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50 breathtaking photos of Bhutan to make you pack your bags and go

Photographic evidence of an epic 3 weeks in Bhutan with , through 50 of my favorite photos of Bhutan.

Together at the top of a mountain, we watch ominous storm clouds roll in the distance. Biting winds tangle hair as prayer flags slap and clap behind us, but we’re all too distracted by the view to care. A green valley sprawls below us, forests and roads and rice paddies intertwining to weave a lush Bhutanese vista.

For the umpteenth time, the beauty of Bhutan overwhelms me.

I’ve been in the country for almost three weeks, but every time I look around, it feels like I’m seeing the country for the first time. No matter which direction you look, everything is too surreal, too beautiful. I say as much to Sebastiaan and Gabriel (founder of ), my trekking companions atop the mountain.

“I know what you mean,” Gabriel laughs into the wind. “Sometimes I look at a view and want to shout ‘Oh come on , this can’t be real!’”

I grin. That’s exactly it.

Is Bhutan really so beautiful?  

Since that moment atop the mountain, I’ve met endless numbers of people deathly curious about Bhutan.

I attempt to describe my love for Bhutan and its people, and though my conviction (and/or foaming at the mouth) seems to get my point across, I struggle to verbally do Bhutan justice.

Seeing is believing; it’s hard to wrap your mind around the fact that such an idyllic kingdom exists without some photographic evidence.

So let’s go on a little visual jaunt of my time in Bhutan… because sometimes words just don’t cut it.

Photos of Bhutan: a visual journey through one of the most beautiful countries in the world

Tingtibi, a small town in the Zhemgang district of Southern Bhutan, was my first stop. The town’s temple blew my mind; little did I know that this is nothing compared to what I’d see in the coming weeks!

Next destination: Birtii, an off the beaten track village in Bhutan amongst the hills with only 23 houses!

I requested Gray Langur choose homestays over hotels for my itinerary, and my wish was granted! We stayed in a homestay in Birtii, and despite not speaking any English, our hostess plied the group full of delicious rice beer, known as singchiang, and some damned tasty (and spicy) stir-fried beef and vegetables, Bhutanese style.

… all made with ingredients from her own garden, of course!

After Birtii, winding mountain roads took us through village after village of picture perfect houses. Bhutan’s government requires all architecture in the country to use traditional window styles, and the result is a visual treat.

Inndocholing Dzong was the first of many impressive dzong fortresses to come. Dzongs in Bhutan were originally constructed as military fortresses, but these days, they’re mostly used as joint monasteries and administrative centers. This dzong would’ve seemed timeless…

… but for the group of young monks playing a heated game of football in Crocs outside the walls!

A few hours down the road, Kuengarabten was supposed to be a quick stop en route to another town. But with views like this, I couldn’t bring myself to leave… so we didn’t! Karma, guide and friend extraordinaire , arranged for us to spend the night in his cousin’s house .

Good thing he did, otherwise I would’ve missed out on this sunrise view of Kuengarabten Dzong !

Trongsa, a “city” of sorts in central Bhutan, was our next stop. The mountainside city wraps around Trongsa Dzong , the longest in the country. Monks’ sandals clapped the stone floors on the monastic side as the formal shoes of administrative officials clicked on the other.

After driving away from Trongsa over mountain passes and along cliff sides, we ended up in paradise, AKA Phobjikha Valley.

More commonly known as “Gangtey”, Phobjikha Valley is home to Gangtey Monastery, one of the most impressive in the country. First established in the 1600s by Rigdzin Pema Tinley, the monastery is home to more than 100 monks, and is lookin’ mighty fresh these days thanks to a full restoration in the 2000s.

Visitors to the monastery—and all other monasteries and dzongs in the country—must dress respectfully. For foreigners, this means covering up bare arms and legs. For Bhutanese men, this means donning a gho and kabney , a traditional robe and scarf like this man.

The monastery sits atop a hill overlooking Phobjikha Valley, surrounded by small but pretty Gangtey village.

Pleasant as the village was, it was filled with hotels. I’m all about local experiences, so rather than stay in a hotel in Gangtey, Gray Langur opted for one of the “farmhouse” homestays down in the valley.

Twenty minutes of bumpy driving into the valley brought us to our farmhouse retreat. The home was cozy despite the cool air, and the greenery of the surrounding vegetable fields and forests was enough to calm even the most hectic of minds (… it sure worked on mine!).

From mouthwatering homemade food, to the softest beds of the entire trip, there were plenty of reasons to love the homestay…

… but the adorable amma, grandmother, might have been my favorite!

She stood outside to watch us go, praying for our safe travels as I said my goodbyes.

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During a long drive from Phobjikha Valley to Punakha to Gasa, we joined up with a to begin our journey to the Royal Highlander Festival. Following a night of camping under the stars, we woke up to this view in Gasa, the starting point for our trek.

The two-day trek to Laya, Bhutan’s highest settlement at almost 4,000 meters above sea level, was a long and wet slog. Between rain and muddy trails, pack mules hurtling along the narrow paths, and a misunderstanding about distances ( a common occurrence in South Asia… ), it tested everyone’s patience.

… but snow-capped mountains, a lively festival, and nomadic cultures I could never even imagine greeted us in Laya. The festival at the end well justified the (rather soggy) means.

Yaks in outfits, the finest livestock this side of the Himalayas, and a royal visit—just another day at the Royal Highlander Festival! Don’t miss this Royal Highlander photo essay for the full-on festival experience.

Two days of nomadic display, two days of trekking down the mountains, and the group ended up back in Punakha, home to Bhutan’s largest and most spectacular dzong .

The outside was already breathtaking, but I assure you, the interior is even more impressive.

The ornate dzong was once the seat of Bhutan’s government, before the capital shifted to Thimphu in 1955. Like others in the country, the dzong serves as both an administrative building and a monastery.

… oh, and a sweet ceremonial hall, of course! The current King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema tied the knot here in 2011.

Stunner as it is, Punakha’s dzong is not the city’s only draw. On a hill outside of Punakha sits the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, which supposedly wards away bad spirits and brings peace to Bhutan and the world. It wasn’t, however, very effective at warding away fog.

Fog and mist plagued the trek up, but with a little luck (and a lot of patience), the clouds eventually cleared to reveal the golden valley below.

Punakha sightseeing complete, the group headed to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Buddha Point, the city’s most famous sight, was abuzz with people; His Holiness Je Khenpo, one of the most respected monks in Bhutan, was preaching at the foot of the Buddha for several weeks! An immensely colorful crowd in traditional gho and kira gathered to sit and listen to his words.

After ogling all of the beautiful traditional clothes, I was excited to peruse Bhutanese textiles on my own in the shops and markets around Thimphu. This woman showed me swathes of fabric in every color of the rainbow… and let me try on a women’s kira to boot! (Note: super comfy.)

Retail adventures complete, it was time for the Gray Langur tour group to head towards the Paro airport to end their journey… but not before stopping at the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s most iconic sight.

Compared to other sights in Bhutan, the monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang, was busy with tourists. To escape the small crowds, I followed a path diverging from the main drag. Hundreds of fluttering prayer flags framed my view; only the sound of rustling pine needles reached my ears.

Though the Tiger’s Nest was the last stop for the Gray Langur group, my tour wasn’t over yet! Sebastiaan, Karma, and I drove out towards the often overlooked Haa Valley, several hours’ driving from Paro. Though Haa was pleasant enough, the scenery en route was the real show stopper.

On our way through the mountains, we saw an old couple on the side of the road, hands out in the hopes of hitching a ride. As a fellow hitchhiker , who was I to deny them a ride in our spacious tourist car? I asked the driver to stop and give them a lift.

The couple were delighted. As we drove along the road, they told us they were going to their sister’s house to help her harvest chilies. Easier said than done; from the point where we dropped them off, they said they’d trek for four hours to reach their sister’s house.

Upon arriving in Haa, we made our way to Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, more commonly known as the White and Black Temples. The freshly restored walls of the White Temple greeted our arrival, and the deep vibrations of pounding drums and chanting monks drew us further in.

After watching the monks perform their rituals, we piled back into the car, zigzagging up the mountains until we reached the highest point of the day: Chele La pass. At almost 4,000 meters above sea level, freezing gusts of wind stung my cheeks as I climbed to the top… but I was too busy stalking the yaks grazing amongst the thousands of prayer flags to mind.

Ominous clouds rolled past as I stood atop Chele La, and I eventually returned to the car rather than be caught in the rain (or snow). Good thing I did; we encountered multiple rainbows as we began our descent down the other side of mountain. Why yes, Bhutan, you really did outdo yourself.

After a day of rest in the capital, Sebastiaan, ’s founder Gabriel, and I set out on the final leg of the trip: two nights and three days on part of the Druk Path, a trekking trail running between Paro and Thimphu. Though sun shone down on us for most of the day, clouds began to gather as we approached our first camp below Jele Dzong .

We knew we should rush down and take shelter in our camp, but we couldn’t resist the spectacle of watching snow blanket the mountains along the horizon. Eventually, the winds picked up, and darkness began to fall; it was time to concede to the elements, and take shelter in the camp.

A massive amount of snow and hail fell from the clouds, transforming the grassy hills into a wintry wonderland. The next morning I woke up with the sun, trekking back up to Jele Dzong as the first golden rays of light illuminated the freshly frosted mountain.

Alas, within a few hours, the warmth of the day melted the icy coating on the ground (if not the snow on the horizon).

