A cultural museum in the town of Paro in western Bhutan. Established in 1968, in the renovated ancient Ta-dzong building, above Rinpung Dzong.

The National Museum of Bhutan, located in Paro, is a cultural and historical hub that showcases Bhutanese history, art, and culture. It's housed in a traditional round fortress, known as the Ta Dzong. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, ranging from ancient Bhutanese art and artifacts to weapons, coins, and stamps. It also has a natural history gallery that showcases the flora and fauna of Bhutan. /n The museum offers a panoramic view of the Paro valley, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Bhutanese culture and history. The architecture of the museum is also noteworthy, as it's a perfect example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, with its round shape and conical roof. The museum is a testament to Bhutan's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for anyone visiting the country.

The National Museum of Bhutan is a cultural hub that showcases Bhutanese history and art.

Also known as Paro Taktsang, it's a prominent Himalayan Buddhist sacred site and temple complex, located in the cliffside of the upper Paro valley, Bhutan.

Tiger's Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang, is a sacred Buddhist site located on a cliff in Paro, Bhutan. It is one of the most famous monasteries in Bhutan and a major pilgrimage site. /n The monastery is perched on a cliff about 900 meters above the Paro valley and offers stunning views. The trek to the monastery is a spiritual journey, passing through a beautiful pine forest and with prayer flags fluttering along the path.

Tiger's Nest Monastery is a sacred Buddhist site located on a cliff in Paro.

Built in 1637, it's one of the most picturesque and oldest dzongs in Bhutan, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.

Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungtang Dechen Phodrang Dzong, is a stunning fortress and monastery located in Punakha, Bhutan. /n It is one of the oldest and most beautiful Dzongs in the country, showcasing the rich Bhutanese architecture. The Dzong is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It is a significant religious and administrative centre, and a must-visit for anyone interested in Bhutanese culture and history.

Punakha Dzong is a stunning fortress and monastery that showcases Bhutanese architecture.

The Mo Chhu River is a major river in Bhutan. It is popular for river rafting and kayaking. The river offers stunning views of the Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful dzongs in the country, and the surrounding lush green landscapes.

Mo Chhu River, nestled in the heart of Punakha, Bhutan, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The river's crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains, offer a serene and picturesque setting that captivates every visitor. /n The river is also a popular spot for river rafting. The thrilling rapids of Mo Chhu River provide an adrenaline-pumping experience that is both challenging and exciting. Whether you're a seasoned rafter or a beginner, the river offers something for everyone. The rafting journey also offers a unique way to explore the stunning landscapes of Punakha. As you navigate through the river's twists and turns, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. /n Apart from river rafting, Mo Chhu River is also a great spot for sightseeing. The river banks are dotted with numerous attractions, including ancient temples and fortresses. You can take a leisurely stroll along the river bank, soak in the tranquil ambiance, and immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture. /n In conclusion, a visit to Mo Chhu River offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. It's a must-visit destination when you're in Punakha, Bhutan.

Mo Chhu River is a popular spot for river rafting and sightseeing in Punakha, Bhutan.

A 169 feet tall statue of Buddha Dordenma, Vajra Throne Buddha, located atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park and overlooking the Southern entrance to Thimphu Valley.

The Buddha Dordenma statue is a gigantic Buddha statue overlooking the city of Thimphu, Bhutan. It is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, standing at a height of 169 feet. /n The statue is made of bronze and is gilded in gold. It is located atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park and offers panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. The statue also houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues, each of which, like the Buddha Dordenma itself, are made of bronze and gilded in gold.

The Buddha Dordenma statue is a gigantic Buddha statue overlooking the city of Thimphu.

A wildlife reserve area for takin, the national animal of Bhutan. Located in the Motithang district of Thimphu, Bhutan.

