Sightseeing Places In Bhutan
Thimphu:
Thimphu is a bustling town on the bank of Thimphu Chu & set gloriously in the hills of the Thimphu valley. The capital has an interesting combination of tradition and modernity, and includes some of the most advanced and remotest parts of the kingdom. It is the home of the Bhutanese Royal family, Civil servants & Expatriates. We will take you through temples, dzongs, chortens, museums, handicraft stores, nunneries, parks and many more.
Memorial Chorten: Memorial Chorten is a large white structure with a golden spire crowning it, and is one of the most visible landmarks of Thimphu. It was built in 1974 to honor the third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1928–1972). Inside, the chorten depicts larger than life size images of wrathful deities with their female consorts in large numbers, and many in explicit Yab-Yum sexual poses. The ground floor of the chorten is consecrated to the teachings of Vajrakilaya. From the ground floor, a staircase leads to two more floors and each floor has four shrines. A centrally placed large wooden carving covers all three levels. The second floor is dedicated to teachings of the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school to subdue eight varieties of evil spirits and the top floor is dedicated to the teachings of Lama Gongdu.
Buddha Dordenma
Great Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue located on Kuensel Phodrang ridge overlooking the city. It houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues, each of which, like the Great Buddha Dordenma itself, are made of bronze and gilded in gold. Construction began in 2006 and was complted in 2015.It is one of the the largest Buddha statues in the world at 52m tall.
Changangkha Monastery: Changangkha Lhakhang is one of the oldest monasteries in the Thimphu valley. It was built in the 15th century by a descendant of Lama Phajo Drugom Zhipo, the man who spread the sect drukpa kagyu in Bhutan. The main statue at the temple is of Avalokiteswara (the eleven-headed Buddha manifestation with 1000 arms and 1000 eyes). The temple courtyard offers good views over the city of Thimphu.
National Zoo: It Contains national animal Takin. The Takin is a goat-antelope found in the Eastern Himalayas. Bhutan selected the Takin as the national animal based on both its uniqueness and its strong association with the country’s religious history and mythology.
National Library: The National Library was established in 1967 to preserve many ancient Dzongkha and Tibetan texts. (9am – 4pm, Closed on Sunday, Monday & National Holidays)
BBS Tower: It is located North-West of the Thimphu Valley. The Places has the top hill which gives a clear view of the entire Thimphu valley in a nutshell and the feeling from there is just fantastic.
Folk Heritage Museum: The house replicates a traditional farmhouse and is furnished as it would have been about a century ago. A guided tour of this almost-living museum is included in the admission and provides a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life. The house design and many of the implements are also reminders of how many rural Bhutanese still live today. Bring a torch (flashlight) as some of the rooms are quite dimly lit.
National Textile Museum: This museum is worth a visit to get to know the living national art of weaving. Exhibitions introduce the major weaving techniques, styles of local dress and textiles made by Bhutanese. (Everyday 9am – 4pm & Saturday 1pm – 4pm, Sunday 10am – 3pm, Closed on Monday & National Holidays)
School of Arts And Crafts: The School of Arts and Crafts, commonly known as painting school, offers an eight year course which provides instruction in many of Bhutan’s traditional arts to boys throughout the country. (Everyday 2pm – 4pm & Saturday 9am – 12noon, Closed on Sunday & National Holidays)
National Institute of Traditional Medicine: This institute was established in 1978. It prepares and dispenses traditional herbal and other medicines. There is an impressive laboratory and production facility that manufactures quality products. All kinds of pills, tablets, ointments and medicinal teas from here are distributed to regional health-care units around the country.
Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory: It is a 1 km drive from main city of Thimphu to the factory. The factory manufactures the traditional Bhutanese paper using the bark of two tree species in the manufacture of traditional paper the Daphne tree and Dhekap. The entire process of traditional manufacturing of the handmade paper can be observed. It was previously operated by the government. Now it is run by a private entrepreneur.
