Planning a trip to Bhutan? Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in Bhutan so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in Bhutan and the best places to visit in Bhutan. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3 travel company that brings the best travel ideas to travelers.
Table Of Content
- Buddha Dordenma Statue, Bhutan
- Bumthang Valley
- Changlimithang Stadium And Archery Ground
- Chele La Pass
- Chimi Lhakhang
- Dochula Pass
- Gangtey Monastery
- Haa Valley
- Jigme Dorji National Park
- Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Kyichu Lhakhang
- See Mount Everest
- National Institute for Zorig Chusum
- National Memorial Chorten
- Norzin Lam
- Punakha Dzong
- Rinpung Dzong
- Taktsang Monastery
- Trashigang
- Trongsa Dzong
- Explore Asia
Buddha Dordenma Statue, Bhutan
Meet up with Buddha in person.
Thimphu’s Kunzangphodrang mountain has a giant golden Buddha statue on top of it. It is a symbol of Bhutan’s dominant religion.
Buddha Dordenma, the world’s tallest statue of the Buddha, is the world’s biggest seated Buddha.
Bronze is used for the statue, which has a gold finish to symbolize indestructibility.
And where the status sits on a seat atop a large meditation hall, where hundreds of worshippers meditate every day.
A common misunderstanding among many who come to see the statue.
The visitors are actually looking at 125,000 Buddhas rather than a single one.
For tourists, it’s a must-see since the view from the top is breathtaking, and the enormous Buddha isn’t intimidating but serene and reassuring.
Celebrations for King Jigme Singye Wangchuck’s 60th birthday coincided with the creation of this monument.
It also fulfilled two ancient prophecies dating back to the 8th and 12th centuries.
Which also stated the region would be blessed with peace and happiness by constructing a gigantic Buddha statue.
Go visit Buddha Dordenma Statue now!
Address: Kuenselphodrang, Thimphu, Bhutan
Bumthang Valley
Seek for the land’s buried treasures!
Bhutan’s Bumthang Valley is the country’s spiritual center. It is also blessed with some of Bhutan’s oldest Buddhist temples, making it a great place to visit.
Stories have been told that Terton Pema Lingpa, a saint who discovered various treasures prophesied by Guru Rimpoche in this land.
With that, the locals regarded the Bumthang Valley as sacred, and legends of treasure-hunters from centuries ago still linger to this day.
The Bumthang Cultural Trek is the top thing to do in Bhutan.
It will take you beyond the Bumthang Valley’s natural majestic beauty.
Large, rolling valleys cover an area, and many of the area’s most renowned temples may be found here.
Buckwheat, fields of rice, and potatoes dominate the landscape.
The trail’s viewpoint may be seen in the monasteries, temples, and charming towns.
In addition, you’ll be able to see some of the most beautiful towns in the country.
Visit the Bumthang Valley, which is teeming with historical and cultural treasures.
Address: Bumthang Valley, Bhutan
Changlimithang Stadium And Archery Ground
Keep your eyes on the target.
Just down from Changlimithang Stadium, the city’s most famous archery ground, arrows fly on most days of the week.
National stadium Changlimithang is located on the site of the 1885 fight that helped establish Ugyen Wangchuck, Bhutan’s first king, as the country’s political leader.
Archery is a famous sport in Bhutan. Even if it’s a little out of the ordinary, participating in a few archery sessions, the National Sport of Bhutan, is well worth the money.
Archery is Bhutan’s national sport, and it’s fascinating to see the ancient bamboo bows replaced with high-tech carbon bows at the Changlimithang Archery Ground.
Seeing whether there is an archery tournament going on is always fun.
Whether it is with traditional bamboo bows or high-tech carbon fiber bows.
Their abilities are remarkable.
Seeing the bullseye from a regular person’s vantage point was difficult enough, much less striking the target from a distance.
You are welcome to observe their practice, but please don’t interrupt their focus.
In this place, the impromptu singing and slow-motion dancing when someone hits the target or misses is a treat to see and see.
Aim for a bullseye at the Changlimithang Stadium.
Address: Chang Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Chele La Pass
Hiking this might be a bit of a challenge at times. But that’s okay because the view is unbe-LEAF-able as you rustle through the leaves on your hike.
