Bhutan: 6 Mesmerizing Places to Visit
A small country in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is one of the most stunningly beautiful countries in the world, known especially for its beautiful landscape and traditional culture. If you’re lucky enough to travel to Bhutan, then there are many things you’ll want to see and do, but here are 6 mesmerizing places to visit in Bhutan that you shouldn’t miss!
Thimphu, the capital city
Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan is a landlocked country bordering Tibet and India. This hidden kingdom is full of surprises, from its verdant valleys and snow-capped mountainscapes to its vibrant culture. The capital city of Thimphu is home to Tashichho Dzong, an 18th century fortress which serves as the seat of government. Strolling through this atmospheric place offers an intimate glimpse into Bhutan’s history and culture.
As the capital city, Thimphu is the most popular tourist destination in Bhutan. It’s also the country’s largest city, with a population of over 100,000 people. The city is located in a valley between mountains, and is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful scenery. There are plenty of things to see and do in Thimphu, including visiting temples, monasteries, and museums. If you’re looking for a truly mesmerizing place to visit, Bhutan should be at the top of your list! The views alone are enough to keep visitors captivated – there are snow-capped mountainscapes, vibrant cultures, religious sites – the possibilities seem endless.
If you’re planning a trip, there are several options for accommodations in Thimphu. Since it’s such a popular tourist destination, hotels and hostels tend to fill up quickly, especially during holiday seasons like Christmas or New Year’s Eve. If you have time, it might be worth booking rooms in advance. Alternatively, you can also camp outside of town and wake up early to see one of Bhutan’s glorious sunrise views!
Paro, the sacred valley
Paro is one of the most sacred valleys in Bhutan. It is home to many important temples and monasteries, as well as the country’s only airport. The valley is also incredibly beautiful, with mountains, rivers, and forests all around. If you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Bhutan, Paro is the perfect spot. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan is a landlocked country bordering Tibet and India. However, it is worth noting that Paro has become popular among tourists recently, so if you want some peace and quiet without too many crowds, head over to Tsirang instead.
The valley is also home to Mount Chomolhari, the tallest mountain in Bhutan. Paro is a must-visit for any traveler to Bhutan. As with other major towns in Bhutan, there are two main roads through town: one running north-south and the other east-west.
A perfect place to take a rest from your journey and enjoy some traditional Tibetan tea is Khang Chenga Tea House. With floor seating that surrounds an open kitchen, this teahouse has authentic food options for vegetarians too!
Paro Dzong was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and served as his seat of power during his unification of Bhutan. Today it serves as the administrative center for both Paro District and the dzongkhag (district) administration system.
Gasa, the gateway to Jomolhari trekking region
Gasa is the gateway to the Jomolhari trekking region, and is one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Bhutan. From here, you can see some of the most beautiful mountains in the world, including Jomolhari, which is said to be one of the most sacred mountains in Bhutan. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the rare snow leopard.
Gasa is a small, traditional town that’s probably unlike any other place you’ve ever visited. local people wear their traditional clothing and children still go to school in wooden buildings. All their houses are made of wood, although most have concrete roofs to protect them from rain during monsoon season. It’s also one of those rare places where you can travel without disturbing nature—even locals do so barefoot! I highly recommend a visit while travelling through Bhutan.
One thing not to miss out on is their national dish—the Thukpa—which is often described as the national dish of Bhutan. It consists of rice noodles, vegetables and herbs served with soup, meat or eggs. Their diet is predominantly vegetarian, so Thukpas made with chicken broth are an exception to the rule.I recommend trying them both!
Punakha, the historical town
In late time punakha was capital of Bhutan for more than 250 years starting from 1637. The town is located in the Punakha Valley at an elevation of 1,200 meters. The valley is dominated by the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Punakha Dzong, a 17th-century fortress, is located on an island in the middle of the river. The dzong was the site of the coronation of the first king of Bhutan in 1907. The town is also home to several temples and monasteries, including Pungthang Dechen Phodrang Monastery, which was founded in 1450. The temple houses large statues of Guru Rinpoche and the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
To reach Punakha from Thimphu, one has to take a bus or taxi for about six hours. Buses run every day except Monday and Wednesday. Taxis are available outside the Norzin Lam Building, near Thimphu’s Clock Tower (drum tower). One can also go by road if they are driving their own vehicle or if they hire a driver who drives them around Bhutan. If you want to stay overnight in Punakha before catching your bus back to Thimphu, there are many hotels nearby where you can stay like Snowman Hotel, Druk Hotel, Tourist Hotel etc.
A visit to Punakha will reveal its spectacular landscape with mountains sprawling around it and its historical sites that date back centuries ago.
Tango Goemba
Situated on a hill in the Paro Valley, Tango Goemba was founded in 1688 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The monastery is home to about 100 monks and students, and visitors are welcome to explore the buildings and grounds. Don’t miss the incredible views of the valley from the monastery’s rooftop! You can also find several sacred prayer stones here as well as relics belonging to Drukpa Kunley. Visitors will be captivated by the place’s natural beauty and serenity. Other important sights include Chimi Lakhang and Dodena Lakhang. Chimi Lakhang is Bhutan’s oldest temple that was built in the 15th century, while Dodena Lakhang is located near a beautiful waterfall which makes for an excellent spot for hiking or picnicking.
If you’re interested in learning more about Bhutanese culture, you should visit Dzongdrakha goemba where visitors can get insight into ancient traditions and customs. Remember to always dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Women must wear skirts below their knees and cover their shoulders, arms, breasts and legs with clothing. Men must cover their heads with a scarf (locally known as a doko) before entering any dzong or lhakhang (temple).
Goma Konchöling Monastery
Goma Koncholing Monastery is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bhutan. The monastery is located on a hill in the capital city of Thimphu and overlooks the valley below. Visitors can tour the monastery and learn about the history and culture of Buddhism in Bhutan. The monastery is also home to a large statue of Buddha, which is said to be one of the largest in the world.
Thousands of people visit this temple every year to pay their respects. It’s not just any old temple though – it’s made up of beautiful sculptures, paintings, and vibrant colors. There are plenty of staircases that lead you up to the top where there is an amazing view of the valley below. As you walk around this mesmerizing place, you’ll find all sorts of artwork that shows off Buddhist artisanship. To really get a feel for what Buddhism means in Bhutan (or anywhere), stop by Goma Konchöling Monastery when you’re visiting Bhutan!
The monastery also features carved wooden pillars that display images of Lord Buddha. The monks at Goma Konchöling welcome visitors with smiles, so don’t be afraid to stop by when you’re in Bhutan!