Tashichho Dzong: Tashichho Dzong, “Fortress of the Glorious Religion”, built on the hill above Thimphu in 1216 by the lama Gyalwa Lhanampa. It is the most stately and most impressive building in Bhutan. The dzong housed the original National Assembly and now houses the secretariat throne room and the offices of the King of Bhutan. Visit to Tashichho Dzong permitted only after office hours (4pm – 5pm) in winter months when the monk body is not in Thimphu.
Weekend Market: Every Saturday & Sunday most of the Thimphu population congregate on the banks of the river, where the weekend market is held. Here villagers from the valley & other nearby places come to sale their agricultural products.
Paro:
The beautiful valley is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries & temples. The countries only airport situated is in Paro. The valley is also home to Mount Chomolhari (7300 meters.) situated at the northern end of the valley whose glacier, water forms the Pa Chu which is flowing through the valley.
Ta Dzong: It overlooks the Rimpung Dzong and was built in 1951 as a watch tower. It is an unique museum, which was established as the National Museum of Bhutan since 1967 with its wonderful and varied collection of arts, relics, religious thangkha, etc. It provides an excellent introduction to Bhutanese art and culture. (9am – 4pm, Closed on Sunday, Monday & National Holidays)
Rinpung Dzong: Means “fortress of the heap of jewels”. The massive three hundred and fifty years old fort is the center of governance for the Province of Paro. The governor, the chief judge and other government official keep office within the walls of this fort following old traditions. Half the fort is permanently occupied by 200 resident monks. The fort host’s one of the Bhutan’s biggest Paro Tshechhu (festival) is held in spring.
The Ruin of Drukgyel Dzong: The dzong was built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate the victory over the Tibetan Invaders. This fort is fifteen minutes’ drive from Zhiwa Ling and set on a hill with a spectacular view of the valley. It provides a wonderful architectural insight to the structure of forts in Bhutan. The dzong was destroyed by fire in 1951 and is now preserved as a heritage site. The Dzong is situated in Drukgyal, overlooking the beautiful village with Mountain Jumolhari in the background. Drukgyel is also the starting point of Bhutan’s most famous trekking routes.
Kitchu Lhakhang (Monastery): Kyichu Lhakhang is believed to be one of the 108 temples constructed in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet. These temples were built to subdue a supine Ogress that hindered the spread of Buddhism in the Himalayas. Kyichu is among the 12 main temples of the 108 and houses the original 7th-century Jowo Jamba Statue, along with eight standing bodhisattvas and statues of Zhabdrung, Guru Rinpoche, and Chenrizig with 11 heads and 1000 arms. Adjacent to Jowo Lhakhang is Guru Lhakhang, constructed by Queen Mother Ashi Kesang Wangchuk in 1971, featuring a principal 5-meter statue of Guru Rinpoche.
Taktsang Monastery (Full Day): Taktsang, or ‘Tiger’s Nest,’ stands as one of the most revered and awe-inspiring sights in Bhutan. Its beauty and location are truly breathtaking, perched on the sheer face of a 900-meter cliff. No road leads to it, so visitors must trek uphill to reach the monastery or opt for a horse ride part of the way, still requiring some walking. The journey from the parking lot to the cafeteria takes about 1-2 hours, followed by an additional 40 minutes to reach the viewpoint that overlooks a deep ravine. From there, it takes another 30 minutes or so to descend a flight of stairs to the waterfall, cross the stream, and climb large steps to reach the site. In total, the journey can take between two and a half to four hours.
The first monastery was built in 1692, and is steeped in legend. It is said that in the 8th century, Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress to subdue negative spiritual forces hostile to the spread of Buddhism. Many spiritual masters have spent time in the cave here. Inside, visitors can explore several temples and shrines within Taktsang. For those with more time and energy, there are additional pilgrimage sites further uphill, including Machig-phu, Zangdopelri, UgyenTsemo, and more.
