‘The land of Happiness’ , ‘The kingdom above the clouds’, ‘The land of thunder dragons’… Bhutan has gained a few majestic names over the years which perfectly indicates how beautiful and epic it truly is. Whether you’ve been dreaming of taking a trip to this magical corner of the world. We’re going to let you in on some of the things to do while your trip to the Royal Kingdom of Bhutan.
- Hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Hike to the holy Taktsang Monastery): The Tiger’s Nest (Paro Taktsang) also known as Taktsang Palphug Monastery can be described in one word, incredible. Located on the steep rocky mountain the building rest on the side of a cliff above 9480 ft above the ground was build in 1692 as a monastery. You’ll need to take a hike up here and the trial begins just 10 miles north of Paro(a 20 minutes drive).It challenges the trekkers to walk the rocky winding path.
Duration of the Trek: 3-4hrs
Suitable for: Beginners
Things to Know: No phone ,cameras, lighters and backpacks are allowed inside the monastery
- Attend the vibrant Festivals of Bhutan (Get acquainted with the culture) : Bhutan being one of most traditional and cultural country its calendar is filled with a long list of traditional festivals.Festival of Bhutan known for their richness vibrancy and happiness. The ancient expression of Buddhist and legendary victories are re-enacted and celebrated around the country with such ceremony and splendid display it attracts visitors and tourists from all around the globe.
Most of these festivals are dedicated to Guru Rimpoche(the saint who introduced Bhutan to Buddhism. All the mystical dances ,brave fire events, mysterious naked dances, enlighting re-creation and such define the festive celebration. Among these festivals there are some must visit ones such as the Thimphu Tshechu Festival(national festival of Bhutan), the Jambay Lakhang Festival Drup Festival, Paro Tshechu, The Haa Summer Festival, Nimalung Festival and much more.
- The Memorial Stupa or The Thimphu Chorten (Rediscover Yourself) : If you want to get lost in the realm of peace, then head to most visible religious landmark located in the southern-central part of the city of Thimphu. The Tibetan-style stupa was built in 1974 as a memorial for the third majesty King of Bhutan(Jigmee Dorjee Wangchuk 1928-72). Early morning is a great time to visit this mesmerizing place as it the one of the best place for meditation. This whitewash chorten, with its sun-catching golden finial, has richly painted annexes facing the cardinal direction and elaborates mandalas statues and shrine dedicated to the majesty.
Location: Thimphu, Bhutan
- Trongsa Dzong (A closer look into Bhutan’s history) : If you love to explore historical places and relive the experience then a must do thing is to visit the Trongsa Dzongs(the ancestral home of the Royal family) is one of the best tourist places in Bhutan. As it is the largest fortress of Bhutan with the most aesthetic and magnificent works of traditional Bhutanese architecture and boats a great location overlooking the Mangde River. As you wander through Trongsa Dzong don’t miss visiting the 24 chapels and the museum in the watchtower. The street-like corridors , beautiful courtyards and stone stairs will tell you the tales of the bygone times.
Location: Trongsa district, Bhutan
- White water rafting (Treat your adventurous soul): Adventure is a great way to exhilarate your soul and for the adrenaline addicts rafting is one of the best way to unleash it.Unlike other river rafting with strong currents, rafting in Bhutan is a pleasurable ride floating down the river. You will get to marvel the lush greenery, rare birds, mesmerizing skies and the blue waters of Bhutan. Just outside the Phunnaka is an easy class 2-3 whitewater rafting that takes you to the valley along the itinerary you,ll get to see the suspension bridges, see the surrounding mountains, dzongs and chortens. We recommend white water rafting during the day for a refreshing cool off.
Location: Mo Chu And Po Chu, Punakha and Paro Chhu, Paro, Bhutan.
- Bhutan’s longest Suspension Bridge (Traverse the lane of flags) : Perched over the serene river of Po Chhu, apart from Punakha Dzong you will get to witness the beauty of Phunakha suspension bridge( also Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge 160m 524ft long). Encircled by the rocky mountains of Bhutan, the whole setting of the bridge is captivating for any nature lovers. The best thing about this bridge is it is just half a mile away from the majestic Phunaka Dzong
Location: HVQ9+MQ9, Punakha, Bhutan
- Royal Manas National Park (Explore the diverse wildlife species of Bhutan): Entitled as the ‘conservation showpiece of the kingdom’ the royal manas national park is the oldest of its kind in Bhutan. Along with the rich genetic depository of valueable plants, the protected area is blessed with tropical as well as the subtropical ecosystem that favours the growth of massive amount of flora and fauna. From golden langur to Rufous necked hornbill the rare and endangered list of fauna can be experienced in the park with over 900 species of plants. It gives you all the more reason to visit the park.
Location: 2pj8+642, Gonphu, Bhutan
- Bhumthang Valley (The Switzerland of the east) : Among the best things to do in Bhutan is to take the Bhumthang cultural trek and explore much more than just the breathtaking beauty of the Bhumthang valley. The cultural trek offers picturesque views of the monasteries, temples, the quaint villages along clustered houses potato fields along with sheep pastures with great hospitality. These is a kind of valley where you can go for a photo walk to experience the wonders of nature and culture.
Location: Bhumthang District, Bhutan
- Changlimithang Archery Ground (Score a bullseye) : Bhutan is known for its passion for archery (as it is the national sport of Bhutan). In almost every corner of the country you will find a group of traditionally dressed men taking turns to fire the arrows to a small specific target. For explorer there are many archery galleries in the region.
Location: Chang Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
- Shopping in Local markets( A search for souvenir): Bhutan is a country with scenic beauty of nature and an architectural heritage. Beyond that the country also offers some unique handicraft and authentic traditional items which would be perfect to bring along as a souvenir. For the people who are willing to buy some authentic artifacts and Thangkas from this Royal Himalayan Kingdom some of these best must go shopping places are Norzin Lam Street of Thimphu , The Paro Craft Market, Lunga handicrafts and many more.
Bhutan is a kind of place where you’ll find hand painted wall murals, architectural heritages, cultural beauty, serene rivers, rich traditions and lovely people. Explore its vibrant culture as you indulge in your favorite activities in Bhutan. Av tours and travels offers you a perfect vacation to Bhutan with your close one to explore its majestic