Lhuntse

Chirang

Pemagatshel

Samchi

Sarpang

Sarpang is a cosmopolitan district in Bhutan with diverse ethnicities. This gives a good cultural experience to tourists when they visit this place. It is popular for its nature and wildlife destinations and has a few wildlife sanctuaries and national parks nearby. It is at the foothills of the Indian border. It is located above the sea level and is divided into many administrative areas. There are many scenic villages that you can visit nearby. This is one of the oldest towns in Bhutan and can be covered by a motorbike. It has favourable climatic conditions and has many farms where spices are grown. There are not many places to see or things to do in this district town except for taking hikes and camping in the national parks and sanctuaries. Enjoy watching different species of birds and animals at this park. Within the town there are not many places for sightseeing either. This is a small town with budget places to stay and a few eating joints. You can, however, enjoy taking a glimpse of the diverse culture and habitation of this town. You can take nature photography; enjoy taking a bath in the hot springs. There are many nearby villages that you can visit to get an insight into its culture.
Chhukha

Ha

Shemgang

Tongsa

Mongar

Chukha

If you are looking forward to encounter miracles of unexploited nature these holidays, pay a visit to Chukha, a pristine district of Bhutan and it is assured that you will never regret visiting the heavenly destination. This district holds a prime position in the financial stability of the entire country. A number of industries are set up in this western district of Bhutan.
This district is not much visited by tourists throughout the year which makes it pure and untouched. It also plays a vital role behind the popularity of Buddhism in Bhutan. A number of beautifully constructed monasteries add up to the beauty of the district. You must pay a visit to the monasteries like Pagar Goemba, Rinchending Monastery, Tshamdrak Goemba, etc.
After all, being just a developing district, mainly comprising of tiny villages in the lap of nature, Chukha doesn’t have lavish hotels for your accommodation. There are a few guesthouses, lodges and small hotels which will surely satisfy you. A few suggestions for your stay are The Royal Orchid Hotel, Pelling Resort, etc.
Among the first few things that hit the mind as soon as you hear the name of Bhutan is Momo. Bhutan is truly a food lover’s paradise. The must try delicacies while you are in Bhutan are Ema Datshi, Yak meat, Paksha Paa, Kewa Datshi, and of course, the heavenly delicious dumplings with meat or vegetable stuffing and steamed in bamboo steamers-the momos.
Nightlife in Chukha is not known much. As it is a district consisting of villages, there are almost no nightclubs and bars. While you are in Bhutan, do not forget to buy really comfortable and fancy woollens from the local markets. The high quality wools are feather soft, warm and cosy. Hence, shopping in Chukha is not at all a boring one.
Dagana

Among the 20 districts of Bhutan, Dagana is one. Situated in south-western corner of Bhutan, it shares its borders with India. Like rest of the country, Dagana is picturesquely beautiful with greatest blessings of nature.
Covered with thick forest all around, Dagana is a home to a large variety of birds. You just can’t afford to miss carrying your binoculars while visiting Bhutan. Also, the greenery all around is a natural healing therapy for your eyes. Considering everything, Bhutan is no less than heaven on earth.
In Bhutan, Buddhist influence can be clearly felt. You will find a lot of monasteries in Bhutan, and Dagana is no exception. Beautifully built monasteries atop hills look spectacular from a distance. From inside, they are equally mesmerising with beautiful paintings on the walls. The two monasteries in Dagana worth mentioning are Nyindukha Lhakhang and Shathong Lhakhang. You must pay a visit to these sacred Buddhist temples while visiting Dagana.
Dagana doesn’t have a lot of big hotels. You should not expect to find a five star hotel in an under-developed place like Dagana. But you will get a lot of small hotels and lodges in Dagana and they are really cosy and comfortable.
Nightlife in Dagana is not known much about. There are almost no bars, nightclubs or pubs in this small Bhutanese district. Stick to enjoying the breath-taking natural beauty of the place. If you love shopping, you must get yourself the Bhutanese woollens. The colourful high quality warm garments are worth buying for you, as well as for the loved ones back home.
Gasa

