Bhutan is a tiny and remote kingdom nestling in the Himalayas between its powerful neighbours, India and China.




Bhutan


Bhutan is still one of the least heard or traveled destinations, even by the young travel their beauty. enthusiasts of its neighboring country India. But its long list of forts, monasteries, and other Buddhist relics, trekking spots, and shopping areas are surely worth a visit. Known as the Last Shangri-La, the entire country comprises of panoramic valleys, majestic Himalayas, and abundance of rare fauna and flora. The rivers, arising from the Himalayas, meander through the valleys and mesmerize with
their beauty.


Best places tour in Bhutan



1-Chele La Pass, Paro
Marvel at snow-clad rugged mountain peaks surrounding you at Chele La Pass, one of the highest observation decks in Bhutan and the highest one you can reach by a motor vehicle. Standing at 3,988m, the highest motorway in the country offers spectacular views of mountains and valleys with yaks grazing in the distance. Observe a thick forest of poles with fluttering prayer flags next to the road, which locals put up to scare demons. The two-hour ride from Paro runs through thick forests, passing scenic waterfalls, rivers, and rare flowers. Bring some warm clothes.
Popular for short excursion, many tourists are seen visiting the vantage point. Some prefer driving, some hiking and many wheels down either to Haa or Paro valley in their mountain bikes. The drive to Chele La is through dense spruce and larch forests. Depending on season you will encounter various sights such as frozen river, waterfall, rhododendron forest and yaks grazing peacefully. On a clear day, you can view Mt. Jumolhari along with Jichu Drake and adjoining peaks to the North West, as well as the view of both the valley.

Few things to watch out for driving along the way are >


> Roadside drub chuu (spring) with rock paintings of Guru Rinpoche and his two consorts.


> DzongdrakhaGoemba, just two km away it is famous for its large white Nepali style chorten perched stunningly on a cliff ledge. The site is where Guru Rinpoche suppressed local demons and is definitely worth a detour

> If you like getting off the beaten track and want to stretch your legs, hike to kilanunnery, established as a mediation site in the 9th century; it is the oldest nunnery in the country

> Other popular passes of Bhutan includes DochuLa at 3,116 metres (10,223 ft) between Thimphu to Punakha , which features 108 chortens- known as the Druk WangyalChortens or “Chortens of the victory of the Druk Gyalpo”.
   
2- Punakha Dzong
Admire the elaborate traditional architecture at Punakha Dzong, Bhutan's second-largest and second-oldest dzong. Today the district's administrative center, the fortress-complex dates from 1638 and houses many sacred artifacts belonging to the Kagyu school of

Tibetan Buddhism's Drukpa lineage. The six-story structure stands at an elevation of 1,200 near the junction of two rivers, surrounded by serene mountains and forests. Inspect the ornate interior, which includes hundreds of religious images, artistic treasures, and wooden, masonry, and metal crafts. The Dzong is located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers in the PunakhaWangdue valley. The source of the Mo chu river is in the northern hills of Lighsi and Laya in Bhutan, and in Tibet. The Po Chu River is fed by glaciers in the Lunana region of the Punakha valley. After the confluence of these two rivers, the main river is known as Puna Tsang chu or Sankosh River and flows down through Wangdue Phodrang, crosses the Bhutan–India border at Kalikhola and eventually meets the Brahmaputra River.
In view of the healthy climate in the region, Punakha is the winter capital of Bhutan. The head of the clergy of Bhutan with his entourage of monks spend the winter in this dzong. Jacaranda trees grow around the dzong, blooming with mauve flowers in the spring.  As Punakha Dzong is located at only 1,200 meters, you will not suffer from oxygen
shortages as you would in higher places such as Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), so it is a
good place for beginner hiker to start from, as you may struggle with altitude sickness in the first few days. Punakha is also the center of Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge (Punakha Suspension Bridge) and is about 7.5 km by car to Chimi Lhakhang, the Divine Madman’s fertility temple.