Camp packed and ready, we carried along the Druk Path past grassy fields and mossy forests, ending up in a clearing overlooking a valley.

Despite below freezing temperatures, I emerged from my toasty sleeping bag an hour before dawn the next morning. I clawed my way up a steep slope of trees, pine needles, and deep snow just in time to catch the sun rising over camp. For the thousandth time, I was lost for words.

But all good things must come to an end: several hours’ traipsing down the mountain, and we were back in the car en route to Thimphu for our last day in Bhutan. After freezing in the mountains, I was delighted to have a hot shower and admire the view from the hotel room window… but then I realized that’s no way to spend my last day in the country!

I called my guide, Karma, about going to lunch, and what began with lunch evolved into an adventure . During the day, we roamed the capital’s streets; at night we shared beers with another guide, and chilled with Karma’s friends in his Thimphu apartment. A far better ending than a night in at the hotel!

With a heavy heart (and a slightly fuzzy mind) I leaned my head out the car window the next morning, watching landscapes roll by on the way to the airport. I didn’t want to leave Bhutan, and I didn’t know when I would next return. As the plane took off, the mountains of Bhutan receding beneath me, only one thing was certain: that I would find my way back somehow, someday.

Want to travel to Bhutan?

I traveled to Bhutan with , who sponsored the entirety of my three weeks in the country, both off and on the beaten track. In case you didn’t notice, I had a blast, and totally fell in love with the country. I recommend them (and, more importantly, their guides ) to anyone interested in visiting Bhutan.

Gray Langur offers both set and customized tours; for more details and prices. If you want more information about Bhutan, check out my guide with everything you should know about traveling to Bhutan .

Planning a trip to Bhutan and wondering about the cost? Check out my complete guide on the cost of travel to Bhutan !

Alex Reynolds

20 thoughts on “ 50 breathtaking photos of bhutan to make you pack your bags and go ”.

I thought I have known my country Bhutan for years but actually, your photos brought tears in my eyes. Lots of Love from Bhutan.

I’m very happy to hear that. Bhutan is indeed gorgeous!

Indeed an amazing photos. Thank you very much. I am damn missing my country. Been away for 4 years and seems like a millennium. Amazing and could not hold my tears.

do they have dark banks hidden budda vaults or is it old mines and prospectable territory why would any body care for such a place enless it contained riches does anyone there look for minerelas in the ground

Amazing photos! The effect of absolute immersion! I have always had a special interest in Bhutan, its history, culture, traditions, people and, of course, art. But, thanks to your photos, I literally plunged into this magical world! How I would love to get there! Thank you very much!

FIST, THANK YOU TO GIVE US BEAUTIFUL PIC. BHUTAN IS VERY BEAUTIFUL PLACE.

I gave cbd gummies a prove with a view the primary time, and I’m amazed! They tasted great and provided a sanity of calmness and relaxation. My lay stress melted away, and I slept less ill too. These gummies are a game-changer on the side of me, and I extremely commend them to anyone seeking unconstrained emphasis relief and well-advised sleep.

Hi Alex, your pictures are magic! I haven’t seen more beautiful depiction of Bhutan in anyone else’s travelogues so far,… cant wait to go there and see these panoramas in real life myself. counting days 🙂 thank you for sharing.

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9 places in Bhutan that should be on your itinerary

Jan 3, 2024 • 6 min read

To get a taste of Bhutan’s singular culture and natural beauty, start with these top destinations © Wout Kok / Shutterstock

Colorful monasteries, snow-capped peaks, peaceful villages lined with chili farms: the beauty of Bhutan is visible around every turn of its hairpin roads.

Internationally famous for its commitment to “Gross National Happiness,” carbon-negative status and eye-popping daily Sustainable Development Fee for visitors, Bhutan has worked hard to protect its unique culture and natural beauty – for good reason. With nearly 70% of the country blanketed in forest, the country is rich in outdoor activities and charming villages that showcase a distinctive culture found nowhere else on Earth. 

And while it can take hours via car to reach each destination, the scenic drives (and those terrifying curves) are part of the experience of visiting this truly special place. For those interested in trekking, Buddhist spirituality and more, here are our picks for the best places to add to your Bhutan itinerary.

Best for hitting Bhutan’s highlights

The gateway to Bhutan, Paro International Airport is where travelers careen between steep mountain slopes before their aircraft touches down in the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” Less than 10 minutes away from the airport, the historic riverside town of Paro is known for the National Museum , Rinpung Dzong  fortress and iconic Taktshang Goemba  (Tiger’s Nest Monastery). The town is a place you will – and must – visit in the country.

Wander Paro’s streets and the Paro Weekend Market  to peruse shops and stalls offering handmade souvenirs. When you’ve worked up an appetite, stop into any number of restaurants, like Momo Corner, for fresh, handmade momo dumplings.

Planning tip: Due to its airport-side locale, Paro is either the first or last stop on any Bhutan traveler’s itinerary. Whether you’ve just arrived or are wrapping up your trip, hire a car and a guide to take in all historical and religious sights spread throughout Paro Valley.

Best for a bit of city life

Bhutan’s capital city beautifully combines culture with a cosmopolitan vibe. Spend the day creating your own stamps at the Bhutan Postal Museum , touring the massive Thimphu Dzong  and watching policemen manually direct traffic (there are no traffic lights in the entire country).

When the sun dips below the mountains, enjoy the nightlife at bars and clubs like Mojo Park and the Grey Area , a popular art bar with live music where you can shout “ tashi delek !” (a Tibetan expression for good luck and health) with locals over a bottle or two of Bhutanese ara (a spirit distilled from rice).

Best for experiencing rural life

Beloved for rustic riverside farms where cows graze among rice and chili fields, Punakha is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan and home to what is arguably its most beautiful dzong (or monastery-fortress), which sits majestically along the Punakha River.

Life in Punakha revolves around its rivers. A short walk from Punakha Dzong, one of the country’s largest suspension bridges is wrapped with fluttering prayer flags. Travelers can also go white-water rafting along the rapids.

Planning tip: Punakha’s low elevation means its temperatures tend to be warmer and sunnier than nearby towns and districts – which means you’ll need fewer layers and more sunscreen.

Best for fashion and textile lovers

Adventurous travelers can expect to peek behind the curtain (or perhaps the shawl) in Bhutan’s textile hub, Khoma. In the eastern district of Lhuentse, this village is home to roughly 100 residents – and zero cars. Khoma’s artisans spend their days weaving ornate patterns and motifs on traditional Bhutanese looms, using dyes made from the area's minerals and plants.

5. Gangtey Valley

Best for outdoor activities

Drive past the mountainside yaks and into one of Bhutan’s most sacred places. Tranquility and peace emanate from its main attraction, Gangtey Goemba , a 17th-century monastery overlooking the valley’s farmland.

But its Gangtey’s natural beauty that really stands out. Here, you can hike myriad trails, many with relatively flat stretches. Archery, mountain biking, camping, birding and picnics are other pastimes possible throughout the valley. 

Planning tip: Naturalists should plan a visit between late October and mid-March to see the famous endangered black-necked cranes that migrate yearly from Tibet.

6. Dochu La

Best for a pit stop

We’ll bet you 100 Bhutanese ngultrum that this scenic rest stop will make an appearance on your Bhutan itinerary. Known as one of the best lookouts in Bhutan, this mountain pass lies on the route from Thimphu to Punakha. 

It’s marked with 108 stupas to honor the Royal Bhutanese soldiers who died in the 2003 military battle against Indian insurgents. On the opposite side of the road, you can visit a temple named Druk Wangyal Lhakhang and a restaurant serving coffee, cakes and momos . On a clear day, sparkling views of Himalayan peaks lie beyond.

Best for off-the-beaten-track adventures

An arduous seven-hour ride from Thimphu to Gasa only takes you part of the way to this remote northwestern village. From Gasa, you’ll strap on your hiking boots and trek three to five hours up to the highest village in the country. 

And the views of the Himalayan peaks are worth it.

Home to the Indigenous Layap people, this car-free village is filled with yak herders, farmers of c ordyceps (a precious mushroom) and others who honor old traditions.

Planning tip: Arrange your trip around the famous Royal Highland Festival in late October, when you’ll witness one of Bhutan’s most culturally unique and significant annual events.

8. Bumthang

Best for spirituality seekers

This centrally located and mountainous district is also one of the country’s most spiritual. In its four valleys, important sites include Jampey Lhakhang , a historic 7th-century Buddhist temple, and the Jakar Dzong , an auspicious fortress built in 1549. Rest your legs and indulge in some fresh cheese and jams at Bumthang Swiss Cheese , followed by a local beer next door at Red Panda Beer Factory. 

Planning tip: Driving to Bumthang takes hours over often treacherous roads. If you’re pressed for time or prone to motion sickness, consider a domestic flight from Paro.

9. Haa Valley

Best for immersing yourself in nature

While there’s no shortage of postcard-worthy vistas in Bhutan, Haa Valley is in a league of its own. Near the China–India border three hours from Paro, you’ll find some of the country’s most spectacular hiking trails, which lead through lush green valleys and monastery-dotted villages.

Covered in alpine forests and jagged mountain peaks, this small section of the country is also one of the most unspoiled. Travelers can take off on the Haa Panoramic Hiking Trail and the multiday Sagala Trek, or simply sit by the Haa River and take in 360-degree views of pristine nature.

