{"id":10762,"date":"2020-08-27T08:28:12","date_gmt":"2020-08-27T08:28:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/blog\/?p=10762"},"modified":"2025-04-29T10:51:15","modified_gmt":"2025-04-29T10:51:15","slug":"bhutan-country-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/blog\/bhutan-country-guide","title":{"rendered":"Bhutan Country Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>It would be fair to say that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/bhutan-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan<\/a> is truly like nowhere else on earth. Set high in the Himalayas and closed to visitors until the 1970s, this mountain kingdom has something of a reputation for being mysterious and very, very enigmatic. With its treacherous peaks, sweeping valleys, ancient dzongs (fortresses), snow leopards and famously friendly locals, we guarantee you\u2019ll be in awe of the magic Bhutan has to offer. But don\u2019t worry if the secrets of this special spot elude you: we\u2019ve put together a handy Bhutan Country Guide to help you get your bearings.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_10766\" style=\"width: 1430px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/thimphu-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10766\" class=\"wp-image-10766 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Thimpu-timbuktu-4.jpg\" alt=\"Bhutan Country Guide\" width=\"1420\" height=\"947\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=900,height=600,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Thimpu-timbuktu-4.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1439,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Thimpu-timbuktu-4.jpg 1439w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=250,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Thimpu-timbuktu-4.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=300,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Thimpu-timbuktu-4.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=512,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Thimpu-timbuktu-4.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Thimpu-timbuktu-4.jpg 1420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1420px) 100vw, 1420px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10766\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Learn more about Bhutan&#8217;s rich culture in Thimphu<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Thimphu<\/h2>\n<p>Since 1961, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/thimphu-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thimphu<\/a> has had a starring role as the capital of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/bhutan-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan<\/a>. As you might imagine from a capital city, Thimphu pays homage to the nation\u2019s illustrious history and there are all sorts of ancient buildings and museums to explore, including those that celebrate medicine and textiles. One of the most impressive sights has to be Tashicho Dzong, which is not only home to the royal and government offices, it\u2019s also 350 years old and, if you can believe it, was built without using a single nail. It\u2019s the most modern city in the country and whilst that might mean good restaurants and a better internet connection, it is the only capital city in the world not to have any traffic lights &#8211; so don\u2019t set your hopes too high, tech heads. It\u2019s an incredible place to absorb the culture of the country with its multiple temples, museums and remarkable history and you won\u2019t be short of things to keep you busy.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How do I do it?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/thimphu-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thimphu<\/a> is one of the easier spots to reach in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/bhutan-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan<\/a>, at a mere two-hour bus or taxi journey from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/paro-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Paro<\/a>. Well, two hours might be a lengthy journey for some, but considering the tricky drives to some of the country\u2019s must-visit destinations, getting to Thimphu is a breeze.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Where do I start?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/simply-bhutan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Simply Bhutan<\/a> trip is perfect for those looking to spend a little time in the nation\u2019s capital. You\u2019ll begin by spending two nights in the city, giving you ample time to explore its history and culture, before you move onto <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/punakha-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Punakha<\/a> and picture-perfect <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/paro-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Paro<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"timbuktu-wp\"><link rel=\"stylesheet\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css?family=Merriweather:700|Open+Sans:300,600\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/thimphu?action=DesignATrip&wId=001&regionName=Thimphu&regionId=295\" class=\"no_underline timbuktu-test-class\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_container image-included\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_layout_minimal\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner\" data-entity-type=\"region\" data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"295\" >\n                    <figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/regions\/kodak_images\/000\/000\/295\/original\/Tashichho_Dzong_cham_distance_bhutan_timbuktu_h1.jpg?w=150&h=150&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=2&q=50&crop=center center\"data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"295\" class=\"timbuktu_minimal_image\" alt=\"Thimphu Image\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_copy\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_heading\">Thimphu<\/div><div class=\"timbuktu_button\" style=\"background-color:#128d8d\">Learn more<\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_10767\" style=\"width: 1430px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/punakha-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10767\" class=\"wp-image-10767 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Punaka-timbuktu-2.jpg\" alt=\"Bhutan Country Guide\" width=\"1420\" height=\"948\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=899,height=600,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Punaka-timbuktu-2.jpg 899w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1438,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Punaka-timbuktu-2.jpg 1438w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=250,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Punaka-timbuktu-2.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=300,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Punaka-timbuktu-2.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=513,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Punaka-timbuktu-2.