Bhutan is located on the southern slopes of the eastern Himalayas, landlocked between the Tibet Autonomous Region to the north and the Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh to the west and south. The land consists mostly of steep and high mountains crisscrossed by a network of swift rivers, which form deep valleys before draining into the Indian plains. Elevation rises from 200 m (660 ft) in the southern foothills to more than 7,000 m (23,000 ft). This great geographical diversity combined with equally diverse climate conditions contributes to Bhutan’s outstanding range of biodiversity and ecosystems.
The northern region of Bhutan consists of an arc of Eastern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows reaching up to glaciated mountain peaks with an extremely cold climate at the highest elevations. Most peaks in the north are over 7,000 m (23,000 ft) above sea level; the highest point in Bhutan is Gangkhar Puensumat at 7,570 metres (24,840 ft), which has the distinction of being the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. The lowest point, at 98 m (322 ft), is in the valley of Drangme Chhu, where the river crosses the border with India. Watered by snow-fed rivers, alpine valleys in this region provide pasture for livestock, tended by a sparse population of migratory shepherds.
The Black Mountains in the central region of Bhutan form a watershed between two major river systems: the Mo Chhu and the Drangme Chhu. Peaks in the Black Mountains range between 1,500 and 4,925 m (4,921 and 16,158 ft) above sea level, and fast-flowing rivers have carved out deep gorges in the lower mountain areas. The forests of the central Bhutan mountains consist of Eastern Himalayan subalpine conifer forests in higher elevations and Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forests in lower elevations. Woodlands of the central region provide most of Bhutan’s forest production. The Torsa, Raidak, Sankosh and Manas are the main rivers of Bhutan, flowing through this region. Most of the population lives in the central highlands.
In the south, the Shiwalik Hills are covered with dense Himalayan subtropical broadleaf forests, alluvial lowland river valleys, and mountains up to around 1,500 m (4,900 ft) above sea level. The foothills descend into the subtropical Dooars Plain. Most of the Dooars is located in India, although a 10 to 15 km (6.2 to 9.3 mi) wide strip extends into Bhutan. The northern and the southern Dooars are the division of The Bhutan Dooars .
The northern Dooars, which abut the Himalayan foothills, have rugged, sloping terrain and dry, porous soil with dense vegetation and abundant wildlife. The southern Dooars has moderately fertile soil, heavy savannah grass, dense, mixed jungle, and freshwater springs. Mountain rivers, fed by either the melting snow or the monsoon rains, empty into the Brahmaputra River in India.
Phuntsholing, is a border town in southern Bhutan and is the administrative seat of Chukha District. Phuentsholing adjoins the Indian town of Jaigaon, and cross-border trade has resulted in a thriving local economy. The town has the headquarters of the Bank of Bhutan previously but shifted to Thimphu In 2017. Bhutan Tour organized by Himalayan Destination can make your vacation memorable one, as we are specialist in this sector. Himalayan Destination is one of the best Bhutan tour and travel operator. Himalayan Destination is one of the best tour and travel operator, who organize Bhutan Tour.
What To See
Zangto Pelri Lhakhang is the reflection of the ancient architecture of Bhutan.The eight life size statues of Guru Rinpoche were consecretated in the ground floor of the monastery.Every statue is depicting the experiences at the different point of life which was assumed by Guru Rinpoche.A visit inside this monastery is highly recommended as it has a collection of statues and the walls decorated with murals of Guru Padmasambhava and other noble sages of Bhutan.It was built in the year of 1990 under the commandment of Dasho Aku Tongmi, who composed the National Anthem of Bhutan.After enjoying the Whole monastery tourists can take a stroll around the well manicured garden.There are a number of prayer wheels near the garden.The pilgrims pay their homage to the God through spinning the prayer wheels.
Karbandi Monastery, or as locals call it, Karbandi Goemba, is located at a height of 400 metres. Founded in 1967, it’s the winter residence of the Royal Grandmother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron. The temple compound houses impressive, large statues of Shabdrung Ngawang, Guru Rinpoche and Shakyamuni Buddha. The plush garden located right outside the monastery gives a panoramic view of the Bengal Plain and the Phuentsholing town. Eight different Tibetan Buddhist Stupas enhance the aesthetic appeal of the garden. According to legend, an Indian pilgrim couple visited this place and prayed for a child. The wish was granted, and since then, couples have been visiting this place in hopes of a better future.
The Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre is undisputedly one of the most popular places to visit in Phuentsholing. Get close to these dangerous creatures in real life, and see them snooze or feed. Of course, how close you get depends on the time you visit the breeding centre. With various species of crocodiles and alligators, it’s the place to be if you’re an animal lover.
Depicting traditional Bhutanese architecture, Bhutan Gate is the main gateway for entry from India. One of the most photographed attractions, the gate demarcates the Bhutanese and the Indian territory with adjoining cities, Jaigaon and Phuentsholing.
Thimphu is the little bustling capital city of Bhutan. It is located in the western central part of Bhutan, Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. , From the year of1961 Thimphu was declared as the capital of the Kingdom of Bhutan by the 3rd Druk Gyalpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The city extends in a north-south direction on the west bank of the valley formed by the Raidak River, which is known as the Wang Chuu or Thimphu Chuu in Bhutan. Thimphu is the fourth highest capital in the world by altitude and ranges in altitude from 2,248 metres (7,375 feet) to 2,648 metres (8,688 feet).This capital city is home to the 100,000 inhabitants.This is the main center of trade and commerce, religious customs and Bhutanese culture.The most important attraction of Thimpu are National Post Office,the Clock Tower Square,the Motithang Takin Preserve ,Tango and Chari Monastries etc.Tshechu is an important festival.
Memorial Chorten
Chorten means stupa.This stupa was built in 1974 in the memory of Bhutan’s third King,Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. This stupa is one of the tallest monument in the Thimpu,located in the southern central part of Thimpu.Elegant architecture and marvellous sculptures of this stupa are the witness of Bhuddhist culture. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Simtokha Dzong
Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang is the another name of Simtokha Dzong . In the year of 1629 Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built it .This is the first Dzong which successfully provides administrative facilities. The Institute for Language and Cultural Studies is located here. The most noteworthy artistic feature of this dzong is the series of over 300 finely worked slate carvings behind the prayer wheels in the courtyard.
National Library
The National Library is established in 1967,the center of Thimpu.This Library arranges adequate space for national archives of Bhutan along with Tibetan & Bhutanese texts & manuscripts.There are so many types of precious historical pictures hanging on inside wall of the Library.Tranquility is existed in the premises of Library. Besides thousands of manuscripts and ancient texts, the library also has modern academic books and printing blocks for prayer flags.
Institute for Zorig Chusum
Painting School is an another name of Institute for Zoring Chusum . This Institute arranges a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan like sewing,ornament making, painting, carving etc.Magnificent Thangkha painting is taught here.On a visit, one can see students learning the various skills at the school.
Traditional Medicine Institute
This medicine Institute is established in 1978.Allopathic & herbal medicine both are equal important to the inhabitants of Bhutan.This institute collects herbal plants from the every corner of Himalaya for improvement of the herbal medicine.This institute is considered to be a Herbal Medicine Hospital. This Institute provides best training opportunity for traditional medicine practitioners. Due to considerations of hygiene visitors can’t enter inside the complex.but one can still walk around and view it from outside.
The Folk Heritage Museum (Phelchey Toenkhyim)
This museum was established in 2001,located in the heart of Thimpu.This museum is a three storied building.Tourists experience partial idea about the traditional Bhutanese lifestyle from the museum.Artifacts from rural household,household objects,tools etc.are displayed inside the museum.Apart from displaying these things,museum organize a program for demonstrating the rural traditions,household skills,customs.Museum provides educational program for children.Inside the museum ,unique experience is awaited for the tourists like rural landscaped to wheat,paddy,millet fields,water mill,traditional hot stone baths etc.Most important thing is this museum introduces different kind of anonymous native plants.
National Textile Museum
National Textile Museum is situated near the National Library of Bhutan. Museum has garnered a substantial collection of antique textile artifacts. The Queen Ashi Sangay Choden Wangchuk first conceived this museum.The foundation year of this museum is2001.
Trashichhoedzong
“Fortress of the glorious religion” is the prestigious name of this dzong. It was initially built in 1641. In the year of 1935 King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk rebuilt it’s present form. The Dzong houses, main secretariat building which houses the throne room of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. The National Assembly Hall is housed in a modern building on the other side of the river from the Dzong. During the warmer summer months, the monk body headed by His Holiness, the Je Khenpo, makes its home in the Dzong.
