8 Places to Visit in Bhutan: Sojourn in the Last Himalayan Kingdom

Bhutan, the Land of Thunder Dragon is one of the most majestic yet serene destinations that should be on every traveler's bucket list. This place is shrouded in mystical energy, thanks to the enchanting views it houses and the magical places to visit in Bhutan. You’ll find people here leading a simple and content life, which is why the moment you step into this country, there’s a positive and peaceful aura greeting you. Around 71% of this country is covered in forest, making it one of the world’s carbon-negative country, so see the miracles of this destination for yourself by vacationing here for a few days.

Best Places to Visit in Bhutan: A Kaleidoscope of Beauty and Religion

Bhutan’s serene beauty is the talk of the town because this heavenly destination acquaints you with the idea of paradise. The lush greenery, gorgeous valleys, panoramic views, and religious aura soothes your soul and heals you from within. If you’re truly looking for a rejuvenating retreat, then there’s no better place than Bhutan.

Here are the top attractions in Bhutan for a mesmerizing holiday

1. Buddha Dordenma, Bronze Statue of Buddha - Thimphu
2. Taktsang Palphug Monastery, Unique Religious Place - Paro
3. Punakha Dzong, Second Largest Fortress in Bhutan – Punakha
4. Dochula Pass, Memorial for Bhutanese Soldiers – Thimphu
5. Chomolhari, Abode of Goddess Jomo – Punakha
6. Chele La, Highest Road Pass in Bhutan – Paro
7. National Museum of Bhutan, Witness Bhutanese Art – Paro
8. Punakha Suspension Bridge, Longest Suspension Bridge in Bhutan – Punakha

1. Buddha Dordenma, Bronze Statue of Buddha - Thimphu  

The first attraction on your list should be this imposing bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which is approximately 169 ft. tall. It was built in the memory of Bhutan’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuk, sitting atop a gilded meditation hall, it’s visible from all parts of this city. Also known as Kunzang Phodrang, this statue signifies the dominance of Buddhism in this country because regardless of where you go, you’ll always find hints of religion everywhere. As per Guru Padmasambhava, this statue was regarded as “second Buddha” in the 8th century; therefore, it’s considered sacred by the Buddhists.

Best time to visit: Early morning

Timings: 9 A.M to 5 P.M

Highlights:

• This attraction is the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley
• It houses 1,25,000 small Buddha statues
• There are gorgeous paintings and temples made of cement and rock

Nearby attractions: Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, National Memorial Chorten, Semtokha Dzong, Clock Tower

Hotels near Buddha Dordenma: DusitD2 Yarkay, Ramada by Wyndham Valley, Terma Linca Resort and Spa, Hotel Norbuling

Restaurants near Buddha Dordenma: Ambient Café, Babesa Village Restaurant, The Zone, Chh’s Bistro and Bar

Travel tips:

• Wear modest clothes
• Don’t litter the surroundings
• Respect the religious sentiments

How to reach: You can take a cab to Buddha Dordenma from Thimphu (approx. 5 km).

2. Taktsang Palphug Monastery, Unique Religious Place - Paro  

Taktsang Palphug Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, is one of the most famous religious places to visit in Bhutan. The unique attribute of this attraction is its location, situated on the edge of a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Paro Valley. The legend behind this monastery is that Guru Rinpoche, who was considered the second Buddha, reached this place on the back of a tigress to suppress a demon. He meditated here for three months, which is why this place is the most religious location you’ll come across in this country. You’ll need some permits to enter this monastery, but they are easily acquired. This cultural icon of Bhutan is an important religious site that you must visit.

Best time to visit: March to May or September to November

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights:

• This monastery is surrounded by lush greenery, offering scenic views
• It’s located at an altitude of around 3,120 m
• You must trek to this location for some distance
• This is Guru Rinpoche’s sacred monastery

Nearby attractions: Punakha Dzong, National Museum of Bhutan, Punakha Suspension Bridge, Phobjikha Valley

Hotels near Taktsang Monastery: Amnakora Paro, Kichu Resort, Naksel Boutique Hotel and Spa, The Village Lodge

Restaurants near Taktsang Monastery: Mountain Café, Champaca Café, Authentic Pizza, Brioche Café

Travel tips:

• Respect the culture and traditions
• Dress up in decent clothes
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Stay hydrated

How to reach: You can hire a taxi from Paro to the base of this monastery (approx. 12 km) and then trek the rest of the way.