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25 Incredible Photos That Will Inspire a Trip to Bhutan

I took a trip to Bhutan in October 2019 after I had seen amazing photos from a fellow travel blogger about her trip to the Land of the Thunder Dragon – and I was instantly inspired! I booked a 7-day trip with the leading travel agency Drukasia and left a piece of my heart in Bhutan. If you are looking for a fascinating, slightly off-the-beaten path destination, I highly recommend a trip to Bhutan!

If you decide to take a trip to Bhutan , be sure to check out my other articles:

• How To Visit Bhutan: Ultimate Bhutan Travel Guide
• Hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan: 10 Things To Know
• 10 Amazing Facts About Bhutan You Won’t Believe

Here are 25 incredible photos that will inspire a trip to Bhutan.

These photos of bhutan will make you fall in love, memorial chorten, thimphu.

The National Memorial Chorten is a beautiful white structure crowned with a golden spire. It was built in memory of Third Druk Gyalpo and is dedicated to World Peace. People come here to make their rounds around the stupa for prayers, especially in the morning hours. On auspicious days, you can even visit the inside of the stupa and see a beautiful golden Buddha statue.

Punakha Dzong

This fortification is one of Bhutan’s most stunning structures and was built strategically between the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers in 1637. Punakha Dzong is one of only five in Bhutan. Dzongs serve as administrative centers for government offices and monasteries and their massive architecture is unique to Bhutan, Tibet and parts of India.

Lakhor Prayer Wheels

Prayer wheels are everywhere in Bhutan people actually distinguish between different types. Mani Prayer Wheels are hand held prayer wheels that are usually used when people walk around Buddhist relics or temples. The prayer wheels shown below are called Lakhor prayer wheels and are placed in buildings like monasteries and temples. Usually there are up to 108 prayer wheels in each of these temples as it is considered to be an auspicious and lucky number in Buddhism. People usually walk clockwise as they seek blessings through turning each of these wheels.

Bhutan’s Temple Art

When taking a trip to Bhutan, you will be visiting a lot of temples. While you aren’t allowed to take any photos or videos inside the temple rooms, you are allowed to take pictures in the courtyards. Bhutan is filled with spectacular 16th- to 19th-century wall paintings in over 2,000 temples and monasteries across the country. The Bhutanese government has actually been working with international restoration specialists on different preservation techniques for their local art treasures, according to an article published in The Guardian .

Buddha Dordenma Statue

The Buddha Dordenma statue sits atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park overlooking the Southern entrance to Thimphu Valley. The statue fulfills an ancient prophecy from the 8th century A.D that is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. At 51.5 meters high, the statue is among the largest statues of Buddha in the world.

Bhutanese red rice

Bhutanese red rice  is a medium-grain rice grown in the Kingdom of  Bhutan  in the eastern Himalayas. It is the staple rice of the Bhutanese people. Bhutanese red rice is a red japonica rice. It is semi-milled—some of the reddish bran is left on the rice.

Bhutan’s Environmental Sustainability

Bhutan has built sustainability into its national identity and has become the only carbon-negative country in the world. So much so that their King Jigme Singye Wangchuck developed his signature Gross National Happiness index based on four principles: sustainable development, environmental protection, cultural preservation, and good governance.

Phallus Paintings in Bhutan

Phallus paintings are esoteric symbols in Bhutan and have their origin in the Chimi Lhakhang monastery near Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. The village and its monastery were built in honor of Lama Drukpa Kunley who lived in the 15-16th century and who was popularly known as the “Mad Saint” or “Divine Madman” for his unorthodox ways of teaching, which amounted to being bizarre and shocking.

Vajrayana Buddhism

Bhutanese Dzong Architecture

Every trip to Bhutan pays a visit to at least one of their five traditional fortresses, called dzong . Today, these buildings house temples, administrative offices, and monks’ accommodation. When visiting a dzong , you will immediately notice that the architecture is massive in style with towering exterior walls.

No Traffic Lights in Bhutan

Bhutan is the only country in the world without traffic lights. Instead, policemen in the Bhutanese capital Thimphu stand at major intersections and direct traffic. With not more than 75,000 cars for the total population of 750,000, the roads are usually pretty empty in Bhutan. A traffic light had previously been installed at the busiest intersection in Thimphu – but only lasted 24 hours. Then, it was replaced by a charming policeman who directs the traffic with flamboyant hand movements that remind of dance moves.

The People of Bhutan

Bhutanese people live according to Bhuddist beliefs simple yet very happy lives. They still wear their traditional clothes on a daily basis and most of the population works in agriculture. The average income per person per day in Bhutan is Ngultrum (Nu) 40, which is less than a dollar a day. The average income in rural areas is even lower at Nu 33 per day (77 cents). The poverty line is about Nu 748.10 per person per month, which translates to $17.40 USD per month and $208.75 USD per year.

Centenary Farmers Market

Located below the main town, near the Wang Chhu River, Thimphu’s weekend market is by far the largest domestic market for the farmers in Bhutan . You can not only find fresh domestic and imported fruits and veggies at Centenary Farmers Market but also pick up other products like incense or textiles.

Yak in Bhutan

A yak is a long-haired domesticated bovid found throughout the Himalayan region. In Bhutan, yak are a main source of livelihood for the high altitude resident. Yaks are multipurpose animals, providing food (milk, milk products and meat), as well as textiles for garments and tents made from yak fibre, and they are a main mode of transportation in the high altitudes of Bhutan.

State of the Nation’s Youth

According to a UNICEF report titled “A Situation Analysis of Children, Youth and Women in Bhutan (2012)”, more than half of the population of Bhutan is below the age of 25.

Dochula Pass

Dochula Pass is a popular tourist spot on the way to central Bhutan. Besides stunning 360-degree views of the Himalayas, it is also home to 108 stupas that were built to memorialize Bhutanese soldiers killed in a 2003 battle with Indian insurgents from the Assam region.

Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge

Located next to Punakha Dzong, the 160-meter-long Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. It offers spectacular views of Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.

Endangered Langur Monkeys

Bhutan is home to a great variety of wild animals – even monkeys! One of the rarest monkeys in Bhutan is the Golden Langur and their gray-colored counterparts pictured below. They live in the thick forests of the higher altitudes in Bhutan and I had the chance to take a glimpse up close of these beautiful creatures during my 7-day trip to Bhutan .

Tiger Nest Monastery

A trip to Bhutan wouldn’t be complete without climbing to Tiger Nest Monastery. This dramatically set Buddhist relic hanging from a cliff is going to be the highlight for any traveller to Bhutan. The 2.5-hour hike up the mountains fills you with spiritual bliss when you ascend over two thousand feet over the valley floor.

Are you ready for a trip to Bhutan?

Bhutan is truly amazing place. After my 1-week trip to Bhutan I left completely in awe wanting to see more. I’m ready to head back and see more of this beautiful Himalayan kingdom.

Don’t forget to follow  Linda Goes East on Instagram for more Korea and Asia adventures!

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29+ Bhutan photos revealed the beauty of the happiest country in the world

Freelance travel and wildlife photographer Margot Raggett shares her beautiful photographs of the fascinating kingdom of Bhutan.

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“Whenever anyone asks me what Bhutan is like, I find the best way to describe it is like Narnia: it is so remote and unlike anywhere else on Earth that I’ve visited. And then I implore them to visit before it is too late, before it all inevitably changes.

“Bhutan is one of the last Kingdoms left on earth and describes itself as the happiest country on the planet, and I have to say from what I saw, they pretty much have it right. The country’s wealth is measured by the peoples’ happiness, not its GDP (they call it Gross National Happiness) and the citizens are incredibly well looked after by the state. Crime levels are low, graffiti and rubbish non-existent. The people have to wear traditional national dress at all times, which results in an explosion of colourful outfits wherever you go. My jeans put me to shame.”

“I visited to coincide with the famous Paro Tshechu festival which includes days of traditional dances acted out for visitors who come far and wide in their best dress. Aside from the many stunning temples and breathtaking scenery, the best thing of all for me about Bhutan was the warmth and beauty of the people, which is what I spent most of my time trying to capture. It’s truly a unique place to experience.”

Prayer flags in the wind

Punakha Dzong, Paro

Locals walking past Punakha Dzong, Paro

A young nun at the entrance to a temple

A traditionally decorated balcony

Religious candles burn in a dzong

A joker (Atsara) mask on sale for the Paro Tshechu Festival, used to entertain the crowds

A festival-goer with her young child strapped to her back

Young boys watch a game of football from a monastery window

A giant thangka (embroidered painting) of the Guru Throngdel

Prayers held in front of the Throngdel

A little boy plays with a piece of string

A masked performer does a traditional dance at the festival

Crowds at the festival in their best outfits

A young nun amused at having her photo taken

A giant statue is paraded around the festival

A masked dancer

All images belong to Margot Raggett. You can view more of her work at margotraggett.com .

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Bhutan you can refer to

• 5D4N Classic Bhutan Tour
• 9D8N Classic Bhutan Tour
• Thimphu Private Car Charter
• 6D5N Dagala Thousand Lake Trek
• 6D5N Druk Path Trek
• 14D13N Laya – Gasa Trek
• 7D6N Classic Bhutan Tour
• 8D7N Classic Bhutan Tour
• 6D5N Classic Bhutan Tour

Read more: The fullest Bhutan travel guide blog for a wonderful trip to Bhutan for the first-timers and Bhutan guide here .

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17 stunning photos of Bhutan

Bhutan is a captivating and mystical country not accessible to everyone. It’s minimum daily package fee and its remoteness make the Land of the Thunder Dragon a rather closed up country. Here is a journal with the best photos of Bhutan from my trip through the Himalayan Kingdom .

1. Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong

One of the most beautiful Dzongs, or fortresses, in Bhutan is the one in Punakha , a fine example of Bhutanese architecture, known for constructing buildings and complex structures without any nails or iron, simply leveraging the rules of nature.

2. Rice fields

Rice fields Punakha

Unexpectedly , visitors to Bhutan may be surprised to know that the country’s elevation ranges from near sea level in the south to over 7,500 meters in the Himalayan north. Punakha, about a 4h drive from Paro, enjoys tropical weather and with that, tropical fruits and vegetables that are surprising to find in Bhutan such as mango, papaya, passion fruit or rice paddies, a staple in the country and an essential ingredient in the local diet. In Autumn, the rice is cut and stored in piles which are then threshed in the winter when families are ready to eat it. As opposed to other countries in Asia, rice fields in Bhutan turn to yellow when the leaves change colour.

3. Suspension bridges

Suspension bridge to Amankora Punakha

Bhutan is criss-crossed by rivers and valleys and many of them can only be crossed via suspension bridges. Most of them are interlocked with dozens of prayer flags.

4. Chillies galore

Chillies in Punakha market

Bhutan’s national dish is chilli and cheese which is literally made of these two ingredients chopped and mixed together. Bhutanese could live with just chilli and the fiery ingredient features in every dish. At the weekend market in Punakha, local farmers sell their produce to the valley’s population.

5. Temple paintings

Gangtey Monastery

A rare look into the paintings and decorations inside Gangtey’s Monastery illustrates the level of intricacy, the amount of gold and the devotion of Bhutanese to Buddhism. The walls of most temples, monasteries and Dzongs are covered with layers of colourful paint, particularly gold and yellow, including ceilings and floors, and decorated with prayer flags, donations, statues of deities, offerings and other ornaments in what is an explosion of colour.

6. Gangtey’s valley

Gangtey’s valley

As the fog descends and gets dissolved by the warming sun, Bhutan’s Valleys turn from grey to green, chimneys start to cough smoke and the morning frost melts into sparkling water that reflects the sun rays in a kaleidoscope of colours.

7. Tiger’s Nest

Tiger’s Nest from the start of the stairs

Bhutan’s most famous sight and holiest temple, Tiger’s Nest, is a good 2-3h 900m trek uphill that culminates with 700 stairs – but it’s worth every drop of sweat. The views along the way are beautiful but it is the mysticism of the mountain and the temple that brings peace and magic to the visitor.

8. Elderly women

Elderly Bhutanese women praying at the National Memorial Chorten

The elderly Bhutanese men and women spend their last years praying for their next reincarnation and for their loved ones and all living beings. They spend hours every day walking around stupas clockwise, turning prayer wheels or small handheld ones while reciting mantras.

9. Bhutanese Himalayas

Bhutanese Himalayas

Bhutan has several peaks above the 7,000m mark, however, most of them have never been climbed. It is believed that mountains above 7,000m are holy and should not be attempted. But, a few were in the past, though mostly unsuccessful. The majority of this part of the world is unmapped so heights are only approximate.

10. Prayer wheels

Prayer wheel at National Memorial Chorten in Thimphu

Prayer wheels are a common sight across Bhutan. The country is filled with prayer wheels of all sizes. Their insides are filled with mantras rolled in the inner axis. The larger the wheel the higher the amount of mantras. Spinning one of the large ones is equivalent to reciting all the mantras that are rolled inside.

11. Monks in prayer

Bhutanese monks are not seen in the streets or public spaces. It is believed that a good monk should spend most of his or her time praying and reciting mantras and should therefore stay in the monasteries, away from civilisation and distractions. It is for this reason that most monasteries are found high up in the mountains and are of difficult access.

12. Bhutanese farmers

Farmers in rice fields in Punakha

Bhutan is primarily an agrarian society where most of the population works in tourism or agriculture. As the country is mostly isolated from the rest of the world and values Gross National Happiness in detriment of senseless development, most of the farmers still work the land with the help of animals and using simple tools, like a hand sickle, to cut the rice stalks.

13. Valleys and civilisation

Punakha valley

As a mountainous country with 72% forest coverage, agricultural land in Bhutan is scarce and population congregates in the major valleys. All of the country’s cities and most of its population inhabit these lower valleys where land is flatter and crops can be grown. It is in these valleys where streams and rivers from mountain ice melting flow.

14. Blessings, prayers and offerings

Lighting butter lamps in Bhutan

Bhutanese are eminently Buddhist and strong believers in the purest form of Buddhism, particularly Tantric Buddhism. Praying, spinning prayer wheels, making offerings to Gods, getting blessed by monks, lighting butter lamps and many other Bon (animist) and Buddhist practices are common for most Bhutanese. Lighting 108 butter lamps has a special meaning as the number is auspicious.

15. Books on walls

As reading and writing was reserved for monks and religious men, most laymen used to get their teachings from paintings on the walls of temples and monasteries as well as Thankas. The walls of most temples are covered with legends, teachings and the lives of famous Gods. Buddhism key building blocks are also represented including the astrologers’ wheel or the cycle of life and reincarnation. The paintings are beautifully painted in bright colours.

16. Intricate architecture

Gangtey village

Almost all buildings, including private homes, in Bhutan are designed and built with intricate roofs and window frames painted and carved delicately. Houses are usually made of two storeys with an attic for the vegetables and food to be stored. The first storey is very high and can be accessed through very steep wooden staircases. Like temples and monasteries, houses are not built with the help of any nails of metal.

17. Phallus worshipping

Village next to Fertility temple Chimi Lhakhang

Bhutanese worship the phallus . It is believed to represent fertility and also fortune and good luck and it is painted on walls, hanged on amulets around children or cattle’s necks and erected above door frames and on top of houses.

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Wild Junket

Bhutan in photos: from lofty mountains to magnificent fortresses.

Last Updated on September 21, 2021

Entrenched within mighty mountain chains and surrounded by Buddhist myths and legends, Bhutan still remains shrouded in mystery. Having only opened its doors to international tourists in 1974, Bhutan tourism is still in its infancy, but the country has come a long way in terms of development and modernization. In spite of it, Bhutan has chosen to proudly cherish local traditions and conserve its natural environment — only in this part of the world is Gross National Happiness (GNH) more important than the country’s economic health.

During my trip to Bhutan , the country has floored me with its extraordinary landscapes and rich, vibrant culture. From the many impressive dzongs (fortresses) that dot the country, to the solemn monasteries and lofty, snow-peaked mountains, Bhutan blew me away with beauty of epic proportions.Everywhere I went in Bhutan, colorful prayer flags flew high in the air, sounds of monks chanting echoed through the walls of temples, and praying wheels spun freely in temples and on the streets.

Valleys intertwined, rivers weaved through landscapes like giant serpents, and mountains poked the skies in this mountainous Himalayan nation. Whether young or old, Bhutanese men roamed the streets in the traditional gho (a knee-length robe that resemble the kimono) while fair-skinned ladies sashayed in colorful kira (a long dress tied at the waist, accompanied by a silk jacket).

I was awed to silence by the sheer location of the cliffside Taktshang Goeba or Tiger’s Nest Monastery , the impressive architecture of the beautiful fortress Punakha Dzong, the raw and rugged terrain of the glacial bowl-shaped Phobjikha Valley, and so much more… Ultimately, it wasn’t just the architecture or landscapes that captured me — it was the intriguing Bhutanese culture, unique policies and emphasis on traditions that truly made Bhutan an extremely special place for me.

I’ll be writing more about my experiences there, but in the meantime, here’s a photographic overview of my time there. I hope they bring you there with me.

Bhutan in Photos

Drinking in a view of Bhutan’s second tallest peak, Mount Jomolhari, from Docho La Pass. The mountain rises 2,700 metres (8,900 ft) above the barren plains of northwestern Bhutan. Almost all of Bhutan is mountainous.

72% of Bhutan is covered by green forests. Almost everywhere we went, we saw forests, valleys, fields, and grass plains. This photo shows the Paro Valley sprawling beneath our feet at Taktshang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest Monastery).

One of my favorite spots in Bhutan: the remote and rugged marshlands of Phobjikha Valley in western Bhutan. Cattles graze the plains along with the rare and much-revered black-necked cranes. This is the best place to see the birds, especially in winter, when they migrate here from the Tibetan Plateau. The birds are featured in many Bhutanese songs and a festival is held each November to welcome the birds.

Hiking along the rice paddies of Punakha was another great experience as I got to walk through the plains, meet villagers along the way, and see Bhutan from a different angle. This short 45-minute trail led us through several villages before arriving at Chhimi Lhakhang temple.

 Dozens if not hundreds of villages dot the landscapes of Wangdue Phodrang. Most Bhutanese live in the rural areas, sustaining their lives through farming.

 Rice is the main staple of the Bhutanese diet. They are grown each June and harvested in November. The season was already over during my visit, but the rice terraces were still an awesome sight at this time of the year.

Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, as seen from above. Before the 1960s, Thimphu was nothing more than rice paddies and a few clusters of villages. When the third king of Bhutan decided to develop the country, he moved the capital from Punakha to Thimphu and built the capital into what it is now. Today, over 100,000 people live in the capital city and it is developing and expanding faster than ever.

Dzongs (fortresses) are the most important landmarks in Bhutan, with over 20 dzongs found all over the country (one in each province). Lauded as the most beautiful dzong (fortress) in Bhutan, the Punakha Dzong not only has an impressive architecture but its location along the Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River) makes it all the more stunning. This dzong also served as the capital seat of Bhutan for more than three hundred years.