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/Punaka-timbuktu-2.jpg 1420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1420px) 100vw, 1420px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10767\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Explore the picture perfect Punakha<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Punakha<\/h2>\n<p>If <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/bhutan-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan<\/a> to you is sweeping valley vistas and picturesque mountain living, then <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/punakha-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Punakha<\/a> is the spot to visit. And it\u2019s not just us that thinks this spot is utterly heavenly &#8211; the Bhutanese royal family also holiday here and if it\u2019s good enough for them\u2026 Not only is the town home to spectacular scenery, two rivers converge here AND there are all manner of beautiful historical spots to explore. One of the big draw cards is the spectacular Punakha Dzong, built in the 16th century and, as well as being the second largest dzong, is one of the country\u2019s most revered landmarks. The land here is also extremely fertile, producing the majority of Bhutan\u2019s fruit and veg. Like we said, heavenly.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How do I do it?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>People often say it\u2019s not about the end point, it\u2019s the journey that matters, and nowhere is that more true than <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/punakha-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Punakha<\/a>. Whilst the end point is spectacular (did we make that point clearly enough above?), the roads that lead you here are nothing short of jaw-dropping. It\u2019s within 50 miles of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/thimphu-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thimphu<\/a> and the drive is peppered with stunning glaciers, rice paddies and stomach lurching mountain roads &#8211; truly the road trip of dreams.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Where do I start?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/punakha-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Punakha<\/a> is high on our must-see list and for that reason it features on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/bhutan-trip\/routes?countries=Bhutan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">every one of our trips<\/a>, so you can pair it with just about any region or place. Whilst it\u2019s not difficult to incorporate into a journey, there are only a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/punakha-trip\/lodges?regions=Punakha\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">handful of properties<\/a> and accommodation prices are at the higher end\u2026 But the choices you do have are nothing short of spectacular.<\/p>\n<div id=\"timbuktu-wp\"><link rel=\"stylesheet\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css?family=Merriweather:700|Open+Sans:300,600\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/punakha?action=DesignATrip&wId=001&regionName=Punakha&regionId=294\" class=\"no_underline timbuktu-test-class\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_container image-included\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_layout_minimal\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner\" data-entity-type=\"region\" data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"294\" >\n                    <figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/regions\/kodak_images\/000\/000\/294\/original\/Punakha_Dzong_bhutan_timbuktu_h1.jpg?w=150&h=150&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=2&q=50&crop=center center\"data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"294\" class=\"timbuktu_minimal_image\" alt=\"Punakha Image\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_copy\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_heading\">Punakha<\/div><div class=\"timbuktu_button\" style=\"background-color:#128d8d\">Learn more<\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_10768\" style=\"width: 1430px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/paro-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10768\" class=\"wp-image-10768 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/shutterstock_222428650.jpg\" alt=\"Bhutan Country Guide\" width=\"1420\" height=\"947\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=900,height=600,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/shutterstock_222428650.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1439,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/shutterstock_222428650.jpg 1439w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=250,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/shutterstock_222428650.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=300,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/shutterstock_222428650.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=512,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/shutterstock_222428650.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/shutterstock_222428650.jpg 1420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1420px) 100vw, 1420px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10768\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The mountainside Tiger\u2019s Nest monastery, not for the faint of heart!<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Paro<\/h2>\n<p>You might have heard that the charming town of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/paro-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Paro<\/a> is within easy reach of the airport (it is) &#8211; but don\u2019t let that put you off. It\u2019s one of the prettiest towns in the country and once you\u2019re there, you\u2019ll wonder where the planes are and what you were ever worried about. In the town, the colourful market stalls and restaurants will excite those who want to learn more about local culture and pick up a trinket or two from their travels, and it\u2019s also the starting point for the hike to the the famous, vertiginous (it truly is perched on the side of a mountain &#8211; gulp!) Taktsang Dzong, more commonly known as the Tiger\u2019s Nest monastery. If that isn\u2019t enough hiking, head to the surrounding valleys; there are plenty of more challenging hikes, lots of dzongs and temples to walk to, and bucolic scenes of local village life.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How do I do it?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You might have already realised that it\u2019s pretty easy to plan <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/paro-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Paro<\/a> into your Bhutanese adventure, as close as it is to the airport. It\u2019s the perfect first stop in the kingdom, with plenty of delightful lodges (such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/como-uma-paro\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Como Uma Paro<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/six-senses-paro-lodge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Six Senses Paro Lodge<\/a>) providing a more than cosy place to lay your head after a long flight.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Where do I start?