Best Places to Visit Bhutan: 16 Gems You’ll Love in This Himalayan Paradise

Nestled in the Himalayas, the mystic Kingdom of Bhutan is one of these places that rightfully deserves a spot on your bucketlist. Discover in this post why Bhutan stands out as a unique travel destination. From the sacred Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a cliffside to the historic Punakha Dzong – I’ll cover everything you need to know.

Being so remote and isolated for years, it’s one of the few places that limit its tourist numbers, only adding to its allure. Also known as the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ or the ‘Happiest Country in the World’, Bhutan is a place you have to experience.

This post will guide you through the best places to visit in Bhutan and what makes each one special. Whether you’re an eco-lover seeking sustainable activities, a culture enthusiast immersing yourself in local traditions, or someone looking for peace in nature, Bhutan has something extraordinary for you. Pack your bags, prepare for an unforgettable journey, and let’s dive into the wonders of Bhutan.

Things to Know Before Traveling to Bhutan

Best Time to Visit Bhutan

Bhutan is actually a year-round destination with four distinct seasons: summer (June-August), autumn (September-November), winter (December-February), and spring (March-May). Due to varying altitudes and the influence of the Indian monsoons, the climate is diverse.

In the south, the humid, subtropical climate stays between 15°C and 30°C. Central Bhutan experiences warm summers and cool, dry winters. The northern regions are colder, with snowy mountain peaks year-round and cool lower areas in summer.

The Indian monsoon season (late June to late September) mainly affects the south, benefiting summer crops. Autumn (late September to late November) brings sunny days and early snow at higher altitudes, marking a season of festivals. Winter (late November to March) is clear and sunny with frost and snow above 3,000 meters. The northeast monsoon brings strong winds, earning Bhutan the name “Land of the Thunder Dragon. Personally I found springtime to be the best time to visit Bhutan also the temperatures were sunny, mild and everything was in bloom.

How To Get to Bhutan

Two airlines bring you to Bhutan: Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. The international airport sits in Paro and connects to the cities of Singapore, Bangladesh, New Delhi, Nepal and Bangkok with the Kingdom. If you’re flying from New Delhi to Paro, make sure you arrive the day prior to New Delhi. Most flights leave in the early morning hours to Paro!

How to Get Around Bhutan

It’s not possible for guests to self-drive the country. There is local transportation between the major cities and villages, but they wouldn’t get you to most sights. So, the best way to explore Bhutan is to hire a car with a driver for the duration of your trip.

While you don’t need a pre-approved route Route permit to travel the country, you need a guide thats certified by the Tourism Department who accompanies you. Especially when you visit attractions such as temples or dzongs (palaces), you need to have a guide with you. In my experience, having a guide made ALL the difference. The knowledge they have about the country, Buddhism, the sights and even tales and folklore is invaluable. The stories my guide Tashi shared, made some of my favorite memories of the trip.

Visa Bhutan

Everyone except citizens from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives need to apply for a visa. If you book through a tour operator or you stay at a hotel, they can assist you in the process. As part of the visa application, you are required to pay the Sustainability Development Fee of 100 USD per day.

Additionally, you’ll pay a one-off visa fee of 40 USD. If you’re ready to apply, head over to the official Immigration Site here.

How Many Days Are Enough for Bhutan

If you’re very short on time and budget-conscious, you could get a glimpse into the country by staying for 3-4 days. However, as it’s packed with incredible places to see I’d recommend 10 days at least. This would allow you to visit cities such as Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha.

Bhutan Wifi & Internet

Internet is widely available in hotels and certain restaurants and cafe’s. As you’ll likely be on the road adventuring the country, having your own SIM card can be helpful. You can get a local SIM Card from Bhutan Telecom (Bmobile) and Tashi Cell (Tcell) at Paro International Airport. Otherwise, I’d suggest getting a Bhutan eSIM card ahead of your arrival to save time and be connected right away.

Best 16 Places to Visit in Bhutan

Paro

Paro is a picturesque valley town and known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The charming valley town of Bhutan is not only the gateway to the Tiger’s Nest but also houses over 155 temples and monasteries dating back to the 14th century.

Nestled at an altitude of around 2,250 meters, it offers breathtaking views of terraced fields and majestic mountains. The town serves as a key to the country with Paro International Airport being Bhutan’s only international airport.

If you’re short on time, check out this 4-day tour that covers the best of Paro and the Tiger’s Nest.

In the heart of Paro, the city center buzzes with activity. Local shops offer traditional Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry, perfect for souvenir shopping! You’ll also find some cute cafes, Bhutanese restaurants and even a bar!

