Top Destinations in Bhutan
Posted on 15/01/2020
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Thimphu
Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan situated in western Bhutan. It is the first top destination in Bhutan by foreigners. The city is home to over 100,000 local residents including the royal family of Bhutan. Thimphu city is the most urbanized district in Bhutan and the western culture influence is much more noticeable as compared to other regions in Bhutan. Most essential government agencies, ministries, and the Office of His Majesty the King are set up in Thimphu City. People from across the country aspire to move and settle in Thimphu due to its relatively superior living standards as compared to other regions and better employment opportunities. The rise in urban migration from across Bhutan over the years has fueled Thimphu City’s exponential growth.
Agricultural lands transformed into residential complexes in Thimphu to accommodate the growing population. The city center along Norzin Road is emerging with international hotel chains, fine dining restaurants, and cafes serving quality international cuisine. Thimphu has the infrastructure to deliver the modern comfort that most travelers seek.
However, while exploring Thimphu; Tourists will observe modernization juxtaposed with ancient culture and traditions. Thimphu streets bustle with Bhutanese men, women, and children wearing traditional attire. TThimphu boasts ancient 16th-century monasteries, Simtokha Dzong and Tashichhodzong, and the King’s Office.. The fortresses are well-preserved and still remain functional. Catering to the rising tourism in Bhutan, Thimphu has many museums, nature parks, and hiking trails.
Paro
Paro is one of the top destinations in Bhutan chosen not only by outsiders but also by Bhutanese. Paron is a broad valley in the western region of Bhutan. Unlike Thimphu, Paro still has its agricultural territory intact. Almost all villages scattered across Paro valley including the town center are surrounded by vast rice paddy fields. The landscape of Paro transforms into lush greenery during the plantation season and the golden color of the crops perfectly fits the autumn feel during the harvesting season. Bhutan’s only international airport is approximately only 3 kilometers away from Paro town. The airport serves as the gateway to and from Bhutan for all visitors traveling by flight. Paro’s farmers offer authentic Bhutanese lifestyle, values, and traditions through extensive road networks, making it accessible to travelers seeking Bhutanese culture.
Like Thimphu, Paro also has many ancient religious and historical sites the most popular being the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The 17th-century monastery has become the destination icon for Bhutan and is a must-visit attraction. Another interesting aspect of Paro is the Paro town itself. Traditional houses on either side of an approximately 100-meter street used to be the entirety of Paro town. Today the town has grown laterally, however, the older town still remains the main center of the town. The traditional houses are renovated incorporating modern designs while preserving their traditional architectural aesthetics. The entire street is filled with cafes, restaurants serving quality coffee, and multi-cuisine and handicraft shops for travelers looking to buy souvenirs. Exploring the small town can offer a unique experience.
Punakha
The mountain village of Punakha is historically significant. This place comes as the third top destination in Bhutan. Much of the significance circles around the Punakha Dzong. It is one of the most beautiful Dzongs in the country. The Dzong, Bhutan’s restored Dzong, features traditional arts and crafts, situated on glacial-fed rivers and approached by a cantilever bridge.
During the time of the Tibetan invasion, Punakha Dzong served as a military barrack during Tibetan invasion, emerging victorious and hosting an annual festival honoring Pazaps’ bravery. Zhabdrung who built the Dzong and founded modern Bhutan was laid to rest at the Dzong. A sacred temple houses his embalmed body and with the exception of two senior monk attendants, only the King and the Chief Abbot are allowed to enter the shrine. As a tradition, all Kings of Bhutan begin their reign by offering prayers at the shrine. Hundreds of years later, another significant event was graced at the Punakha Dzong. The First King of Bhutan was crowned at the Punakha Dzong in 1907 institutionalizing hereditary monarchy.
Punakha lacks the urban infrastructure development that Thimphu and Paro have and hence the serene countryside offers a closer resemblance to medieval Bhutan. Secluded luxury resorts overlooking vast paddy fields and villages are popular choices of accommodation in Punakha.
Phobjikha Valley
A visitor traveling to Phobjikha Valley must take the road that diverts off the east-west national highway just before reaching the Pelela Pass. The narrow diversion road begins with a gradual climb for about twenty minutes and arrives at the ridge. Visit Phobjikha Ridge for breathtaking landscape before descending to the valley for a full experience. Phobjikha is one of the most idyllic destinations in Bhutan. The valley is a multiple small clustered village scattered across the vast open valley. People are primarily farmers and it is one of the biggest producers of potatoes in the country. A 16th century Gangtey monastery sits on a ridge overlooking the valley which offers the locals a place of worship that binds the community together.
The valley is also part of a vital wildlife preserve and is home to a few endangered species, the popular one being the black-necked cranes. These migratory birds fly south to the valley from Tibet every winter before leaving back in early spring. With the initiatives of the local conservation agencies, the wetlands that stretch across the valley are preserved and off-limits to human activity. The secluded valley offers a tranquil and serene environment for visitors looking to rejuvenate and rekindle their spirits. Thus the above-mentioned top destinations in Bhutan, we are waiting for your quick arrival in Bhutan.
