7 Most Beautiful Must-Visit Places in Bhutan

Bhutan, the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’, also known as the ‘Land of Happiness’ has plenty to offer to tourists who want to seek a different experience, culture and tradition.

Other than the popular food that you must try in Bhutan, here are the most beautiful places to visit in Bhutan.

1. Taktsang Monastery aka Tiger’s Nest Monastery

One of the most iconic places in Bhutan is the Taktsang Monastery or the Tiger's Nest monastery.

It’s the equivalent of the Eiffel Tower of Paris and Merlion of Singapore.

Even those who have yet to visit Bhutan will undoubtedly come across the picture of the stunning monastery in one way or another. The majestic monastery perched atop the cliff 3120 metres above sea level in the Paro valley is the most photographed place in Bhutan.

In fact, the Taktsang Monastery is deemed one of the most breathtaking temples in the world. It’s hailed as one of the most sacred sites for Buddhist pilgrims.

In the past, you have to trek through the rugged trails to reach the monastery. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when tourism was prohibited, the kingdom took the opportunity to enhance the trail. Instead of sharing the same pathway with the mules, trekkers can now trek peacefully on a separate pathway.

They say that a trip to Bhutan is incomplete without a visit to the Tiger’s Nest.



2. Paro Valley

Paro Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. It’s also the first region that you’ll encounter upon landing in Bhutan. Home to the only international airport in Bhutan, Paro is surrounded by beautiful paddy fields and charming farmhouses.

Paro is conveniently located 1 hour away from the capital city, Thimphu.

If you are an adventurous soul, you can try out the whitewater rafting in Paro.

Aside from the Tiger’s Nest, check out the other must-visit attractions in Paro.

3. Thimphu

Although Thimphu is considered a modern city in Bhutan, it has a traditional blend that makes transports you into the past. You’ll be surprised to learn that there is no traffic light in the capital city, but you’ll see human traffic lights — traffic police — instead.

One of the most beautiful places you can find in Thimphu is the impressive Tashichho Dzong which presently houses the throne room and the offices of the King, the secretariat, and the ministries of home affairs and finance.

Other popular attractions in Thimphu include the National Memorial Chorten built in honour of the third King and the first ancient fortress of the country, Simtokha Dzong.

Top 15 Places to Visit in Thimphu Bhutan

4. Mount Jomolhari

Mount Jomolhari is one of the most sacred Himalayan mountains in Bhutan. If you are an avid hiker that wants to explore pristine nature, Mount Jomolhari trek is highly recommended. The trek is suitable for people with average fitness.

You’ll pass unique flora and fauna, traditional houses, yaks, and stunning lakes. The highlight of this trek is seeing the magnificent view of Mount Jomolhari from Jomolhari Basecamp (Jangothang).

It has a minimum elevation of 2,500 m. and a maximum elevation of nearly 5,000 m.

Why conquer the Everest when you can explore a spectacular Himalayan mountain with little crowd?

Do not miss the majestic view of Mount Jomolhari with an 11-Day Jomolhari Trek.

5. Dochula Pass

Dochula Pass, located between Thimphu and Punakha is said to be the most beautiful mountain pass in Bhutan.

At Dochula Pass, you will find 108 memorial chortens built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the eldest Queen mother of Bhutan. The chortens were built in honour of the fourth King, His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck who were at the forefront of the battle against Assamese insurgents in 2003, and to honour the bravery of the soldiers who perished in the battle.

If your priority is to take Insta-worthy shots during your travel, Dochula Pass is a must-visit in your itinerary. You’ll be able to see the Himalayan range in clear sight on a non-cloudy day. Truly one of the best photography spots for photo enthusiasts.

Furthermore, you can see the tallest unclimbed mountain in the world Gangkar Puensem at 7,158 metres (23, 484 ft) from Dochula Pass. It’s known as the tallest unclimbed mountain because Bhutan prohibited mountaineering above 6,000m.



6. Trongsa Dzong

Another stunning dzong you can find in the heart of Bhutan is the Trongsa Dzong. It is located above the Mangde River or Tongsa River. This massive dzong is the largest dzong in Bhutan.

Trongsa is a strategic central location to control Bhutan and for centuries it was the seat of the Wangchuck dynasty. It was first built in 1543 and has undergone repairs over time. You’ll be awed by its magnificent architecture and stunning views of the luscious green valleys.

7. Gangtey aka Phobjikha Valley

Phobjikha valley ranks high on travellers’ list. Popularly known as the winter home for the endangered black-necked cranes, Gangtey is an attractive glacial valley, a paradise for nature lovers. Some of the notable sites include Gangtey Monastery and the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre. The black-necked cranes fly to Gangtey from the Tibetan Plateau during the winter months. Those who are lucky enough to see the black-necked cranes claim that it’s one of their best travel experiences ever. If you want to escape from all the city vibe, Gangtey is the perfect place for you.

Planning for a Bhutan Adventure?

You may consider taking a 7-day essential Bhutan tour or spending 10-day to delve deeper into Bhutan.

If you are planning for a luxury escapade, you can consider a 5 Day Uma Paro Himalayan Adventure or an 8 Day Amankora Journey.

Before planning a trip to Bhutan make sure that you read tips to Bhutan and check out the best time to visit Bhutan.

In addition, remember to read the dos and don’ts when travelling in Bhutan.

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Curious about the language that Bhutanese speak? Check out the full guide to Bhutanese languages.