Bhutan Geography & Regions

Explore Bhutan's 20 districts across four diverse regions — from the iconic valleys of the west to the remote frontiers of the east.

Paro

Elevation 2,280 m The broad Paro valley is the entry point for all visitors flying into Bhutan on the national carrier, Drukair. As the plane takes a dramatic sweep into Paro, the flight captain usual...

Thimphu

Elevation 2,320 m This is the capital of Bhutan with a population of approximately 100,000 people. It is the largest town in Bhutan, about an hour from the airport in Paro. As you enter the valley, yo...

Punakha

Elevation 1,300 m Punakha is the ancient capital of Bhutan; about 2 1/4 hours’ drive from Thimphu across Dochu-La pass. Once you cross the pass, you wind down into a warm, fertile valley and meander a...

Haa

Haa Valley: Bhutan's Hidden Gem Nestled in the southwestern part of Bhutan, Haa Valley is a serene and picturesque destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Opene...

Wangduephodrang (Wangdue)

Wangdue Phodrang, one of Bhutan’s largest districts, is a serene jewel where ancient fortresses guard mist-laden valleys, rivers meander through lush farmlands, and traditional village life carries on...

Gangtey and Phobjikha Valley

Elevation: 3,000 Meters Tucked away in the central highlands of Bhutan lies one of the kingdom’s most soul-stirring destinations—Phobjikha Valley, popularly known as Gangtey. At first glance, it might...

Trongsa

Nestled in the central region of Bhutan, Trongsa is a town rich in history and cultural significance. It serves as a crucial junction connecting the eastern and western parts of the country. Historica...

Bumthang

Elevation 2,600-4,000 meters Bumthang is known as the spiritual heart of the kingdom, as it was here that Guru Rinpoche cured a local king of a spirit induced ailment in the 8th century CE, an event t...

Samdrup Jongkhar

Fancy venturing beyond the usual tourist trail in Bhutan? Samdrup Jongkhar is a vibrant border town that’s more than just a stopover. It’s Bhutan’s oldest town and the largest urban centre in the east...

Lhuentse

Tucked away in the remote eastern reaches of Bhutan, Lhuentse is a district that quietly cradles the soul of the kingdom. Far from the usual tourist trail, this hidden gem rewards the curious with dra...

Pemagatshel

Nestled in the far east of Bhutan, Pemagatshel—meaning "Lotus Garden of Bliss"—is a district that often escapes the usual tourist radar, but those who make the journey are rewarded with an authentic s...

Mongar

Elevation: 1,600 Meters Overview of Mongar The town of Mongar, seated at the heart of the Mongar District, serves as a vital hub for trade and travel in eastern Bhutan. Its strategic location makes it...

Trashigang

Introduction to Trashigang Trashigang, perched at an elevation of 1,200 meters, is the largest district in Bhutan and a vibrant hub of cultural richness. It serves as a key gateway to eastern Bhutan a...

Trashi Yangtse

Established in 1992, Trashiyangtse is one of the newest dzongkhags (districts) in Bhutan, located in the eastern part of the country. Covering an area of 1,437 sq km with an elevation of 1,871 meters,...

Gelephu

Located at the southern foothills of Bhutan, Gelephu is a vibrant frontier town in Sarpang District, bordering the Indian state of Assam. Traditionally known as a key commercial and administrative hub...