Bhutan’s most famous site: the Taktshang Goemba or Tiger’s Nest Monastery . Perched precariously on the side of a 900m-high cliff, the monastery is a stunner that deserves superlative descriptions. Few things blow my mind away these days, and Taktshang is definitely one of them. The two-hour steep hike up there at high altitude may not be a stroll in the park, but once you’re up there, the views make it well worth it.

Every night, Thimphu’s Tashichho Dzong is lit up in beautiful gold, white and red colors. This photo was shot from Sangaygang, a lookout point on one of the hilltops overlooking Thimphu. I was shivering in the cold, bristling air but this view distracted me.

Dzongs are used for two purposes these days–half of it for government administration offices and the other half for monastic bodies. Inside the Paro Dzong, windows and doors are adorned with intricately carved woodwork and beautifully paintings of lotus flowers, clouds, snow lions, tigers, and gods.

A work of art — windows in the dzongs are framed with man-made carvings of Sanskrit prayers, flowers and wheels.

The Docho La Pass is another excellent spot for both the panoramic views and architecture. 108 stupas make up the Druk Wangyel Chorten, erected by the former queen of Bhutan to commemorate the battle that took place in southern Bhutan in 2008.

Prayer wheels are found everywhere in Bhutan, from the streets to rural areas and deep within the mountains. This one is found at the foothills of the Taktshang Goembe, Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Multi-hued prayer flags are intertwined to form a stupa of sorts, at the Lawa La mountain pass in Wangdue Phodrang. Prayer flags are hung such that when the wind blows, it sends the prayers to heaven. Each of the colors used in the Bhutanese/Tibetan Buddhist flags represent a different element: blue for space, white for air, red for fire, green for water and yellow for earth.

As mentioned, prayer wheels are everywhere in Bhutan. These ones are found on the streets of Paro town. They are always turned clockwise to send prayers to the heavens. Traditionally, the Buddhist mantra Om Mani Padme Hum is written in Sanskrit on the outside of the wheel.

These traditional hand-woven cloths are either worn as kiras for ladies or used for ornamental purposes at home.

The takin, a goat-antelope native to the Himalayas, is the national animal of Bhutan. According to the Bhutanese beliefs, this animal was created by the popular saint, Drukpa Kuenlay, also known as the Divine Madman.

Yaks are only found in high-altitude regions of Bhutan. Wild yaks are unfortunately extinct in the area, and these yaks are owned by yak herders in the Lawa La Pass area, close to Phobjikha Valley. Yak milk and cheese are often consumed by Bhutanese, although now they are rarer than before.

While wandering around Thimphu, I found this monk near the weekend market, and politely approached him for a photo. He kindly agreed and even started a conversation with me. I told him I was really enjoying Bhutan, and he gave me a wide smile and said, “Welcome to Bhutan! We are happy to have you!”

 I was honored to be accompanied by these two gentlemen throughout my whole trip in Bhutan with Bridge to Bhutan . My guide Sangay, on the left, is a young 29-year-old Bhutanese who was always eager to share his culture and traditions with me. On the right is the very polite Nidup who drove me around all week and played a game of carrom or two with me. Special thanks to Lotay and Fin, the brothers who run Bridge to Bhutan, for their warm hospitality and informative guidance!

Disclosure: My trip was made possible by Bridge to Bhutan, but all opinions expressed above are my own.

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Wow! Bhutan is a beautiful place, which can be seen in the photos… the land with steps type formation can be seen in the sand desert also. I've visited Saudi and i've seen there due to wind sand is formed in this type.

Yes it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve been. So many mountains, gorgeous monasteries and lovely people.

Wow! What an adventure. You've captured some great images

Thanks Cam! It’s not difficult to take good pictures in such a beautiful country.

eliseoberliesen

Nellie–Love that photo of Taktshang Goemba . Makes me want to visit the Tiger’s Nest._-Elise

Yes it’s even more beautiful in real life, just precariously perched on the side of the cliff.

Nice pictures… Could you tell more about the particularity of traveling to Bhutan : no independent traveler allowed (the other known country for that is North Korea…) and a regulation of spending a minimum of $250 per day? How did you deal with this points? If still active and mandatory, it seems for me a way to keep the gap between the elite and the masses… Or maybe Bhutan is the single country in the world where the officials don't get corrupted with so much money?

hi Eric, thanks for the questions! You are right that travelers must go through a tour operator to travel to Bhutan and there is a minimum tariff of US$250 a day. However, we need to know a few things to understand why the Bhutanese government came up with these restrictions. Firstly, these requirements are put in place to make sure that tourism has a minimal impact on local culture and environment. The Bhutanese have very strong opinions on conserving their traditions and even though they embrace modernization and technology, they do not want tourism to negatively affect their local customs. I personally think it\’s a good move. Their idea is not to keep the gap between the elite and the masses, but to attract more responsible and mature travelers. Secondly, Bhutan is a small country with limited resources, so to ensure that the country is able to provide high quality services and experiences to travelers, it needs to keep its tourism industry small. Thirdly, this minimum tariff includes everything from hotel accommodation to food, guide and museum fees. Also, $65 per day out of this fee goes to providing free education and healthcare for the people of Bhutan. I plan to write more about Bhutan\’s travel policies, so please stay tuned for more info!

Incredible. I'd love to visit here one day.

hey Kayleigh, thanks for the note! Yes we love Twitter, find us @wildjunket.com. Tweet us anytime! ;)

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7 Days In Bhutan Travel Itinerary: Best Things To Do & See

Bhutan is a wonderful, secluded little country in the Himalayas. It’s definitely not the easiest country to visit, but it’s worth the effort if you’re looking for a really unique travel experience. I spent one week in Bhutan recently and enjoyed every moment.

Most people spend 5 to 7 days in Bhutan, and an itinerary like that gives you enough time to see many of the top highlights of the country, although you’ll still probably be sad to leave.

Bhutan is full of interesting culture and nature, and yet it’s pretty unspoiled by tourism. Even places that would normally be very crowded and touristy, like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery , still feel refreshingly authentic and personal.

In this travel blog, I’ll share my ideal Bhutan itinerary and some of the best things to do if you have one week in the country! This is basically the same itinerary I used in Bhutan, with a few improvements based on my experience.

Table of Contents show 1) Best Bhutan Tour Company 2) Bhutan Itinerary Day 1: Paro Acclimatization 3) Bhutan Itinerary Day 2: Thimphu 4) Bhutan Itinerary Day 3: Gangtey Valley 5) Bhutan Itinerary Day 4: Punakha & Wangdue 6) Bhutan Itinerary Day 5: Revisiting Thimphu 7) Bhutan Itinerary Day 6: Tiger’s Nest Monastery 8) Bhutan Itinerary Day 7: Paro Farewell 9) 5 Days In Bhutan Itinerary 10) More Bhutan Travel Tips

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike was one of my favorite experiences in Bhutan

Best Bhutan Tour Company

For most nationalities, the only way you can visit Bhutan is with a visa and tour organized by a local Bhutanese tour company. There’s also a daily tax of $100 USD per person, which is a rule established by the Bhutanese government to try to ensure ‘quality over quantity’ tourism.

I visited Bhutan with this tour company on GetYourGuide. It was a great experience, and I would happily recommend them to anyone! The owner of the company, Tsenrig, helped me craft the perfect 7-day Bhutan itinerary, with a visit to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and lots of other great sights around the country of Bhutan.

Their most popular itineraries are 5 or 7 days , but they also have tours of 9 or 10 days , or even as long as 15 or 20 days. The itinerary is very flexible and you can choose the sights you most want to see on each day you spend in the country of Bhutan.

My private tour guide, L. Dorji, was fantastic and very helpful, staying at my side every step of the way. He even kindly insisted to carry my heavy backpack for me, and helped me swap between my camera lenses whenever I was taking pictures.

Dorji knew every detail about the history of Bhutan, and he’s been giving tours for decades. He was one of the best tour guides I’ve had anywhere in the world. Overall, I would highly recommend this company for your travel to Bhutan!

Book Now: Bhutan Tour 5 / 7 / 9 Days

Bhutan Itinerary Day 1: Paro Acclimatization

Welcome to Bhutan! You’ll probably be tired after your flight to Paro. Start your itinerary with a low key visit to Ta Dzong, located just a 20 minute drive from the airport.

This odd looking cylindrical building is a 17th century watch tower that now serves as the national museum of Bhutan. Inside, there are Bhutanese paintings, statues, weapons, and other artifacts.

For me, the best part was seeing the outside and the view of the valley below.

Ta Dzong — the national museum of Bhutan

• Paro Dzong

For most tourists, the Paro Dzong will be your first real experience with a Bhutanese fortress-monastery (called a ‘dzong’). These are kind of like the castles of Bhutan.

Also known as the Rinpung Dzong, this is the main fortress and monastery in Paro town, and it was built in the 17th century overlooking the river and valley. The name basically means “fortress of the heap of jewels.”

The outside walls are impressive, and so is the inside of the courtyard. Don’t miss the giant bee hives hanging from the windows!

You can walk through this fortress in just 30 minutes or so, but it’s well worth a visit! The best photo spot is on the path leading to it.

The 17th century Rinpung Dzong in Paro

• Kyichu Lhakhang

Kyichu Lhakhang is a small Buddhist temple that dates back to the 7th century, making it one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.