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3. Punakha Dzong, Second Largest Fortress in Bhutan – Punakha

If you wish to see Bhutanese architecture in all its glory, then the second largest dzong in Bhutan is the right place to visit. The name of this place means “the palace of great happiness or bliss,” which rings true as soon as you enter this fortress. Famous for its magnificent architecture, this is the place where all the kings of Bhutan were coronated and it’s currently the administrative center of Punakha. Located at a height of around 1,200 m, the uniqueness of this building is highlighted by the fact that no nails were used during its construction. There are several reasons as to why this is one of the famous places to visit in Bhutan, one being that Bhutan’s king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck married Queen Jetsun Pema in this palace.

Best time to visit: March to May

Timings: 8 A.M to 5 P.M

Highlights:

• This fortress includes Bhutanese and Tibetan styles of architecture
• You’ll witness gorgeous Jacaranda trees during spring season
• Po Chu and Mo Chu rivers merge by this dzong
• All the national treasures of the country are kept safe here
• It houses the sacred remains of Ngawang Namgyal and the tertön Pema Lingpa

Nearby attractions: Punakha Suspension Bridge, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choeten, Chimi Lhakhang, Dochula Pass

Hotels near Punakha Dzong: Dhumra Farm Resort, COMO Uma Punakha, Punatsangchhu Cottages, Damchen Riverfront Resort

Restaurants near Punakha Dzong: Old Town Café, Ngagi Lounge, Merengma Bistro and Bar, Yee Gaa Cafeteria

How to reach: You can travel via a bus or taxi from Paro or Thimphu to Punakha, and then take a bike or taxi to the dzong (approx. 14 km)

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4. Dochula Pass, Memorial for Bhutanese Soldiers – Thimphu

While traveling from Thimphu to Punakha, you’ll come across this mountain pass, located at an altitude of around 3,100 m. The best part of driving through this pass is the 108 stupas here built under the order of the eldest Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. These stupas are built in memory of the Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in the war against the rebels from India. Your honeymoon in Bhutan would become even more romantic with the majestic view of the snow-clad Himalayas from here that’ll render you speechless. It makes this one of the best places to visit in Thimphu, Bhutan. You can even have a picnic here by bringing your own snacks and looking out at the captivating view.

Best time to visit: March to May or September to November

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights:

• The memorial stupas here are in memory of the Bhutanese soldiers
• It offers a panoramic view of the Himalayas
• The annual Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival is held here

Nearby attractions: Paro Taktsang, Punakha Dzong, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Gangtey Monastery

Hotels near Dochula Pass: Ariya Hotel, Ramada by Wyndham Valley, City Hotel, Hotel Norbuling

Restaurants near Dochula Pass: Dochula Resort Restaurant, Ambient Café, The Zone, Seasons Restaurant

How to reach: You can take a taxi from Thimphu (approx. 22 km) or Punakha (approx. 51 km) to reach this pass.

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5. Chomolhari, Abode of Goddess Jomo – Punakha  

All the adventure enthusiasts would love to consider this mountain as one of the places to visit in Bhutan in May. The gorgeous views of the lush green valleys and clear blue sky make this a top attraction in the country. Located on the border of Tibet and Bhutan at an altitude of around 7,326 m, this mountain is locally known as the “Bride of Kanchenjunga” due to its proximity to it. Buddhists believe that it’s where Goddess Jomo resides, the protector of the kingdom, and you’ll even find a temple by the same name here. Until 1924, people didn’t climb up this mountain due to the lore that those who tried would either be thrown or pushed down. However, trekking to the top of this mountain is now a popular activity. Some of the fun things to do in India also involve trekking, so do indulge in this adventure.

Best time to visit: March to May or September to November

Highlights:

• This mountain is also known as Jomolhari
• There’s a temple on the Bhutanese side of the mountain
• It’s close to the Kanchenjunga Mountain
• The trek is moderately difficult

Hotels near Chomolhari: Hotel Khamsum, Lemon Tree Hotel Thimphu, Tsherim Resort

Travel tips:

• Wear comfortable trekking shoes
• Stay hydrated
• Carry snacks
• Acclimatize in Haa Valley before the trek

How to reach: You can hire a taxi from Thimphu (approx. 54 km) or Punakha (approx. 65 km) to the base of the mountain and then trek the rest of the way.

