Here are 20 of the best things to do in Bhutan:
- Visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery: This is a must-do activity when in Bhutan. It’s an iconic monastery located on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley.
- Attend a Festival: Bhutan has a number of festivals throughout the year, and they’re a great way to experience the local culture.
- Hike to Chele La Pass: This is one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan, and the views from the top are breathtaking.
- Visit Punakha Dzong: This is one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and a great example of traditional Bhutanese architecture.
- Take a Hot Stone Bath: This traditional Bhutanese bath involves soaking in hot water with stones that are heated over a fire.
- Visit Paro Valley: This is one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan and home to many of the country’s most famous landmarks.
- Attend a Bhutanese Archery Competition: Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and watching a competition is a great way to experience the local culture.
- Visit the National Museum of Bhutan: This museum houses a collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, and exhibits on Bhutanese history and culture.
- Visit the Royal Palace: The Royal Palace in Thimphu is a great example of Bhutanese architecture and is the current residence of the King of Bhutan.
- Trek the Jhomolhari Trek: This is one of the most popular treks in Bhutan and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Visit the Phobjikha Valley: This is a beautiful valley that is home to the endangered Black-necked Cranes.
- Visit the Buddha Dordenma: This is a massive statue of Buddha that is 51 meters tall and made of bronze and gold.
- Explore the Dochula Pass: This pass offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is home to 108 chortens.
- Visit the Gangtey Monastery: This is a beautiful monastery located in the Gangtey Valley.
- Visit the Chimi Lhakhang: This is a temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” who is known for his unorthodox teachings.
- Go on a Wildlife Safari: Bhutan is home to a number of rare and endangered species, and going on a safari is a great way to see them.
- Visit the Haa Valley: This is a beautiful valley located in western Bhutan that is home to many traditional Bhutanese villages.
- Attend a Mask Dance: Mask dances are a common feature of Bhutanese festivals and are a great way to experience the local culture.
- Visit the Tashichho Dzong: This is a beautiful dzong located in Thimphu and the current seat of government in Bhutan.
- Visit the Taktsang Goemba: This is the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan.
Bhutan, officially known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas of South Asia. It is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east and west. Bhutan is known for its stunning natural scenery, unique culture, and commitment to preserving its environment and traditional way of life.
The country is known for its mountains, valleys, forests, and rivers, which make up its varied and stunning landscape. The highest peak in Bhutan is Gangkhar Puensum, which stands at 7,570 meters (24,836 feet) tall. The country is also home to many rare and endangered species of plants and animals, including the snow leopard and the black-necked crane.
Bhutan’s culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, and its people practice a unique form of the religion known as Drukpa Kagyu. The Bhutanese people are known for their kindness and hospitality, and their society is organized around a strong sense of community and respect for nature. Traditional Bhutanese dress, which includes colorful robes and scarves, is still commonly worn by both men and women.
One of the most unique aspects of Bhutan is its commitment to measuring its success in terms of Gross National Happiness (GNH) rather than Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This approach emphasizes the importance of sustainable economic development, preservation of the environment, and the promotion of cultural values and social harmony.
Tourism is an important industry in Bhutan, and the country has a reputation for being one of the world’s least-visited destinations. However, visitors are welcomed and encouraged to experience the country’s stunning natural beauty, traditional culture, and unique way of life.