2024 saw Bhutan mark the 50th anniversary of the country's opening to tourism, an opening that – like all things Bhutanese – has been managed in a sensitive and sustainable way. We saw this anniversary as the perfect opportunity to round up five compelling reasons to visit Bhutan, whatever the time of year.
SPECTACULAR LANDSCAPES
Intersected by the Himalayas and with over 70% of its landmass blanketed by forest, Bhutan is a country of astonishing natural beauty. Whether it is dramatic snow-capped peaks in winter or rolling meadows bursting with colour in spring, dazzling landscapes can be enjoyed at any time of year.
BHUTAN'S FIVE MOST STRIKING VALLEYS
1. Paro Valley
One of Bhutan’s best-known sights, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, can be found in the Paro Valley in western Bhutan – but there is far more to the valley than just this. Both culturally and geographically rich, the valley is characterised by its rust-red rice paddies, stunning mountain passes, ancient temples, and rich artisan traditions.
2. Thimphu Valley
The Thimphu Valley is home to Bhutan’s thriving capital city as well as the seat of government at the historic Tashichho Dzong. In the hills surrounding Thimphu, pristine pine forests offer a wealth of invigorating hiking opportunities for those who do not want to venture too far from the capital, as well as a number of intriguing hillside monasteries.
3. Punakha Valley
Magnificent temples, abundant fruit orchards, and the confluence of the powerful Mo Chhu and Po Chhu rivers bring about an inimitable character to the Punakha Valley. Being the lowest of all Bhutan's valleys, this is the place to enjoy the country's warmest temperatures. This temperate climate allows a variety of flora and fauna to flourish, while imposing mountain views and intriguing cultural sites can be enjoyed all around you.
4. Phobjikha Valley
In one of the most biodiverse areas of Bhutan, the Black Neck Crane is arguably the most famous resident of the Phobjikha Valley, this cherished bird celebrated every year in a spirited festival. Even if you are not visiting during this time, you will find the valley a highly rewarding destination with the fascinating Gangtey Monastery and a plethora of beautiful walking trails just some of the attractions to be enjoyed.
5. Bumthang Valley
Earning its reputation of the cultural and spiritual heartland of Bhutan, a stay in the Bumthang Valley is always an immersive and inspiring experience. Some 30 temples and monasteries are scattered around the valley, and the surrounding meadows and pine forests lend themselves to scenic walks against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
ANCIENT TEMPLES & SPIRITUAL SITES
With deep-seated roots in the Buddhist faith, encountering ancient temples and monasteries is key element of any visit to Bhutan – and a rewarding experience year-round.
FIVE FASCINATING SPIRITUAL SITES IN BHUTAN
1. Tiger's Nest Monastery
One of the sights most synonymous with Bhutan, Paro Taktsang clings to the side of a cliff in the heart of the Paro Valley and is only accessible by a challenging two-hour hike. The rewards are rich, however, as you follow in the footsteps of devoted pilgrims seeking to visit the site where Guru Rinpoche purportedly arrived on the back of a tigress to meditate in this vertiginous mountain cave.
2. Punakha Dzong
One of the most beautiful monasteries in all of Bhutan, the Punakha Dzong sits resplendently overlooking the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Not only a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, this ‘Palace of Great Happiness’ still forms a key part of the country’s cultural and spiritual identity.
3. Kyichu Lhakhang
This historic monastery in the hills above Paro is one of the oldest and most sacred religious sites in Bhutan. Its origins date back to the 7th century, when Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo commissioned the temple to subdue a demoness who, according to legend, was supressing the spread of Buddhism throughout the region. The monastery is still very much a place of prayer and serenity, and is well worth a visit during your time in Paro.
4. Jambay Lhakhang
Constructed by Songsten Gampo during the same era as Kyichu Lhkang, this modest temple in the Bumthang Valley forms part of the chain of 108 temples commissioned by the Tibetan king to supress aforementioned demoness. Though an interesting temple to visit at any time, it comes alive during the annual Jambay Lhakang Drup festival, a lively four-day event commemorating the building of the temple and honouring Guru Rinpoche – the spiritual leader who consecrated it.
