Bhutan stands out as a unique and enthralling destination, promising a holiday of a lifetime. Its dramatic natural beauty and captivating culture are equally strong reasons to visit this mountain kingdom.
Nestled in the middle of the Himalayas, you’ll find amazing treks and hikes of all levels, walks through valleys to monasteries, monuments, and villages, and small cities and towns that welcome you in with guesthouses, boutique hotels, and luxurious retreats. In a country where happiness is equated with richness, friendly hosts can be found throughout the land.
To fully experience Bhutan, you’d need to stay at least three weeks although we realize most people don’t have quite so much time. So if you only have one week, focus on the west. With two weeks, west and central Bhutan are open to you and with three, you can fly to the east then see the country as you travel overland back to Paro.
Western Bhutan
All international flights arrive in Paro, the only valley large enough to accommodate international aircraft so whether at the start or finish of your holiday, one or two nights in Paro are highly recommended. This area is home to the Tiger’s Nest, the most iconic spot in Bhutan. Whether you want to soak in a view of it from your hotel, trek up the mountain to see it for yourself, or embark on an overnight hike that allows you to descend to the monastery for a completely different view, we think this is one sight not to be missed. Perched on the side of a cliff, this “hanging” monastery has its own legends and myths best discovered with a local guide.
Thimphu, the capital city, has resisted traffic lights yet you’ll find plenty of signs of modernization and we think this is a great place to start your holiday. Only an hour’s drive from Paro airport, you’ll have a scenic ride to your hotel where you’ll find a bit of comfort after the journey. Thimphu has a number of cultural and historic sights that provide an excellent overview of Bhutan’s unique culture.
Punakha, the former capital city, is home to the beautiful Punakha Dzong (fortress) set between the Pho Chhu (“male”) and Mo Chhu (“female”) rivers. Beautiful year-round, this subtropical valley is stunning in spring when the purple flowers of the jacaranda trees bloom. A number of other sights and experiences are well worth a visit including Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman.”
Central Bhutan
Characterised by fertile valleys, terraced fields, and traditional Bhutanese architecture, if you have more than one week to spend in Bhutan, we highly recommend including time in this region. The views, forests, and natural beauty are simply stunning.
The Gangtey / Phobjikha valleys see rare black-necked cranes pass through roughly late October through February. Regardless whether you time your visit to look for cranes, this is a great place for gentle walks through pine forests and bamboo groves.
Bumthang, which can be reached by a short flight from Paro, has four valleys and countless ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries. Here you can feel completely off the beaten track, away from other tourists, exploring on foot as much as your schedule allows.
Eastern Bhutan
Less developed and less visited by tourists, this region retains more traditional ways of Bhutanese life than the others. Accommodations here are simple and as the drive times are long, we suggest flying to Trashigang from Paro then returning overland to Paro with many stops along the way.
Trashigang is the primary marketplace for the semi-nomadic people of Merak and Sakteng, whose way of dress is unique in Bhutan. From here you can carry on to rural Pema Gatshel with its skilled craftsmen of musical instruments, or begin the journey west toward Paro with a stop at Mongar. From here, you’ll cross the spectacular Thrumsing-la pass en route to Bumthang.