Paro

The idyllic little town of Paro is tucked in the southern slopes of Eastern Himalayas at the foothills of Mount Jomolhari. It is a landlocked country bounded by India in South and South-West and Tibet in the north and north-west.
The name Paro brings into our minds a plethora of images of the majestic Himalayas with its rugged terrains, rickety curves, alpine forests, sacred monasteries and expansive landscapes under the blue dome of the sky and takes you into a pristine world of peace and tranquillity. Your day begins by gazing at the surreal sunrise over the Himalayas leaving an enduring effect in your soul throughout the day.
Paro is home to some of the ancient monasteries and temples of the world whose history traces back to the 7th century and holds various myths and folklore to their names. Fun lovers not to be disappointed at Paro! There are cafes, restaurants, museums and places of nature hiking that will certainly keep you engaged throughout your trip. The most iconic landmarks in Paro include Taktsang Monastery, Namsay Artisanal Brewery, Archery Ground, Chele La Pass and many more.
For the adrenaline junkies Paro is the perfect destination to try your guts! Paro has some of the most challenging biking trails of the world which is bound to allure any biker who wants to scale the height on the wheels. Apart from that you can go on hiking, trekking, rafting, kayaking and stargazing. The Snowman Trek which is one of the highest trekking trails of the world will leave you awestruck as you ride along the trail and get a bird’s eye view of the stunning panorama from a height of 5,400 metres.
Visiting Paro during summer will give you a chance to explore the nooks of the city of Paro and appreciate the stunning view of the landscapes at the backdrop of the shimmering white Himalayas. During this time the climate is temperate and suitable for adventurous activities. But, if you want snow in your vacation, winter should be your choicest season.
Punakha

Punakha was the capital of Bhutan before Thimpu was made the capital city. There are many places to see in Punakha. It is popular for its temples, sightseeing viewpoints, courtyards, valleys, towers, and mini excursions in and around this town. This is one of the religious centers of Bhutan. It is at the confluence of two rivers of Bhutan. You can visit this town for taking short tours, stopping before heading towards other things to do in the Haa Valley, Gangtey, and Wangdue which have many places that are a haven for wildlife and nature photographers. These valleys have Alpine forests and mountain views that are serene and breathtaking. You get a countryside feel when you visit this riverside town, Punakha. There are not too many tourists places to visit in Punakha. Tourists come to this town to rest, eat, and drink, before visiting other places of interest in Bhutan. You can visit monasteries, temples, Chorten, walking bridge, hill side village, and a collage where you can interact with the monks. You can go to the riverside as a weekend getaway. For most part, there is handful of places to be visited in this part of Bhutan. Quiet and tranquil, this is one of the holy places in Bhutan that is a home to monks. However, around Punakha, there are numerous outdoor and adventure activities available for tourists.
Phuntsholing


The Punakha Dzong is one of the most famous places in Bhutan. It literally means ‘the palace of great happiness’. It is the administrative center of Bhutan and also one of the most scenic places in the country. The Punakha Dzong is one of the most majestic and artful structures of Bhutan and the places around it are also some of the most experience packed tourist places. It is a place which offers several other places around it, which will make your holidays worth it. The most special things about all the places in Bhutan is that they are so serene and filled with sheer tranquility, that you will have no words to describe it, but just experience it. The green mountains, deep valleys, religious shrines, culture, tradition, local hospitality and the positive vibes of Bhutan will leave you mesmerized and awe-struck, as you will never experience a similar kind of environment anywhere else in the world.
Trongsa

Trongsa is known as the gateway to the eastern Bhutan, and is one of the oldest historical towns of Bhutan. The first monastery of Bhutan was built in this town in the 15th century. This is a small town, but a sacred town for people in Bhutan, and can be covered by foot. This is a town with fewer landmarks and places to see and things to do. You can go sightseeing on foot, and do not need a transportation to cover this town. There are no water sports, adventure, or any other activities except for taking walking trails in Trongsa. There are many places to see in and around Trongsa. Bhutan has an autonomous culture and an interesting history. Bhutan is called ‘The land of Thunder Dragon’. It is a place that holds Dzong fortress where all the important decisions are made and the Emperor is crowned. This place is also surrounded by higher mountains and lush green on all the sides. The places to see here are mostly temples, cultural and historic monuments, paintings, costumes, and artifacts of the Bhutan Dynasty. There is no scope for having a night life, enjoying water sports, or any adventure activities in Trongsa. If you are looking to get into the life and history of Bhutan, you can visit this town and its surrounding areas.
Bumthang