There is also the chance to visit the local market with all kinds of interesting vegetables, Bhutanese incense or spices. If you’re lucky, drive around town on a Sunday and you might find men practicing archery in some of the grounds. This is quite the spectacle to watch – especially when they hit the target

Tiger’s Nest

The famous Paro Taktsang, built in 1692, surrounds the cave where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated in the 8th century. Legend says Guru Rinpoche flew to the site on a tigress, giving it the name “Tiger’s Nest.”

He introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, and the monastery honors his legacy. The monastery clings to a sheer rock face, 900 meters (3,000 feet) above the Paro Valley and one of the places you need to visit when in Bhutan! The complex includes four main temples and several residential buildings, all connected by stairways and steps carved into the rock. As a tourist, you aren’t allowed to visit all of the temples but still get a fantastic insight into what makes it special.

I recommend starting your hike at 7 am to be there when it opens at around 9 am. On the way up, you can make a stop at the new Taktsang Cafeteria – also view amazing views of it!

If you’re in good shape, the hike up will take around 2 hours – photo stops and a quick rest included!

What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes or trainers, water, snacks, and a camera. Dress modestly, as it is a religious site. Also, the floors are stone and you need to take off your shoes in the temple – so it will be cold!

Entry is 500NU for non-Bhutanese visitors, to be paid on the parking spot.

Are you planning a longer trip to Bhutan? This 6-day Bhutan tour starts in Paro with a visit to the Tiger’s Nest and continues to Thimphu and Punakha – covering the best the country has to offer!

Paro Dzong

The stunning Paro Dzong, or Rinpung Dzong is a place you can’t miss when in Pari. Built in 1644 and this impressive fortress played a crucial role in defending against Tibetan invasions. Its massive walls leave you in awe and the intricate woodwork, and detailed paintings are remarkable. Today, it houses both the monastic body and administrative offices of Paro district.

Make sure to take your time so you might catch how the monks go to class! Seeing them entering the temples, and gathering on the premises is truly a sight. As one of my last visits, the Paro Dzong was one of the best places I got to visit in Bhutan.

Kyichu Lhakhang

Kyichu Lhakhang is one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples. Dating back to the 7th century, it holds deep spiritual significance. Legend says it pins down the left foot of a giant ogress that once obstructed the spread of Buddhism.

If you visit on the weekends, you’ll find monks reciting texts and softly speaking their prayers. You might only get to visit one or two rooms of the whole temple, but it’s still worth it. The interior is adorned with murals and statues, reflecting Bhutan’s rich religious heritage. Outside in the courtyard, you find a beautiful garden and beautiful prayer wheels – a true peaceful retreat.

Haa

Haa Valley

The stunning Haa Valley is nestled at an altitude of about 2,700 meters. It’s one of the most picturesque and serene regions of Bhutan and ideal for a day trip. Located to the west of Paro, this hidden gem is known for its lush green landscapes, traditional Bhutanese homes, and vibrant culture. Not too many tourists visit this area which adds to its authentic and tranquil experience.

Chele La Pass

The journey to Haa Valley is an adventure in itself which we took via the Chele La Pass. At approximately 3,988 meters, Chele La is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. The pass offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including sights of these snow-capped peaks on a clear day! On the way up, we passed a herd of yaks grazing the slopes, a few prayer wheels and blooming rhododendrons.

Lhakhang Karpo or The White Temple

Lhakhang Karpo was established in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. According to legend, the king released a white and a black pigeon to identify auspicious sites for building temples. The white pigeon landed in Haa Valley, marking the spot for Lhakhang Karpo. This temple was constructed to pin down a demoness who was obstructing the spread of Buddhism.

Lhakhang Karpo serves as an important spiritual center for the local community. Many young monks study here and it is also a place of worship and pilgrimage.

Thimphu

Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan and is about 1 hour from Paro. As the capital, it’s one of the places you need to visit when in Bhutan and bursts some great sights! The city lost a bit of its traditional charm, with all the Bhutanese buildings removed. Nestled in the western part of Bhutan, at an altitude of 2,334 meters (7,657 feet), Thimphu serves as the political and economic center. I’d suggest a day or half a day is enough to see the main parts.

In Thimpu city center, you’ll find the only ‘traffic light’ in the country – a policeman, who signals to the cars to pass or stop. Truly a unique sight, just as the fact that Bhutan has no traffic lights whatsoever.

Golden Buddha

One of the best places to visit in Bhutan is The Golden Buddha, also known as Buddha Dordenma. It’s on of Thimphu’s most iconic landmarks and stands at a height of 51.5 meters (169 feet). It’s located on a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park and free of charge to visit.

The statue houses over 125,000 smaller Buddha statues that people donated. Buddha Dordenma symbolizes peace and happiness and is a significant pilgrimage site for both locals and tourists.

Simply Bhutan – Living Museum

Simply Bhutan is a unique living museum that offers an immersive experience of Bhutanese culture and traditions. It is designed to give visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of Bhutanese people.