This one is just a 10 minute drive north of Paro town, so it’s easy to visit even if you’re short on time.  

• Archery Match

Archery has been the national game of Bhutan since 1971, and the locals are always practicing their skills with a bow and arrow. It’s fun to watch an archery match and some of these guys are really skilled.

I decided to skip this since I was exhausted and wanted to save energy for other things, but I still got to witness some archery matches from a distance later on when we were driving around the countryside of Bhutan.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to see archery while you’re traveling in Bhutan.  

• Paro Town

If you still have energy, you can spend the rest of the day roaming around Paro town and shopping for souvenirs. There are lots of shops on the main street and they have a good selection of Bhutanese crafts, plus the usual shirts and fridge magnets, and other items for sale.  

• Overnight In Paro

Stay overnight in Paro, which has an altitude of about 2,200 meters (7,200 ft). I stayed at Hotel Olathang, which is a historic 3-star hotel on a hill, surrounded by pine forests and overlooking the Paro valley. It was a little dated, but the location is nice.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 2: Thimphu

• drive to thimphu.

After breakfast, you’ll drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Even though the distance from Paro to Thimphu is only 45 kilometers, the drive takes 60-90 minutes because of the winding mountain roads.

Along the way, you’ll pass another monastery across the river called Tachog Lhakhang, as well as an old iron suspension bridge. Your guide can make a quick stop to let you take some photos of it before continuing to Thimphu.  

• Taschichho Dzong

The Tashichho Dzong is a giant fortress-monastery that also serves as the seat of the government in Thimphu.

I was lucky to visit Bhutan during the annual Tshechu festival, which is usually held in Thimphu in late September or early October, so I was able to watch the mask dance here, together with thousands of locals wearing their colorful national clothes.

It was pretty fascinating, and I consider it one of the highlights of my trip to Bhutan!

Thousands of locals gathered at Tashichho Dzong for the annual Tsechu festival

Mask dance at the Tsechu festival

• Cheri Monastery

The Cheri monastery hike is a nice little excursion into the forest near Thimphu, where you can see some wildlife and a 17th century monastery on the hillside.

This hike takes about 45-60 minutes going up, depending on your pace, and a bit less going down. Most of it is uphill, but it’s not as hard as the famous Tiger’s Nest hike , so most people won’t have any problem with it.

We saw birds, mountain goats, and langur monkeys here. My guide told me you could sometimes hear tigers roaring in the distance during the 1980s, and they still occasionally see Himalayan black bears in this area since it’s on the edge of the Jigme Dorji National Park.

Cheri Monastery requires a bit of hiking

We saw grey langur monkeys near the monastery

• Overnight In Thimphu

Stay overnight in Thimphu, which has an altitude of about 2,300 meters (7,500 ft). I stayed at a 3-star hotel called Kisa Villa, which has a garden and close up views of the Taschichho Dzong. You can even see the dzong lit up at night.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 3: Gangtey Valley

• dochula pass & drukwangyel.

Day three begins with the drive from Thimphu to Phobjikha. This takes about 3 hours because of the usual zigzag roads of Bhutan, but there’s lots of great scenery to enjoy along the way.

After about 45 minutes of driving, you’ll stop at Dochula Pass, a high mountain pass with an altitude of 3,150 meters (10,335 feet). Morning is the best time to come here.

On a clear day, you can get some great views of the snow capped Himalayan mountains in the distance. One of these is Gangkhar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan and the highest unclimbed mountain in the world!

There’s also a monastery at Dochula Pass with 108 stupas, which were built to commemorate 100 years of monarchy in Bhutan. The weather was cloudy when I went, but we were still able to catch some glimpses of the mountains in the distance.

Drukwangyel temple in the clouds

• Gangtey Monastery

After more driving, you’ll reach Phobjikha and visit the Gangtey Monastery, a colorful 17th century building that overlooks the valley.

When I visited, the place was packed with locals and they were practicing their dance moves for another upcoming festival.

Another festival at the Gangtey Monastery

• Kwewa Village Nature Trail

From the Gangtey monastery, there’s a nice little point-to-point nature trail that goes down the hill, through the forest, and across the valley of Phobjikha.

Most of this hike is mild and easy, but it takes about 1 hour or more to reach the end of the trail, where your driver will be waiting for you and your guide.

You can see horses in the valley, and black necked cranes also migrate here during the months of November to February.

Phobjikha valley

• Black Necked Crane Center

After seeing the Phobjikha valley, you have the option to visit an information center for the black necked cranes that tells more about the birds, and they also have telescopes for bird watching.

I decided to skip this and rest at the hotel, since the black necked cranes were out of season when I visited in September.  

• Overnight In Phobjikha

Stay overnight in the Phobjikha valley, which has an altitude of about 3,000 meters (9,800 ft). This is the highest place you’ll stay in this Bhutan itinerary.

I was expecting the hotel here to be a little rough since it’s a more remote location, but actually it was very comfortable. I stayed at the 3-star Gakiling Guest House, which had nice views of the valley, fast WiFi, good food, and friendly staff.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 4: Punakha & Wangdue

• punakha dzong.

After breakfast, it’s time for the 2 hour drive from Phobjikha to Punakha, which will start to take you back west again, in the same direction you came from earlier.

The first place to visit in Punakha is the Punakha Dzong, which is one of the oldest and biggest fortresses in Bhutan. The view from across the Mo Chu river is an iconic photo of Bhutan.

You can go inside this dzong and wander the courtyard. There are lots of nice details on the inside, including an impressive gold door. Overall, I’d say it’s the best dzong I visited in Bhutan.

The altitude in Punakha is only roughly 1,200 meters (about 4,000 feet), so it’s a lot lower than the other places you’ve visited in Bhutan so far. That also means it’s warmer, so you may want to dress lighter here.

When I visited Punakha in September, I was hot even without a jacket! I felt like swimming in the river to escape the heat.

The iconic view of Punakha Dzong across the river

• Chimi Lhakhang

The Chimi Lhakhang is probably one of the oddest temples in Bhutan. It’s a fertility temple with phalluses and other sexual symbols, established by the ‘divine madman’ in the 15th century.

Childless couples often come here to pray for a child, and when you go inside the temple, they even have a bizarre tradition where they bop you on the head with a wooden phallus as a blessing.

The temple is set on a hill, so in order to reach it you have to do a mini trek up the hill for about 15 to 30 minutes, making it a bit harder to access than some of the other temples in Bhutan.

Chimi Lhakhang

• Pho Chu River Bridge

One of the best sights in the Punakha area is the bridge over the Pho Chu river, which is actually known as the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan!

You can walk across the entire 200 meter bridge to the other side, and it has wonderful views of the valley and the turquoise glacier water of the Pho Chu river.

Amazing views at the Pho Chu river bridge

• Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

My favorite view in the Punakha area was on our last stop of the day, when we hiked up to a stupa in the mountains. The name of this one is hard to say: Khamsum Yulley Namgyal.

Hiking to this spot takes about 1 hour, and it’s all uphill. Along the way, you get some amazing views of the rice terraces and the Punakha valley. The top has a 30 meter tall stupa and great views of the mountains.

If you’re reasonably fit and don’t mind a bit of hiking, this spot should definitely be on your Bhutan itinerary. It’s one of the best things to do in the country!

Mountain view at the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal

Green rice fields of Punakha

• Overnight In Punakha

Stay overnight in Punakha, which has an altitude of about 1,200 meters (4,000 ft). I stayed at a new hotel called Divine Heritage House, which had lots of windows so you could enjoy the views of the rice terraces.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 5: Revisiting Thimphu

• buddha dordenma.

After breakfast, retrace your route back to Thimphu by driving over the Dochula Pass again. The drive will take a total of about 2 hours from Punakha to Thimphu. Welcome back to the capital!

Start your fifth day of sightseeing in Bhutan with a visit to the giant golden Buddha statue on the hill overlooking Thimphu valley. It’s one of the famous icons of Bhutan.

The Buddha Dordenma statue, as it’s called, is also one of the biggest Buddha statues in the world, with a height of 52 meters (169 feet). At a cost of more than $100 million USD, it was built to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Bhutan’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

The giant Buddha Dordenma statue

• Sangay-gang Viewpoint

En route to the Takin Preserve, make a quick stop at the Sangay-gang viewpoint for a good picture of Thimphu city from above.

After a 20 minute drive up the mountain, you can see the entire city of Thimphu below you, and there are some nature trails here if you want to explore a bit longer.  

• Motithang Royal Takin Preserve

The Takin (pronounced ‘tah-kin’) is the national animal of Bhutan. Before my trip, I didn’t even know these animals exist! They look kind of like a cross between a goat and a buffalo.

The Takin Preserve near Thimphu is home to almost two dozen takins, plus a few sambar and barking deer. There’s a metal walkway that runs along the outside of the sanctuary, so you can get a good view of the animals and easily take pictures.

The Takin is a protected animal in Bhutan, and they’re not seen very often in the wild except in places like Jigme Dorji National Park. The Takin preserve allows you to photograph them from a fairly close distance, while still giving them space to roam around and be themselves.

The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan.

Another photo from the Takin Preserve

• National Memorial Stupa

After the Takin Preserve, we made a quick stop at the National Memorial Stupa, which is located in the center of Thimphu city.

This white stupa was built in 1974 to honor the third king of Bhutan, and elderly Buddhist believers come here to circumambulate (walk around the stupa) in a clockwise direction while praying.

The Memorial Stupa in Thimphu city. Notice the people walking around it in circles.

