The Land of Thunder Dragon, Bhutan is known for its stunning landscapes, legendary ancient temples and fortresses, spicy yet delicious food, colorful festivals and most of all its authenticity. If you wish to slow down your fast-paced city life and relish a moment or two in the lap of Himalayas, Bhutan is the place for you! The charms of this isolated Himalayan Kingdom are knitted strong within its cultural realms. The government takes all measures to preserve its culture, history and rich tradition. So why wait on to miss out on Bhutan travel experience?
1. Tiger’s Nest Monastery
The Legendary Taktsang Goemba or the Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched at a height of 3000m on a vertical cliff. It is believed Guru Rinpoche flew to this cliff on a flaming tigress and meditated here. This spectacular monastery is one of the most sacred sites to the Buddhist pilgrims.
2. Punakha Festival
There is no better way to get under the skin of the place than to experience it during the time of festive celebrations. Witness the traditional Bhutanese style masquerade dance; the re-enactments of the Bhutanese victory over invading Tibet as firecrackers explode and the battle scenes are acted out in one of the most beautiful buildings of Bhutan – Punakha Dzong. It is believed that the ones who witness the mask dances receive blessings and wash away the sins as the world’s largest religious Thangka scroll, Paro Thongdrel unfolds at the festive ceremony.
3. Thimphu
Travel to the small capital of Bhutan and the only capital in the world without traffic lights to explore the colourful weekend markets and quirky shops. Thimphu houses the traditional Bhutanese art, culture and tradition. The architecture of the city is embellished with wooden houses and concrete buildings constructed in traditional Bhutanese style.
4. Dochula Pass
Every Bhutan travel guide is incomplete without including Dochula Pass. It is a concentration of 108 chortens (Stupas) was built in the memory of Bhutanese soldiers who were killed in 2003 war against the insurgents from India. The pass offers a spectacular 360 panoramic view of the valleys overlooking the snow-capped mountains.
5. Phobjikha Valley
6. Zuri Dzong Hike
A trek to Zuri Dzong is a popular hiking trip amongst many tourists. The peak of the Zuri Dzong trek is a perfect spot for a bird’s-eye view of the entire Paro Valley, with glorious Himalayas in the backdrop. It is believed that Buddha had meditated in one of the Zuri Dzong caves in the 8th century. One could soak in the tranquil, serene and extraordinary views as you hike along the trekking trail.
7. Gangtey Valley
