Top DESTINATIONs
Buddha Dordenma
The Buddha Dordenma is a massive statue of Shakyamuni Buddha located in Thimphu, Bhutan. Standing at 54 meters (177 feet) tall, it is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world and is made of bronze and gilded in gold. Situated atop a hill in the Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, the statue overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley, offering stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The construction of the Buddha Dordenma fulfills two ancient prophecies, which predicted the building of a large statue of Buddha in the region to bestow blessings, peace, and happiness on the whole world.
Paro Taktsang
Also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is a sacred Buddhist site located in the Paro Valley of Bhutan. Perched on a cliffside at an elevation of 3,120 meters (10,240 feet), the monastery is built around a cave where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) is said to have meditated in the 8th century. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this location on the back of a tigress, hence the name “Tiger’s Nest.” The monastery complex, which consists of four main temples and several smaller buildings, is an architectural marvel, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. Paro Taktsang is a significant pilgrimage site and a symbol of Bhutanese cultural heritage, attracting both devotees and tourists with its spiritual ambiance and breathtaking views.
Memorial Chorten
Also known as the Thimphu Chorten, is a prominent landmark and religious site in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Built in 1974 in memory of the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is often referred to as the “Father of Modern Bhutan,” the chorten serves as a center for prayer and meditation. Unlike traditional stupas that typically contain relics, the Memorial Chorten houses a photograph of the late king and various religious statues, making it a unique blend of a shrine and a stupa. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings depicting Buddhist deities and symbols.
Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass is a high mountain pass located on the road between Thimphu and Punakha in Bhutan. Situated at an elevation of about 3,100 meters (10,200 feet), the pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, particularly on clear days. One of the most notable features of Dochula Pass is the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a group of 108 memorial stupas built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers who perished in a 2003 military operation against insurgents from India. These stupas, also known as the 108 Chortens, were commissioned by the eldest Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck.
Authentic Bhutanese Craft Bazaar
Authentic Bhutanese Craft bazaar in Thimphu sits along the Norzin Lam stretching from the Taj Tashi hotel up till Royal textile academy of Bhutan. The market consists of around 80 shops which are entirely made of bamboo huts aligned together along the Norzin Lam covering about half a kilometer of the road. Bhutan had its first craft bazaar or handicraft market in 2011 in Thimphu.The craft bazaar was initiated to promote the young talented rural based artists who master the arts and crafts of the age-old Bhutanese traditional arts which were passed down from generations. It offers a platform for these young entrepreneurs from remote communities, from all over the country to showcase their art and craftworks. The most important and the foremost aim of this initiative is to improve the socio-economic status of these rural-based communities. The shoppers will enjoy the stroll through this bazaar and will find at least a thing or two to take with them as souvenirs to remind them of their enchanting voyage through Bhutan.
National Museum Paro Ta Dzong
The national museum structure was originally as a watch tower above the Paro Dzong. Unlike other Dzongs in the country, the Ta Dzong has a circular shape built with two and a half meter thick wall adorned with traditional windows spread sporadically. The structure is completely built of stones and wood, without the use of nails. There are also stories about using national museum as a prison. According to the history, the Dzong’s fourth floor was used as a prison cell in the past. A removable bridge connected the prison cell with the third floor and the fifth floor isolating the fourth floor. This strategic design was used to successfully confine the prisoners. An underground passage is said to have existed connecting the Dzong to the Pa Chu River. The secret tunnel was used to fetch water during times of war. After remaining uninhabited for a long time, upon the command of the Third King, the structure was renovated and inaugurated as a textile museum in 1968. The National Museum is a major tourist attraction today.
Kyichu Lhakhang
Considered one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, Kyichu Lhakhang was built by a Tibetan King. As per the historical accounts, the king is said to have built 108 temples in one day across modern day Tibet, Bhutan and some region of Northern India. The task was carried out to subdue an evil ogress who was believed to have thwarted the spread of Buddhism. Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro and Jampa Lhakhang in Bumthang are believed to be part of the 108 temples built by the King. Kyichu Lhakhang is ten minute drive away from Paro town. Some of the main relic includes the statue of the future Buddha (Jowo Jampa) and a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni.
Tashichhodzong
A colossal 17th century fortress constructed on the western bank of the Thimphu River houses the Office of the His Majesty the King of Bhutan. The yellow orange dragon flag gracefully wafts right next to the fortress symbolizing sovereignty and a recognition of a central authority. Fortresses by tradition have always been the seat of the Government. Aside from the administrative roles of the fort, it also houses Buddhist shrines making it a sacred place thus requiring formal demeanor from all visitors. The popular Thimphu Mask dance festival is hosted in the open courtyard next to the fortress.
Motithang Takin Preserve
Takin Preserve is located at Motithang, a 15 minutes drive from the Thimphu Town. An enclosed area in the woods away from the settlement houses herds of Takin and some other rare animals such as Muntjac deer, Sambar, and Serow. These mammals are protected and fed. Initially established as a mini-zoo, keeping animals in captive did not align with the national value of environmental conservation and Buddhism, therefore His Majesty the Fourth King decreed the animals be set free however these mammals refused to inhabit the surrounding forests and were seen wandering the roads of Thimphu looking for food, hence were put back into captivity.
