The Best Places to Visit in Bhutan
Bhutan, known fondly as the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’, is a travel destination unlike any other. Untouched by mass tourism, this Himalayan kingdom draws visitors in with its blend of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and deep spiritual traditions. But what makes this country truly beautiful isn’t just the spectacular scenery, it’s its commitment to the Gross National Happiness scale which prioritises the well-being of its people and environment over economic growth.
For travellers, Bhutan presents an incredible variety of experiences, from exploring ancient monasteries and vibrant festivals to trekking through verdant valleys and encountering rare wildlife. Whether you're drawn to its famous places, like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, or lesser-known gems like the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhutan offers something for everyone. This guide will take you through the best places to visit in Bhutan, catering to those with an interest in culture, nature, adventure, and spirituality.
Thimphu
As the capital city, Thimphu is seen by many as the beating heart of Bhutan. As you explore the city, you'll notice how it effortlessly blends tradition with understated modernity, making it one of the most captivating places to visit in Bhutan. Thimphu is a destination that offers something for those who want an insight into the culture, to those seeking a taste of Bhutan's contemporary lifestyle.
One of the must-visit tourist attractions in Bhutan is Tashichho Dzong, a stunning fortress and monastery that acts as the seat of the government. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, it is also home to the king's throne room and offices. As you walk through the dzong, you'll be fascinated by the rich history and spirituality that define Bhutanese culture.
Another highlight is the Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. Perched atop a hill, this massive statue overlooks the valley, offering breathtaking views of Thimphu. The site is both peaceful and awe-inspiring, making it one of the most famous landmarks in Bhutan. The surrounding park is perfect for a quiet stroll, where you can take in the fresh mountain air and the tranquillity of the area.
For a more lively experience, head to Thimphu’s Weekend Market, a vibrant hub where locals gather to buy and sell fresh produce and traditional crafts. Delicious smells hang in the air and the shouts of vendor’s travel through the market, making it one of the best places to visit in Bhutan to soak up the local culture and pick up some souvenirs to take home.
Unsurprisingly, Thimphu has an abundance of cultural experiences on offer too. The city comes alive during the Thimphu Tsechu, a grand festival featuring masked dances, music, and rituals that celebrate Bhutanese heritage. It’s held every autumn and is one of the biggest and most important in Bhutan. If you’re in the city during the festival season, or on one of our tours such as the Definitive Cultural Tour of Bhutan, you won't want to miss the celebrations.
Between exploring the sights, you can recharge at one of Thimphu's many modern cafes, where you’ll find a mix of traditional Bhutanese dishes and international cuisine. Don’t forget to visit the city’s museums, such as the Bhutan Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum, which offer insights into Bhutan’s art, history, and culture.
Paro
Paro is one of Bhutan's most historic and scenic towns, making it a must-see destination for anyone exploring this Himalayan kingdom. Surrounded by verdant hills and dotted with traditional farmhouses, Paro offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it one of the most charming places to visit in Bhutan.
The crown jewel of Paro, and perhaps the most famous landmark in Bhutan, is the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). Perched dramatically on the edge of a sheer cliff, this iconic monastery is a sight to behold. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, one of the founding fathers of Tibetan Buddhism, flew to this spot on the back of a tigress, hence its name. The trek to the monastery can be challenging but immensely rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the Paro Valley below.
Another key attraction is Paro Dzong, officially known as Rinpung Dzong and it’s one of the most impressive places to see in Bhutan. The fortress overlooks the valley, proudly showcasing itself as a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture with its imposing walls and intricate woodwork. The dzong plays an important role in both the religious and administrative life of the region given it houses the district Monastic Body as well as government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag.
Just a short walk from Paro Dzong is the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in an ancient watchtower known as Ta Dzong. The museum offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s history and artistic heritage, showcasing everything from ancient thangkas (Buddhist paintings) to traditional costumes and weapons. It's a perfect place to deepen your understanding of Bhutanese culture.
For those with a taste for adventure, Paro offers some of the best hiking opportunities in Bhutan. At Mountain Kingdoms we have several fantastic trek options, all of which include varied trails leading to ancient temples, peaceful villages, and breathtaking viewpoints. Our new trekking holiday - the Trans Bhutan Trail - highlights the best sections of the long-distance trail in west Bhutan, whilst our Hidden Valleys of Bhutan trip includes ‘the Bumdra Trek’ which is an overnight trek starting in Paro and ending above the Taktsang Monastery.