Dumtseg
Dumtseg was constructed by the great bridge-builder Thangtong Gyelpo in 1433. It is said to have been built on the head of demoness, who was causing illness to the inhabitants. The building was restored in 1841 by Sherab Gyeltshen. . It contains beautiful ancient murals .This temple is unique in Bhutan as its paintings show the progressive stages of Tantric Buddhist philosophy as well as the most important deities and figures of the Drukpa Kagyudpa School. You may or may not be permitted inside but can walk around this three-storey Chorten-type building.
National Museum of Bhutan
The National Museum was established in 1968 and is housed inside a circular Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower. It is located above Paro Dzong and has the largest collection in Bhutan, featuring a fascinating array of arts, relics, religious Thangkha paintings, household items, ancient arms, handicrafts, stuffed animals, and Bhutan’s famous stamps, among others
Chele-La-Pass (Full Day): Chele-La-Pass, at an elevation of 13,088 ft., is considered to be one of the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. About an hour’s drive from Zhiwa Ling it passes through lush valleys, pine and rhododendron forest. The pass provides stunning views of the sacred mountain Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
Punakha:
Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955. It’s the winter seat of the Je Khempo (Chief Abbot) & the monk body. It has a temperate climate & its rich fertile valley is fed by the Pho Chu & Mo Chu rivers.
Dochu-La-Pass: The most known pass in Bhutan, about 30 km drive from the Capital City Thimphu on the way to Punakha/Wangduephodrang. It is at around 3150 mtrs. height. On a clear day, spectacular view of the mighty Himalayas mountain ranges can be seen. You will admires the sterling view of snow-capped Himalayas and the hundreds of “broadcasting” prayer flags. During winter road to Dochula pass is covered with mild snow. Prime attraction to visit Dochula pass is 108 chortens / stupas. The sharp peak that stands at the Dochula pass is dominating the region.
Chimi Lhakhang: The temple, adorned with hundreds of prayer flags, graces the edge of a picturesque plateau overlooking fertile rice fields and river below. Chimi Lhakhang is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, also known as ‘The Divine Madman,’ who lived from 1455 to 1529. While revered as a master of the Mahamudra Buddhist tradition, he is equally remembered for the provocative nature of his teachings, often employing strong sexual symbolism.
In Bhutan, Drukpa Kunley is a cultural icon, inspiring a rich tapestry of tales blending fact with fiction, weaving a captivating narrative around his persona. Originally, Drukpa Kunley erected a chorten at this site, which later evolved into the temple constructed in the 15th century.
Chimi Lhakhang holds deep significance as a pilgrimage destination, particularly cherished by childless couples seeking blessings.
Punakha Dzong: Punakha Dzong is arguably the most beautiful dzong in the country, particularly enchanting in spring when the surrounding Jacaranda trees are in bloom. Also known as Pungthang Dechhen Phodrang (“The Palace of Great Happiness”), Punakha Dzong is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chhu rivers and was constructed by Zhabdrung Nawang Namgyal in 1637. This sacred site has witnessed the coronation of all of Bhutan’s kings.
The dzong houses the most revered relics of the Drukpa Kagyu school, including the Rangjung Kasarpani, as well as the remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Spanning 180 meters in length and 72 meters in width, with a six-storey utse (central tower), Punakha Dzong stands as an architectural marvel.
On December 17th, 1907, Ugyen Wangchuk was crowned here as the first hereditary King of Bhutan. Additionally, the Dzong serves as the winter home of the central Monastic Body, which moves here from Thimphu.
Wandgue Dzong: It’s an easy drive to the very impressive 17th century Wangdue Phodrang dzong, home of over 200 monks and a monastic school. The dzong is the largest wood roofed dzong in Bhutan and the style and architecture is very grand.
Rinchengang village
Rinchingang, recently renamed as Drinchengang, is a captivating village known for its remarkable cluster of interconnected houses. It is situated on the opposite hill, overlooking Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. The residents are said to be descendants of the artisans and craftsmen who came from India and Nepal to build the Dzong. It is considered one of the oldest clustered-villages in Bhutan.
