A vital and alluring destination, Paro is one of the most popular tourist spots in Bhutan. Rich in culture and history, Paro is home to famous sites such as the breathtaking Taktsang Monastery or Tiger's Nest, iconic Rinpung Dzong, and many others. The town and its surrounding valley offer a blend of spiritual significance, scenic beauty, and historical depth, making it a must-visit destination for any visitor to Bhutan. The valley is also known for its offroad and trekking terrains making it one of the best places for adventure seekers.
Bhutan's capital, Thimphu is a combination of both modernization as well as rich traditional Bhutanese culture. Tucked away in a beautiful lush valley, the city is home to historic monasteries like Tashichho Dzong. Unlike in other countries, the traffic is controlled by policemen instead of traffic lights. In addition to being a contemporary metropolis, Thimphu, the political, economic, and cultural center of Bhutan, provides tourists with an opportunity to witness the country's rich history at locations like the Memorial Chorten and the enormous Buddha Dordenma.
Bhutan's capital until 1955 was Punakha, a valley of great historical and natural beauty that is still the winter home of the country's spiritual leader, Je Khenpo. Famous for its lush valleys where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, it has a warmer climate than places like Thimphu and Paro and is home to the famous Punakha Dzong, a beautiful fortress-monastery. In addition to experiencing Bhutan's rich cultural legacy, tourists can take in the breathtaking scenery close to Punakha. The valley is also home to the Punakha Suspension Bridge, an iron bridge that is used to connect two valleys across the Po Chuu River.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, the Phobjikha Valley, a broad, U-shaped glacier valley in central Bhutan, is known for being the winter habitat of the endangered black-necked crane. This tranquil area, which is dominated by the Gangtey Monastery, which has a view of the valley, offers tourists a peaceful experience while being surrounded by Bhutan's natural and cultural legacy. Its vast marshy grasslands serve as an essential habitat for a variety of wildlife.
At 3,100 meters above sea level, Dochula Pass is a picturesque mountain pass in Bhutan that is well-known for its 108 memorial chortens, also called the Druk Wangyal Chortens and its expansive views of the Himalayan mountain range. In addition to the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple, which adds to the pass's spiritual and historical value. These chortens were constructed in remembrance of Bhutanese troops, making it a well-liked and stunning tourist site. Tourists can visit this place by booking a local taxi or venturing on an adventurous hiking journey.
Situated in the southern part of the Indo-Bhutan border, Phuentsholing is a busy border town that also functions as a vital commercial center and a gateway to the rest of the nation. Blending Indian and Bhutanese influences, it is home to attractions like the Bhutan Gate, Karbandi Monastery, and the Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre. Although it is frequently used as a transit point, it provides a unique glimpse into Bhutan's cultural and economic landscape. The city of Phuentsholing does not require an SDF fee for a day making it one of the most visited tourist spots in the country.