Punakha
Punakha, the former capital, is a picturesque town surrounded by lush valleys, terraced fields, and flowing rivers. Known for its warm climate and stunning scenery, Punakha is undoubtedly one of the most famous places in Bhutan.
At the heart of Punakha lies the magnificent Punakha Dzong, also known as the ‘Palace of Great Happiness’. This architectural masterpiece is the second-oldest and second-largest dzong in the country, used to host important religious ceremonies, including the coronation of Bhutanese kings. If you’re thinking of walking or trekking with us you’ll be glad to know that a visit here is featured in many of our Bhutanese holidays, including our popular Gentle Walking Bhutan trip. In addition to its spiritual importance, it’s also one of the most picturesque things to see in Bhutan. It sits besides the junction of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers where the flowing waters combine with the intricate woodwork, towering whitewashed walls, and vibrant courtyards to make it a sight to behold. To see it at its most beautiful, visit in spring when the jacaranda trees surrounding it are in full bloom.
Another significant site in Punakha is Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, affectionately known as the ‘Divine Madman’. This revered Buddhist saint is famous for his unorthodox teachings and unique approach to spirituality. The temple, perched on a hilltop, is a popular pilgrimage site, particularly for couples seeking blessings for fertility.
For those seeking a bit of adventure, the Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of the most thrilling places to visit in Bhutan. Stretching over 160 metres, it’s the longest suspension bridge in the country, offering stunning panoramic views of the river and surrounding valleys. As you sway side to side whilst making your way across, be sure to soak up the view and take note of the prayer flags decorating the sides.
Central Heartlands: Bumthang and the Phobjikha Valley
Bumthang
Bumthang is often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, and for good reason. This region is home to some of the most important monasteries and temples in the country, making it a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists and one of the most fascinating places to visit in Bhutan for travellers.
One of the key attractions is the Jakar Dzong, also known as the ‘Fortress of the White Bird’, which overlooks the Chamkhar Valley. The panoramic views of the surrounding countryside are one of the best things to see in Bhutan.
Another significant site in Bumthang is Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. It is believed to have been one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo, as part of his efforts to spread Buddhism across the Himalayas. Equally important is Kurje Lhakhang, a complex of three temples that holds great significance in Bhutanese Buddhism and is one of the more important tourist attractions in Bhutan. This sacred site is where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated and left his body imprint on a rock, as well as being the final resting place of the first three Kings of Bhutan.
For an opportunity to experience Bhutanese culture and spirituality up close, you don’t want to miss their festivals. Bumthang is known for its vibrant and very popular Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival and Jakar Tsechu festival. They’re both incredibly energetic, featuring colourful masked dances, rituals, and religious ceremonies and are undoubtedly some of the best things to see in Bhutan. It’s a good job they’re featured on most of our Bhutan trek itineraries!
Beyond its spiritual and cultural attractions, Bumthang is blessed with beautiful valleys making it one of the best places to visit in Bhutan for nature lovers. The region's gentle landscapes offer excellent opportunities for trekking and cycling, allowing for our Cultural Cycling Tour of Bhutan to take place which features a varied, engaging and exciting route from Paro to Bumthang.
Phobjikha Valley
Moving westward, the Phobjikha Valley is a place of stunning natural beauty, often described as a hidden gem among Bhutan's landscapes. This glacial valley, with its wide-open spaces and rolling hills, is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan.
At the heart of the Phobjikha Valley lies the Gangtey Monastery, the only Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan. Perched on a hilltop, the monastery offers sweeping views of the valley below and serves as a spiritual centre for the local community. The peaceful surroundings and the monastery’s tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those seeking the most calming places to visit in Bhutan.
If we have any bird watchers reading, you’ll find this particularly interesting. The Phobjikha Valley is famous for being the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes. These majestic birds migrate from Tibet every year and are considered sacred by the Bhutanese. The Black-Necked Crane Centre in the valley is a fantastic tourist attraction in Bhutan and is dedicated to the conservation of these birds, offering educational exhibits and bird-watching opportunities.
Mountain Kingdoms include the annual Black-Necked Crane Festival in lots of the Bhutan itineraries, which is a really fun one to attend as the local school children dress up in crane costumes and do a special dance in the bird’s honour.
Jigme Dorji National Park and Royal Manas National Park
Bhutan’s commitment to conservation and biodiversity is evident in its stunning national parks, which are among the most beautiful places in Bhutan.
