Top 5 Places in Bhutan That’ll Leave You Awestruck!

Bhutan is an undiscovered gem of the Himalayas with untouched beauty and peaceful monasteries, and colorful customs. The Kingdom of Bhutan, or the ‘Land of Thunder Dragon’, is an ideal destination for mysticism and nature for its visitors.  

Bhutan is a wonderland that combines spirituality and nature. The remote monasteries, splendid beauty, culture and appetizing delicacies combine to make your Bhutan experience a lifetime memory. 

Check out this list of five breathtaking places that’ll leave you amazed on your visit here –

1. Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)

The Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is perched on the edge of a cliff, about 3,120 meters above sea level. This is a sacred Buddhist Monastery, where it is believed that Guru Padmasambhava meditated and spread Buddhism in Bhutan. The hike to the monastery offers a thrilling experience as you get to witness the scenic views of the green Paro Valley, providing an exhilarating journey. 

2. Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong, which means the Palace of Great Happiness, is located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, and is most stunning and historically significant dzongs (fortress) in Bhutan. This spectacular building features highly ornate Bhutanese design in its white-washed walls, the roofs of gold and colorful murals. Religious splendid festivals such as Punakha Tshechu are also held in the Dzong which draws culture lovers. Punakha Dzong is a spectacular sight because of its picturesque surrounding that fosters a rich history.

3. Dochula Pass

Dochula Pass, at an altitude of 3,100 meters is the mountain pass to the south of the Thimphu Valley, where about 108 memorial ‘Chorten’s are constructed in honor of soldiers of the kingdom. Here, on a clear day, you can see the snow capped peaks of the Eastern Himalayas, the highest peak of which is Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest peak. This pass is also the host of the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, a temple showcasing Bhutanese art. The misty surroundings and tranquil atmosphere of this place is a haven like abode for nature lovers & photographers alike. 

4. Phobjikha Valley

Phobjikha Valley is valley of glaciers known about his several beautiful views and high Biodiversity about its uniqueness. This area is the habitat of the rare black-necked cranes that migrates from Tibet during winter. The valley is the best for walking in nature, spotting birds, and going on to see the rural life of the people in the Bhutan. Gangtey Monastery, perched high on the valley offers the spiritual touch to the area. If you Crave peace and want to be in the mother nature, Phobjikha Valley is somewhere to visit. 

5. Bumthang Valley

Bumthang Valley, also known as the “Spiritual Heartland of Bhutan” is home to some of the oldest temples and monastery in the country. These four major valleys which are Chokhor, Tang, Ura and Chhume, provide spectacular landscapes, as well as cultural experiences. Monastery Jambay Lhakhang and Kurje Lhakhang is the richest religious spot and become most important pilgrimage site. Bumthang is also known for its handwoven textiles, local farm tours to apple trees and dairy farms rendering it a great combination of mysticism and local living.