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>As you start planning, you\u2019ll start to realise that it can take a bit of time to get around this high altitude country and it can take a few hours to get from place to place. Don\u2019t be put off, however; just because it takes a long time doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s difficult. It\u2019s easy to pair <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/paro-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Paro<\/a> with almost anywhere and our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/mountains-and-valleys-of-bhutan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mountains and Valleys of Bhutan<\/a> trip seamlessly weaves this little town together with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/thimphu-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thimphu<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/gangtey-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gangtey<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/punakha-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Punakha<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"timbuktu-wp\"><link rel=\"stylesheet\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css?family=Merriweather:700|Open+Sans:300,600\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/paro?action=DesignATrip&wId=001&regionName=Paro&regionId=293\" class=\"no_underline timbuktu-test-class\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_container image-included\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_layout_minimal\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner\" data-entity-type=\"region\" data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"293\" >\n                    <figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/regions\/kodak_images\/000\/000\/293\/original\/Paro_Taktsang_bhutan_timbuktu_h1.jpg?w=150&h=150&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=2&q=50&crop=left center\"data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"293\" class=\"timbuktu_minimal_image\" alt=\"Paro Image\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_copy\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_heading\">Paro<\/div><div class=\"timbuktu_button\" style=\"background-color:#128d8d\">Learn more<\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"timbuktu-wp\"><link rel=\"stylesheet\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css?family=Merriweather:700|Open+Sans:300,600\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/wizard\/start?action=StartTheWizard&wId=001\" class=\"no_underline timbuktu-test-class\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_container image-included\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner \" data-entity-type=\"country\" data-country-id=\"10000001\">\n                    <figure><img src=https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/images\/affiliate\/start-africa-safari-wizard-timbuktu-travel.jpg?w=500&h=634&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=2&q=50&crop=center center data-country-id=\"10000001\" class=\"timbuktu_desktop_image\" alt=\"Wizard Image\"><img src=https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/images\/affiliate\/start-africa-safari-wizard-timbuktu-travel.jpg?w=768&h=309&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=1&q=50&crop=center center data-country-id=\"10000001\" class=\"timbuktu_mobile_image\" alt=\"Wizard Image\"><\/figure><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_copy\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_heading\">Not sure where to go?<\/div>\n                        <span class=\"timbuktu_works\">Answer a few simple questions to get instant trip recommendations<\/span>\n                        <div class=\"timbuktu_button\" style=\"background-color:#128d8d\">Start the wizard<\/div>\n                        \n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_10764\" style=\"width: 1430px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/bhumtang-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10764\" class=\"wp-image-10764 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/cham_dance_Bhumtang_Bhutan_timbuktu_H2.jpg\" alt=\"Bhutan Country Guide\" width=\"1420\" height=\"945\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=900,height=599,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/cham_dance_Bhumtang_Bhutan_timbuktu_H2.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1440,height=958,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/cham_dance_Bhumtang_Bhutan_timbuktu_H2.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=250,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/cham_dance_Bhumtang_Bhutan_timbuktu_H2.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=299,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/cham_dance_Bhumtang_Bhutan_timbuktu_H2.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=511,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/cham_dance_Bhumtang_Bhutan_timbuktu_H2.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/cham_dance_Bhumtang_Bhutan_timbuktu_H2.jpg 1420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1420px) 100vw, 1420px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10764\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Soak up the spirituality of Bumthang<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Bumthang<\/h2>\n<p>Those seeking spiritual enlightenment should look no further than sacred <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/bhumtang-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bumthang<\/a>. This religious heartland was the place that Buddhism first took root in the country and it\u2019s still evident today in the many monasteries that dot the landscape. But whilst Buddhism is central to the region, it\u2019s not all it\u2019s known for. Bumthang is home to some incredible mountain scenery, so much so that it\u2019s often referred to as the Switzerland of the East. The area is made up of four vast valleys, Chokhor, Tang, Chumey and Ura, each offering their own breathtaking views. Needless to say, it\u2019s an excellent spot for hikers looking to take on some challenging treks (a favourite is the jaw-dropping hike to Jakar Dzong hilltop monastery) and if you\u2019re visiting in the summer months, you\u2019ll be treated to a spectacular display of flora and fauna.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How do I do it?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>When we mentioned those epic road trips, the journey to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/bhumtang-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bumthang<\/a> was in mind. From <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/thimphu-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thimphu<\/a> it\u2019s over 400km by road, which takes around 13 hours by car. It\u2019s a long journey but the beautiful views you\u2019ll pass en route will more than make up for it. Those who don\u2019t have that sort of patience will be pleased that Bathpalathang Airport (one of only four in the country) is in the Bumthang district and it is possible to arrange flights from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/paro-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Paro<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Where do I start?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/bhutan-in-style\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan in Style<\/a> journey is the perfect way to work a little <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/bhumtang-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bumthang<\/a> magic into your adventure. Combining the best of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/thimphu-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thimphu<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/gangtey-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gangtey<\/a>, Bumthang, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/punakha-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Punakha<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/paro-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Paro<\/a>, this luxury escape is one of the best ways to see <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/bhutan-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan\u2019s<\/a> hotspots and you\u2019ll want for nothing at our fabulous selection of handpicked hotels.