1. Taktsang Monastery, Paro
Also known as the Tiger Nest’s monastery, it is one of the most famous attractions in Bhutan. It was where Guru Rinpoche or Padmasambhava meditated for three years before emerging into eight incarnated forms. The golden peaks of the monastery can be seen while climbing up the steep hill.
2. Buddha Dordenma Statue, Thimphu
The 169-feet tall statue is situated at the foot of the hills of Thimpu. The gold and bronze statue is a landmark in Thimpu and a must-visit site during Bhutan travel.
3. Trongsa Dzong, Trongsa
Dzongs are fort-like structures used as the spiritual and administrative center. Trongsa Dzong is the largest of all dzongs in Bhutan and is located overlooking the Mangde Chhu River. It was the ancestral home of the Wangchuck dynasty.
4. Gangteng Monastery, Gangteng
Located in Wangdue Phodrang district, the monastery is the revered site of the Pema Lingpa tradition. The fascinating structure attains an aura of mystery during winters, as it stands out amidst the snow-capped spruces and firs.
5. Druk Trek, Paro
Surrounded by lakes, Himalayas, pine forests, and apple orchards, trekking through the Druk Trek path is one of the best things to do in Bhutan. The trek is not tough, and you get to enjoy the view offered by Mt. Gangkar Puensum, which is the highest unscaled peak in the world.
6. Motithang Takin Preserve, Thimphu
Located in Motithang district, the 8.4-hectare forest is a place of significance in Bhutan. It was a conservation center for Takin after it was declared as the national animal of Bhutan.
7. Weekend Market, Thimpu
Located on the western bank of the Wang Chu River, the market is open from Friday to late Sunday night. Vendors from villagers all around come to sell their products. The market is a vibrant and colorful place where you can buy all kinds of commodities.
8. Changangkha Lhakhang, Thimphu
It is the oldest temple in Bhutan and was built in the 12th century. The temple is about 2.5 km away from the clock tower in Thimpu. The locals circle the temple in the evenings. There is a pilgrim path for them to walk on. Large scriptures, the statue of Thousand-armed Avalokitesvara, prayer bells with black and gold script are located on the premises. A visit to the temple is a part of the many Bhutan packages.
9. Jigme Dorji National Park, Thimphu
Named after the Late Dragon King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, it is the second-largest protected forest area in Bhutan. He was the first king to open the doors for others to enter the country in the 1960s. You can find the four national entities, animal (Takin), bird (Raven), flower (Blue Poppy), and tree (Cypress) of the country in this forest.
10. Dochula Pass, Thimpu
The route lies between the old royal capital Punakha and the modern capital Thimpu. It is situated at a height of 3100 meters and is a favorite destination in the Bhutan tour packages.
Means of Commuting
The best way to reach Buthan is through air travel. Paro International Airport is the only way to enter Bhutan via air travel. You can also take a flight to Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, West Bengal, which is closest to Bhutan. It takes 2 hours from New Delhi or Gawhati to reach Bhutan by flight, while it takes 3 hours from Gawhati to reach Bhutan by road. Traveling by road from India to Bhutan is quite easy. Three land borders- Phuentsholing (West Bengal), Gelephu (Assam), and Samdrup Jongkhar (Assam) are open for entry into the country.
How to Move Around After You Land At the Paro International Airport?
Road transport is the best way to move around in Bhutan. Taxis are available in Thimpu, Paro, Jakar, and Phuentsholing. The charges are almost non-negotiable, and the drivers like to charge exorbitant prices for tourists.
Hiring a car in Bhutan is not advisable, as the roads are narrow and the hairpin bends make it risky. You can hire a motorbike if you are looking for an adventure. Indian driving license is valid in Bhutan, though the International Permit is not. If you are driving your vehicle across the border, obtain a 14-day permit at the border.