3- Simply Bhutan, Thimphu 

Simply Bhutan is an interactive 'living' museum that gives a good guided introduction to various aspects of Bhutanese traditional life. Visitors get to learn how to distil arak, dress up in traditional clothes, try out archery and hear songs sung by Bhutanese women as they build houses out of rammed earth. It's a good family experience. There are also souvenir
shops and a snack bar. Looking for an exciting place for your next holidays?
Bhutan, a kingdom immersed in ancient Buddhist culture, beautiful architecture, lush green valleys and towering peaks, has so much to offer to those looking for the perfect getaway. We have a number of exciting tours taking you across different valleys in the country meeting people, witnessing festivals and visiting old monasteries and Dzongs (fortresses). For the adventurous, Bhutan is a trekker's paradise. Our numerous treks and hikes offer ample opportunities to visit some of the most beautiful places in the country. With our passion and the uncompromising commitment, we will bring to life your trip to Bhutan and make it an unforgettable experience. Whatever it is that you want to do and see in Bhutan, we can make it happen. Together with you, we can create a personalised holiday - designed to inspire your inner explorer. We take great pride
in being your friend and companion on your journey to a completely different world. Bhutan offers a host of things for you and family to enjoy throughout the year, particularly in the Spring and Autumn. You can take a relaxed cultural tour, visit beautiful valleys and witness the exciting festivals. You can also go trekking into the unexplored mountains. There is something for everyone in Bhutan.



4- National Museum Of Bhutan,Paro 

Perched above Paro Dzong is its ta dzong (watchtower), built in 1649 to protect the undefended dzong and renovated in 1968 to house the National Museum. The unusual round building is said to be in the shape of a conch shell, with 2.5m-thick walls. The ta
dzong suffered damage in the 2011 earthquake but is due to reopen in 2016 as the nation's

premier museum. Until then a sample of the exhibits are currently on display in an adjacent annexe. National Museum of Bhutan is located inside six floors of circular Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower above Paro Dzong. The original building was constructed in 1656. In 1872, the future first monarch, Ugyen Wangchuk was imprisoned here, while embroiled in the conflict. The building was converted to house, the first museum of Bhutan in 1968. The collection of the museum comprises of textiles, gears, costumes, manuscripts, paintings, appliqué and embroidered Thangkas. There is a gallery of Bhutan’s famous stamp, stuffed animals, insects, bamboo crafts, arms and armours, jewellery, household artifacts. On the top, there is also a chapel in form of a life-sustaining tree, with icons representing various Himalayan Buddhist traditions. Displays include an impressive collection of thangkas, both ancient and modern, depicting Bhutan's important saints and teachers, as well as fearsome festival masks grouped according to their tsechu dances. There's a natural-history gallery
with a 3D map of Bhutan, while the Heritage Gallery contains such oddities as an egg laid by a mule and a horse horn attributed to Guru 
Rinpoche, plus a few original iron links from the iron bridge at Tamchhog. An underground tunnel is said to lead from the watchtower to the water supply below. Cameras are not allowed inside the museum, but you can
photograph the ta dzong and surrounding grounds. The museum closes an hour earlier in winter (November to February). Driving to the museum involves a 4km loop into the Dop Shari valley. After visiting, you can walk down a path from the museum to the dzong and back to the town, enjoying good views of the valley and of the Ugyen Pelri Palace. Alternatively, you can start the excellent hike to Zuri Dzong from just about the museum.
  

5- Motithang Takin Preserve, Thimphu


Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and a visit to Motithang Takin Preserve is a must-do in Thimphu. This one-of-its-kind animal can be found only in Bhutan which has got face of a goat, and the body of a cow. Legends have it that the formation of Takin was created by
the Buddhist yogi Drupa Kunley, popularly called “The Divine Madman” in
the 15 century. This yogi was a religious preacher as well as a proficient tantric. The story goes that once he was requested by Bhutanese devotees to conjure a miracle before them. He agreed on a condition that he should be fed a cow and a goat for lunch. After completing his meal, the yogi left the bones. He then joined the head of the goat on the skeleton of the cow. With a crack, he created a live animal known as takin today. Due to religious
connection, the animal was declared the national animal of the country Bhutan. Few years ago when Takins were confined in a mini Zoo, the King of Bhutan that time felt bad for the confinement of the animal, and ordered to free the animal from the clutches. Surprisingly, Takins strayed on the streets of Thimphu in search of food for weeks. Thereafter, it was
decided to keep them in a forested habitat from where the preserve came in. An area of 8.4 acres was fenced for the preserve.


