Bhutan: Thimphu, Punakha & Paro

Bhutan: history

Buddhism was brought to Bhutan in the 8th century by Guru Padmasambhava. Legend says he flew to the cliff of Taktsang on the back of a tigress. In the 17th century Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal united the country and built its fortress-monasteries, the dzongs.

The Wangchuck kings have ruled since 1907. Bhutan opened to visitors in 1974 and is known for measuring Gross National Happiness. Visitors pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee, which depends on your passport. We arrange the visa or permit.

Bhutan: tourist attractions

• Tiger's NestThe monastery on a cliff above Paro. The walk takes four to five hours, and ponies can carry you part of the way up.
• Punakha DzongThe most beautiful dzong, where two rivers meet.
• Buddha DordenmaA 51-metre seated Buddha above Thimphu.
• Tashichho DzongThe seat of the government and the monks, in Thimphu.
• Dochula Pass108 small stupas and, on a clear day, a line of Himalayan peaks.
• Paro Dzong & National MuseumA fortress and its old watchtower.
• Punakha suspension bridgeA long footbridge hung with prayer flags.
• Kyichu LhakhangOne of the oldest temples in Bhutan, near Paro.

Bhutan: excursions nearby

• Drukgyel Dzong about 14 km from ParoA fortress at the head of the valley.
• Chele La about 35 km from ParoThe highest road pass in Bhutan, at nearly 4,000 metres.
• Haa Valley beyond Chele LaA quiet valley of farms and temples.
• Phobjikha Valley about 80 km from PunakhaA wide valley where black-necked cranes spend the winter.

Distances are approximate. Tell us which excursions you want and we add them to your quote.