Handicrafts Shops
A wide assortment of colorful, hand woven textiles and other craft products is available for purchase at the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and many smaller crafts shops around the
Weekend Market
Every Saturday and Sunday most of Thimphu’s scant population and many valley dwellers congregate on the banks of the river . It is an interesting place to visit and provides opportunity to mingle with the local people.
Changangkha Lhakhang
It is a Buddhist fortress,built in 12th century.It is perched on ridge near Motithang Takin Preserve.It is divided into three parts, first part is dedicated to the devotees who devoted their whole life to learn the holy Buddhist teachings.Other two parts consist of inner sanctum and meditation hall for Buddhist monk. The figurine of Chenresig with 11 head & 1000 arms is consecrated in the inner sanctum.
Craft Bazaar
Organised on Tuesday and Wednesday in Centenary Farmer’s market, under patronage of Department of cottage & small industry and in collaboration with the department of culture, tourism council and the department of agriculture marketing and cooperatives, this market offers genuine Bhutanese arts & crafts thus contributing in promotion, protection and preservation of traditional arts.
Junghi Handmade Paper Factory
Junghi Paper factory comprises of two enterprises ; the unit in Thimphu produces traditional handmade paper from natural plants mainly from ‘Daphne’ plant species which is insect-resistant. The other unit in Jimina, 22 km from the centre Thimphu town, recycles waster papers. The traditional handmade papers are widely useful for making religious scripts, packing materials, hand-carry bags, lampshades, envelopes, calendars . The paper looks a lot like Japanese washi. Bhutan exports this special paper to Japan also.
Zangthopelri Lhakhang
In the year of 1900,Zanthopelri was built by Dasho Aku Tongmi,the musician & composer of Bhutan’s National Anthem.It is located near the Bhutan Gate & Immigration Office.It represents the symbol of tranquility & solace to the distressed heart.The temple is a three storied with a beautiful garden where the tourists can get relaxation & positive vibe.Colorful frescoes & murals make marvellous look of temple’s interior.Some statues of Buddhist deities are consecrated inside the temple.
Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang)
Kuensel Phodrang or Buddha Point is a massive statue of Sakyamuni Buddha with 60 mts.height sitting on lotus.It is consecrated on the hilltop & made of bronze,gilded with gold.It is located near the Thimpu.In the center ,a grand statue of Buddha is called as Buddha Dordemna & the hundreds of small statues are enhancing the weight of this place.
Simply Bhutan Museum
Simply Bhutan is a noteworthy project under the Bhutan Youth Development Fund (YDF),tomorrow’, for the youth of Bhutan.This interactive museum introduces the traditional life in Bhutan with the visitors.All visitors can enjoy local Arra (rice spirit). Inside the museum visitors can dress up in traditional Bhutanese clothes for enjoyment.
Drubthob Goema / Zilukha Nunnery
Perched on a promontory, overlooking picturesque Trashichhoedzong and Golf course, it is the only nunnery in capital known as Zilukha Anim Dratsang, once belonged to the Drubthob (Realized one) Thang Thong Gyalpo often referred to as The King of the open field (In the early 15th century with his multiple talents he popularly became the Leonardo da Vinci of the Great Himalayas). You may interact here with some of the nuns who have devoted their life to spirituality and Buddhism.
Excursions around Thimphu Valley
Tango Goemba
Tango Goemba is located in the north part of Thimpu.One of the most important religious figure,Phajo Drugom Shigpo established this monastery but in 15th century Lama Drukpa Kunley built the present building of this monastery.Tango itself is a part of Buddhist University.In the year of 1616 Lama Zhabdrung visited Tango and meditated very close to this monastery.In gratitude Lama sculpted a sandalwood statue of Chenresing and consecrated this statue inside the monastery.There are several chapels in the main three storied building.The fourth Druk Desi gives blessing from his walking stick.Monastery compounds is surrounded by wooden sticks.Every wooden stick is ornamented by eight auspicious Buddhist signs.A small chapel enshrines a large crystal whis was from Tibet & is used in visualization meditation.
Cheri Goemba
In the year of 1620 Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal established this Goemba.There is a silver chorten inside the monastery.it holds the ashes of Shabdrung’s father. The goemba is very close to Dodena (alt. 2,600m).