In Bhutan, the Chele La Pass is the highest motorable point. So, biking to Chele La Pass would be one of the top activities to do while in Bhutan.
Chelela is a mountain pass is located in Paro Valley’s western region that connects the two areas of Bhutan. And these areas are Haa Valley and Paro Valley.
The Chelela Pass in Bhutan is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including the majestic Mount Chomolhari.
Mt. Chomolhari, commonly known as the “Mountain of the Goddess,” rises to 7329 meters and is considered the sacred mountain in Bhutan.
Besides the countless Buddhist prayer flags, the area around the pass includes several untrodden routes and untouched woodlands.
This makes Mt. Chomolhari a peaceful destination to go hiking.
The slopes of the mountains are blanketed in a unique variety of white poppy, found nowhere else on Earth.
It is also possible to see Rhododendrons bloom around the pass perimeter if you go in the spring (March-May).
Don’t miss the fun and adventure that awaits you at Chele La Pass!
Address: Paro, Bhutan
Chimi Lhakhang
Uncover the tales around Bhutan’s fertility temple.
The Chimi Lhakhang, also known as Fertility Temple, is a revered site of wonder and enchantment.
Blessed by Drukpa Kunley, who is an eccentric maverick yogi and saint.
Drukpa Kunley was one of the monks who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan from Tibet.
He visited the Chimi Lhakhang temple at some point in the past.
In addition to his unique teaching techniques, he was noted for his outlandish singing style, which included songs with explicit sexual overtones.
Thus, the “Divine Madman” nickname was bestowed on him.
Phallus’s emblems are carved and painted on nearly every building and structure in this village.
It is because they are believed to provide good fortune and protection from evil ones.
Unable-to-conceive women and childless couples go great distances to seek the blessing of a Buddhist monk and his “magic thunderbolt of insight” at this shrine.
The temple’s priests bless each pair with an imitation wooden phallus depicting an iron bow and the scriptures of the saint.
This temple is a must-see since many rice fields surround it.
If you’re thinking about starting a family, you might want to visit here.
Location: Teoprongchu, Bhutan
Dochula Pass
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, a trek or climb in Bhutan might be one of the most incredible things you can do while visiting the country.
A breathtaking mountain pass named Dochula Pass was built in honor of the brave Bhutanese troops.
The ‘Druk Wangyal Chortens’ are 108 memorial chortens along the Dochula Pass, one for each soldier killed in combat.
“Chortens” are Buddhist shrines and monuments revered as sacred places.
Generally, they are the resting places of saints or Buddha-dedicated monuments.
It is common for Bhutanese families to picnic and enjoys the view of the Dochula Pass on weekends and during the holiday season.
A picnic lunch and a cup of hot tea are a regular sight under the shade of the chortens.
Clear, warm days provide the perfect lighting for travelers to shoot breathtaking images of the Himalayan range.
It’s time for you to get going and experience this amazing place.
Address: Paro, Bhutan
Gangtey Monastery
Breathtaking sights await you in this place.
Gangtey Monastery is Bhutan’s most extensive and only Nyingmapa monastery, located in the Wangdue Phodrang area in central Bhutan.
Gangteng Monastery (or simply Gangteng) holds great significance for the Bhutanese.
It has also been a popular tourist destination because of the monastery’s fascinating history and stunning architectural elements.
In the 8th century, a magnificent monastery was built here, and there is a lot of history behind it.
Gyalse Pema Thinley, the great saint’s grandson of Pema Lingpa, built the monastery.
Guru Rinpoche revealed the 108 treasure coves he had buried around the land in a psychic dream.
Pema Lingpa then embarked on a voyage, returning with many treasures, including Buddhist images and scriptures.
Around 100 Buddhist monks live in the huge village that surrounds this monastery.
They are currently responsible for the maintenance and management of the whole monastery.
Furthermore, these monks provide tours and explanations to visitors about its historical significance.
Visit this fascinating destination soon!
Address: Phobjikha Valley, Nubding, Bhutan
Haa Valley
A hike through the valley initially looked hard, but you’ll get over it.
The Haa Valley, one of Bhutan’s best-kept secrets, opened its doors to tourists in 2002.
The site is less developed than Paro, but it offers a glimpse into the more traditional way of life.
Its beauty can be seen in the country’s easternmost regions.
