Bhutan is a unique and beautiful country located in the eastern Himalayas. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and commitment to sustainability and happiness. Here are 37 Things to do in Bhutan that includes an activity for everyone. Navigate between your interest using the options below.
BHUTAN TRAVEL 2023
The number of tourists allowed to enter Bhutan is limited each year. Get a free consultation from Kynd Erth today.
BHUTAN ATTRACTIONS
1. Visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery – This iconic monastery is perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley and is one of the most famous attractions in Bhutan. Visitors can hike the Taktsang Trail to the monastery, which takes around four hours round-trip.
2. Hike to the Chele La Pass – The Chele La Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan and offers stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains. Visitors can hike to the pass from the nearby Kila Goemba Nunnery.
3. Explore the Punakha Dzong – This impressive fortress is located at the confluence of two rivers and is one of the most beautiful Dzongs in Bhutan. It was once the seat of the government and is now used as a religious center.
4. Explore the Jigme Dorji National Park – This vast national park is the largest protected area in Bhutan and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including snow leopards, musk deer, and blue sheep.
5. Visit the Dochula Pass and its 108 chortens – This mountain pass is located on the way to Punakha and offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. It is also home to the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a series of 108 stupas.
6. Explore the Gangtey Valley and its black-necked crane sanctuary – This beautiful valley is home to the Gangtey Monastery, one of the most important religious sites in Bhutan. Visitors can also go on a nature walk to spot black-necked cranes, which migrate to the area in winter.
7. Visit the Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong in Bhutan – This impressive fortress is located in central Bhutan and was once the seat of the Wangchuck Dynasty. It is one of the most important Dzongs in Bhutan and is now used as an administrative center.
8. Visit the Phobjikha Valley – This beautiful valley is home to the Black-necked Crane Information Center and is a great place to spot these rare birds. Visitors can also go on a nature walk to explore the valley’s pristine forests.
9. Visit the Buddha Dordenma statue – This 169-foot-tall statue of Buddha is located in Thimphu and is one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. It offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
BHUTAN CULTURE
10. Attend a Bhutanese festival such as the Paro Tsechu or Thimphu Tsechu – These colorful and lively festivals in spring are an integral part of Bhutanese culture and feature traditional dances, music, and mask performances.
11. Try Bhutanese Food – Bhutanese food is unique and delicious, and trying it out with the family can be a fun and tasty experience. Some popular dishes include ema datshi (spicy cheese stew) and momos (dumplings)
12. Take a cooking class – Bhutanese cuisine is unique and flavorful, and visitors can learn how to cook traditional dishes such as Ema Datshi and momos by taking a cooking class in Thimphu.
13. Explore the Bumthang Valley and its many monasteries – This beautiful valley is known as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan and is home to several important monasteries and temples.
14. Explore the capital city of Thimphu – This bustling city is the political and commercial hub of Bhutan and offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions.
15. Visit the Ura Valley and its beautiful traditional village – This picturesque valley is home to a beautiful traditional village, known for its unique architecture and vibrant culture.
16. Visit the Traditional Medicine Institute – Bhutan has a tradition of using natural remedies for healing, and the Traditional Medicine Institute in Thimphu is a great place to learn about this. The institute has many exhibits that showcase the country’s traditional medicine practices.
17. Visit a traditional farmhouse – Visiting a traditional farmhouse is a great way to experience the local culture and way of life. Many farmhouses offer homestay options where you can stay with a Bhutanese family and learn about their daily life.
18. Learn traditional Bhutanese crafts – Bhutan is known for its beautiful crafts such as weaving, wood carving, and painting. Many places offer workshops where you can learn these crafts and create your own souvenirs to take back home.
19. Explore local markets – Visiting local markets is a great way to experience the local culture and see the variety of fresh produce and handicrafts. The Centenary Farmers Market in Thimphu is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
20. Visit a museum – Bhutan has several museums that offer a glimpse into the country’s history and culture. The National Museum in Paro and the Folk Heritage Museum in Thimphu are popular options.
21. Traditional Games – Bhutan has several traditional games, such as khuru and darts, which can be played with the family. These games offer a fun and unique experience.
22. Visit the National Library – The National Library in Thimphu is home to a vast collection of Bhutanese literature and manuscripts, including ancient Buddhist texts.
BHUTAN TRAVEL 2023
The number of tourists allowed to enter Bhutan is limited each year. Get a free consultation from Kynd Erth today.
RELAX & UNWIND
23. Experience the hot stone bath in a traditional farmhouse – A unique Bhutanese spa treatment, hot stone baths involve soaking in a wooden tub filled with hot water and heated stones, believed to have therapeutic properties.
24. Meditation & Yoga – Bhutan is a spiritual destination, and visitors can take a meditation or yoga retreat to experience the country’s peaceful and serene atmosphere. Some of the most popular meditation and yoga retreats are located in the Punakha Valley and the Haa Valley.
25. Hot Springs – Bhutan has several natural hot springs that are believed to have healing properties. You can relax in these soothing waters, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
26. Go on a indulging picnic – Bhutan is blessed with natural beauty, and there are many scenic spots where you can enjoy a family picnic. You can pack a gourmet picnic basket and head to a beautiful spot near a river or waterfall.
ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
27. Trek the Himalayan Kingdom – Bhutan has several stunning trekking routes that will take you through dense forests, picturesque valleys, and snow-capped mountain peaks. The most popular treks are the Druk Path Trek, Jomolhari Trek, and Snowman Trek.
28. White Water Rafting – Bhutan has several rivers that offer excellent white water rafting experiences. You can choose from a range of rafting options, from gentle rapids suitable for beginners to more challenging rapids for experienced rafters.
29. Explore the Taktsang Trail – This challenging trail leads to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
30. Wildlife Safari – Bhutan is home to several rare and endangered species of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, the Himalayan black bear, and the one-horned rhinoceros. You can go on a wildlife safari to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
31. Rock Climbing – Bhutan has a growing rock climbing scene, with several excellent climbing routes available in the country’s mountainous regions. Climbers of all levels can find a suitable route to climb.
32. Camping in Bhutan is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the country up close. One of the most popular camping sites in Bhutan is near the base of Jhomolhari, which is located in the Paro Valley. This site offers stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape.
33. Archery – Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and is a great way to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage. You can participate in archery competitions, learn traditional archery techniques, and even watch the national archery tournaments that take place throughout the year.
34. Horse Riding – Horse riding is a great way to explore Bhutan’s stunning landscapes. There are many horse riding trails throughout the country, including in the Paro Valley and Bumthang Valley.
35. Cycling – Cycling is an excellent way to explore Bhutan’s beautiful countryside. You can rent a mountain bike and explore the scenic trails that wind through the country’s lush forests, rolling hills, and serene valleys.
36. Hot Air Ballooning – Hot air ballooning is a unique way to see Bhutan’s stunning landscapes from above. Hot air balloon rides are available in the Paro Valley and the Punakha Valley.
37. Take a bike ride – Biking is a great way to explore the beautiful scenery of Bhutan. There are many bike rental shops in Thimphu and Paro where you can rent bikes for a day or more.
Overall, Bhutan is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, adventure, or simply a peaceful and happy way of life, Bhutan is definitely worth a visit.
BHUTAN TRAVEL 2023
