Top 10 Best Places To Visit in Bhutan (Thimpu)

Punakha Dzong
One of the biggest attraction of Punakha is its majestic Punakha Dzong. Strategically located across the river it is accessible by a covered walkway across the river. Tight security will frisk you and you may enter the Dzong after climbing very steep wooden steps. No entry fee for this Dzong !!! 3 courtyards each more intricately and serenely deisgned hold you in awe of the structure. The prayer halls, students quarters, study rooms, and of course the temple take you back in time leaving you enchanted. When you exit the Dzong dont miss the Buddha temple just opposite (often missed). It exudes calm serenity and peace as you enter the temple and offer a prayer asking for blessings. Amazing point for taking pictures, it is manned by lama students who will smile and guide you towards the statute of Lord Buddha. Sprawling lawns allow you to take a clockwise prayer circle around the temple. Very beautiful place indeed !

 

Chele La Pass

This place is almost 12000 feet above sea level. The way to Chele la pass was literally zigzag and dangerous. As we go up on the way, the temperature decreases and from 33°C, it decreased to as low as -3°C. This is a tough way for the people who suffer from travel sickness. On the way, we had a chance to see a group of yalks. When we reached on the top, the scene infront of us was mesmerizing. There were so many white flags which were flying with the flow of wind. The wind was blowing up almost at 100 KMPH. We enjoyed the beauty of the place, clicked pictures and had a lot of fun there. Its a must visit place for tourists from all over the world.

Punakha Suspension Bridge

Also known as the Pho Chhu suspension bridge, it is the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan (as informed by our respected guide and driver, Mr.Dorji). A short walk over a stile and a very mild inclination leads us to this amazing man made creation. It is really a rivetting view of the river, the valley, the bridge, the mountains - holding you totally suspended and spellbound. A wobbly walk across the bridge dotted with waving prayer flags and the amazing breeze leads you across the banks to a small cottage and shop. Spin the large prayer wheel and thank God for giving us a chance to visit this lovely site and pristine countryside. Watch the river gurgle below mid way from the bridge and amble back to your vehicle soaking in the lovely scenery and the wind running through your hair. Must visit, must see attraction little ahead of the Punakha Dzong.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

This lovely monastery is situated high atop a mountain and served (in our case) as a trial trek for our intended visit to Tigers Nest. You start across a small suspension bridge across the Punakha river which is also the spot for starting of river rafting expeditions. Walk through chili and brinjal fields with streams flowing over rocks which you skip over. A small slope and you are at the first large prayer wheel stop. Catch your breath and brace yourself for a steep trek uphill. Loose sand and gravels will test you all the way and pray it doesnt rain to make the jounry even mire slippery. Half way uphill some steps offer some respite and the ascent begins. Nothing can prepare you for the manicured gardens, neat surrounding and the 3 storey stupa with mind blowing panoramic views. Blessed by Lord Buddha you really consider yourselves lucky to witness this beautiful temple and if lucky the terrace of the Stupa which will literally knock the wind out of you. Bow and begin the arduous journey downhill. Elders can avoid since it can really get steep and tiring.

Tongsa Dzong

Good dzong with very beautiful scenic beauty. Nature and religious lover will love this place. And are very peaceful.Trongsa Dzong can be consider as the longest Dzong in Bhutan. The Dzong was built in 17th century during the time of Chogyal Minjur Tenpa. The Dzong is located in central Bhutan and it used to be a perfect location of controlling the people traveling from west to east or either way. Jigme Namgyel, father of first king of Bhutan grew powerful from this Dzong because of controlling the people traveling. 

The only draw back to get Trongsa is the road condition, Bhutan is under going through widening of road so it is presently in bad condition.

Taktsang Palphug Monastery

Taktsang Monastery also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is in Paro, Bhutan, about 10 kilometres north of Paro.  The monastery is one of the most venerated places of pligrimage in the Himalayan region. The legend behind the Tiger’s Nest monastery is just as amazing and magical. Its high on a cliff about 3200 meters above the sea level.
There are a way to reach Tiger’s Nest monastery up close either by hike for about 2-4 hours, depend on your speed and strengh, second by ride the horse, slightly faster however only till half way, (until cafetaria stages) other halfway still need to hike. The second stage is the viewing point where about 800 steps to reach the monastry. To enter the monastry you should wear long sleeves or shirt with collar, no T-Shirt please, and they provide locker to keep your bags however its very limited. No camera or cellphone inside the monastry! It will be checked by security guards!

Rinpung Dzong

When travelling to Bhutan, this is a must visit. And since it is located in Paro, the Dzong is easily accessible. You can take a guided tour to the fort or simply walk about by yourself. 

The best part about the Dzong is the view of the valley right at the end of the fort. It's almost like a painting.

It's a beautiful dzong. You get a good view of the valley from the dzong. Inside you will see beautiful carvings, paintings and designs. Monks stays inside the dzong and political offices also functions

Kyichu Lhakhang

Located on the outskirts of Paro city is the oldest temple of Bhutan. It is just a little drive off the main road leading to the Tigers Nest and it is recommended you visit it before proceeding for the trek (you will be simply too tired to halt anywhere on the way back !!! ) We were lucky to visit this temple on a very auspicious day in June 2017 and we could feel the warmth of the local people who had come to there to offer prayers and seek blessings. We entered the shrine which was very ornate and full of aromas of incense sticks. You could literally feel the Lords eyes meeting yours and exuding peace and solace to all who visit. Old architecture and the orange tree in the courtyard were indeed eye-catching. A clockwise walk around the temple and after turning some huge prayer wheels collectively we left this old monument with new fervor and feeling truly blessed !

Clock Tower Square

One of the most lively places in thimpu. The crowd and place have positive vibes. Nearby cafe and restaurants are really nice.This is an iconic place in Thimphu, meant for organizing cultural programs and gatherings. May be considered as city center. Around the clock there is enough place to sit. there are lots of shops around this place. Things are very expensive. You need to bargain. Evenings are beautiful here to sit and chat and eat.

Kurje Lhakhang

It's a very beautiful old temple with a lot of history. Our guide only toke us into the first building where the make prayers , would be nice to see the other buildings Kurjey Lhakhang is one of the must visit temples when you are in Bumthang. I was staying at one of the lodges, Rincheling which is less than half hour walk to this temple. Pleasant walk in the morning passing by farms and seeing farmers working in the field.