duration can vary depending on one’s pace and fitness level.The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a memorable journey.

The Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong), Thimphu

The Tashichho Dzong, also known as Thimphu Dzong, is an impressive fortress-monastery located in the heart of Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The dzong was first built in the 17th century by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa. It underwent several renovations and expansions over the years.The dzong is the venue for the famous Thimphu Tshechu, an annual festival with masked dances, religious performances, and cultural celebrations.

Chele La, Paro

Chele La is one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan and is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and surrounding landscapes. The pass offers stunning panoramic vistas of the snow-capped peaks, including Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake, among others.It’s accessible by road from Paro, and the drive up to the pass is an adventure in itself, featuring winding roads and dramatic changes in scenery.

Punakha Dzong, Punakha

The Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungthang Dewachen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness), is one of the most majestic and significant dzongs in Bhutan.Situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers, it holds strategic significance.

Rinpung Dzong, Paro

Rinpung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, is a historic fortress-monastery located in the Paro Valley of Bhutan.Rinpung Dzong was built in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, on the foundations of an older monastery.

Punakha Suspension Bridge, Punakha

The Punakha Suspension Bridge is an iconic and historic bridge in Bhutan, situated near Punakha Dzong in the Punakha Valley. The bridge serves as a vital means for locals to access the dzong, nearby villages, farmlands, and markets on both sides of the river.

Soi Yaktsa Trek

The Soi Yaktsa Trek is a challenging and relatively less-traveled trekking route in Bhutan, renowned for its remote and rugged terrain, offering an authentic wilderness experience.The Soi Yaktsa Trek is considered challenging due to its steep ascents, descents, and often unpredictable weather conditions.The trek generally takes around 9-11 days to complete, covering approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles).

Gangtey Monastery, Wangdue

Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Gonpa or Gangtey Sangngak Choling Monastery, is a prominent Buddhist monastery situated in the Phobjikha Valley of Wangdue Phodrang district in Bhutan.It was founded as a Nyingma monastery and serves as an important center for the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism.The monastery is the venue for the annual Gangtey Tshechu, a vibrant festival featuring masked dances, cultural performances, and religious rituals. It attracts both locals and tourists.

Dochula Pass, Thimphu

Dochula Pass is a mountain pass in Bhutan, located on the road from Thimphu to Punakha.The pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas on clear days, including snow-capped peaks such as Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan.The pass hosts cultural events and festivals, and during special occasions, it becomes a venue for celebrations and gatherings.

Simtokha Dzong, Thimphu

Simtokha Dzong, located about 5 kilometers south of Thimphu, is one of the oldest and most historically significant fortresses in Bhutan.The dzong exemplifies traditional Bhutanese architecture with whitewashed walls, red windows, and intricate woodwork.It once functioned as a monastic school and continues to be a place for religious ceremonies and teachings.

Chomolhari

Chomolhari, also known as Jomolhari or “The Bride of Kangchenjunga,” is one of the most sacred and stunning mountains in the eastern Himalayas, standing at the border between Tibet and Bhutan.The trek to Chomolhari Base Camp is a popular and scenic trekking route in Bhutan, offering breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes.

Trashiyangtse

Trashiyangtse is a district located in eastern Bhutan, known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional arts, and natural beauty.Trashiyangtse is renowned for its traditional Bhutanese arts, particularly its expertise in woodcarving, weaving, and pottery.Offers scenic beauty and opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and exploration of local flora and fauna.

Also Watch This