The development of hotels has been postponed to preserve the area’s rustic, old-world charm.
You may plan a trip to this peaceful valley and stay in one of the beautiful resorts, lodges, or guest houses available there.
The Haa Chu riverbed and a plantation trail in the valley may be found while on the hike.
There are stunning views of Paro and Haa along the way. You’ll also get a taste of rich culture on your walk.
The Haa Valley in Bhutan is a cut above the rest, taking you to a magnificent region beyond the amazing mountains.
Your journey awaits at the Haa Valley.
Address: Haa Valley, Bhutan
Jigme Dorji National Park
Hanging out with the animals!
To the northwest of the capital city of Thimphu lies the Jigme Dorji National Park.
It’s the country’s second-largest natural preserve and one of the most diverse in terms of culture and biodiversity of all the protected areas.
Dedicated to Bhutan’s Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, this wildlife sanctuary was created in 1974.
At the time, it had covered the whole country’s northern coast.
After a major revision of Bhutan’s protected area system in 1993, it was upgraded to a national park.
Moreover, the park’s boundaries were considerably reduced and confined to the northwestern region of Bhutan.
Himalayan Black bears, Takins, Bengal tigers, Snow Leopard, and over 300 kinds of birds are just some wildlife you’ll see in the park.
One of Bhutan’s top adventure activities, trekking, is famous in the Jigme Dorji National Park.
And one of the park’s most popular signboards reads, “Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.”
Make friends at Jigme Dorji National Park.
Address: The district of Gasa, Punakha, Paro, Thimphu, Wangdue Phodrang
Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Have a wild time with the animals!
Bhutan’s Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park is one of the country’s largest protected areas, covering 1,300 sq kilometers.
One of the largest undisturbed forest areas in the Himalayas can still be found in the park.
Many florae, animals, and birds may be found here because of the varied altitude and rainfall.
Musk deer and Himalayan black bears can be found in this region.
Bhutan is home to various animals, including the Royal Bengal tiger, the rare clouded leopard, the red panda, and the golden langur.
It is also home to 391 birds, including seven considered to be among the most endangered in the world.
The Black Necked Crane lives in Phobjikha Valley during the winter, a buffer zone for the park.
Phobjikha is home to more than 260 beautiful cranes who spend their winters here.
Don’t miss this opportunity because it’s all happening at the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park.
Address: 6C97+X2J, Bhutan
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Kyichu Lhakhang
Dig deep into the rich history of Kyichu Lhakhang.
Kichu Lhakhang, also known as Lho Kichu Temple, is a historic temple in Bhutan’s Paro city of Lango Gewog.
It dates back to the 7th century, making it one of the country’s oldest temples.
With a fascinating past that includes the likes of Guru Rinpoche, among other renowned Paro figures.
Certainly, this monastery is a must-see for anybody visiting the city.
Kichu Lhakhang is made up of twin temples.
The first Buddhist King of Tibet, Songtsen Gampo, built the original one in the 7th century.
At the same time, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, Ashi Kesang Choden, created the second in 1968.
The temple has a long and interesting history, and the murals portray past kings.
There are also several statues and sculptures dedicated to renowned Buddhist teachers.
This collection of sculptures shows Guru Rinpoche and Kurukulla, who holds a bow and arrow made of flowers.
One of the most respected Nyingma Buddhist scholars, Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, is buried beside the statue of Guru Rinpoche at the shrine.
Visit Kichu Lhakhang now, and take in the sights and sounds of the area.
Address: Lamgong Gewog, Paro 12001, Bhutan
See Mount Everest
Take a glimpse of the king of all mountains!
Seeing Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain, is a lifelong dream come true for many people. You don’t have to climb it to appreciate its awesomeness; there are other ways to take it all in.
This is precisely what you’re looking for, and Bhutan provides it to you in two separate ways.
One of Bhutan’s greatest standpoints for seeing Mount Everest is the Dochula Pass resort, though getting there at the proper time of year may be challenging.
One of the nicest things to do in Bhutan is to catch a glimpse of the Everest mountain range. With that, you can see the beautiful mountain of Bhutan on a clear day.
You may even glimpse the giant flying from Kathmandu to Paro and looking out the window.
While flying above the diamond-shaped rock protruding from the ground and hearing the Pilot proclaim that you can see Everest.
