Bhutan is a landlocked country bordered by both India and Tibet. A lot of people don’t know a lot about this country in Asia. This country is well known for its well conserved environment. Therefore, a lot of its forest vegetation is still intact. Bhutan also has a rich history and diverse culture. There are also tourist sites worth your time if you happen to be in this peaceful country.
Taktshang Goemba (Buddist Temple)
This Buddhist temple is also known as Taktsang Palphug and Paro Taktsang monasteries. Taktshang Goemba is the first Buddhist temple to be built in Bhutan. This Buddhist temple is now a monastery. It also one of the most visited sites in the country. Taktshang Goemba was built in the year 1692. Its strategic location makes it visible from a distance.
This temple is built on top of a cliff within the upper part of Paro valley. You will be privileged to see the ancient design of this ancient temple. The architectural design of this site makes you feel like you are in another stone period. Try your best and visit this site during spring. There is a festival held here during this period. You will the significance of this festival among the local people. There are also plenty of myths about this Buddhist temple. Lastly, you will enjoy the beautiful nature as you approach this site.
Archery Ground
Bhutan has plenty of fun activities. Archery is one of these activities. Take a cab to the Paro archery grounds for some quality and amazing time. This archery ground is located in the heart of Paro town. Therefore, it can be accessed within a short period. This traditional sport has been passed from one generation to another. There are plenty of local experienced archers who will guide you through the entire step. You will be required to hit a target from roughly 100 meters. Anyone who visits this site will enjoy every moment of archery. The grounds are well maintained. You can also watch experts hitting their targets from a distance.
Haa to Chhuzom
Bhutan is one of the most beautiful countries in Asia. Therefore, go on a trip from Haa town to Chhuzom. You will see the water powered prayer wheels as you enjoy this relaxing road trip. Bhutan was once hit by two earthquakes. One was in 2009 and the other one in 2011. You will spot a precarious ruin that was left by these two earthquakes. The photogenic Gurugang Goemba is another spot you should check out while traveling from Haa to Chhuzom. You will also see the valley landscapes from a distance. Be on the lookout for a sign post that directs you on how to get to India. There are lots of local restaurants you will spot on your trip from Haa to Chhuzom. Make an effort of trying out some local meals and delicacies.
Punakha Dzong Temple
Punakha Dzong is situated on the western part of Bhutan. It is currently the most beautiful Dzong. Additionally, it also plays a crucial role in the history of this country. There are plenty of beautiful and top attractions in this location. Ensure you visit the second largest Dzong in Bhutan. It is also the second oldest Dzong here. You will understand the vital importance of this administrative centre you visit this site. There are plenty of national treasures in this location. You will also hear the narration by the local guides on how a king was married at this location.
Anyone who visits this site will be amazed by the length of and size of this structure. Punakha Dzong is located in between two rivers. They are Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu. You will also understand how this site has stood tall over the years and stood against invasions. There are three courtyards inside Punakha Dzong. Tour all three courtyards before leaving Punakha Dzong.
National Textile Museum
The national textile museum was opened to the public in the year 2001. This museum provides you different information about the Bhutan textile. You will see how the local textile industry has improved over the years. The national textile museum also houses different art traditions. There are also robes that were worn by previous kinds and rulers. You will also see different kinds of exhibitions from the royal family.
Start your tour by visiting the ground floor of this museum. Here, you will see different skills related to the texture industry. They range from coloring fibers, spinning and manipulation of two yarns. Generally, there are six main categories of exhibitions you will see at the national textile museum. These categories are role of textiles in religion, achievements in the textile art, weft pattern weaves, the royal collection and the warp pattern weaves. Lastly, check a practical demonstration on how to make a design.
Bumthang
You must include Bumthang in your must visit places while in Bhutan. Bumthang has plenty of things to offer your tour in this region cannot be completed within a day. Bumthang has a couple of places you can spend the night. Commence your tour by checking out the Kurjey Lhakhang temple. This temple complex has three different temples. Tour around the three temples and check out how they were built and designed. You will also understand the significance of each temple when you visit Kurjey Lhakhang temple.
Go on to Jakar Dzong castle. This castle is also called the white bird castle. Jakar Dzong castle is currently being used as an administrative centre. The Jakar Tshechu festival is also held here. You will enjoy every moment of the sacred dance. The unique design of this castle also makes it stand out. Jakar Dzong castle is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. You will have the privilege of checking out the Bumthang valley.
Jambey Lhakhang temple is another site you should create time for while at Bumthang. This ancient temple was built in the 7th century. A number of local festivals are held here. You might be lucky to attend one. Make an effort of touring around the entire temple. Visit Tamshing Lhakhang to see the ancient paintings. This site was built in 1501. This is the reason its architectural design looks different from common structures in Bhutan. You should also check out Mebar Tso, Ura valley, Ogyen Choling palace museum, Red Panda brewery, Noamd festival and Kenchosum Ihakhang are other attractions in Bumthang you should check out.