Bumthang has a distinctive charm that entices the visitors and separates it from the other cities, towns and districts of Bhutan. It is composed of 4 small valleys i.e. Chumey, Tang, Ura and Choekhor. Since, all the important temples and the dzongs are found in the Choekhor, is is often referred to as the Bumthang valley. The profound spiritual region of this city is rooted in this religious land. This city is also the traditional home to the renowned Buddhist philosopher and teacher Pema Linga. The present day dynasty traces its origin to the descendants of Pema Linga. Legends give 2 key notions on the name of this place. One, the canyon here is supposedly in the shape of Bumpa which is the container of pious water usually found on the shrine of a lhakhang. Thang here stands for a flat place or an open field. Another but rather a less respectful translation of the name relates particularly to the beautiful women residing here as bum stands for ‘girl’. Besides, the pristine beauty of the four valleys, Bumthang also has numerous other places to see along with a few of the oldest Buddhist temples of the kingdom. Bumthang is definitely one of the best tourist places in Bhutan which can be well explored on foot with walks to suit everyone.
Dagapela


Taga Dzong


Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag is at the border of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in India. It is also known as Phuentsholling’s little sister as its architectural is similar. Samdrup Jongkhar is a scenic place where you can find Indian and Bhutanese culture, shops, and items. This is in the South of Bhutan. This place is also an entry point from India to Bhutan. There are many things to do and places to see when you visit this district town. This is a town popular for its nature, sightseeing, and scenic spots. Wildlife and nature photographers can find this place to be a haven. You can take treks in the national parks and enjoy food and drinks in the restaurants of this area. There are many historical sites that you can see when you visit this town. Nature parks provide the best scenic view from this place. You can also go shopping for souvenirs in the local markets when you visit this place. Trekking and going on cycling tours is one of the most popular activities that tourists do when they visit this place. This is not a town for nightlife. However, there are drinks available while dining out.

Wangdue Phodrang is a town in West of Bhutan that is hot and dry. Staying in cottages closer to the river is a wonderful experience. Bhutan has a distinct culture, cuisine, and history. There are many nearby villages that can be visited for its beauty and sightseeing. This is a small town that is more of a stopover before going to other cities. There are a few places to see and only one or two things to do when in this town. There is only one airport closer to this town which can be used for arrival and departure. There are transportation facilities available within this small town. There are only valleys and a handful of places that you can see in this town. You can get around on this town by foot or by bus or taxi. There is only one festival that can be attended in the month of November. This is a conservative town. So, there is no scope of nightlife. There are no bars or clubs available here. Also, adventure and outdoor activities are also minimum. There are no water sports activities available here. You can only go on small treks in the nearby valleys.
Geylegphug

Trashigang

Situated on the bank of Gamri Chhu River, this enchanting town is truly bewitching. At the eastern part of Bhutan, Trashigang is one of the major tourist spots of the country. The entire district of Trashigang consist a number of beautifully constructed monasteries, which you must pay a visit to.
Visiting Trashigang is no less than visiting the home of nature. Covered with mountains all around, Trashigang is not only a treat to your eyes, but also a perfect escapade from the hustle and bustle of the crowded megacities. Visit this heavenly place once to forget all your worries and get refreshed.
If you are wondering where to stay in Trashigang, then it is to be disclosed first that you would not find five star hotels or lavish resorts there. But there are a number of comfortable and satisfying hotels for your stay. A few examples of hotels are Druk Zhongar Hotel, Hotel Druk Doethjung, Lengkhar Resort, etc.
For the shopaholics, Trashigang has a few options through which you can satisfy your shopping craves. The locally crafted accessories such as Bhutanese masks, woven baskets and stuffs, boots, belts, native style of embroidery, are very interesting to see and buy. Also, Bhutan is known for its woollen garments. Don’t forget to buy high quality sweaters and other woollen wears and they make a great gifting option too for your loved ones back home.
Nightlife in Trashigang is dull. There are no nightclubs or pubs where you could hang out after the sun goes off to sleep.
Other Attractions

Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan and stretches up to a length of approximately 520 feet! You can enjoy spectacular views of the river flowing underneath the bridge or the valleys rolling in every direction.
Made with solid planks of wood and cables anchored to massive cement block, the bridge is surprisingly stable for its length and is covered in colourful religious flags at all points. It also acts as a starting point for several multi-day trekking trips in the region.
You can also stopover at the bridge if you are visiting the famous Punakha Dzong as it lies only half a mile away from the religious centre. You simply have to head north from the dzong, walk past the cremation grounds and follow the river to reach the bridge.
Location: Punakha, Bhutan
Timing: Open all-day
Price: Free

Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which is situated in the mountain ranges of Bhutan. It was constructed to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the fourth King of Bhutan. This architectural marvel houses over a hundred thousand smaller statues of Buddha inside of it.
Both the bigger statue and the ones inside have been built using bronze gilded in Gold. This 169-metre tall statue stands amidst the ruins of Kuensel Phodrang, the palace of the thirteenth Desi Druk. If you are looking for places to visit in Bhutan in December, this beautiful gold and bronze structure sitting amidst a 943.4 acres wide conserve forest must be on your list!
Location: Kuensel Phodrang, Thimphu, Bhutan
Timing: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Price: Free

Rinpung Dzong holds an important place as a major religious and political centre of Bhutan. This large monastery and fortress belongs to the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school and is also home to the district Monastic Body. When here, you can visit the fourteen distinct shrines and chapels housed inside the Dzong and admire the rich Bhutanese architecture of the place.
The original building has been a part of the landscape since the 15th century and has been capturing the imagination of people worldwide, especially after its appearance in the 1993 movie Little Buddha. The place also hosts colourful festivals during the Spring months where traditional mask dances are organised for several days.
Location: Paro, Bhutan
Timing: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Price: Free

Simtokha Dzong also known as the Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang or the ‘Palace of the Profound Meaning of Secret Mantras’ is a relatively small dzong and the first of its kind in the country. It was built in the year 1629 and today houses one of the premier Dzongkha language learning institutes.
While here, you can spend your time admiring the architecture of the place with traditional Buddhist aspects like prayer wheels or around 300 carvings of saints and philosophers made in slate. This dzong is one of the most popular Bhutan places to visit in December and welcomes people from around the world.
Location: Simtokha, Bhutan
Timing: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Price: Free

Jigme Dorji National Park is the second-largest national park in the country. Apart from covering multiple districts, it also pans over all three climatic zones of Bhutan. You can experience everything from frozen glaciers to dense jungles, rivers and historic sites without having to leave the park.
It is home to important cultural sites like the fortresses of Lingshi Dzong and Gasa Dzong and sacred mountains like Mount Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake. The diverse animal cover in the area includes Bengal Tigers, bharals, black musk deer, Indian leopards and over 300 species of birds. If you decide to make it a place to visit in Bhutan in December, you can also witness the glaciers Lunana and Laya Gewogs in their full glory.
Location: Bhutan
Timing: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Price: Free

The houses of Dzong posses countless paintings and statues of Buddha, religious figures, and other deities including the eight manifestations of Shakya Gyalpo- the Buddha of Compassion, Guru Rimpoche, Jampelyang- the Bodhisattava of Wisdom and many others.
Highlights: There is a monastic school, a storeroom, and a chamber to store weapons. To the left, there is a water fortress called Chu Dzong, which is used as a prayer hall for the students. At the junction, there is a Chorten from Zhabdrung’s
Time: Open from 9am to 5pm and spring and autumn season is the best time to visit this place.