Gantey:
Gantey Gompha & Phobjika Valley Situated south of the road and east of Wangdue Phodrang, is Gantey Gompa, an old monastery dating back to the 17th century. The gompa, on the valley floor, is the village of Phobjika. This is the winter home of the famous black-necked cranes. The cranes migrate from the high plains of the Tibetan plateau in winter to the milder climate of Phobjika.
Gangtey Gompa Monastery
Gangteng Monastery, also known as Gangtey Sangngak Choling, was established in 1613 by the first Gangteng Tulku, Rigdzin Pema Tinley (1564–1642). He was the grandson of Bhutan’s renowned “treasure revealer,” Terton Pema Lingpa. The current leader of the monastery is the 9th Gangteng Tulku reincarnation
Located on the spur, Gangtey Monastery commands a breathtaking view of the expansive Phobjikha Valley.
Black-necked Crane
-˜Thrung Trung Karmo’ as this bird is passionately known in Bhutan is the subject of many Bhutanese songs and folklore. The birds are considered as the holy messenger, symbol of peace and prosperity. These graceful birds are so culturally important that they’re seen among the paintings on the walls of home, temples and Thangkas. In Phobjikha, farmers believe the birds’ presence ensures a healthy crop and tourists travel from around the world to see them. The wetland in the center of Phobjikha valley provides the nesting grounds and natural habitat for these black necked cranes. Black Necked Crane Information Centre is situated on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjikha, it has an observation room equipped with high power telescope and spotting scopes for catching the best view of the cranes. The centre also offers information that outline the natural and cultural history of the area.
Morning walk along the nature trail, a footpath encircling the winter roosting grounds of the crane, for about 2hrs. When the crane is not in residence, walk to the local villages, and also visit Nature Info center.
Trongsa:
Trongsa forms the central hub of the kingdom & historical place from where attempts at unifying country were launched.
Yathra Weaving at Zungney
Yathra is colourful wool weaving with intricate patterns on colored wool native to Chumey valley in central Bhutan. You can see women at work with their backstrap loom, picking designs at the ‘Yathra Weaving Centre’ in Zugney and at each local homes and shops in the valley. You may also be able to see the dyeing of wool using natural dyes and other processes.
Trongsa Dzong: It is The most impressive Dzong in Bhutan. The Dzong was built in 1648 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the official who was sent by Zhabdrung to unify Eastern Bhutan and enlarged at the end of the 17th century by Desi Tenzin Rabgay. Trongsa Dzong is the ancestral home of the Royal family. Both first & the second king ruled the country from this ancient seat. All kings hold the post of Trongsa Penlop prior to being crowned as King.
Ta Dzong: Perched above the Trongsa Dzong this is a watch tower which once stood guard over the Trongsa Dzong from the internal rebellion. It’s now being turned into a heritage museum.
Bumthang:
This fascinating valley is the religious heartland of the nation & home to some of the oldest Buddhist temples & monasteries. Its gentle sloping hills offer plenty of walking opportunities to the many temples that dot this valley. The valley is also famous for its production of honey, cheese, apple & yathra- a woolen material that has multiple uses.
Jambay Lhakhang:
Jambay Lhakhang, the Temple of Maitreya, is one of the legendary 108 temples built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in 659 CE, according to legend. These temples were constructed in a single day to subdue a supine demoness obstructing Buddhism’s spread. They spanned Tibet, Bhutan, and neighboring regions. Padmasambhava visited Jambay Lhakhang, and later, King Sindhu Raja restored it upon his return. It has undergone numerous repairs, maintaining its spiritual significance over time.
urje Lhakhang
The Kurjey Lhakhang Complex is a significant spiritual site where Guru Rinpoche meditated on solid rock, leaving the imprint of his body, hence known as “kurjey,” meaning body imprint. The complex comprises three spacious temples. Upon entering, the first temple to the right is Guru Lhakhang, dating back to 1652, housing the sacred cave. The middle temple, Sampalundrup, was constructed in 1900 by the first King Ugyen Wangchuk during his role as Trongsa Penlop. The third temple was built under the patronage of the Grandmother, Her Majesty Ashi Kesang Wangchuk. The site is rich in myths and stories, and it hosts an annual festival featuring masked dances and cultural performances.
