Must-Visit Destinations with Experience Bhutan Travel

Bhutan is a land of dramatic Himalayan landscapes, ancient monasteries, and deeply rooted traditions. Traveling through Bhutan is not just a journey across mountains and valleys—it is a spiritual and cultural experience shaped by centuries of history, devotion, and harmony with nature. With Experience Bhutan Travel, explore Bhutan’s most iconic destinations along with its hidden gems, from sacred cliffside monasteries to pristine national parks.

Paro Valley: Gateway to Bhutan

Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)

Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred landmark, dramatically perched on a cliff face.

  • Altitude: 3,120 meters above sea level

  • Spiritual Significance: Meditation site of Guru Padmasambhava, who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan

  • Hike Experience: 3–6 hour round-trip trek through pine forests

  • Photography: One of the most breathtaking architectural sights in the Himalayas

Paro Rinpung Dzong

A majestic fortress-monastery overlooking the Paro River.

  • Architecture: Classic Bhutanese design, meaning “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels”

  • Cultural Events: Host of the famous Paro Tsechu festival

  • Historical Importance: Built in the 17th century to defend the valley

  • Accessibility: Easily reachable from Paro town

Chele La Pass

One of Bhutan’s highest mountain passes offering spectacular views.

  • Elevation: 3,988 meters

  • Scenic Beauty: Snow-capped peaks, prayer flags, and alpine forests

  • Best Season: March to November

  • Experience: A peaceful stop for panoramic Himalayan photography

Thimphu: Bhutan’s Capital City

Tashichho Dzong

The political and religious heart of Bhutan.

  • Function: Houses the King’s office, government ministries, and monastic body

  • Architecture: Impressive fortress with traditional Bhutanese craftsmanship

  • Visiting Hours: Limited access during office hours

  • Evening View: Beautifully illuminated after sunset

Buddha Dordenma

A towering statue symbolizing peace and enlightenment.

  • Height: 51 meters

  • Location: Hilltop overlooking Thimphu Valley

  • Atmosphere: Calm surroundings with prayer flags and meditation areas

  • Photography: Ideal for sunrise and sunset views

Punakha Valley: Ancient Capital of Bhutan

Punakha Dzong

Known as the “Palace of Great Happiness.”

  • Location: At the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers

  • Architecture: One of Bhutan’s most beautiful dzongs with intricate woodwork

  • Historical Role: Former capital and winter residence of the Je Khenpo

  • Cultural Events: Important religious ceremonies and festivals

Dochula Pass

A sacred mountain pass with 108 memorial chortens.

  • Memorial Significance: Built to honor Bhutanese soldiers

  • Himalayan Views: Clear days reveal stunning snow-covered peaks

  • Spiritual Experience: A serene place for reflection and photography

  • Facilities: Cafés and viewpoints nearby

Central Bhutan: Cultural Heartland

Gangtey Valley (Phobjikha)

A stunning glacial valley known for wildlife and tranquility.

  • Wildlife Viewing: Home of endangered black-necked cranes (Nov–Mar)

  • Gangtey Monastery: Important center of the Nyingma Buddhist school

  • Scenic Beauty: Wide open valley with pristine landscapes

  • Conservation: Protected area reflecting Bhutan’s environmental values

Trongsa Dzong

A strategically built fortress dominating central Bhutan.

  • Historical Importance: Traditional seat of Bhutan’s crown princes

  • Architecture: Dramatic multi-level structure clinging to a mountainside

  • Strategic Location: Overlooks the ancient east–west trade route

  • Cultural Role: Important administrative and religious center

Eastern Bhutan: Remote and Authentic

Bumthang Valley

Often called Bhutan’s spiritual heartland.

  • Cultural Significance: Dotted with ancient monasteries and sacred sites

  • Scenic Beauty: Rolling valleys, rivers, and traditional villages

  • Historical Importance: Birthplace of many Bhutanese religious legends

  • Atmosphere: Peaceful, spiritual, and deeply traditional

Trashigang

The cultural gateway to eastern Bhutan.

  • Location: Remote eastern region with dramatic landscapes

  • Cultural Diversity: Home to unique ethnic communities

  • Experience: Authentic village life and traditional customs

  • Ideal For: Travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations

Southern Bhutan: Nature and Cultural Fusion

Phuentsholing

Bhutan’s main southern gateway on the Indian border.

