Activities in Bhutan
-
Walking the Bumthang Valley
There are plenty of opportunities for day hikes in the Bumthang region, many involving visits to remote goembas. If you are on a tourist visa, take advantage of the vehicle at your disposal and arrange for the driver to pick you up at the end of a walk.
From Swiss Guest House to Pelseling Goemba is a favourite half-day walk, descending a different route to Thamshing Goemba in a total of about four hours' walking. The first half is all uphill (2½ hours) but is more varied than the hike to Tharpaling, through a mix of forest, meadows and villages, and you are rewarded with great views. The monastery is a great place for a packed lunch or flask of tea.
You can also walk from…
reviewed
-
A
National Institute for Zorig Chusum
The National Institute for Zorig Chusum is commonly known as ‘the painting school’. It operates under the auspices of the National Technical Training Institute and offers four- to six-year courses that provide instruction in many of Bhutan’s traditional arts to students from throughout the country whose aptitude is more artistic than academic. The students follow a comprehensive course that starts with drawing and progresses through painting, woodcarving, embroidery and statue-making.
reviewed
-
B
Royal Thimphu Golf Club
The Royal Thimphu Golf Club has a nine-hole course beautifully situated above Trashi Chhoe Dzong. Indian Brigadier General TV Jaganathan, posted in Bhutan between 1968 and 1973, got permission from King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck to construct a few holes. The king later granted permission to expand the course to nine holes, recognising that it would provide an attractive green area adjacent to Trashi Chhoe Dzong. The course was formally inaugurated in 1971 as the Royal Thimphu Golf Club.
reviewed
-
C
Bhutan Bicycle Club
The Bhutan Bicycle Club organises rides and has bikes for hire (US$30 per day, including helmet). A helmet is required within Thimphu city limits.
reviewed
-
D
Sports Complex
You can swim in the pool at Thimphu’s Sports Complex. There is also a basketball court and gym.
reviewed
