Where to go in Bhutan

Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is a vibrant city whose charm lies in its harmonious blend of tradition and progress; where ancient customs and values are embraced alongside modern developments, traditional and contemporary architecture, sit side by side, and bustling markets and serene monasteries overlook modern cafés and bars.

Explore the iconic Tashichho Dzong, which serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government. Thimphu’s other fascinating museums also provide insights into Bhutan’s rich heritage, including the Folk Heritage Museum and the National Textile Museum. The folk heritage museum is also the place to try an authentic Bhutanese dinner with different kinds of ‘datshi’ (yak cheese and dried red chili!), foraged leaves and herbs, pork and chicken dishes ending with Doma Pani (areca nut, betel leaf, lime).

The National Memorial Chorten, a revered Buddhist shrine, attracts locals and visitors alike for prayer and meditation. The Choki Traditional Art School is where students study four-to-six-year courses that provide instruction in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts. You can buy art pieces or clothing made by final-year students as well. While exploring the city, you’ll find that Bhutanese law requires people to wear national dress, Kira and Gho, in all government offices, schools, and religious institutions and when attending festivals. Also, all houses must incorporate traditional elements such as wood carvings and approved colors.

Stroll through the streets lined with buildings adorned with intricate Bhutanese designs and murals, and sample culinary delights at local restaurants serving traditional Bhutanese cuisine and international dishes. It’s also fun to get official personalized stamps made at the Thimphu post office to mail postcards to friends and family.

The highlight of Punakha is the magnificent Punakha Dzong. This architectural masterpiece stands at the confluence of two rivers, Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female), surrounded by lilac and jacaranda trees. This fortress monastery showcases intricate Bhutanese craftsmanship with beautiful murals, towering white walls, and golden spires. Punakha also holds further spiritual allure, having numerous temples and monasteries dotting the landscape. The Chimi Lhakhang, known as the “Fertility Temple,” is a revered pilgrimage site where couples seek blessings for fertility and harmonious relationships.

Beyond the Dzongs and monasteries, Punakha offers spectacular natural beauty, terraced rice fields, riverside trails, and panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains. Hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a magnificent temple offering scenic valley vistas. Punakha’s local festivals, like the Punakha Drubchen and Punakha Tshechu, are fascinating, showcasing masked dances, traditional music, and elaborate rituals.

Visit the weekly local market (usually on Friday) to see the fresh local vegetables, betel nuts, spices, and Himalayan herbs. The Royal Botanical Garden in Lamperi, with around 40 species of Rhododendron, some of which are found only in Bhutan. Springtime is when the park is blooming.

Bumthang is renowned for its traditional handicrafts and textiles. Explore the intricate art of local weaving at the Yathra Weaving Centre, where beautiful hand-woven fabrics are produced using traditional techniques. It is also the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, with a rich history, sacred sites, and numerous ancient temples and monasteries, including the famous Jakar Dzong, a majestic fortress that overlooks the valley. Head out to explore Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang, spiritual sites that hold great religious significance and are adorned with intricate murals and statues.

As with all regions of Bhutan, Bumthang’s four valleys, Chokhor, Tang, Ura, and Chhume, have breathtaking landscapes. Rolling hills, pristine forests, and gushing rivers offer perfect opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the picturesque countryside dotted with traditional farmhouses and fields.

On the way to Bumthang, one can encounter the pastoral communities traveling to and fro from Northern Bhutan. They collect the elusive caterpillar fungus, sold at a very high price in Chinese markets as the elixir of Youth.

The Ura Yakchoe, a festival that occurs during the summer months, is undiscovered and very raw. The Ura Lhakhang (temple) was built in the 15th century and has an ancient relic on display only during that time.