Best Time To Visit Bhutan
The Spring season from March to May is the best time to visit Bhutan. The valleys and hills are lush with colorful flowers blooming in abundance. It is the right time to opt for the Bhutan trip packages with outdoor adventure activities. The months of October and November are also ideal with clear skies and pleasant weather. Autumn is another time of the year to go on a Bhutan tour. An iconic festival, Punakha Drubchen, is celebrated in either February or March. It is to honor the victory of villagers over the Tibetan Army in the 17th century.
5 Best Indian Restaurants in Bhutan
Indian food is available in any part of the world. The below-listed are 5 best Indian restaurants in Bhutan.
1. Mountain Cafe
A vegetarian-friendly Indian restaurant that serves Asian and International cuisine and offers Fast Food, Pizza, and Café. It has vegan and gluten-free options.
Must-try: Thali, Pizza, Fried momos, Pav Bhaji, Masala tea.
Address: Paro Town, Paro 1322, Bhutan
Contact: +975 77 10 33 79
2. Chha’ Bristo & Bar
A vegetarian-friendly Indian restaurant that serves Asian and Chinese cuisine and offers Fusio, Bar, and Barbecue. It has vegan options.
Must-try: Buffet, Egg Noodles, Chicken.
Address: Changzamtok, Thimphu, Bhutan
Contact: +975 02330055
3. Masala Junction (Sinchula Indian cuisine)
An Indian restaurant that has vegan options.
Must-try: Thali, Chicken.
Address: Phendey Lam, Hongkong Market, Near Sangay Enterprise, Thimphu, Bhutan
Contact: +975 2 336 971
4. Sonam Trophel Restaurant
A vegetarian-friendly Indian and Asian restaurant that has vegan options.
Must-try: Fried Rice, Paneer, Chowmein.
Address: Paro Tshongdue | Above Paro Canteen, Paro 12001, Bhutan
Contact: +975 8 271 287
5. Hotel New Grand
A vegetarian-friendly Indian and Asian restaurant that has vegan and gluten-free options.
Must-try: Roti, Vegetarian food.
Address: Norzin Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Contact: +975 2 324 290
Best Native Dishes to Try & Where, When In Bhutan
1. Authentic Pizza
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Pizza, Fast food, Seafood, Asian cuisine, and Soups. It has vegan options.
Must-try: Pizza, Noodles, Sandwich.
Address: Paro 12001, Bhutan
Contact: +975 17 29 63 05
2. Ambient Café
A vegetarian-friendly café that serves European cuisine. It has vegan and gluten-free options.
Must-try: Carrot cake, Spaghetti, Thali, Pizza, Hot chocolate.
Address: Norzin Lam | Opp. Druk PNB Bank, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan
Contact: +975 17 11 66 61
3. The Zone
A vegetarian-friendly café and bar that has vegan options.
Must-try: Yak burger, Pizza, French fries.
Address: Chang Lam | Gpo 415, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan
Contact: +975 77 11 14 44
4. Kizom Cafe Pizzeria
A vegetarian-friendly café that serves fast food and pizza. It has vegan options.
Must-try: Pastries, Pizza, Sandwich.
Address: Tshela Building, Phuentsholing 21101, Bhutan
Contact: +975 77 14 16 16
5. Brioche Café
A vegetarian-friendly café.
Must-try: Apple pie, Coffee, Croissants.
Address: Tshongdue, Paro 12001, Bhutan
Contact: +975 17 74 12 31
Emergency Helpline
When traveling to a new destination, it is important to carry emergency contact information with you. In case of emergencies, contact the Indian Embassy in Bhutan.
Address: Embassy of India, PO Box:193, Jungshina, Thimphu, Bhutan.
Contact: +975-2-322162
From trekking, hiking, learning archery, or enjoying the traditional to strolling through the narrow lanes, meditating in the temples, there are several things you can do in Bhutan. The old-world charm of the country is enhanced by the presence of the Himalayas and lush green valleys. Bhutan is now one of the famous tourist destinations in Asia.
Planning to explore Bhutan? Travel with PML Holidays.