6- Drukgyel Dzong, Paro

Drukgyal Dzong was one of the four principal Dra Dzongs (defense fortress). Accounts differ on the founder of Drukgyal Dzong. Most writers feel that it was Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal who built it to commemorate his victory over the Tibetan army in 1649. Other.
believe that it was Tenzin Drugda, the second Desi, (who was Paro Penlop at the time)
who built it at the behest of Zhabdrung Nawang Namgyal. Despite differences of opinion on the founder of the Dzong, people agree on the fact that it was built to commemorate the victory of the Bhutanese over the allied Tibet-Mongol forces. Hence the name Druk Gyal “the fortress of victory’ The Dzong was used as a summer residence by the Ringpung Rabdey. In 1951, in the 10th month of Bhutanese calendar, on the last day of the three-day annual prayers, the Dzong was burnt. It is said to have been caused by the fire when a butter lamp fell in the central tower. Only the ruins of giant walls, charred gigantic wooden posts, beams and watch towers can be seen of what was once an important fortress that repelled several invasions from the north.

7- Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu

Tashichho Dzong has been the seat of the government since 1952 and presently houses the throne room and offices of the king, the secretariat and the ministries of home affairs and finance. Other government departments are housed in buildings nearby. It was first constructed in 1216 A.D. by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa where Dechen Phodrang now stands above Thimphu. In 1641, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal acquired it but finding it too small, he built another one, known as the lower Dzong. The original dzong was destroyed by fire in 1771 and everything was moved to the lower dzong. The new building was later expanded several times over the years. It was damaged during an earthquake in 1897 and rebuilt in 1902. King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck had it completely renovated and enlarged over five years after he moved the capital to Thimphu in 1952 in traditional style using neither nails nor written plans. The dzong is located close to Thimphu town, next to the banks of the Wang Chhu River. It is an impressively large structure, surrounded by well-kept lawns and beautiful gardens. 

8- Main Street, Paro

The charming town of Paro lies on the banks of the Paro (or Pa) Chhu, just a short distance northwest of the imposing Paro Dzong. The main street, only built in 1985, is lined with

colourfully painted wooden shop fronts and restaurants, though these appear under threat as the town grows and multistorey concrete buildings continue to propagate. For now Paro remains one of the best Bhutanese towns to explore on foot and is worth an hour or two's stroll at the end of a day of sightseeing. Paro Dzong ranks as a high point of Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town are visible throughout the valley. It was formerly the meeting hall for the National Assembly and now, like most dzongs, houses both the monastic body and district government offices, including the local courts. Most of the chapels are closed to tourists but it's worth a visit for its stunning architecture and views. The tower-like Chhoeten Lhakhang is southeast of Paro's town square. The caretaker may allow you to visit the upstairs chapel, which features a central Jowo Sakyamuni, with Guru Rinpoche and Chenresig to the side. After a visit to Paro's weekend market or Druk Choeding temple, it's well worth wandering down to this local archery ground to see if there's a traditional archery game on.

 9-  Norzin Lam Street, Thimphu

 
Great place for Breakfast and light food. Love the Granola they serve. Nice location on the first floor on Norzin Lam across Clock tower square. Its a cafe with warm 'Family-owned'



feel, serving some amazing teas, coffees and specials.


10- Chomolhari


The mountain is sacred to Tibetan Buddhists who believe it is the abode of one of the Five Tsheringma Sisters. — female protector goddesses of Tibet and Bhutan, who were bound under oath by Padmasambhava to protect the land, the Buddhist faith and the local people. On the Bhutanese side is a Jomolhari Temple, toward the south side of the mountain about a half-day's journey from the army outpost between Thangthangkha and Jangothang at an altitude of 4150 meters. Religious practitioners and pilgrims visiting Mt. Jomolhari stay at this temple. There are several other sacred sites near Jomolhari Temple, including meditation caves of Milarepa and Gyalwa Lorepa. Within an



hour's walk up from the temple at an altitude of c. 4450 meters is Tseringma Lhatso, the "spirit lake" of Tsheringma. In Tibet there is an annual pilgrimage from Pagri to a holy lake, Jomo Lharang, which lies at c. 5,100 metres (16,700 ft) elevation, just north of the mountain.

11- Phobjikha Valley, Phobjikha


Phobjikha is a wide glacial valley with a central stream meandering through the open grassland and thickets of dwarf bamboo. Farmlands occupy the peripheral slopes where
potatoes and turnips are grown. The forests beyond the farms are mostly coniferous. The general vegetation is composed of mainly blue pine, birch, maple and several species of rhododendrons. The Central Valley inhabited by the cranes in winter has mostly dwarf bamboo. The repeated grazing of the bamboos by the local cattle and horses in summer prepares the ground for the wintering cranes. The magnificent Black-necked Cranes heighten the breathtaking scenery of Phobjikha in winter.
 

