Bhutan Overview

Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom on the Himalayas’ eastern edge, is known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs) and dramatic landscapes that range from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. In the High Himalayas, peaks such as 7,326m Jomolhari are popular trekking destinations. Paro Taktsang monastery (also known as Tiger’s Nest) clings to cliffs above the forested Paro Valley.

Map Overview

Place To Visit

Thimphu

Land of the peaceful dragon welcomes you to the capital city of Thimphu. Nestled in the lovely river valley of the Wang Chuu river, it's abundant with nature's splendour, wildlife and culture - guaranteed to make it to your list of favourite holiday destinations. Ferociously guarding its culture from any western influences, Thimpu offers to travellers a chance to explore the preserved traditions and rituals of the Bhutanese people. Explore the handicraft emporiums, unique bhutanese architechture or just take a walk down the streets and check out the weekend markets which sell almost everything under the sun.

Paro

The wide and verdant Paro Valley, rich in sacred sites and ancient buildings, forms part of the Golden Triangle of exceptional destinations in Bhutan. Also, with its main street lined with traditional architecture which includes richly decorated buildings that house a scattering of shops and restaurants, the town becomes the most ideal base from which to explore the surrounding attractions.

thimpu dzong/tashichho dzong

Among the most prominent landmarks in Thimphu is counted the Thimpu Dzong or Tashichho Dzong, which means Fortress of the Glorious Religion. Located on the west bank of the Wang Chuu, it is widely admired for its mind-blowing architecture. Though the imposing white-washed structure has undergone several renovations over the centuries but it is still an architectural marvel. It serves as the seat of the government since 1952 and currently houses the throne room and offices of the king, the secretariat and the ministries of home affairs and finance. Other government departments are housed in buildings nearby.

thimphu chorten (memorial chorten)

Thimphu Chorten, also known as Memorial Chorten, is an iconic monument dedicated to Tantric Buddhism. It is a large white structure crowned with a golden spire, located close to the center of Thimphu city. To gain an insight into Buddhist philosophy and culture, this is the best place to be. On a visit to this structure, you will find elderly Bhutanese people circumambulating the chorten throughout the day. With beautiful paintings and intricate sculptures in display, this Chorten epitomises amazing Buddhist architecture and artwork.

Dochula Pass

Dochula Pass is located 40-minute uphill drive from Thimpu. This mountain pass is situated in the snow covered Himalayas o n the road from Thimpu to Punakha where 108 memorial stupas have been built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. Along with the chortens, the other major attraction of the pass is the monastery known as Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (temple), which was built in honour of Jigme Singye Wangchuck, fourth Druk Gyalpo (head of the state of Bhutan). With a series of prayer flags and chortens, this place is hard to miss. The mind-blowing view of the Himalayan range from this pass will make you gape in awe.

Botanical Gardens

A paradise for botanists and nature lovers, Botanical Gardens is a must visit. It is located at a distance of approximately 15 km from Thimpu. Owing to immense natural beauty, it is fast becoming a popular weekend spot for people looking for an escape from the city life. Enjoy a family outing or simply go for a stroll in the lush green surroundings. The entire park is divided into five sections and every section has its own speciality. The best month to visit these gardens is the month of March as during this period there is lush greenery all around.

taktsang monastery (tiger's nest)

Taktsang Monastery or T Gompa is one of the holiest Buddhist shrines of Arunachal Pradesh. Standing amidst high mountains, it is also known as Tiger's nest. Its sanctity is credited to Padmasambhava, the maverick missionary who brought Buddhism to Tibet. Popular legends speak of him as a miracle-maker. When Buddhism swept over Tibet, Padmasambhava was deified as a simultaneous incarnation of both Gautama Buddha and Amitabha Buddha (‘Buddha of the Eternal Light’). Taktsang Gompa, Tawang is among the few places in Arunachal Pradesh believed to have been visited by him.

dilgo khyentse rinpoche memorial house

The Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche Memorial House in Kyichu, Bhutan was the primary residence of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. The memorial till date is well preserved by the concerned authorities. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Khyentse Rinpoche, the memorial was inaugurated as a museum and opened to the public in 2010. He was the spiritual teacher of the Bhutanese Royal Family and use to spend most of his time teaching his close disciples. The house is a place of immense peace and calmness. Visit the place to get soaked in the spiritual essence of the Bhutanese culture.

Chele La Pass

Chele La Pass at an elevation 13000 is considered as one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan. The beauty about this pass is the fluttering prayer flags that locals put up to spread peace in the world. It is about a 2 hour drive from Paro and passes through some of the stunning lush valleys, pine and rhododendron forest. In winters, you will find frozen rivers, waterfalls, alpine flowers and snow on the way to the pass. The pass also provides amazing views of the sacred mountain Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.

Bhutan Destination