Tamzhing Monastery
Tamshing Monastery is said to have been built by Pema Lingpa himself in 1501. Terton Pema Lingpa, born in the mid-15th century, is one of the five great spiritual treasure discoverers who possessed extraordinary knowledge and miraculous abilities. Beyond treasure discovery, he introduced religious dances and excelled in crafts like metalwork and wooden block carving for scriptures, leaving a lasting impact on Bhutan’s cultural and religious landscape. Although there are several other monasteries of the Pema Lingpa tradition (Peling), Tamzhing is the principal seat of this revered figure. On the inner walls are what are believed to be original, unrestored images that were painted by Pema Lingpa.
Bumthang Brewery
This state-of-the-art microbrewery offers tours that include a bottle of Red Panda beer. The brewery and cheese shop were founded by Swiss migrant Fritz Maurer, who was one of the first Swiss nationals to make Bumthang his home and married a local. Red Panda is an unfiltered, preservative-free weiss beer.
Tang Valley
Tang is one of the four valleys in Bumthang district, and it is situated at a higher elevation compared to Choekhor and Chumey. Traditionally, its inhabitants have raised sheep, cattle, and yaks in the higher reaches of the valley. The journey from Bumthang (Jakar) takes approximately an hour by car, passing through several small villages along the way. In this valley, you can find a wealth of Buddhist sites, including the highly revered Kunzangdra, Thowadra, and Ogyencholing.
Membartsho
Membartsho, or the “Burning Lake,” is a hallowed pool formed by natural rock formations and fed by the Tang chu river. Situated on the route to Tang Valley, this site is steeped in legend, as it is believed that the revered saint Pema Lingpa discovered sacred treasures hidden beneath its waters. While not a conventional tourist destination, it carries profound spiritual significance. Pilgrims come to offer prayers, kindle butter lamps, and experience tranquility amid fluttering prayer flags.
Ogyencholing Manor
Ogyencholing or Ugyencholing was the center of Dorje Lingpa (1346-1405), a Buddhist Dzogchen master who established his center here. His descendants bore the responsibility of upholding religious traditions while also serving as local lords. Spanning more than 650 years, Ogyencholing served various purposes, starting as a gompa (monastery), then transforming into a dzong (an administrative fortress housing a local lord and family), and eventually becoming a nagtshang (manor house) for centuries.
In 2001, the central tower known as Utse was converted into a museum, cataloging the history of the manor and feudal Bhutan. The museum’s collection consists almost exclusively of items from the ancestral home, including agricultural tools, objects used in religious rituals, arms and armor, textiles, masks, and manuscripts. It boasts one of the most complete collections of Bhutanese manor life artifacts from the last few centuries.Ogyencholing Manor offers approximately 12 well-furnished guest rooms and a restaurant to support the maintenance costs of the manor.
Jakar Dzong: Literally meaning the Castle of White Bird. The Dzong was initially built as a monastery in 1549 by the great grand father of the Zhabdrung. It is now used as the administrative center for the Bumthang district. The Bumthang Tsechu is one of the most popular festivals. It is held mostly at night & is said to bring fertility to any woman wanting a child.
Mebar Tsho (Lake of Burning Fire): Membartsho, or the “Burning Lake,” is a hallowed pool formed by natural rock formations and fed by the Tang chu river. Situated on the route to Tang Valley, this site is steeped in legend, as it is believed that the revered saint Pema Lingpa discovered sacred treasures hidden beneath its waters. While not a conventional tourist destination, it carries profound spiritual significance. Pilgrims come to offer prayers, kindle butter lamps, and experience tranquility amid fluttering prayer flags.
Ura Village: Ura lies in the Tang valley, a one & a half hours drive from Bumthang town. The drive is mainly through sheep pastures & along the way one can glimpse magnificent view of the Mount Gangkar Puensum from Ura la. The main characteristics of this village is the closely cluster houses of weavers and villagers. It is the last settlement before the climb to the highest road pass at Trumsingla.