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6. Chele La, Highest Road Pass in Bhutan – Paro

It’s time to travel to the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, which is full of resplendent beauty and picturesque views. This pass is located at an altitude of approximately 4000 m and if you’re lucky, then on a clear day it offers glorious views of the Jomolhari Mountain as well. In addition to that, the Haa and Paro Valley are also visible from the top, shrouded in lush greenery. You won’t be able to stop yourself from clicking numerous pictures to try to capture the heavenly beauty in front of you. However, take the time to soak in the serenity and natural beauty here because you won’t find a lot of such destinations in life that include the perfect amount of adventure and aesthetics.

Best time to visit: October to November

Highlights:

• Chele La pass separates Haa Valley from Paro Valley
• The Haa Summer Festival is held here

Nearby attractions: Paro Taktsang, Kyichu Lhakhang, Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang, Drukgyel Dzong

Hotels near Chele La: Naksel Boutique Hotel and Spa, Olathang Hotel, Gangtey Palace Hotel, COMO Uma Paro

Restaurants near Chele La: Mountain Café, Champaca Café, Mountain Café and Roastery, Brioche Café

Travel tips:

• Wear hiking shoes with a good grip
• Visit during the Haa Summer Festival, if possible

How to reach: You must hire a taxi from Paro to this pass (approx. 38 km)

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7. National Museum of Bhutan, Witness Bhutanese Art – Paro

Whenever you’re taking a trip to any of the places to travel in Asia, you must immerse yourself in its culture and history for an enriching experience. Similarly, to learn about Bhutan’s past and culture, you must visit the National Museum of Bhutan. There are six floors in this museum, and each one is dedicated to different collections, such as ritual objects, clothes, arms, jewelry, and much more. The highlight, however, is the egg kept here, which is considered a mule’s egg. The 3000 artifacts here narrate the history of this city spanning back to 1,500 years. If you visit it during the night, its beauty is enhanced by the lights illuminating it. Therefore, it’s one of the top 8 places to visit in Bhutan that you can’t miss out on.

Best time to visit: March to May

Timings: 9 A.M to 4:30 P.M

Highlights:

• There’s a mule’s egg inside the museum
• This place is Bhutan’s photo gallery
• Several Bhutanese organize dance ceremonies here

Nearby attractions: Paro Taktsang, Folk Heritage Museum Kawajangsa, Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang, Kyichu Lhakhang

Hotels near National Museum of Bhutan: COMO Uma Paro, Gangtey Palace Hotel, Le Meridien Paro Riverfront, Olathang Hotel

Restaurants near National Museum of Bhutan: Mountain Café, Champaca Café, My Kind of Place, Olive Restaurant

How to reach: You can reach here via a taxi from Paro (approx. 3 km)

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8. Punakha Suspension Bridge, Longest Suspension Bridge in Bhutan – Punakha  

The town of Punakha was once the capital of Bhutan and is one of the places to visit in Bhutan for honeymoon because of the glorious attractions here. One such tourist spot is the Punakha Suspension Bridge, which is the breathtaking lane of prayer flags. This is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan, spanning around 160 m and connect Punakha town to Punakha Dzong. The serene Po Chhu river flowing underneath the bridge makes it the perfect spot for clicking pictures and admiring the mesmerizing views. Along with being a beautiful attraction, it’s also an adventurous journey to the other side of the bridge. Such beauty makes Bhutan one of the ideal honeymoon destinations in Asia.

Best time to visit: Morning

Highlights:

• The entire bridge is covered with colorful prayer flags
• It connects the town of Punakha to Punakha Dzong

Nearby attractions: Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, Chimi Lhakhang, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choeten

Hotels near Punakha Suspension Bridge: Dhumra Farm Resort, Damchen Riverfront Resort, Hotel Pema Karpo, COMO Uma Punakha

Restaurants near Punakha Suspension Bridge: Old Town Café, Ngagi Lounge, Merengma Bistro and Bar, Reven Restaurant

Travel tips:

• Don’t lean too close to the edge
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Don’t jump around on the bridge

How to reach: You must first take a taxi or bus to Punakha from Paro (approx. 115 km) or Thimphu (approx. 73 km) and then either rent a bike to the bridge or walk there.

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When it comes to places to visit in Bhutan, these are some of the best tourist attractions you can’t go wrong with. These places would offer you a chance to revel in a wholesome vacation with the perfect balance of fun, beauty, and religious aura. You can only enjoy the magical realm of Bhutan if you immerse yourself in its culture and tradition. So, plan a trip to this wonderland with Bhutan tour packages and lose yourself in the simple pleasures of life.

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