The trail commences by crossing a traditional wooden bridge that spans the Thimphu Chhu, then climbs steeply to the monastery. Being the place where the Shabdrung spent many years in meditation, Cheri today has numerous hermitages and small temples located on its slopes, commanding spectacular views. The one way walk to the monastery is approx 4.5 km, taking about 2 hours.
Phajoding Goemba
t is a 5 km uphill walk from Motithang. In 15th century Shagcha Rinchen built this monestery. He introduced the Drukpa Kagyupa school in Bhutan in the 13th century. Ones up on a time it was one of the richest monasteries in the country.
Lungchuzekha Goemba
It is an interesting three to four hours round trip walk around Dochula pass, offering fascinating view of Bhutan Himalayas. From 108 chortens and mani wall at Dochula pass, the road ascends gradually into white, red and pink rhododendron forests for about one and a half hour with some steep sections before branching left to Lungchuzekha Goemba. The highlight of this excursion is beautiful forest, spectacular mountain views and monastery.
Takin Preserve, Motithang
The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. The great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley created this animal and these are moving only in Bhutan and nearby areas. Taxonomists place the animal in a category of its own as it is not similar enough to any other animal to fit established categories.
Botanical Gardens, Serbithang
Located on lush hillside about 10km from the city, the gardens offer a peaceful and relaxing environment to spend a few hours. Botanists will find the wide selection of indigenous trees and plants of interest.
Coronation Park
Located on the banks of the river (near the city stadium), this 5.6 acres of parkland offer a pleasant and relaxing environment to stroll or to sit and watch the river flow by.
Tandin Nye
This sacred lhakhang is about 1 km from the main town, built on a cliff, just like the Tiger’s Nest in Paro. The visit to the temples provides an opportunity to feel and see the great work of ancient Buddhist legends. Local people believed that there was a lake below the lhakhang but now one can found only a marshy area.
Sangaygang – Wangditse loop
Drive to Sangaygang view point, situated at an elevation of 2685m and presenting wonderful view of Thimphu valley from the hillside below the telecommunications tower. From here commences approx two hours walk to Sangayang – Wangditse loop. The trail leads through ubiquitous prayer flags amidst beautiful view of Thimphu valley. After a short and abrupt hike, take the side footpath to right and thereon the trail gets gentler and easier. Above the trail, you’ll also find apple orchard and few farm house. There after the trail drops down gently through oak, blue pine and rhododendron until you reach to Wangditse monastery. 1750 is the foundation year of this monastery . Later rebuilt in 2016. The inner chapel houses a two-storey statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. En route, there are excellent views north towards the Samteling Palace, home to the fourth King. The walking tail ends back at Sangaygang view point.
Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until the 1960’s, and still retains the serene atmosphere of a place with a regal past. The dzong is the main attraction, but there are also other sites of interest in and around this pleasant little town. Along with Paro and Jakar, Punakha completes the triangle of most popular tourist destinations.
Punakha Dzong
Majestically standing on an island between the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, the city’s dzong is one of the most photogenic of all Bhutan’s ancient fortresses, and you will see pictures of it hanging in hotels and restaurants throughout the country. An arched wooden bridge joined the Dzong with the mainland and contains many precious relics from the days when successive kings reigned the kingdom from this valley. The dzong serves as the winter home of the monastic body.
Paro is a historic town with many sacred sites and historical buildings scattered through the area. In addition, the Paro Valley is wide and verdant and one of the most beautiful towns in Bhutan. Prefer to stay in Paro if you are someone who is fond of nature and would like to spend quiet and peaceful time. However, apart from the main street , the bazaar area is a nondescript hodgepodge of concrete buildings . Along with Jakar and Punakha, Paro forms the ‘golden triangle’ of popular tourist destinations in Bhutan.
Taktsang Monastery, (Tiger’s Nest)
Precariously perched on the edge of a 1,200 meter cliff, this monastery creates an impressive sight, and is the unofficial symbol of Bhutan. It is about 2-3 hour, totally up-hill hike from the parking lot to the monastery, though there is a cafe located on ridge across from the Taktsang (about 90 minutes into the walk) that provides a welcome opportunity to take a rest and purchase refreshments and snacks. The hike up to the Tiger’s Nest can be very strenuous and you can rent a horse to bring up the mountain. The horse ride is a one-way trip (this is recommended if you are not very fit and may face altitude sickness) and you have to make your way down the mountain by foot. Guru Rinpoche establishe sacred Taktsang for meditation . He visited the site on his second visit to Bhutan in 747 CE . Though the first monastery was not constructed until 1694. In 1998 a tragic fire destroyed most of the original buildings, but these have since been painstakingly restored to their former glory.
