Western Bhutan

Western Bhutan

Western Bhutan is where most visitors begin and where the country's most iconic sights are concentrated. Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Haa form a compact circuit that can be covered in a week, though you could easily spend twice that long and still find new corners.

Paro

A wide valley of rice paddies, whitewashed farmhouses, and more than 150 temples. The star attraction is Taktshang — the Tiger's Nest monastery — perched on a cliff 900 metres above the valley floor. The round-trip hike takes about four hours and is worth every step. Paro also has a fine Dzong, a national museum in a converted watchtower, and Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the country.

Thimphu

The capital is small enough to walk across in an hour but packed with things to see: the National Memorial Chorten, the Textile Museum, the weekend farmers' market, the giant Buddha Dordenma overlooking the valley, and Tashichho Dzong where the King holds court. It is also the only capital city in the world without a single traffic light.

Punakha

The old winter capital sits at the confluence of two rivers and is home to the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan. The drive from Thimphu crosses Dochula Pass, where 108 memorial stupas line the ridge and the eastern Himalayas stretch across the horizon on clear mornings.

Haa

A quieter valley just south of Paro, Haa is home to the White Temple and Black Temple — ancient shrines surrounded by forest. It sees fewer visitors than its neighbours and rewards those who make the detour.

Phobjikha Valley

A broad glacial valley and winter refuge for endangered Black-Necked Cranes that migrate from Tibet each November. The valley's Gangtey Monastery overlooks the marshlands and the village life here moves at a pace that feels timeless.