National Museum (Ta Dzong)
Ta Dzong is located on the banks of River Mangde. This museum is shaped like a fortress. The building was converted into the national museum. Here, you will see more than 3000 artifacts that can be traced back up to 1500 years ago. This site also gives you the privilege of seeing some Paro Valley. You will be amazed by the design of this museum. It was made using wood and stone. Anyone who visits this site will understand the rich history of this museum. There is an ancient museum in this national museum. Check this site out. A guided tour ensures you don’t miss out on any attraction in this museum.
National Institute of Zorig Chusum
The National Institute of Zorig Chusum in Bhutan should be among the must visit places. This museum is a painting school. Here, you will understand everything about the Bhutanese art. This art has been passed from generation to generation. There are plenty of carvings, paintings, sewing and ornaments are some things you will see at the National Institute of Zorig Chusum. The famous Thangkha traditional paintings are also situated here.
The National Institute of Zorig Chusum also has a different section where art is taught. These skills are weaving, painting, ornament making, wood-turning and carving. There is also a souvenir shop you can purchase some local products.
Trongsa Dzong (Monastery)
Trongsa Dzong is the largest fortress in Bhutan. This fortress was fully built in the year 1647. Trongsa Dzong also plays a significant role in the Bhutan history. This is where the first two kings resided. Anyone who visits Trongsa Dzong will be amazed by its strategic location. This fortress is built on a steep. It offers a spectacular view of River Mangde. The design of Trongsa Dzong reminds you of another age period. Take a tour across the corridors, alleys and stone stairs. You will also get to understand the significance role of this fortress. It was once used as a religious and administrative centre. You will also get to hear some history about Trongsa Dzong.
Weekend Market of Thimphu
The Weekend market of Thimphu is a top attraction in Bhutan. It gives visitors a glimpse of how the local people live. This market space is found in the banks of River Wang Chu. It can easily be accessed from Changlimithang stadium. As the name suggests, Weekend market of Thimphu is opened on weekends. That is from Friday through Sunday evening. This is a permanent market. Local vendors start arriving here from Thursday. Activities commence throughout the weekend. There are plenty of local products here. Therefore, ensure you purchase a handicraft souvenir while at this market. Handicrafts from this region are unique and are difficult to find in any other place within Bhutan. Prices at this location are not fixed. It all depends on your bargaining power. You will definitely enjoy every moment at this weekend market.
Phobjikha Valley
Phobjikha valley is a paradise. It is a good gateway from the busy town and cities in Bhutan. The beauty of Phobjikha valley can be admired from a distance. The huge mountains, unique landscapes and green vegetation make it an attractive place. There are also different flower species that make this location blooming. Furthermore, the roads leading to this location are well maintained. Therefore, Phobjikha valley can be easily accessed. You will also see plenty of agricultural plantations while on the move. There are two main rivers you should see while in Phobjikha valley. They are River Gay Chhu and River nakay Chhu. Take time and admire this famous valley from different angles. Phobjikha Valley also offers a perfect background for taking pictures. There are also a couple of endangered species in the valley.
Kyichu Lhakhang
Kyichu Lhakhang temple is situated in Paro town. This is one of the ancient and temples in this country. It is also one of the top attractions in Bhutan. No one can resist the beauty of this ancient temple. Kyichu Lhakhang temple wad built during the 17th century. The size of this temple has expanded over the years. It is rumored that plenty of treasures are hidden in between the temple. The painting of King Gesar is the first attraction you will see while in this temple. You will also see a couple of statues while at this temple. Each statue has a significant meaning. Above all; Kyichu Lhakhang is both an historic and art center. You will definitely enjoy every single moment of your tour.
Trashi Chho Dzong
Trashi Chho Dzong is considered the religion fortress. This beautiful fortress is situated next to River Wangchu. In addition to these, Trashi Chho Dzong River is built on top of a hill. Therefore, it is visible from a distance. This fortress has a very rich history. It was once destroyed before being fully rebuilt. Currently, it is used as the Office of the King of Bhutan. You should tour Trashi Chho Dzong fortress if you have some time.
Thimphu to Punakha
Do you love road trips? If yes, go on a road trip from Thimphu to Punakha. You will see Chimi Lhakhang temple while on this famous road trip. This temple was dedicated to a very powerful magician in the 15th century. You will understand everything about this powerful magician when you visit this site. Sangchen Dorji Lhendrub Choling nunnery is another site you will see while on your road trip.
Druk Wangyal Lhakhang should be your next stop. Here, you will be amazed by its cartoon style modern murals. There are plenty of images and portraits here you will see. You should also checkout Royal Botanical Park. This park houses over 200 different bird species and different animals. April to mid June is the best time to visit this park.
Bhutan is a precious jewel in terms of tourist attraction sites. Make an effort of visiting this country if you are in Asia. You will definitely enjoy every moment of your tour.
