Bhutan, “The Land of Thunderbolt”, is still one of the least heard or traveled destinations, even by the young travel enthusiasts of its neighboring country, India. But it is long list of forts, monasteries, and other Buddhist relics, trekking spots, and shopping areas are surely worth a visit.
Known as the Last Shangri-La, the entire country comprises of panoramic valleys, majestic Himalayas, and abundance of rare fauna and flora. The rivers, arising from the Himalayas, meander through the valleys and mesmerize with their beauty. Offering a kaleidoscope of sceneries and experiences, the best tourist places in Bhutan must feature on your itinerary while visiting the Land of the Thunder Dragon. If not all, at least a few of them.
Zuri Dzong Hike
The peak of the Zuri Dzong Trek is probably the perfect spot to have a bird-eye view of the entire Paro valley. The Zuri Dzong is the oldest Dzong in Bhutan, and in there lies a cave where Buddha came to meditate in, in the 8th century. This peaceful place allows both Bhutanese and tourists to soak in the tranquil that radiates from the extraordinary view, something one can stare at for hours in wonder and awe. The total journey time to get there will take approximately 30 minutes if one starts from the museum watchtower, and an additional 1 hour to exit out towards Uma. Tourists can expect to sit and relax there, and also remember to catch the amazing side view as you hike through Trek.
Dochula Pass
The most well-known pass in
Bhutan, Dochula Pass is located an hour from Thimphu at an altitude of 10,000 feet. It can be visited on the way to Punakha. There are 108 Buddhist stupas overlooking the Himalayas. These stupas were built in 2004, in memory of the war between the Assamese (of India) and Bhutanese militants. When the sky is clear, the mountain view is spectacular.
Tiger’s Nest
Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang Monastery is one of the must visit places in
Bhutan. It is known for the beautiful and the sacred monastery of Guru Rinpoche. It is considered as a place of pilgrimage and is an easy half trek, which gives you the panoramic views of the Paro valleys.
According to the legends, Guru Rinpoche also considered as the second Buddha rode to this place on a tigress’s back to suppress a local demon and thus he meditated here for 3 months. This place is Bhutan’s most religious site and it hangs on the cliff as it stands above the lush forest of thousands of species of rhododendrons and blue pine. Tourists can come to this monastery by standard permits which your guide will arrange for you. Also, you have to register your at the entrance deposit your cameras and bags because photography is prohibited inside of the temple.
Gangtey Valley
The valley of Gangtey is one of the most stunning valleys in the Himalayas, and many call it the Shangri-La of Bhutan, just as how Bhutan is well known for being “one of the world’s happiest nations,” and “the last Shangri-La on Earth.” The surprise of finding such a wide, flat valley without any trees after the hard climb through dense forests is augmented by an impression of vast space, which is an extremely rare experience in Bhutan as most of the valleys are tightly enclosed.
This moderate trek visits the villages of Gogona and Khotokha, passing through meadows and fields, then forests of juniper, magnolia and rhododendrons, which will be in full bloom in April. Besides the attractive scenic valley and mountain trails passing through the magnificent forest with its undergrowth changing from rhododendron and magnolia to ferns and dwarf bamboo, we can also visit the historical Gangtey monastery and the blacked necked crane information centre. Additionally, there will be a special treat for those visiting the Gangtey during the winter season, as they will be able to catch the graceful Black-necked Cranes in action as they head to the roost.
Haa Valley
Haa Valley, which is situated only 13 miles away from the
India-
China border, connects major Bhutanese villages like Chhukha, Paro, and Samtse. It stretches over an area of 1700 square kilometres. The valley was opened to the public in 2002. However, do not expect to find any luxury hotels in Haa Valley. You can expect to find basic homestays in the valley. The locals of Haa Valley are hospitably warm.
Read more:
What you need to know before visiting Bhutan
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