• Zorig Chusum Arts & Crafts School

Zorig Chusum is a school in Thimphu where young people in Bhutan learn how to make traditional arts and crafts. This includes things like calligraphy, painting, carving, sculpting, textiles, and more.

There’s nothing for sale here, but you can watch the students working and training, which is interesting to see. Each room has a different art being practiced, and some of their designs are very good.

You can see all kinds of arts and crafts at the Zorig Chusum school in Thimphu

• Farmer’s Market

Our last stop of the day was at the farmer’s market in Thimphu, where we saw all kinds of fruits and vegetables for sale.

There was quite a selection and it was fun to walk through all the aisles and look at everything, even though I didn’t buy. Chili peppers were everywhere since they’re such an important ingredient in Bhutanese food.

There were even some of the more exotic fruits for sale, like dragonfruit, which I didn’t expect to see in a mountain country like Bhutan.

Veggies for sale at the farmer’s market

Stay overnight in Thimphu once again. I was happy to be back at the familiar Kisa Villa, enjoying the good food and nice views of the Thimphu fortress from my window.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 6: Tiger’s Nest Monastery

• drive to paro.

It’s your sixth day in Bhutan, and that means it’s time to head back to the town of Paro where you started. After breakfast, you’ll drive approximately 1.5 hours to Paro and then a short distance past Paro to do the hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery.  

• Tiger’s Nest Hike

It’s finally time for the grand finale of your Bhutan itinerary: the Tiger’s Nest Monastery !

A lot of tours in Bhutan save this for the end of the trip because it’s such a special place, and also because it gives you more time to become acclimated to altitude before attempting the hike.

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is an amazing 17th century building that clings to the side of a steep 900 meter cliff. It almost looks unreal.

This is easily the most famous and photogenic place in Bhutan, and I consider it one of the most amazing day hikes anywhere in the world.

The famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery

You will need to spend a full day visiting the Tiger’s Nest since the hike takes about 4 to 8 hours, not including the time spent taking photos and touring the inside of the temple.

You can have lunch at the halfway point of the hike, where there’s a cafeteria with great views of the mountain. The whole experience is awesome.

The hike is a bit challenging, but most people of average fitness won’t have a problem with it. I wrote a complete guide for the Tiger’s Nest hike, which you can read in the link below.

Read More: How To Do The Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike

Up close view of Paro Taktsang — the Tiger’s Nest Monastery!

• Bhutanese Cooking Class (Optional)

In the evening, if you’re interested, you can join a Bhutanese cooking class and learn how to make local dishes like Ema Datshi, Kewa Datshi, and Jasha Maru at a farmer’s house.  

• Hot Stone Bath (Optional)

Another activity I was offered at the end of the day is a hot stone bath, where rocks from the river are heated up over a fire and then put in a wooden tub with herbs.

It’s a good way to relax and unwind at the end of your Bhutan trip, especially after hiking to the Tiger’s Nest earlier in the day.  

Spend your last night in Bhutan back in Paro, relaxing and soaking up the views at Hotel Olathang. This location was one of my favorites.  

Bhutan Itinerary Day 7: Paro Farewell

• dzongdrakha monastery (optional).

It’s your last day in Bhutan. If you still have time and energy, you may want to do something extra before you leave. In my case, my flight back to Bangkok with Druk Air was at 4:20 PM, so that gave me a bit of extra time to use.

Another special place you can visit in the Paro area is the Dzongdrakha Monastery. This is a cliffside monastery similar to the Tiger’s Nest, although it’s a shorter and easier hike. Not as many tourists know about it, so you might have the place all to yourself.

Keep in mind the tour providers in Bhutan normally don’t include any activities like this on the last day of the trip, so there may be an extra charge to add it to your itinerary.  

• Go To Airport

After a wonderful 7 days in Bhutan, my driver and guide brought me to the airport, and it was time to say goodbye. Bhutan was a special experience and I was sad to leave.  

Mask dancer at the Tsechu festival in Thimphu

Shrine in the forest on the way to Cheri Monastery

5 Days In Bhutan Itinerary

If you’re not able to spend a full 7 days in Bhutan, a 5 day itinerary can be a good compromise, and it still allows you to see some of the highlights of the country.

Here’s what a good 5 day itinerary for Bhutan could look like:

• Day 1. Paro acclimatization. Visit the Ta Dzong and Paro Dzong. Watch an archery match and then explore Paro town and shop for souvenirs.
• Day 2. Paro to Thimphu. On the drive to Thimphu, see the Tamchog Lhakhang monastery and suspension bridge from a distance. Once you reach Thimphu, visit the National Memorial Stupa, the Buddha Dordenma statue, and the Tashichho Dzong, plus the farmer’s market and any other sights that interest you in Thimphu city.
• Day 3. Thimphu to Punakha. On the drive to Punakha, stop at the Dochula Pass and visit Drukwangyel monastery for views of the Himalayan mountains. Then in Punakha, visit the Punakha Dzong, the Pho Chu river bridge, Chimi Lhakhang, and the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal.
• Day 4. Punakha to Paro. Drive back to Paro where you started, and hike up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. If you still have time afterwards, visit Kyichu Lhakhang and then enjoy a hot stone bath in the evening.
• Day 5. Leave Bhutan. No sightseeing activities on this day unless you have extra time available.

Kids at the Tsechu festival

Stupa on the Cheri Monastery hike

More Bhutan Travel Tips

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this 7 day Bhutan travel itinerary. These are some of the best things to do in Bhutan if you have a week.

I’ll be adding more Bhutan tips to my travel blog , so don’t forget to bookmark it and check back later!  

• Tiger’s Nest Monastery In Bhutan: Complete Hiking Guide
• 7 Day Bhutan Tour By GetYourGuide

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Photos of Bhutan - Featured Images

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Places To Visit in Bhutan

Here are the top 26 tourist places and attractions in bhutan.

1 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 37 Tourist attractions

Paro is a small town situated in the Paro Valley of Bhutan. It is one of the most fertile as well as historic valley of Bhutan which is the widest in the Kingdom. It is home to 155 temples and monasteries dating back to the 14th century and also home to Bhutan's sole international airport....

Best Time: September till November.

2 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 45 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the western central region, Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, captivates travelers with its blend of ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. As the political, economic, and cultural center of this enchanting kingdom, Thimphu offers visitors a rich ta...

Best Time: September to November, March to May

3 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 11 Tourist attractions

Punakha is one of the 20 districts (dzongkhags) of Bhutan bordered by the Gasa, Wangdue Phodrang and Thimphu districts. Located at the height of 1200m above sea level, Punakha offers a mesmerising view of the Himalayas.

Best Time: March to May

4. Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey)

4 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 9 Tourist attractions

Against the backdrop of western slopes of the Black Mountains in Wangdue Phodrang, lies the bowl-shaped Phobjikha valley that offers breathtaking views of vast expanses of green fields. It is home to the endangered black-necked crane that migrates to this area during winters. Phobjikha valley a...

Best Time: October to December

Bhutan Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Bhutan Tour Package From Bagdogra - Hike to Tiger's Nest

Mesmerising cultural bhutan tour for 4 nights - phobjikha valley excursion, bhutan 7 nights itinerary- dochu la pass, enchanting bhutan holiday package - excursion to chele le pass, fantastic bhutan tour package for 7 nights, amazing roadtrip to bhutan - hike to tango and cherry, 5. dochula pass.

5 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Nestled in the eastern edge of the Himalayas, the Kingdom of Bhutan boasts of spectacular mountain views and some of the happiest people in the world. And with this beautiful outlook of life came the creation of Dochula Pass, a breath-taking mountain pass, in commemoration of Bhutanese soldiers who ...

6. Haa Valley

6 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Known as the smallest Dzongkhang (district) of Bhutan, Haa Valley is one of the most picturesque places located at the south-west of Paro. The idyllic wooded forests and paths are ideal for enthusiastic hikers and trekkers. This is also the only place in the world where one can find the cream colour...

Best Time: October to November

7. Taste the Authentic Bhutanese Cuisine

7 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

What the Bhutanese are essentially in love with is a spice which comes across so boldly in a variety of their dishes. Vegetarian tourists could breathe a sigh of relief about their food options. What is interesting to note is that despite the existence of many popular meat-based dishes, a significan...

8 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 7 Tourist attractions

Trongsa is a hilltop town situated at the centre of Bhutan; hence known to be the heart of the Himalayan Kingdom. It's translated as "new village" in Dzongkha that has a backdrop of the black mountains offering beautiful views of the surrounding valleys.

Best Time: November to February

9. Hike Up the Tiger's Nest - Trek & Trekking Trail

9 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Tiger's Nest Monastery, or Paro Taktsang, is one of the most prominent Buddhist sites in Bhutan. Located 900 metres above the upper cliff in the Paro Valley, this monastery is undoubtedly an architectural marvel. Tiger's nest is known for the trek that has been carried on for years. With a total dis...

10. Bumthang

10 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 11 Tourist attractions

Home to four beautiful mountain valleys and an array of ancient monasteries and temples, Bumthang takes its place as the most historic of all districts in Bhutan. Considered to be the spiritual centre of the Himalayan Kingdom, Bumthang is a beautiful place to visit if one has a keen interest in reli...

Best Time: March to May and September to November

11 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 11 Tourist attractions

Nestled at the foothills of Choekhor Valley, Jakar is the largest and the most beautiful valley in Bumthang. It is popularly known as "Little Switzerland". Jakar is the principal administrative town of the district of Bumthang. Bumthang consists of four valleys - Tang, Ura, Choekhor and Chumey, out ...