You’ll have the impression that it’s almost at eye level.
Mount Everest is calling for you, and you must go.
Address: Dochula Pass
National Institute for Zorig Chusum
Self-discovery may be found in the act of creating art.
In preserving Bhutanese art, the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, or the painting school, teaches it to the future generation.
Awe-inspiring and mesmerizing are two words that come to mind while seeing young people put their all into anything.
Here, you may learn how to sew, decorate, paint, and carve, just a few of the thirteen crafts available.
Tourists visiting Bhutan can learn the art of Thangka painting, which is based on Bhutanese heritage.
All of the classes are taught by different faculties. Integrity and respect for human dignity are only two of the many values upheld here.
Locals and the government of Bhutan have worked diligently to preserve their culture’s artistic traditions.
To cap it all off, students have set up a small shop where they sell their creations, such as handcrafted decorations and artwork.
Students at this school have a lot to be proud of, impressive abilities, and steadfast dedication.
The best time to visit the institute is from March through June and August through September.
Make a masterpiece of your own at National Institute for Zorig Chusum.
Address: Pedzoe Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
National Memorial Chorten
Explore the Mind of Buddha.
The National Memorial Chorten is a must-see tourist site in Bhutan. It is located in the heart of Thimphu, a short distance from the city center.
That it’s “the most noticeable religious landmark in Bhutan” that goes beyond merely being a major landmark.
Chorten literally translates to “the seat of faith,” whereas Buddhists sometimes refer to such structures as “the Mind of Buddha.”.
It is also called the Thimphu Chorten, constructed in the traditional Tibetan architectural style.
Built-in honor of the Third Druk Gyalpo, the National Memorial Chorten is dedicated to world peace.
Large white buildings with golden roofs form the chorten. The National Memorial Chorten has an image of elegance in its exterior and interior.
It’s best to go early in the morning when the chorten is bustling with the locals, old folks meditating, families lighting butter lamps, and schoolchildren on their way to class.
Explore and discover something new at National Memorial Chorten.
Address: Chhoten Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Norzin Lam
Who says money can’t bring you happiness? That’s just not true!
The city’s main boulevard, Norzin Lam, is filled with hotels, cafés, stalls, and stores.
One of Thimpu’s busiest retail districts.
This street’s more than 400 booths will surely fulfill your need for retail therapy and your desire to gather mementos of your trip.
It’s a great spot to go shopping in Bhutan.
From hand-embroidered boots to handcrafted sheets, the options are nearly endless.
In Bhutan, you can buy carpets, colorful masks, jewelry, hand-woven bamboo goods, and wooden handicrafts.
You’ll find a wide variety of fresh produce, wild honey, spicy chilies, and homemade soft cheese at the Centenary Farmers’ Weekend Market on the Wang Chhu River’s banks.
Other items are also available at the market, including fruits and vegetables.
Tourists, adventurers, and photographers will delight in capturing images of the bustling market here.
Have a taste of some of the country’s unique culinary offerings.
Also, don’t forget to pick up a few unique gifts for those you care about.
Shop now in Norzin Lam Shopping Area in Bhutan.
Address: Norzin Lam Street, Thimphu
Punakha Dzong
Enter a world of pure bliss.
Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong, or ‘The Palace of Bliss’ or ‘The Palace of Great Happiness,’ was built in 1637 and is known today as Punakha Dzong.
Punakha Dzong is proud to be Bhutan’s second-oldest and largest dzong.
It is part of the Kagyu school of Buddhism in Bhutan’s Drukpa Lineage.
There is no better place to see Bhutan’s world-class architecture and excellent workmanship than in this majestic building.
In fact, Bhutanese architecture has influenced architectural designs from throughout the world.
These include the construction of a UTEP in Texas, the United States, and the university campus.
Punakha serves as Bhutan’s winter capital because of the area’s cold temperature.
The dzong is surrounded by jacaranda trees, which blossom in the spring with mauve flowers.
Plus, located in the city of Punakha, Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge is also in operation (Punakha Suspension Bridge).
Learn more about how to go to this fantastic place.
Address: HVJ7+V6Q, Bhutan
Rinpung Dzong
Indulge yourself in this peaceful place and take a break from your busy schedule!