Motithang Takin Preserve, located in Thimphu, is a unique wildlife reserve that provides a natural habitat for the Takin, Bhutan's national animal. The Takin is a rare and unusual animal that is found only in the Eastern Himalayas. /n The preserve is set in a beautiful forested area, offering visitors the chance to see these unique animals in their natural environment. The preserve also provides an opportunity to learn about Bhutan's wildlife and conservation efforts. The area is well-maintained and has walking trails, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. The Motithang Takin Preserve is not just a wildlife reserve, but a symbol of Bhutan's commitment to conservation and the preservation of its unique wildlife.

Motithang Takin Preserve is a wildlife reserve home to Bhutan's national animal.

Bhutan, the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a mesmerizing Himalayan kingdom known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual serenity. This untouched paradise offers a unique blend of ancient and modern, where centuries-old fortresses and monasteries coexist with vibrant festivals and a sustainable approach to tourism. Experience the awe-inspiring Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff, or the bustling markets of Thimphu, Bhutan's capital. Explore the verdant valleys of Punakha, hike through the pristine forests of Phobjikha, or immerse yourself in the spiritual tranquility of Bumthang. Bhutan's commitment to preserving its traditions and environment makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.

National Museum of Bhutan

Tiger's Nest Monastery

Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan, where you can learn about the country's rich history and culture. The museum is located in a former watchtower and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley.

Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch. The cuisine is known for its spiciness, with dishes often featuring chillies and cheese. Try the national dish, ema datshi, a spicy stew made with chillies and cheese.

After lunch, take a hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. Perched on a cliff, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the Paro valley. The hike is moderately challenging but worth the effort.

For dinner, sample more Bhutanese cuisine. Try dishes like phaksha paa, a pork dish cooked with spicy red chillies, or jasha maru, a spicy chicken stew.

Spend the evening exploring the local markets in Paro. You can find a variety of local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs to take home.

Exploring Paro

Punakha Dzong

Mo Chhu River

Begin your day with a visit to the Punakha Dzong, a beautiful fortress located at the confluence of two rivers. The dzong is one of the most important in Bhutan and is a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture.

Have lunch in one of the local restaurants in Punakha. Try dishes like kewa datshi, a potato and cheese dish, or shakam paa, a dried beef dish.

In the afternoon, take a rafting trip on the Mo Chhu River. The river offers a mix of calm waters and exciting rapids, making it a fun adventure for the whole family.

Enjoy a quiet dinner in Punakha. Try some local dishes like momos, dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, or thukpa, a hearty noodle soup.

Spend the evening strolling around the town of Punakha. The town is peaceful and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

Adventures in Punakha

Buddha Dordenma statue

Motithang Takin Preserve

Start your day with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma statue in Thimphu. The statue is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world and offers panoramic views of the city.

Have lunch in Thimphu. Try dishes like ema datshi, phaksha paa, or jasha maru.

In the afternoon, visit the Motithang Takin Preserve. The preserve is home to the takin, Bhutan's national animal. The takin is a unique and rare animal that is worth seeing.

Enjoy your last dinner in Bhutan. Try some local dishes like momos, thukpa, or kewa datshi.

Spend your last evening in Bhutan exploring the nightlife in Thimphu. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars and clubs.

Discovering Thimphu

UTC+6

Bhutan's only international airport is in Paro. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are the only airlines that operate flights in and out of Bhutan. Flights are available from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Thailand.

Private cars are the most common way for tourists to get around Bhutan. You can hire a car with a driver who also often acts as a guide. This is usually arranged by your tour operator.

Taxis are available in major towns like Thimphu and Paro. They do not have meters, so you will need to negotiate the fare before your journey.

Bhutan has a network of public buses that connect major towns. However, these buses can be crowded and are not always reliable.

Ridesharing services are not common in Bhutan. Most people prefer to use taxis or hire private cars.

Bhutan is a great place for cycling with its beautiful landscapes. You can rent a bicycle in towns like Thimphu and Paro.

Trekking is a popular activity in Bhutan. There are numerous trekking routes that allow you to explore the country's stunning natural beauty.