Best Time: March to May, September to November

12. Wangdue Phodrang

12 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 7 Tourist attractions

Being one of the largest Dzongkhangs (District) of Bhutan, Wangdue Phodrang has everything from monasteries and temple to wildlife and rustic villages. The reason why the region is different as compared to others is that it is very diverse in terms of subtropical forests in the south to cold, snowy ...

13. Chele La Pass

13 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Bhutan, being a country with a mountainous landscape, is linked with a series of passes. Located at approximately 13,000 feet between the valley of Paro and Haa, Chele La Pass is the highest motorable road pass in Bhutan. The pass is famous for the stunning Himalayan views it offers, especially Mt. ...

14. Phuentsholing

14 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 5 Tourist attractions

The second largest town in Bhutan, Phuentsholing shares its borders with the Indian State of West Bengal. Serving as an entry point for travellers from Kolkata and Siliguri, it is an important economic hub of Bhutan. An urban centre, it is more developed than most of the towns of Bhutan, yet it has ...

Best Time: April to June

15. Samdrup Jongkhar

15 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 3 Tourist attractions

Samdrup Jongkhar is a small town in South-Eastern Bhutan and is located at the border of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Its proximity to the Indian border with multiple Indian shopkeepers and hawkers setting up shops here makes it one of the largest urban centres of Bhutan.Samdrup Jongkhar, a beautifu...

16 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 5 Tourist attractions

Mongar is a small town situated in Eastern Bhutan, widely known for its lemongrass production in the country. It is also one of the oldest education centres in the country. With a population of about 40,000 people, Mongar is one of the fastest developing districts in Bhutan. It is also the site ...

Best Time: September to November

17. Lhuentse

17 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 6 Tourist attractions

Lhuentse is a small town located 67 kilometres away from Mongar in Eastern Bhutan. The town is remote and one of the least developed districts in Bhutan which was formerly known as Kurtoe. It is the ancestral home of the Royal family; hence keeping the most distinct art forms of the country intact.

18. Trashigang

18 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan 4 Tourist attractions

Trashigang, called the 'Jewel of the East', is a beautiful hill station located in Eastern Bhutan, spread across an altitude ranging from 600 m to over 4000 m. It is the largest district of Bhutan and is immensely beautiful and serene. Trashigang is also a renowned town for trade-in Bhutan, serving ...

Best Time: October to December, April to May

19. Royal Manas National Park

19 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

The oldest national park in Bhutan, Royal Manas National Park is one of the largest national parks in the country. Known as the "conservation showpiece of the Kingdom", it is the largest example of tropical and sub-tropical ecosystems in Bhutan. Occupying south-central Bhutan, it shares its southern...

20. Laya Gasa Trek

20 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Laya Gasa trek is one of the most popular and scenic long-distance treks in the northern Himalayan region of Bhutan, along the border with Tibet.

21. Mountain Biking in Bhutan

21 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Speeding up your bike en route to the top of the hill and playing with wind and speed while enjoying the beautiful sights from there is one of the best experiences that a man can fathom in his lifetime. And what's a better way to get your adrenaline racing than mountain biking in Bhutan? With its vi...

22. Archery in Bhutan

22 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Seeing the level of enthusiasm that Bhutanese have for this sport, it would not be wrong to say that archery is the crown jewel of the country. And it must be the aura of Bhutan that even the tourists can't resist themselves to enjoy one or more matches of archery. The joy of seeing an arrow leaving...

23. Rock Climbing in Bhutan

23 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

While many tourists love conquering the high cliffs by hiking, some take the adventure a few notches higher with rock climbing which take mental and physical determination, body strength, agility, perfect balance, endurance and also control over the mind. It was in early 1998 that Bhutan first opene...

24. River Rafting in Bhutan

24 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

With a number of rugged, untamed rivers meandering through its map, Bhutan offers the perfect destination for river rafting. Mo Chhu, Paro Chhu in Punakha, Sankosh River, Mangde Chhu, Wang Chhu, Puna Tsang Chhu and the Dangme Chhu are considered to be the best for rafting due to their easy access an...

25. Trekking in Bhutan

25 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

Trekking in Bhutan is undoubtedly a most astonishing and adventurous experience for hikers around the globe. No matter whether you are an amateur or an expert in trekking, you will get your fair share of adrenaline on whichever trekking route you choose as per the difficulty levels. Just ensure that...

26. Visit the Motithang Takin Preserve

26 out of 26 Places to visit in Bhutan

The crown jewel of Thimphu, Motithang Takin Preserve is a protected area where the national animal of Bhutan, Takin, is preserved. A half an hour walk here would unveil many exotic birds and animals to you, who wander around the area freely and in the most natural of habitat. Overflowing with sereni...

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FAQs on Bhutan

What is the tourism policy of bhutan, what is the currency of bhutan, what is unique about culture of bhutan, what is the history of bhutan.

The Buddhist history of Bhutan is known with certainty as a written history was maintained after Mahayana Buddhism was introduced into the country in the 7th century by the King Songtsen Gampo. Widespread conversion to Buddhism was witnessed during this period. For the next thousand years, Bhutan existed as a series of rival monarchies in separate mountain valleys, but Buddhism remains, to date, the integrating factor. Read more on the History of Bhutan.

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Bhutan announces new tourism incentives - click here to read more

Eco Tourism

Eco Tourism Nature Activities

There is a global push for sustainable tourism that does not disrupt the natural environment and local communities. Bhutan currently maintains a 70% forest cover and has been blessed with abundant biodiversity and pristine nature. The country is further protected by a vast network of protected areas. To maintain this status quo, this Himalayan nation is looking to become a premier ecotourism destination.

The Royal Government of Bhutan defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas and habitats, which conserves the environment, respects the culture and traditions of its people, and improves the overall well-being of its citizens within the overall concept of Gross National Happiness.” To implement this, the national tourism policy is that of ‘high-value low-volume’.

The Department of Tourism's GEF Ecotourism Project covers two protected areas of Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary and Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, and five districts of Lhuentse, Mongar, Trashigang, Trashi Yangtse and Zhemgang. The project aims to boost the rural economy by promoting wildlife-based tourism, creating employment opportunities and increasing community resilience and connection to nature.

Other ecotourism projects being developed include homestays, birdwatching sites, nature-based activities and community festivals. Visit Bhutan to experience sustainable tourism that conserves the environment for its wildlife inhabitants, community members and future generations.

The GEF Eco Tourism project’s flagship species for ecotourism are red pandas, black-necked cranes, Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory butterflies, golden langurs, golden mahseers, and other exotic birds of Bhutan.

Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory

The Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary in Trashiyangtse is home to this endangered species of butterfly. It is the national butterfly of Bhutan and is commonly seen in the months of August and September. This eastern district is also known to be a haven for birds like Ward's Trogon, Babblers and Pheasants.

Swallowtails of Bhutan

Swallowtail butterflies are large and striking butterflies identified by their forked tails. In Bhutan you can find 42 of 550 species of these majestic butterflies. They are commonly seen in Trashiyangtse in Autumn.

Black-necked Cranes

Black-necked Cranes are a globally threatened species. To locals, their arrival signifies good luck and good harvest. Their presence also indicates healthy agricultural land and surrounding ecosystems. They can be spotted in Phobjikha Valley in Western Bhutan, Bumthang in Central Bhutan and in Bumdeling in Eastern Bhutan. They migrate to these winter roosting sites in the months of September and October and fly back to Tibet between February and March.

Bhutanese believe that seeing a red panda in the wild will bring good luck on your travels. Found in temperate Himalayan forests, these globally threatened mammals have been seen in 17 districts of Bhutan including 7 protected areas and all 8 biological corridors.

Golden Langur

One of the world's most threatened primates, experts estimate that there are about 6000 golden langurs in Bhutan. Half of the current population is protected within the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Royal Manas National Park and Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary. On your way to Zhemgang, you can occasionally see these monkeys frolicking by the side of the road.

Birdwatching in Bhutan

Bhutan is a paradise for bird lovers and birdwatchers. More than 700 species of birds have been recorded. The country also harbors more than 16 species of vulnerable birds. Bhutan is also home to many species of birds that are in danger of extinction, including the Imperial Heron, one of the fifty rarest birds in the world and the rare Black-Necked Crane.

Golden Mahseer Fishing

There two types of Mahseer found in most Bhutanese rivers are chocolate and golden mahseer. A migratory fish, the Golden Mahseer is seen at elevations as high as 1000 meters during the spawning season in summer but return to lower elevations in winter months. To boost local income, Bhutan is working to develop recreational catch and release fishing of the Mahseer.

Despite severe population declines elsewhere, the golden mahseer is flourishing—thanks to Bhutan’s strong environmental protections and the religious reverence bestowed upon it. Among anglers, the golden mahseer is one of the world’s most prized catches. Up to nine feet long and golden-hued with big scales, it has a reputation as one of the world’s hardest fighting fish.

Based on the findings from the Mahseer research works carried out in Bhutan from 2015-18, and following the recommendations from the first International Mahseer Conference held in Bhutan in 2018, the ban on Mahseer fishing was lifted in Bhutan since February 2022 for exclusive catch and immediate release. Mahseer recreational fishing and for that matter, any fishing requires a permit from the Department of Forests and Park Services, Royal Government of Bhutan. For any foreign angler, a certified local fishing guide is required. The best time for fishing golden mahseer is between March – June, and September – November.

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