One of Bhutan’s most beautiful and spiritually uplifting temples may be found in the city of Paro, Rinpung Dzong, also known as the Paro Dzong.
Name Rinchen Pung Dzong means ‘the Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’ in the native language.
Rinpung Dzong has become one of Bhutan’s most popular tourist attractions as a landmark overlooking Paro.
It is well-known that there are several images depicting Buddha’s life.
It’s possible to get here by trekking to the top and taking in the stunning views of the Park Valley.
Paro Dzong is known for its majesty in the city’s heart, which grows in greatness rather than withering away over time.
The magnificent yearly celebration of Paro Tshechu is a must-attend for anybody visiting this place.
The finest thing to do in Bhutan is to visit Rinpung Dzong, an oasis of calm and tranquility.
Find your inner peace here at Rinpung Dzong.
Address: Paro, Bhutan
Taktsang Monastery
Are you strong enough, Tiger?
Be ready to endure the long journey to Taktsang Monastery.
In Paro, a trek to Taktsang monastery, known as the “Tiger’s Nest” by locals, is one of the most exciting things to do in Bhutan.
A legend has been told that Guru Rinpoche is the founder of Bhutanese Buddhism.
He has come on the back of a tigress more than a million years ago and meditated here.
In 1998, the monastery was reconstructed after it was damaged by fire.
The twisting path is challenging for trekkers who dare to scale the 9480-foot peak.
Trekking to Taktsang Monastery, which sits on a cliff, for the 2.5-hour trek to the monastery.
Most tourists come to Bhutan intending to visit, and while getting there requires some hard work, it is worth it.
Entering the chapels requires taking off your shoes and hat since the monastery is a holy place.
It is one of the most breathtaking sites in the Himalayas, on a steep rock 900 feet above the Paro valley floor.
Begin your journey here at Taktsang Monastery.
Address: Taktsang trail BT, Taktsang trail, Paro, Bhutan
Trashigang
In Trashigang, you’ll have a wonderful time!
Compared to other towns in Bhutan, Trashigang is the administrative center of Bhutan’s largest district.
Known as “The Jewel of the East,” Trashigang extends from the far easternmost reaches of the kingdom to the border with Arunachal Pradesh, an Indian state.
The Trashigang Dzong and the district’s spectacular annual Tsechu make this a must-see destination for everyone traveling to Bhutan.
The Dangme Chhu, Bhutan’s largest river, runs in this district.
Trashigang was previously a thriving trading center for merchants who wanted to sell their goods in Tibet.
The Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary can be found in Trashigang.
As one of Bhutan’s ten wildlife sanctuaries, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary was partly established to safeguard the migoi.
In fact, migoi is a type of yeti that the majority of the country’s residents believe exists.
The Sherubtse College, located in Trashigang, is one of the country’s most esteemed institutions of higher learning.
Sherubtse College, Bhutan’s first officially recognized university, was founded in 1966 by a group of Jesuits under the direction of William Mackey.
Trashigang awaits your visit so that you can take home some beautiful memories.
Address: Trashigang Dzongkhag, Bhutan
Trongsa Dzong
Explore the past of Bhutan.
Trongsa Dzong is, without a doubt, the most spectacular site to see when in Trongsa.
A magnificent example of Bhutanese architecture may be seen in the Dzong, one of the largest in Bhutan.
Trongsa, Bhutan’s capital city, was founded in the 16th century and had a history that dates back to the country’s foundation.
It was created by Zhabdrung Rinpoche’s great grandfather, the founder of Bhutan.
For miles around, the 17th-century Trongsa Dzong, a stronghold guarded by Trongsa for ages, can be seen.
It was built in 1648 and served as the capital of central and eastern Bhutan.
The first and second Bhutanese rulers both reigned from this ancient throne.
The building has a lot of different floors to explore on the inside. Views of the Mangde Valley from the top are spectacular.
Bhutanese workmanship and traditional Bhutanese architecture are displayed here in all their glory.
The structures are also linked by winding stone staircases, alleyways, and passageways.
Find out more about Bhutan’s past by visiting Trongsa Dzong.
Still unsure to make Bhutan your next destination? Hop over to reasons to visit Bhutan at least once in your lifetime here
Address: Trongsa, Trongsa district, Bhutan