National Museum of Bhutan
Located in a former watch tower above the dzong, the museum displays artifacts from Bhutan’s history as well as examples of indigenous flora and fauna.
Rinpung Dzong
The natives constructed in 1646 is one of the famous Dzong of this area.
Drukgyel Dzong
In the 16th century to commemorate a victory over the invader Tibetan forces,natives of Bhutan established this Dzong. The fortress today lies in ruins, the elements and a fire in the 1950s having taken a toll on the site. Drukyel dzong is about 15 kms from Paro.
Drakhapo
Located above Shaba (keeping Shaba School to the right, follow the dirt road to end. The complex is a five minute walk from here). Drakhapo is a monastic complex . Guru Rinpoche spent two months here after completing a retreat at nearby Taktsang, and during his stay placed many treasures into the cliff. The area also has several hand and foot prints embedded in the rock.
Kichu Lhakang
King Songten Gampo in one night constructed Kichu Lhakang & there are 108 monasteries inside this.It is located just off the road running between Paro bazaar and the Taktsang.
Jangsarbu Lhakhang
Located behind Paro Dzong. This small and insignificant looking temple is home to a magnificent statue of Sakyamuni Buddha which carried all the way from Lhasa, and also houses the protector deity of Paro. Legend has it that the statue of Sakyamuni was destined for Paro Dzong and merely placed in the temple for overnight safe keeping. However, when the time came to move the statue, it proved impossible to lift. As a result, it became a permanent feature of the lhakhang.
Best time to visit
In March – April
March and April are among the most popular times to travel as temperatures are pleasant and the valleys are abundant in nature; especially as all the flowers start to bloom. Early April witnesses the Paro Tshechu, so book ahead to get the best accommodation and flights.
Events & Festivals
- Rhododendron season (March to May): Similar to Nepal, Bhutan’s landscapes are at their best at this time of year before the monsoon arrives, with colourful rhododendrons carpeting the hillsides.
- Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.
In May
Temperatures increase in May, bringing humidity as well as cloud over the mountains. However, fewer visitors and lower prices can make it a perfectly viable time to visit. The rhododendrons should also still be in bloom – ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
Events & Festivals
- Rhododendron season (March to May): Similar to Nepal, Bhutan’s landscapes are at their best at this time of year before the monsoon arrives, with colourful rhododendrons carpeting the hillsides.
In June – August
June to August (and sometimes into September) is monsoon season in Bhutan. Although showers can occur at night without spoiling daytime explorations, conditions aren’t ideal for trekking. Sightseeing is still possible with a raincoat! It’s also ideal for retreating to a spa. Views are best in the mornings following night-time downpours.
In September
The month of September, October and November are ideal for hiking. Also it is good for seeing festivals (particularly the popular Thimphu Tshechu) and enjoying stunning views and pleasant temperatures. Expect it to be around 25°C in the sun, but there will be cooler temperatures in the evenings and at higher altitudes.
In October
The majority of travellers (around 80% of all international visitors) want to visit Bhutan in October, so plan well in advance to ensure you get your preferred accommodation and good value flights.
Events & Festivals
- Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.
In November
Black-necked cranes migrate from the Tibetan Plateau to the protected Phobjikha Valley each year. They remain in the region from late October to early February.Bird arrival festival.in November is a special occasion in Gangteyion. in Plan ahead if you want to be a part of it.
Events & Festivals
- Black-necked crane festival (November): These endangered birds migrate to spend each winter in the Phobjikha Valley. The festival celebrating their arrival takes place in in the courtyard of Gangtey Gonpa to promote their conservation.
- Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April). Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful tea houses.
In December – February
From December to February Bhutan is at its coldest; especially in the mountains, but clear skies reward those who brave the low temperatures. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower.
The climate in Bhutan varies with elevation, from subtropical in the south to temperate in the highlands and polar-type climate, with year-round snow in the north. Bhutan experiences five distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, autumn, winter and spring. Western Bhutan gets huge monsoon rains every year. But in case southern Bhutan weather it is hot humid summers and cool winters and the central and eastern Bhutan is more warm and drier than the west in summers and cool winters.