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Bhutan

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Taktshang Goemba, Tiger nest monastery, Bhutan

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Overview

Bhutan is no ordinary place. It's the last great Himalayan kingdom, shrouded in mystery and magic, where a traditional Buddhist culture carefully embraces global developments.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Trashi Chho Dzong

    Trashi Chho Dzong

    Thimphu

    This splendid dzong, north of the city on the west bank of the Wang Chhu, dominates the valley, looking out over a cascade of terraced fields. It's…

  • Scenic view of the Trongsa District, Trongsa Dzong, Trongsa, Bhutan

    Trongsa Dzong

    Bhutan

    This commanding dzong, high above the roaring Mangde Chhu, is perhaps the most spectacularly sited dzong in Bhutan, with a sheer drop to the south that…

  • Simtokha Dzong

    Simtokha Dzong

    Thimphu

    About 5km south of Thimphu on the old road to Paro and Phuentsholing, the handsomely proportioned Simtokha Dzong was built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang…

  • At a strategic vantage point perched high over Trongsa Dzong, rises its watch tower, Bhutan.

    Tower of Trongsa Royal Heritage Museum

    Bhutan

    This watchtower (ta dzong) overlooking the dzong now houses an excellent museum. The five floors of displays tell the history of the monarchy through such…

  • Jakar Dzong in mountains.

    Jakar Dzong

    Bhutan

    Jakar Dzong is in a picturesque location overlooking the Chokhor valley; the current structure was built in 1667. Its official name is Yuelay Namgyal…

  • Masks on display at Handicraft Market

    Weekend Market

    Thimphu

    Thimphu's Weekend Market fills a maze-like pavilion on the west bank of the Wang Chhu, just north of Changlimithang Stadium. Vendors from throughout the…

  • Peace Memorial Stupa.

    National Memorial Chorten

    Thimphu

    This large chorten is one of the most visible landmarks in Thimphu, and for many Bhutanese it is the focus of daily worship. The Tibetan-style stupa was…

  • Tango Goemba

    Tango Goemba

    Thimphu

    Tango is the residence of Gyalse Rinpoche, recognised as the seventh reincarnation of Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye, founder of Taktshang Goemba. The original…

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

The last Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas, Bhutan serves up remarkable and life-changing experiences. Here are 12 of the best things to do in Bhutan.

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Best Places to Visit

Planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to this stunning Himalayan kingdom? From monasteries to mountain viewpoints, here are the top places to visit in Bhutan.

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Best Time to Visit

You’ll have a slightly different (if surely marvelous) visit to Bhutan depending on what time of year you visit. Here’s a thorough guide.

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Things to Know

Be ready for your trip to Bhutan with this guide to visas, local etiquette and health and safety.

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Transportation

Find your way around the fascinating Kingdom of Bhutan with our guide to your transportation options.

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Visa Requirements

Almost certainly yes. And you’ll need to make many more arrangements prior to your trip to Bhutan, too.

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Money and Costs

These top tips along with a guide to daily costs can help you plan your budget for a visit to Bhutan.

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Traveling with Kids

In Bhutan, a country that values happiness above everything else, children are welcomed with open arms. Plan your family trip with our guide.

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Best Road Trips

Any road trip through the beautiful Himalayan valleys of Bhutan ranks as one of travel’s most exciting adventures. Here are five of the best.

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Articles

Latest stories from Bhutan

Tips & Advice

Do you need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Jan 29, 2025 • 6 min read

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Go Beyond

Bhutan and beyond

Beyond Bhutan