  • Cultural Fusion: Blend of Bhutanese and Indian influences

  • Karbandi Monastery: Hilltop monastery with panoramic town views

  • Evening Life: Lively markets and late-open shops

  • Starting Point: Entry hub for journeys into Bhutan’s interior

Royal Manas National Park

Bhutan’s oldest and most biodiverse national park.

  • Wildlife: Bengal tigers, elephants, wild buffalo, and more

  • Birdwatching: Over 450 bird species

  • River Activities: Rafting along the Manas River

  • Community Stays: Learn about conservation through local homestays

Samdrup Jongkhar

An eastern border town rich in Monpa culture.

  • Markets: Traditional textiles, bamboo crafts, and local produce

  • Sangbay Lhakhang: Ancient monastery with historic murals

  • Nature Views: Riverbanks ideal for picnics and birdwatching

  • Festivals: Unique local celebrations and dances

Zhemgang & Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park

A region of pristine forests and indigenous cultures.

  • Ethnic Communities: Pawo and Doya tribes with unique traditions

  • Trekking: Forest trails, waterfalls, and alpine meadows

  • Wildlife: Red pandas, clouded leopards, and diverse flora

  • Zhemgang Dzong: Hilltop fortress with sweeping valley views

Gelephu

A growing commercial and cultural hub in southern Bhutan.

  • Industrial Estate: Local food processing and handicrafts

  • Cuisine: Street food, momos, and traditional butter tea

  • Historic Ruins: Gelephu Dzong remains from the 18th century

  • Viewpoints: Scenic hikes overlooking river confluences

Frequently asked questions

There are 19 languages spoken in Bhutan, but the national language is Dzongkha. English is used throughout Bhutan’s education system, so it is widely used and understood.

Bhutan is a year-round destination. There are four seasons: summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), winter (December to February) and spring (March to May). But because of the range of altitudes in the country, and the influence of the north Indian monsoons, the climate is incredibly varied. In the south, the humid, subtropical climate is fairly consistent year-round, with temperatures between 15oC and 30oC. Central Bhutan, with its temperate forests, has a more seasonal climate, with warm summers and cool, dry winters. The northern regions are much colder during winter. Because of the high altitude, mountain peaks are snowy year-round and the lower reaches remain cool in summer. In summer, the Indian monsoon season runs from late June or July to late September, mostly affecting the southern regions. Most farming activities take place in the summer, when crops thrive in verdant landscapes. Autumn, from late September or early October to late November, follows the rainy season. It is characterised by bright, sunny days and some early snowfall at higher elevations. It’s the season of feasts and festivals as farmers reap the fruits of their work. From late November until March, the crisp, clear and sunny winter sets in, with frost throughout much of the country and snowfall common above elevations of 3,000 metres. The winter northeast monsoon brings gale-force winds at the highest altitudes through high mountain passes, giving Bhutan the name Drukyul, which means Land of the Thunder Dragon in Dzongkha (Bhutan’s national language). Bhutan’s generally dry spring starts in early March and lasts until mid-April. It is a botanist’s delight, with nature in full bloom. Summer weather commences in mid-April with occasional showers and continues to late June.

Visitors of all nationalities, except those from India, require a visa before entering Bhutan. For all visitors, except those from Bangladesh and the Maldives, this visa must be applied for and approved in advance of travel. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also require a visa, but this can be applied for and approved either in advance of travel or upon arrival in Bhutan. Visitors from India are able to apply for a permit but are required to hold an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card. For Indian nationals under the age of 18, a passport or a birth certificate can be used to enter and they must be accompanied by a legal guardian. Nationals from Switzerland and Thailand holding diplomatic or government-official passports are eligible for a visa at their port of entry.

No, there are no restricted nationalities in Bhutan.

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a daily levy paid by visitors to support Bhutan’s development. Since the kingdom first opened its doors in 1974, guests have played a critical role in our country’s growth. The SDF is collected by the national exchequer and funds are allocated to various projects that create long-term, sustainable opportunities for the Bhutanese people, through free healthcare, education and training, upskilling the tourism and hospitality industry, improved infrastructure, environmental preservation and conservation, cultural preservation programmes and initiatives that support local businesses and economies. The SDF is also a vital means of maintaining the exceptional forest cover and carbon-neutrality for which our small nation is world-renowned and globally critical. The SDF also helps us to ensure that we can continue to offer guests tranquillity and an intimate experience.

The SDF is USD 100 per night for adults from all countries except for India. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF. The SDF for Indian nationals (showing a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card) is Nu. 1,200 (or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees) per person, per night. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay Nu./INR 600 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.

You may bring cash equivalent to US$10,000 into the country.