Destinations · West to east

Bhutan, valley by valley

From sacred monasteries perched on cliff faces to pristine valleys untouched by time, explore the hidden gems of the Thunder Dragon Kingdom.

Plan Your Journey

The road east

Most journeys begin in the west, where the kingdom's only international airport sits in the Paro valley. From there the road climbs over high passes into the heartland, and every valley grows a little quieter than the last.

Chapter I · 4 places

Western Bhutan

1,200–2,670 m above sea level

Best in spring & autumn

Paro

Historic valley home to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery and ancient temples.

2,280 m

Best in spring, autumn & summer

Thimphu

Bhutan's unique capital city blending ancient traditions with modern life.

2,320 m

Best in spring, autumn & winter

Punakha

Former capital with stunning dzong at the meeting of two rivers.

1,200 m

Best in summer & autumn

Haa Valley

Secluded valley with pristine nature and traditional nomadic culture.

2,670 m

Chapter II · 3 places

Central Bhutan

2,180–2,900 m above sea level

Best in spring & autumn

Bumthang

The spiritual heartland of Bhutan with ancient temples and sacred sites.

2,600 m

Best in autumn & winter

Phobjikha Valley

Glacial valley and winter sanctuary for endangered black-necked cranes.

2,900 m

Best in spring & autumn

Trongsa

Bhutan's geographic heart with the kingdom's largest and most important dzong.

2,180 m

Chapter III · 1 place

Eastern Bhutan

1,070 m above sea level

Best in spring & autumn

Trashigang

Gateway to eastern Bhutan with vibrant textile traditions.

1,070 m

Your route

Can't decide where to go?

Tell us how you like to travel. A local expert will shape a route through the valleys that suit you, usually within 24 hours.

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Licensed by the Department of Tourism, Bhutan