5. Chimi Lhakhang
Located in the Punakha Valley, this hilltop temple is dedicated to one of the most colourful characters in Bhutanese folklore. Drukpa Kunley, the Buddhist saint more commonly referred to as the ‘Divine Madman’, rose to fame during the late 15th century due to his highly unorthodox teaching methods. As well as serving as a shrine to the Divine Madman, the temple is also a place frequented by those seeking blessings of fertility and to ward off evil spirits.
INVIGORATING SPA & WELLNESS EXPERIENCES
Bhutan is a haven of nature and spirituality, making it the perfect setting for a wellness retreat, whatever the season. There are a wealth of enticing options to be found across the country, but here we summarise the very best.
TOP FIVE SPAS & WELLNESS RETREATS IN BHUTAN
1. COMO Shambhala Retreat at COMO Uma Paro
The savvy team behind COMO Shambhala selected a stunning location for their flagship retreat in Bhutan. Offering sweeping views of the Paro Valley, the COMO Shambhala Retreat at COMO Uma Paro offers a comprehensive wellness programme encompassing yoga, Ayurvedic treatments, ancient Bhutanese healing, and COMO’s signature restorative treatments. The team of expert therapists and the retreat’s serene location within easy reach of the international airport make this one of the most sought-after spas in Bhutan.
2. Gangtey Lodge
This remarkable and award-winning lodge hidden away in the Phobjikha Valley may well lay the claim to one of the best Bhutanese hot stone baths in the country. The pine wood and the heated rocks employed in the bath are sustainably sourced from the surrounding valley, and your healing soak can be accompanied by a glass of Champagne as you absorb the spectacular views. To complete the experience, stroll up to the monastery behind the lodge after your treatment and restore your balance with a spot of meditation.
3. Aman Spa at Amankora
Aman have a number of lodges strategically positioned in stunning locations across Bhutan, and their spas are always a significant feature. Drawing upon traditional Bhutanese healing methods, signature treatments include nurturing massages employing local herbs and plants, candle-lit hot stone baths, yoga, meditation, and sound baths. You can enjoy the Aman Spa experience at the Amankora lodges in Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang.
4. Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary
Perched in the hills above Paro, wellness at the very core of a stay at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary. A private consultation with the on-site doctor is included in every stay, after which a holistic programme will be recommended to cater to your individual health needs. All treatments in the traditional Bhutanese medicine programme are completely herbal based, and one treatment is included each day as part of your package. Treatments range from herbal and hot oil compressions, hot stone baths, moxibustion, and Ku Nye massages. Guests can also take advantage of complimentary daily yoga, meditation, cookery classes, archery, and pottery.
5. Six Senses Bhutan Spa
Renowned for their exemplary spa and wellness experiences, Six Senses’ five lodges in Bhutan are an obvious choice for those seeking to incorporate relaxation and wellbeing into their explorations of the country. Each spa is themed around the resort’s individual location, with treatments that reflect the spirit of the surrounding environment, and that incorporate local botanicals. Bhutanese and Tibetan healing methods sit alongside modern wellness practices, and these spas can be enjoyed at the Six Senses resorts located in Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang.
YEAR-ROUND FESTIVALS & CULTURAL EVENTS
Bhutan is renowned for its vibrant festivals, or "Tshechus," which are both religious and social occasions where people gather to witness sacred mask dances, receive blessings, and to socialise. If you are fortunate enough to encounter a festival during your travels, you are guaranteed a fascinating insight into Bhutanese culture.
FIVE COLOURFUL BHUTANESE FESTIVALS
1. Paro Tshechu
One of Bhutan’s most widely attended festivals, Paro Tshechu is held in the courtyard of the vast Paro Rinpung Dzong and features a series of masked dances that depict stories from Buddhist mythology. This usually culminates in the unfurling of the giant Thongdrol (a sacred scroll painting), which is believed to cleanse the sins of those who witness it. The festival takes place every year in either March or April, depending on the lunar calendar.
2. Thimphu Tshechu
This is one of the largest festivals in Bhutan, taking place over several days at the Tashichho Dzong and featuring a wide variety of traditional dances, rituals, and mask performances. As well as being an important cultural event for the local community, the festival welcomes visitors with open arms and offers a fascinating immersion into Bhutanese culture. The Thimphu Tshechu is celebrated every September or October, depending on the lunar cycle.