The Bhutanese team will greet you with a traditional shot of Ara, the local brew wine. From there, someone from the museum shows you traditional artwork like masks, kitchen utensils and lifestyle items. You get the chance to sample Suja, the butter tea and small snacks while watching a Bhutanese dance performed.

Entry is 1000 NU ~12 USD.

Punakha

Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, is one of the country’s most picturesque and historically significant valleys. It sits at an altitude of 1,200 meters (3,937 feet), and enjoys a subtropical climate. The most striking features of this region are the rice terraces, lush landscape, stunning architecture, and historical landmarks.

Dochula Pass – 108 Stupas

Coming from Thimpu, you’ll pass the stunning Dochula Pass. Sitting at an altitude of 3,100 meters (10,171 feet), it’s one of the most scenic and popular spots in Bhutan, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range.

You’ll soon spot the 108 chortens (stupas) known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens. The stunning stupas honor the Bhutanese soldiers who perished in military operations. There is a lovely garden to have your picnic lunch and also a restaurant. My guide said in the winter it’s one of the best places to unwind and have a hot drink.

On a clear day, you might catch the stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains such as the Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan.

Punakha Dzong

The Punakha Dzong or Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong, is one of the most impressive places you get to visit in Bhutan. Situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River), the fortress is a historical and architectural marvel! The sheer size of it will leave you in awe!

With its towering white-washed walls, intricately carved woodwork, and beautiful murals it really stands out. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) to see the trees in full bloom and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the landscape vibrant.

As a guest, you can explore the central utse (tower), courtyards, one to two temples, and beautifully maintained gardens. I recommend taking your time so your guide can tell you some stories and explain the wall paintings – it’s incredibly fascinating!

Entry is 500NU (7 US$).

Punakha Suspension Bridge

The Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan. It stretches approximately 160 meters (525 feet) across the Pho Chhu (Male River). Located near the Punakha Dzong, it connects the Dzong to the villages on the other side of the river, providing a vital link for the local community.

The bridge is full of colorful prayer flags, which supposedly spread blessings and prayers as they flutter in the wind.

Once you finish your visit to the Punakha Dzong, you can easily combine it with a visit. There are some ladies selling fresh cucumbers with chilli, and on the other side, it’s ideal to unwind in one of the cafes for or a coffee or drink.

Chimi Lhakhang

The region of Chimi Lhakhang is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan, not only for it’s history but also for its nature!

The village of Sopsokha, located near the Chimi Lhakhang temple in the Punakha Valley, is famous for its vibrant and unique cultural traditions. The village consists of beautiful traditional Bhutanese houses adorned with colorful paintings and decorations – most of them phallus symbols. These are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.

For me, the village was the best place to go souvenir shopping. It’s only there that you find the actual artwork, not just the reseller. We stumbled upon this one shop where the owner was painting a 30-minute high phallus, meticulously working on the details. On the opposite site was another lovely shop, where you can watch the son of the owner paint and carve phallus in every design possible.

As part of this 6-day Bhutan trip you’ll also cover Chimi Lhakhang and explore what makes it special!

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery

One of my favorite places to visit in Bhutan was this Nunnery. The Buddhist College houses over 120 nuns and provides comprehensive training in meditation, traditional arts and crafts, and Buddhist philosophy.

The Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery complex features traditional Bhutanese architecture, including a magnificent temple with intricate woodwork and elaborate paintings. It features a large 14-foot bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig in Bhutanese), as well as statues of Guru Padmasambhava, Gautama Buddha, and other deities.

There is no entry but a donation of 300 NU ~3,60 USD. This directly benefits the nuns who buy food, study materials or supplies to run the temple.

I hope this guide gives you an idea of some of the best places to visit in Bhutan and hopefully, you’ll encounter a few more. The more East you go, the more offbeat it will get and unveil even more gems!

Where To Stay in Bhutan

5 Star Hotels in Bhutan

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary – this wellness-focused 5-star hotel is one of the most special places you can stay in. Nestled within Paro, it sits on a valley with a view of a monastery and mountain range. Featuring an indoor pool, Bhutanese doctor visits and unlimited spa treatments for guests, this eco-luxury hotel is a must-stay. Each room has a view of the monastery, and the daily changing cuisine is a highlight in itself! Staying at the Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary was one of the most serene experiences, they organize your whole Bhutan trip!

Check Here for All 5 Star Hotels in Bhutan

Homestays in Bhutan

Another great option to explore the country is through government-approved homestays. While visiting Punakha I opted for a local Chimi Lhakhang Village Homestay and it turned out the best experience. The family will make you feel at home, welcoming you with butter tea and snacks. My room was decorated in typical Bhutanese fashion, comfortable and peaceful. The best part had to be the dinner and breakfast. All dishes were traditional Bhutanese inspired and from their own produce – so special! Prices for a single room started at 40 US$.

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