Uniquely located on top of the mountain 1200 meters above the Paro Valley, this monastery is surrounded by the scenic beauty. This white building topped with the golden roof on the back drop of blue sky and lush green hills look stunning. The centuries old legend of this monastery makes it more mystical. The isolated location of Tiger’s Nest can only be reached by following the gruelling mountain paths.
Location: The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is located in Paro, approximately 10 kilometres away from the city.
Best time/season: March to May and September to November.
Approx Price: N/A
Difficulty Level: Moderately challenging.
Top Experiences To Do in Taktsang Palphug Monastery (Paro)

- 5D/4N

Highlights: The very element of surprise that comes from exploring such a wide and flat valley without any trees post a tiring climb through the forests is amplified by an impression of the vast space that is actually a very rare experience in Bhutan since most of the Bhutan’s valleys are tightly enclosed. It is a moderate trek which leads you to the villages of Khotokha and Gogona while passing you through the fields and meadows followed by rhododendrons, juniper and magnolia that are in full bloom especially in the month of April. Besides the beautiful scenic valley as well as the mountain trails which pass through the scenic forest you can also make a visit to the blacked necked crane information centre and the Gangtey monastery.
Location: The Gangtey Valley is located in Bhutan.
Timings: Open round the year.
Pricing: Entry is free.
Dochula Pass

The chortens and Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple with beautiful ornate details against the lush green forest backdrop make this spot famous among locals and tourists alike. The Dochu La Wangyal Festival where the colourful mask dance can be witnessed also makes this place illustrious.
Location: The Pass is located at a height of 10,171 ft on east-west Road from Thimpu to Punakha.
Best time/season: March to May and September to November
Approx Price: N/A
Difficulty Level: N/A

Though this is strenuous trek but prior experience on the Alpine is not mandatory. Apart from travelling through picturesque lakes and devour natural beauty at its best, one also gets the chance to travel through various traditional Bhutaneese villages which gives a good idea about their lifestyle here.
Highlights: High altitude lakes
Location: Near Thimpu, Bhutan
Best Season: April- June, September- October
Zuri Dzong

Highlights: Zuri Dzong has some phenomenally fine murals in the upper chapels. One of these murals is dedicated to the protector Zaa. You can undertake a hike from Gönsaka Lhakhang to the Zuri Dzong. The peak of the Zuri Dzong is an ideal spot to have a bird eye view of the complete Paro Valley. This is the oldest Dzong of Bhutan. Here you can come across a cave where Buddha once came in the 8th century to meditate. This peaceful pace allows both the tourists and Bhutanese to soak in the tranquil which radiates from the extraordinary view. It is something that you can stare at for hours in absolute awe and wonder.
Location: It is located in Paro in Bhutan.
Timings: Can be visited anytime
Pricing: There is no entry fee to Zuri Dzong.
Gangtey Trek

During winters these isolated valleys forms the home for rare species of black necked cranes from Tibetan plateau. Outstanding views of mesmerizing natural surroundings with juniper and magnolia forest and green landscapes highlight the trekking trail. Villages like Gogona and Khotokha falls on the road.
Highlights: Thrung, the black necked crane
Duration: 3 days/3 nights
Location: Near Tabiting, Bhutan
Best Season: September to May
Things to carry: Baseball cap for strong sun

In this festival one can view several cultural programs, celebration with folk music and dances based on the theme of conserving the species and dramas on the same content. The drama is usually shown by school children to create awareness on environment conservation. Phobjikha Environment Management Committee (PEMC), organizes the event which became almost a part of the culture in Phobjikha valley
Highlights: sight of crane dance
Festival time: In the month of November

Highlights: Sight of Druk Wangel Lhakhang.
Festival time: In the month of December

Highlights: Phajoding Temple is a 15th century temple. Built by a saint named Shacha Richen, the temple lies at an elevation of 12,138 feet. It is enveloped by the mixed conifer forests that offer you a magnificent look. To reach the temple, you’ll have to undertake a 3 hour hike from the nearest road that is located above the capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu. This once used to the most decorated and richest monasteries in the country.
Location: Phajoding Temple lies on the Phajoding-Pumola Trail in Phajoding, Bhutan.
Timings: Open everyday from dawn to dusk.
Pricing: Entry is free.