3. Punakha Drubchen & Punakha Tshechu
This dual event taking place at the exquisite Punakha Dzong is a rich celebration of the history, spirituality, folklore and culture of the region. Punakha Drubchen is a reenactment of the 17th-century battle against Tibetan forces, and local men dress as warriors to participate. The historical drama is followed by the Punakha Tshechu, a colourful celebration incorporating traditional mask dances and religious rituals. The date of the festival is once again determined by the lunar calendar, but it usually takes place in either February or March each year.
4. Jambay Lhakhang Drup
This enchanting festival is held at one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, Jambay Lhakhang. An intoxicating blend of ancient rituals and community celebration, Jambay Lhakhang Drup is known for its colourful dances, including the Tercham (Fire Dance), where monks and the masses dance around a fire to purify the sins of the participants, and a ritual where participants pass under a flaming arch for blessings. You may be able to witness the festival if you are visiting Bumthang in either October or November (exact dates vary according to the lunar cycle).
5. Black-Necked Crane Festival
Black-necked cranes are revered in Bhutanese culture and are considered a symbol of good fortune. These endangered birds migrate to the Phobjikha Valley in late October each year, remaining until early March. The annual Black-Necked Crane Festival sets out to celebrate these much-loved birds, but also to raise awareness about the importance of conserving the cranes and their natural habitat. The event takes place on 11th November at the Gangtey Gompa monastery.
OUTSTANDING HOSPITALITY
One of the most notable aspects about a visit to Bhutan is the warmth and hospitality of its people. Whether you are in one of the bigger towns or in a remote, hilltop village you are likely to be greeted by a warm and friendly smile at every turn. Perhaps this is no wonder, from a country that measures its success on the happiness of its people above everything else.
FIVE WAYS TO EMBRACE THE CULTURE OF BHUTAN
1. Make a butter lamp offering
The custom of lighting butter lamps is widespread across Buddhist monasteries and temples in the Himalayas. Made from yak butter, lighting the lamps as an offering to Buddha is a symbol of illumination from ignorance and darkness.
2. Try the national sport of archery
Declared Bhutan’s national sport in 1971, the origins of archery in Bhutan go back much further, to the days when Drukpa warriors used bamboo bows and arrows to repel Tibetan invaders. Archery tournaments in the country are a lively affair with plenty of the local spirit ara being consumed. Should you wish to try your hand in a less formal setting, plenty of the hotels and lodges we work with in Bhutan offer short archery classes designed to put you through your paces.
3. Sample Bhutanese cuisine
Bhutan has a distinctive cuisine, drawing influences from neighbouring Tibet, China, Nepal, and India. You are likely to see the staple dish of Ema Datshi on menus wherever you go, and it should be sampled at least one during your visit. To gain a deeper immersion into the cuisine of the region, a number of lodges offer cookery classes and workshops. At Amankora Punakha, for example, the chef will take you on a culinary journey through Bhutan’s best-known dishes, instructing you on how to prepare them. You will then enjoy the fruits of your labours at the end.
4. Attend morning prayers at a monastery
With spirituality playing an integral role in Bhutanese culture, gaining a deeper insight to Buddhist traditions only enhances your understanding of the country and its people. Many hotels and lodges have close links to their nearby monastery, and allow those with a keen interest to learn more. At Six Senses Punakha, for example, you can join the monks for morning prayers followed by breakfast. Similarly, you can enjoy morning or evening prayers, meditation, or a spiritual cleansing ritual at the monastery that sits right behind Gangtey Lodge. Alternatively, at Six Senses Thimphu, you could visit the nearby monastic school for a personal astrology reading and fortune telling session with a Buddhist monk.
5. Visit a rural village
When travelling through rural Bhutan you will quickly realise that village communities provide a warm welcome wherever you go. Even if language is a barrier, you are always greeted with a friendly style. Exploring with a guide will open doors and help you gain an even better understanding of village life. For further interactions and insight you could consider activities such as a village visit from Six Senses Punakha where you can meet a local family in their home and learn how to make the potent Bhutanese spirit, ara.
