Five wish-list experiences to enjoy in Bhutan
Unspoilt and home to a truly unique collection of highlights, Bhutan is the perfect spot for a trip with a difference.
Though it may not be as well-known as China, India and Nepal, the Kingdom of Bhutan is every bit as impressive and is home to a wide variety of cultural, culinary, and scenic highlights. With tourism carefully controlled by the country’s government, it’s also a place which feels utterly unspoilt and offers one of the most authentic tastes of traditional culture that you’re likely to find. But what can you do in this fascinating Himalayan destination that’s worth a visit?
To help inspire your next adventure, we’ve highlighted five Bhutanese experiences that deserve a spot on any Asian itinerary. From animal-spotting opportunities and Himalayan sightseeing to the rich variety of customs that have shaped Bhutan throughout the centuries, these are the experiences you won’t want to miss out on.
Five highlights you need to experience in Bhutan
1. Watching the flag-lowering ceremony at Tashichho Dzong
Few spots in Bhutan are as majestic as Thimphu’s gold-roofed Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the country’s government, and fewer still can match the spectacle of its nightly flag-lowering ceremony. Accompanied by traditional music, processions of royal guards, and the colourful dress of its resident monks, this intimate event proudly displays the customs and monastic values that underpin the country.
Lasting between 15 and 20 minutes, the ceremony is distinctly unhurried and embodies the pace of daily life in the capital. Whether you’re visiting Tashichho Dzong for the history or its striking architecture, making time to watch the flag lowering take place in person is the ideal way to introduce yourself to Bhutan’s monastic traditions.
2. Taking in the world-famous Tiger’s Nest monastery
Speaking of Bhutan’s religious heritage, its Himalayan monasteries are an essential part of any holiday itinerary, and of these secluded temples, the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ is undoubtedly the most impressive. Perched more than 2,900 feet above the Paro Valley, the Tiger’s Nest, officially known as Monastery, is a marvel of Buddhist architecture and rewards those who make the journey up to it.
Though the panorama of granite cliffs and forest valleys is sure to capture your attention as you wander around each serene courtyard, the Tiger’s Nest’s marvellous 17th-century design is equally memorable. Whether you’re admiring the masterful craftsmanship that shaped the monastery’s central prayer wheel or enjoying a quiet moment watching the monks’ daily meditations, the Tiger’s Nest is well worth a visit.
3. Coming face-to-face with Bhutan’s native wildlife
Bhutan’s national animal may not be what you’d expect, with its native population of bears, eagles, and tigers often stealing the attention of animal enthusiasts. Instead, it’s the humble takin, an unusual species of goat-antelope, that officially represents Bhutan.
If you’re interested in taking in the local wildlife, you can meet these peculiar creatures up close at the Motithang Takin Reserve. This secluded nature park, spanning just three hectares of protected woodland, was created with the closure of Thimphu’s public zoo after its resident takin (Bhutan’s national animal) refused to leave the area. Providing a space for native takin to safely graze on the outskirts of the capital, this preserve might turn out to be one of the unexpected highlights of your trip.
4. Standing in the shadow of Buddha Dordenma
Rising high above the Thimphu valley, 177-foot-tall Buddha Dordenma is one of the world’s largest sitting Buddha statues and is worth a trip to the Bhutanese capital on its own. Though this towering landmark is a sight to behold from afar, it’s inside its walls that the most memorable exploration takes place.
Housing 125,000 smaller Buddhist statuettes, the Dordenma promises hours of exploration as you weave through its serene shrines. For a closer look at the monastic heritage of this remarkable temple, be sure to spend some time amongst the quiet calm of the Dordenma’s three-storey meditation hall. Outside, the sprawling alpine views of the surrounding Himalayan valleys add to the experience, making this a must-visit for any Bhutanese itinerary.
5. Admiring some of the finest Himalayan landscapes on Dochula Pass
When it comes to scenic beauty, the vast Pass is simply unmatched. Nestled 10,000 feet above sea level, this winding route is the only highway connecting Thimphu and Punakha and opens onto uninterrupted views of the snow-capped Eastern Himalayas. As you travel along this mountain pass, you’ll also have the chance to spot its 108 memorial stupas, which commemorate the sacrifices of Bhutan’s fallen soldiers.
To fully appreciate the grandeur of the idyllic Himalayan landscapes in the fresh mountain air, be sure to stop to stretch your legs and soak up the views from one of Dochula’s viewpoints. If you’re keen to see some of the finest alpine scenery that the Himalayas have to offer, a panoramic drive along this popular route is reason enough to add Bhutan to your travel wish-list.
Discover Bhutan’s Himalayan wonders with Newmarket Holidays
Whether you’re an experienced explorer of Asia or a first-timer, we have the ideal itinerary to introduce you to Bhutan and its fascinating cultural highlights. For more information on our featured itinerary or to get the ball rolling on your own Bhutanese escape, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today. We also have a wide range of escorted tours, spanning six continents, and you can browse them all on our dedicated destinations page.
