Introducing Western Bhutan
Whether you arrive by air at Paro or by road at Phuentsholing, your first impression of Bhutan is one of stepping into a world that you thought existed only in storybooks or your imagination. Vertical prayer flags flutter in the breeze and men dressed in a traditional gho (tunic) and Argyle socks stroll past yellow-roofed shrines and wooden slate-roofed houses. It soon becomes clear that you are well off the beaten path of mass tourism.
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As with the rest of country, western Bhutan is a collection of valleys. The remote Haa valley in the far west is separated from the Paro valley by the 3810m Cheli La. The relatively built-up Thimphu valley to the east is divided from the historical centres of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang by the 3140m Dochu La. East of here the rugged Black Mountain range forms an even greater barrier that separates western Bhutan from the rest of the country. North of here, the upper valleys are trekking territory, leading to the sacred peak of Jhomolhari, the Tibetan border and the fascinating and remote regions of Laya and Gasa. To the south are the lush foothills and the all-important road to the Indian border at Phuentsholing.
This is the region of Bhutan that most tourists see and for good reason. It’s the heartland of the Drukpa people, home to the only airport, the capital and the largest, oldest and most spectacular dzongs in the kingdom. Whether it’s the beginning of your trip or the all of your trip, it’s a spectacular introduction to a magical land.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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RE: Options for Bangladeshi Nationals
by idlysambar 27 November 2011
The permit that you get initially allows you to travel only to Paro and Thimphu. To go to other places, you need to get another permit,…
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December 2005 photo competition (closed)
by paix 11 December 2005
Early Summer, 2004, near Wangdi Phodrang and Punakha turnoff road, Western Bhutan.
This area of Bhutan is the Winter residence…
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Western Bhutan
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Our Top Picks For Western Bhutan
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1 Paro, Wangdue Phodrang and Punakha
Visit the spectacular dzongs of Paro, Wangdue Phodrang and Punakha .
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2 Dochu La
Admire the rhododendrons and mountain views on an early-morning drive to the Dochu La
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3 National Museum
Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture and history at Paro’s National Museum
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4 Phobjikha valley
Spot black-necked cranes or just do some great hiking in the remote Phobjikha valley
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5 Tiger’s Nest
Hike uphill to the dramatic cliff-hanging Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous sight
