Introducing Bhutan
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked country located on the southern slopes of the eastern Himalayas between China and India. It is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy. The country is mountainous, with high elevations in the north and low elevations in the south. Its capital, Thimphu, serves as the country's political and religious center.
Bhutan's name, "Zhuyu," means "Land of the Thunder Dragon" in the local language. Tibetan Buddhism is the state religion of Bhutan, and the sight of colorful flags fluttering in the wind is a magnificent sight. These flags are actually prayer flags inscribed with Buddhist scriptures.
Bhutan advocates harmony with nature. Forest coverage reaches 72% of the country's land, and although timber is highly valued, Bhutan maintains moderate, scientific, and rational development, despite the absence of indiscriminate logging. Its pristine ecosystems are home to rare and endangered flora and fauna, including blue sheep, orchids, wild poppies, and the rare snow leopard.
Climate and best time to travel
The best time to visit is from late September to late November , during autumn, when daytime temperatures range from 20 to 28°C (79 to 81°F) and the sky is clear. The views of snow-capped peaks and azure skies are breathtaking. This period is also peak festival season in Bhutan and the best time for hiking, so plan your trip early.
March to May is spring, a prime time for travel and hiking. Although spring is often cloudy and rainy, wildflowers such as azaleas and orchids bloom across the mountains, and birds are active, making it a great time for wildlife viewing.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Tiger Cave Temple
Perched atop a cliff over 900 meters above the Paro Valley, Tiger's Nest Temple is Bhutan's most famous Buddhist monastery. Legend has it that this is where the 8th-century Indian monk Guru Rinpoch meditated in Bhutan. As a result, Tiger's Nest has become a sacred site revered by believers throughout Bhutan and is considered one of the world's ten greatest temples.
Free and open
Opening hours: 8:00-17:00 from October to March; open until 18:00 in other months
Tashi Choezong
This prestigious Buddhist monastery in Bhutan serves as the government center for the capital, Thimphu. Founded in the 13th century, it stands majestically on the west bank of the Wangchuck River at an altitude of 2,500 meters. Tashi Chodzong houses the offices of the current king, as well as the offices of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Finance. It also serves as the summer residence for religious leaders and central religious institutions.
Free and open
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday after 5:00; Sunday from 9:00 to 16:00 in winter and extended to 17:00 in summer
Punakha Dzong
Located at the confluence of the Father and Mother Rivers, at an altitude of 1,463 meters, Punakha Dzong is the second fortress built by Shablon, the founder of Bhutan. Before 1950, Punakha was the capital, political center, and seat of the national government of Bhutan.
Punakha Dzong is one of Bhutan's most beautiful dzongs, with construction beginning in 1637. Its central tower is nearly 183 meters long, over 7 meters wide, and six stories high, forming a rectangular structure. It also houses a large collection of Bhutanese Buddhist manuscripts, sacred Buddhist rosters, religious paintings of various sizes, and lifelike portraits of religious figures.
Free; all day
Most Popular FAQs for Bhutan
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Bhutan is a Himalayan kingdom known for preserving its traditional culture, Gross National Happiness philosophy, and unique Buddhist heritage. Its dzongs, monasteries, and festivals reflect centuries of religious and political history.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Bhutan is located in South Asia, between India and China (Tibet).
- Main entry is via Paro International Airport with flights from India, Nepal, and Bangkok.
- Domestic travel: taxis, private cars, and organized tours are common; buses available between major towns.
- Walking is suitable in towns like Thimphu and Paro, but mountainous areas require trekking.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Major sites and dzongs: generally 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) for flowers, Autumn (September–November) for clear skies and festivals.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Tourists must book a guided tour through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator; daily tariff ranges from $200–$250 per person (including accommodation, guide, transport).
- Additional site-specific fees may apply, paid onsite.
- No standalone ticketing; organized tours handle all fees and logistics.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
- Yes, tours must be booked at least 1–3 months in advance due to limited tourist permits.
- Flight tickets to Paro should also be secured in advance, especially during peak festival seasons.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- Short visit: 4–5 days covering Paro and Thimphu.
- Comprehensive trip: 7–10 days including Punakha, Phobjikha Valley, Bumthang, and other scenic regions.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)
- Punakha Dzong and suspension bridge
- Buddha Dordenma statue, Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu)
- Dochula Pass with 108 chortens
- Phobjikha Valley and Gangtey Monastery
- Local markets and traditional villages
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Guided tours are mandatory and provided in English.
- Private guides may offer multilingual services depending on the tour operator.
- Audio guides are generally not available; guides provide cultural explanations on-site.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery viewpoint on the trekking trail
- Dochula Pass for Himalayan panoramas
- Phobjikha Valley during sunrise or sunset
- Buddha Dordenma for city and valley views
- Punakha Dzong with river backdrop
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Day 1–2: Paro – Tiger’s Nest hike, Paro Rinpung Dzong
- Day 3–4: Thimphu – Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, markets
- Day 5–6: Punakha – Dzong, suspension bridge, local villages
- Day 7: Phobjikha Valley – Gangtey Monastery, scenic walk
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Night visits are limited; cultural shows or festival events may occur in evenings.
- Photography at illuminated dzongs or during festival nights is possible with permission.
- Special guided treks can be arranged for sunrise/sunset views.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Peak tourist season: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (Sept–Nov); dzongs and trails may be crowded.
- Off-season: Winter (Dec–Feb) and monsoon (Jun–Aug) are less crowded but some passes may be closed.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Major towns: toilets, restaurants, cafes, shops, and rest areas available.
- Trekking routes: limited facilities; carry water and snacks.
- Dzongs and monasteries: basic amenities, some souvenir shops nearby.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Urban dzongs and towns: generally accessible for all ages.
- Mountain treks like Tiger’s Nest are strenuous; not recommended for elderly or disabled visitors.
- Children-friendly walks are available in valleys and towns.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Ngultrum (BTN) is the official currency; cash is widely used.
- Some hotels, restaurants, and shops accept cards; mobile payments are limited.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Paro: Sonam Trophel Restaurant, Bhutan Kitchen
- Thimphu: Ambient Café, Folk Heritage Restaurant
- Punakha: Lobesa Lodge café, Dzong view restaurants
- Phobjikha Valley: Gangtey Lodge dining options
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are widely available; halal food can be requested in major towns and restaurants.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Paro: Tashi Namgay Resort, Naksel Boutique Hotel
- Thimphu: Hotel Druk, Le Méridien Thimphu
- Punakha: Zhingkham Resort, COMO Uma Punakha
- Phobjikha Valley: Gangtey Lodge, Dewachen Hotel
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Paro: Rinpung Dzong, National Museum
- Thimphu: Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten
- Punakha: Suspension bridge, local villages
- Phobjikha: Gangtey Monastery, scenic valley walks
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Handmade textiles, traditional masks, thangkas (Buddhist paintings), wooden crafts, and prayer flags.
- Local markets in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha offer a variety of souvenirs.