In some remote areas of Bhutan, you can travel by horseback. This is a unique way to see the country's rural landscapes and is often included in trekking tours.

Ema Datshi is Bhutan's national dish. It's a spicy mix of chillies and the delicious local cheese known as Datshi. The dish is a staple of nearly every meal and can be found throughout the country.

Ema Datshi

Jasha Maru is a spicy chicken dish, usually served with rice. It is made with diced chicken, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and chillies. This dish is a common part of Bhutanese cuisine.

Jasha Maru

Phaksha Paa is a pork dish made with spicy red chillies. This dish also includes Radishes or Spinach, and sometimes dried pork is used instead of fresh pork.

Phaksha Paa

Red Rice is a staple of Bhutanese cuisine, grown in the Eastern part of the country. It's a medium-grain rice, similar to brown rice in texture, with a slightly nutty taste.

Red Rice

Momos are South Asian dumplings native to Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Indian region of Sikkim. They are usually filled with meat or cheese and served with a spicy sauce.

Momos

Shakam Paa is a dried beef dish cooked with chillies and radishes. It's a popular dish in Bhutan and is often served with red rice.

Shakam Paa

Suja is a Bhutanese butter tea. It's made from tea leaves, water, salt, and yak butter. It's a common drink in Bhutan, especially during the cold winter months.

Suja

Ara is a traditional alcoholic beverage in Bhutan. It's made from fermented rice, maize, millet, or wheat, and is often served warm.

Jaju soup is a traditional Bhutanese soup made with vegetables and cheese. It's a common part of meals in Bhutan.

Jaju Soup

Kewa Datshi is a popular Bhutanese dish made from potatoes, cheese, and chillies. It's similar to Ema Datshi, but with potatoes instead of chillies.

Kewa Datshi

Zow Shungo is a Bhutanese dish made from leftover vegetables and red rice. It's a common dish in Bhutan, especially among the rural population.

Zow Shungo

Khur-le is a traditional Bhutanese breakfast food. It's a type of pancake made from buckwheat, and is often served with Ema Datshi.

Khur-le

Winter Solstice (Nyilo)

Traditional Day of Offerings

King's Birthday

Losar (New Year)

King's Birthday Holiday

Losar Holiday

Election Day

Death Anniversary of Zhabdrung (Zhabdrung Kuchoe)

Birth Anniversary of Third Druk Gyalpo

Buddha's Parinirvana

Birth Anniversary of Guru Rinpoche

Buddha's First Sermon

Blessed Rainy Day

Dashain

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel's Coronation

Descending Day of Lord Buddha

Birth Anniversary of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo

National Day

Famous for its tea gardens and the view of the Kanchenjunga peak.

Darjeeling

Known for its tea gardens and the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.

Siliguri

Known for the Kamakhya Temple and the Brahmaputra river.

Guwahati

The capital city of Nepal known for its rich history and culture.

Kathmandu

Cultural capital of India, known for its colonial architecture.

Kolkata

Known for its living root bridges and heavy rainfall.

Cherrapunji

The capital city of Bangladesh known for its vibrant street life.

Dhaka

Gateway to the Northeast India, known for its tea gardens.

New Jalpaiguri

An old woman spinning prayer wheels in Thimphu

View of the Dochula pass and some of its 108 stupa structures

A monk dressed in a red robe walking around Punakha Dzong

Buddhist monk dancing wearing a colorful mask at the Paro Tsechu festival 

Statues of goddesses with Himalayan peaks in the background

Bhutan is the only country in the world that is carbon negative, which means it absorbs more CO2 than it produces.

Bhutan's currency is the Ngultrum (BTN). The Indian Rupee is also accepted in most places.

Bhutan is a Buddhist country and the locals are very respectful of their traditions. As a visitor, you should also respect their customs.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered.

Bhutanese people speak Dzongkha, but English is widely spoken and understood.

Bhutan has a strict 'High Value, Low Impact' tourism policy. This means you must book your trip through a Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners.

The Bhutanese government has implemented a mandatory daily tariff for tourists. This covers accommodation, food, transport and an official guide.