12- Tiger’s Nest, Paro


The Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Takstang, is one of Bhutan’s most recognized spots. Even people on the quickest of tours through Bhutan find the time to make it here. Why? Because this place is extraordinary. The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is a
small collection of buildings precariously perched on a cliff, 900 meters off of the ground. It
is stunning in its beauty and location.Without a doubt, a first time trip to Bhutan would not be complete without seeing the Tiger’s Nest. So, if you are contemplating a trip to Bhutan (do it! It’s one of the most awesome spots in the world), keep reading to learn more about how to hike to the Tiger’s Nest, one of the coolest little spots in Bhutan.






13- Buddha Dordenma Statue,Thimphu



Great Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue in the mountains of Bhutan celebrating the 60th anniversary of fourth king Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The statue houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues, each of which, like the Great Buddha Dordenma itself, are made of bronze and gilded in gold. The Great Buddha Dordenma is sited amidst the ruins of Kuensel Phodrang, the palace of Sherab Wangchuc, the thirteenth Desi Druk, overlooking the southern approach to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Construction began in 2006 and was planned to finish in October 2010, however construction did not conclude until 25 September 2015. The completed work is one of the largest Buddha rupas in the world, at 54 metres (177 ft) and contains 100,000: 8-inch-tall and 25,000: 12-inch-tall gilded bronze Buddhas.The statue was constructed at a cost of millions USD paid to Aerosun Corporation




of Nanjing, China, Sponsorship from Singaporean, while the total cost of the entire project is well over millions of USD Men Supporter from Singaporean, the interior will accommodate respectively. Ground floor of Biggest Buddha Statues : in Backside centre Buddha Shakyamuni Statues 7 ft tall, and right Sharibu, left Mongalbu 6 ft tall, and 16 Arhats, and Genyin-Dharmata, King Hashang make by Clays gold paint and Silk cover. Pemalingpa, Zhabdrung, all of Status 5 ft tall, Centre following eight Pillars Guru Padmasomabava, Dakini Mendarawa, Dakini Yeshe Tshogel, Guru Tshoke Dorje, Guru Shakyasenge, Guru Padmasamva, Guru Loden Chokse, Guru Padma Gyelpo, Guru Nyima Oizer, Guru Senge Dradog, Guru Dorje Droloe, all of Status 5 ft tall gold gilded make by bronze. wall painting 5meter hight by 220 meters long internal over 1000 defends live peruse history of Buddha Shakyamunis, and 12 inch Buddha puts surrounding in the wall. First floor centre Four Face Buddha Kuenrig Namparnangzad 12 ft tall, Eight Boddhisatovas: Menzusir Jamyang, Vajrapani Chanadoje, Avaloketeshora Chenrezig, Cintigarba Sainyingpo, Sarwanevaranavescamven Dripanamsey, Asakagarba Namkhainyingpo, Metrea Jampagonpo, Samantabadra Kuntuzangpo. All of Statues are 18 ft tall make by bronze and gold plated. Wall painting tells 12 history of Buddha Shakyamuni, and 12inch Buddha puts surrounding in the wall.




14- Rinpung Dzong, Paro

The construction of the Paro Dzong began in 1644 on the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Paro Dzong’s full name is Ringpung Dzong, which means ‘heap of jewels - fort’. In 15th century, two brothers Gyelchok and Gyelzom, descendents of Phajo (the founder of Drukpa Kagyu in Bhutan), lived in the valley. Gyelchok left for Tibet to study theology and when he returned, moved to Humrelkha and built a small structure that would later become the Paro Dzong. Gyelchok’s descendants, who controlled a large portion of the valley, were known as Lords of Humrelkha. In 1645, the Lords of Humrelkha relinquished their small fort to Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, recognizing his religious and political prowess. Immediately, Zhabdrung began construction of a much more superior fortress and in 1646, the Dzong was consecrated. It is approached by a gently sloping flagstone road and an attractive wooden bridge, roofed with shingles.
Like most Dzongs, Rinphung is the administrative seat of the district of Paro, and also houses state monastic community of about 200 members. Administrative offices line the first courtyard of the Dzong. The Utse (tower) of the Dzong is one of the most beautiful in Bhutan with its outstanding woodwork. In 1905 the Dzong caught fire, but was repaired in 1908/9 to its original state with the addition of statues of Guru Rinpoche, Buddha and the Zhabdrung. The most precious object of the Dzong, is the Thongdroel, a 20×20 meter wide Thangka –applique work. It was saved from the fire and is annually displayed to public during the Paro Tshechu Festival.

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