Jigme Dorji National Park, the second-largest national park in Bhutan, is a biodiversity hotspot. Home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including snow leopards, blue sheep, and Bhutan’s (rather bizarre looking) national animal, the takin, you’ll be amazed at what you see. Be sure to bring your camera to capture one of the most diverse places to see in Bhutan.
Given the park’s vastness, it actually encapsulates Mount Chomolhari, lending itself to some excellent opportunities for trekking and wildlife viewing. Our Lingshi Laya Trek is an amazing chance to spend some time in the remote village of Laya and look for rare tigers in the high mountains.
Royal Manas National Park is Bhutan’s oldest national park and a cornerstone of the country’s conservation efforts. This sanctuary is home to some of Bhutan’s most iconic wildlife, including elephants, Bengal tigers, and the rare golden langur. As one of the top tourist attractions in Bhutan, the park plays a crucial role in protecting the country’s biodiversity and promoting ecotourism.
Eastern Bhutan: Trashigang, Lhuentse (Khoma Village) and Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
Eastern Bhutan is a region less travelled by tourists, yet it offers some of the most authentic and enriching experiences in the country, making it one of the most remarkable places to visit in Bhutan. For this reason, we’re very pleased to run our Eastern Bhutan trekking tours, which explore many hill-top towns and temples.
The journey through Eastern Bhutan often begins in Trashigang, the gateway to this captivating region. Perched high on a ridge overlooking the Drangme Chhu river, Trashigang Dzong is one of the most impressive fortresses in Bhutan. Originally built in 1659 to defend against Tibetan invasions, this dzong has stood as a sentinel of the east for centuries and remains an important part of religious and administrative activity. The region is also known for its lively local culture, with unique traditions and festivals that showcase the deep-rooted customs of the eastern Bhutanese.
Travelling further into Lhuentse, you'll find Khoma Village, a small community famous for its exquisite Kishuthara weaving. This intricate, handwoven textile is one of Bhutan’s most prized crafts, and watching the skilled artisans at work is a highlight for any visitor. Nearby, Lhuentse Dzong stands as a remote and sacred site, deeply connected to Bhutan’s royal family, making it one of the most historically significant places to see in Bhutan.
Finally, the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural interest. This sanctuary houses many rare species, and legend has it, the elusive Bhutanese yeti, known locally as the Migoi. If the idea of getting a glimpse of the creature has peaked your interest, the area around the Rodang La is renowned in local folklore for sightings, so our Rodang La Trek could be perfect for you.
The sanctuary also provides a fascinating cultural experience as it is home to the Brokpa people, a semi-nomadic community with a distinctive way of life. Visitors have the rare opportunity to learn about their traditions and explore one of the most remote and beautiful places to visit in Bhutan. Although Mountain Kingdoms doesn’t currently include the sanctuary in our group tours, we could arrange a private itinerary or extension here.
From the bustling capital of Thimphu to the tranquil culture of the East, this journey through the best places to visit in Bhutan showcases the country’s diversity and unique charm. Each destination not only highlights Bhutan’s cultural heritage and deep-rooted spirituality but also offers breathtaking landscapes, ranging from mountains to valleys, which make every stop an unforgettable experience.
If you’d like to truly experience Bhutan’s magic, there’s no better way to do it than through a trekking holiday. Mountain Kingdoms offers a variety of walking and trekking tours in Bhutan, suitable for a range of skill levels. With our expert knowledge, you’ll unlock the full beauty and depth of the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’. Contact our friendly team who'll be very happy to answer questions you may have.
Mountain Kingdoms MD and owner, Steve Berry, was a significant contributor to this blog article. Steve was born in the Indian Himalaya, close to the border with Bhutan, and has been travelling, trekking, climbing and exploring in the kingdom for over 50 years. He first ventured there in the 1980s as part of a British mountaineering expedition team who were aiming to conquer Bhutan's highest peak, Gangkar Punsum. Unfortunately the team had to turn back close to the summit due to severe weather conditions, and the mountain still remains the highest unclimbed peak in the world. Steve wrote a book about his experiences on the expedition called 'Thunder Dragon Kingdoms: Mountaineering Expedition to Bhutan' published by Crowood Press in 1988. Steve set up Mountain Kingdoms (formerly Himalayan Kingdoms) in 1987, and the company were one of the first to organise treks to Bhutan, pioneering many trekking routes and holiday styles. We now offer the widest portfolio of treks, tours, cycling holidays and walking holidays to Bhutan of any British tour operator. Steve still regularly returns to Bhutan and has advised, and appeared in several television documentaries about the Thunder Dragon Kingdom including a search for the elusive Himalayan yeti!