Bhutan is not a budget destination. The minimum daily package for tourists is $200 during low season and $250 during high season.

Tipping is not a common practice in Bhutan, but it is appreciated.

The food in Bhutan is spicy. The national dish, Ema Datshi, is a spicy mix of chilies and local cheese.

Bhutan is a safe country to visit with a low crime rate. However, it's always important to take standard travel precautions.

The country has a strict no smoking policy. Selling and buying of tobacco is banned.

Bhutan uses the type D, F, and G plug. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

The weather in Bhutan varies greatly depending on the season. The summer months (June - August) can be quite hot with temperatures reaching up to 86°F (30°C), while winter months (December - February) can be very cold with temperatures dropping to 23°F (-5°C).

Bhutan is in the Bhutan Time zone, which is 6 hours ahead of GMT.

Internet access is available in most parts of Bhutan, but the speed may not be as fast as you're used to.

Bhutan has a rich culture and you'll often see festivals (Tshechus) taking place. However, it's important to behave respectfully during these events.

Bhutan has a lot of stray dogs. They are generally harmless, but it's best to avoid them.

Bhutan is a mountainous country, so be prepared for lots of hiking and climbing. Make sure to bring appropriate footwear.

Altitude sickness can be a problem for some visitors. It's recommended to acclimatize yourself to the high altitude before undertaking any strenuous activities.

January is the coldest month in Bhutan, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time for tourists who enjoy winter sports and serene, snowy landscapes.

In February, the weather begins to warm up slightly, but it's still quite chilly. This month is perfect for those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful sightseeing.

March sees the start of spring in Bhutan, with temperatures rising and flowers beginning to bloom. It's an ideal time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the country.

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The valleys are lush and the mountains are covered in rhododendrons.

May is warm and the countryside is vibrant with greenery. It's a great time for bird watching and trekking, but be prepared for occasional showers.

June marks the beginning of the monsoon season in Bhutan. While there might be some rain, the landscapes are incredibly lush and vibrant.

July is in the middle of the monsoon season, so expect heavy rains. However, the rain brings out the beauty of the flora and fauna, making it a unique time to visit.

August continues to be rainy, but the temperatures are warm. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the rain and enjoy lush, green landscapes.

September sees the end of the monsoon season. The weather is pleasant and the landscapes are still lush, making it a great time for trekking and sightseeing.

October is one of the best months to visit Bhutan. The weather is cool and dry, and it's a great time to witness the vibrant festivals of the country.

November is cool and dry, with clear skies offering great views of the mountains. It's a good time for trekking and exploring the cultural sites of Bhutan.

December is a chilly month, but it's also a festive time in Bhutan. It's a great time to experience the local culture and traditions, but pack warm clothes.

Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, experiences a wide range of weather conditions due to its diverse topography. The country is known for its dramatic landscapes, from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys.

The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring months of March to May when the weather is generally clear and dry, and the highlands are awash with blooming wildflowers. The average temperature during this time ranges from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). This is also the time when the famous Paro Tshechu festival takes place, offering a great cultural experience.

The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, especially in the southern region. While the landscapes are lush and green, the downpours can make trekking and sightseeing difficult. The temperatures during this season range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).

Autumn, from October to November, is another ideal time to visit Bhutan. The weather is mild and the skies are clear, providing excellent conditions for trekking and for viewing the Himalayan peaks. The temperatures during this season range from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C).

Winter, from December to February, can be quite cold, especially in the mountains where temperatures can drop below freezing. However, the lower areas remain pleasant with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C). This is a great time to visit for bird watching as many migratory birds visit Bhutan during this period.

Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack layers as temperatures can vary greatly between day and night. Also, carry rain gear if you're visiting during the monsoon season. Always check the local weather forecast before planning your day's activities, especially if they involve trekking or other outdoor adventures.

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3-Day Family Adventure: Unexplored Bhutan Sightseeing Itinerary

About Bhutan