<\/p>\n<div id=\"timbuktu-wp\"><link rel=\"stylesheet\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css?family=Merriweather:700|Open+Sans:300,600\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/bhumtang?action=DesignATrip&wId=001&regionName=Bumthang&regionId=291\" class=\"no_underline timbuktu-test-class\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_container image-included\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_layout_minimal\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner\" data-entity-type=\"region\" data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"291\" >\n                    <figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/regions\/kodak_images\/000\/000\/291\/original\/Jakar_Dzong_Bhumtang_Bhutan_Timbuktu_H1.jpg?w=150&h=150&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=2&q=50&crop=center center\"data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"291\" class=\"timbuktu_minimal_image\" alt=\"Bumthang Image\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_copy\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_heading\">Bumthang<\/div><div class=\"timbuktu_button\" style=\"background-color:#128d8d\">Learn more<\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_10769\" style=\"width: 1430px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/gangtey-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10769\" class=\"wp-image-10769 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/horses_gangtey_bhutan_Timbuktu_h2.jpg\" alt=\"Bhutan Country Guide\" width=\"1420\" height=\"947\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=900,height=600,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/horses_gangtey_bhutan_Timbuktu_h2.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1439,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/horses_gangtey_bhutan_Timbuktu_h2.jpg 1439w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=250,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/horses_gangtey_bhutan_Timbuktu_h2.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=300,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/horses_gangtey_bhutan_Timbuktu_h2.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=512,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/horses_gangtey_bhutan_Timbuktu_h2.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2020\/08\/horses_gangtey_bhutan_Timbuktu_h2.jpg 1420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1420px) 100vw, 1420px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-10769\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Hike the steep slopes of Gangtey<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Gangtey<\/h2>\n<p>We\u2019ve already waxed lyrical about <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/bhutan-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan\u2019s<\/a> beauty spots, but <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/gangtey-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gangtey<\/a> really has to have a mention, especially as it\u2019s regularly thought of as one of the prettiest places in the country. This is thanks, in part, to its unusual topography. Whilst much of the country is made up of steep, narrow valleys, Gangtey offers wide open space and sweeping vistas across its glacial, bowl-shaped valley. Expect sweeping farmland, pretty-as-a-picture rivers (yes plural, two rivers) and pastoral villages all set against the backdrop of the impressive Black Mountains. It\u2019s not just scenery that Gangtey has to offer either; visit at the right time of year and you\u2019ll have ample opportunity to spot the Bhutanese symbol of peace and longevity, the famed black crane.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How do I do it?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Like most places in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/bhutan-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan<\/a>, the best way to reach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/gangtey-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gangtey<\/a> is by road, either by bus or car. It\u2019s around 125km from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/thimphu-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thimphu<\/a> to Gangtey and will take 5-6 hours. We\u2019ve said it before and we\u2019ll say it again\u2026 travelling around Bhutan is often as exciting as reaching your destination &#8211; especially with all those views to soak up!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Where do I start?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>With its exquisite beauty it\u2019s hardly surprising that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/gangtey-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gangtey<\/a> makes it onto most traveller\u2019s must-visit lists, although you never really have to worry about overcrowding in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/bhutan-trip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan<\/a> due to the country\u2019s commitment to sustainable tourism. Both our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/mountains-and-valleys-of-bhutan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mountains and Valleys of Bhutan<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/bhutan-in-style\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bhutan in Style<\/a> trips visit the area and hikers, history buffs and wildlife lovers alike will all find themselves happy in Gangtey.<\/p>\n<div id=\"timbuktu-wp\"><link rel=\"stylesheet\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css?family=Merriweather:700|Open+Sans:300,600\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/gangtey?action=DesignATrip&wId=001&regionName=Gangtey&regionId=292\" class=\"no_underline timbuktu-test-class\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_container image-included\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_layout_minimal\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner\" data-entity-type=\"region\" data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"292\" >\n                    <figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/regions\/kodak_images\/000\/000\/292\/original\/Gangtey_monastry_Gonpa_timbuktu_h1.jpg?w=150&h=150&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=2&q=50&crop=center bottom\"data-country-id=\"58\" data-region-id=\"292\" class=\"timbuktu_minimal_image\" alt=\"Gangtey Image\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_copy\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_heading\">Gangtey<\/div><div class=\"timbuktu_button\" style=\"background-color:#128d8d\">Learn more<\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div><\/a><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Mysterious and magical, the mountain kingdom of Bhutan<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":10765,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[112],"tags":[3258,2139,4989,4988,4845,2549,1344,2548,9008,4990],"class_list":["post-10762","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides","tag-active","tag-adventure","tag-bhutan","tag-bhutan-country-guide","tag-country-planning-guides","tag-culture","tag-family","tag-hiking","tag-historical-places","tag-indian-subcontinent"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - 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