Central Bhutan Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Central Bhutan with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, local customs, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Central Bhutan

Bhutan, known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a small kingdom nestled in the Himalayas with stunning mountain landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Central Bhutan is a region that offers visitors an authentic experience of Bhutanese culture. Here, you can explore ancient fortresses and visit monasteries and museums while enjoying the beautiful natural scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Central Bhutan

To make the most of your trip to Central Bhutan, we’ve compiled a list of must-visit destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Trongsa Dzong: This is the largest fortress in Bhutan, constructed in 1647. It is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture and is home to the Trongsa Museum.
  • Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: A beautiful fortress located on a ridge overlooking the Punatshangchhu River, it has been painstakingly restored after a devastating fire in 2012.
  • Ta Dzong: It’s the national museum of Bhutan, located in the ancient watchtower in Paro. The museum showcases Bhutanese culture, history, and art through its exhibits.
  • Gangtey Monastery: The monastery in Phobjikha Valley is one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Bhutan, famous for the grandiose annual Black Necked Crane Festival in November.

Natural Attractions of Central Bhutan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jigme Dorji National Park: The largest national park in Bhutan, home to diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, Himalayan black bears, and snow leopards.
  • Bumthang Owl Trek: A three-day trek through pristine forests and remote villages, offering a chance to observe Bhutanese rural life and spot native birds like owls.
  • Black Mountain National Park: A lush park full of wildlife, including some endangered species of primates and Himalayan Monal pheasants.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Bhutan

The hiking and biking routes in Central Bhutan offer stunning views of the Himalayas, gorgeous village life, and a chance to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture. Here are a few routes to consider:

  • Gangtey Nature Trail: A relatively easy hike through the stunning Phobjikha Valley, where you can spot endangered black-necked cranes.
  • Chele La Pass: The highest motorable pass in Bhutan, offering spectacular views of the snowcapped mountains and valleys. It is perfect for mountain bike enthusiasts.
  • Haa Valley Trek: A three-day trek through the gorgeous Haa Valley, dotted with traditional villages and bustling monasteries.

Best Things to Do in Central Bhutan: Activities and Tours

The Land of the Thunder Dragon has a lot to offer visitors, from cultural experiences to outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in Central Bhutan:

  • Attend a festival: Bhutanese festivals, known as Tsechus, are unique, colorful, and exuberant. Each festival celebrates a particular event or saint and involves traditional dance, music, and merrymaking.
  • Visit local markets: Local markets in Bhutanese towns and villages are a perfect place to experience daily life in Bhutan, buy traditional handicrafts, and sample local delicacies.
  • Try traditional archery: Archery is Bhutan’s national sport, and it’s played with unique bows and arrows. Many villages have archery ranges where you can try your hand in the sport.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Bhutan

To help you plan your trip, here’s a week-long itinerary for Central Bhutan:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Paro, visit Ta Dzong museum and Paro Rinpung Dzong
2 Drive to Punakha and visit Punakha Dzong
3 Explore Wangdue Phodrang, visit Gangtey Monastery, and hike through the Phobjikha Valley
4 Travel to Trongsa and visit Trongsa Dzong and Trongsa Museum
5 Visit Bumthang, explore Jakar town, and visit Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang
6 Go for a morning hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro
7 Take a scenic drive to Chele La Pass and enjoy mountain biking through the pass

Food and Drink Scene of Central Bhutan

Bhutanese cuisine has a unique identity, with spicy chili and cheese being the star ingredients. Here are some traditional Bhutanese dishes and beverages you should try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ema datshi: A national dish made of chili peppers and cheese, served with red or white rice.
  • Phaksha Paa: Pork cooked with spicy chili, ginger, and garlic, served with rice or Bhutanese bread.
  • Momos: A steamed or fried dumpling dish, typically filled with meat or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Suja: A Bhutanese butter tea made with butter, salt, and tea.
  • Ara: A traditional Bhutanese spirit made from fermented rice, maize, or barley.

Where to Stay in Central Bhutan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central Bhutan offers several accommodation options. You can choose from luxury resorts and hotels to modest guesthouses or homestays in a traditional Bhutanese home. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Gangtey Palace: Located in the heart of the Phobjikha Valley, it’s a luxurious option with stunning views.
  • Dhensa Boutique Resort: A lavish resort in Punakha offering fantastic views of the mountains and river.
  • Swiss Guest House: A cozy guesthouse in Jakar offering a comfortable stay with traditional Bhutanese hospitality.

What to Buy in Central Bhutan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bhutanese handicrafts are popular souvenirs for tourists, including textiles, masks, and jewelry made by local artisans. Here are a few recommended things to buy:

  • Kira and Gho: Traditional Bhutanese textiles, typically made of silk or cotton and worn by locals.
  • Dzi beads: A unique type of stone bead, popular in Bhutanese jewelry, believed to bring good luck.
  • Handmade paper products: Bhutanese paper is made from the bark of the Daphne plant and is perfect for writing or drawing.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Bhutan

Bhutanese people are known for their friendly and hospitable nature. Respect for elders and authority figures is highly valued in Bhutan, and visitors should show their respect by wearing appropriate clothing and removing shoes before entering religious places. It’s important to note that Bhutan is a conservative country, and tourists should avoid any public displays of affection.

Best Time to Visit Central Bhutan

The best time to visit Central Bhutan is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and you can witness the festivals and hike around the valleys. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season from June to August, when landslides and rainstorms are common.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Bhutan

Do:

  • Respect Bhutanese culture and customs, including dress codes and removing shoes before entering religious places.
  • Try local cuisine and participate in traditional activities such as archery and weaving.
  • Make an effort to learn some common phrases of the Dzongkha language, the official language of Bhutan.

Don’t:

  • Do not engage in any illegal activities, such as drugs or gambling, as it’s strictly prohibited in Bhutan.
  • Avoid public displays of affection, as it’s considered inappropriate in Bhutanese culture.
  • Do not take photographs or videos inside temples or monasteries without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Bhutan

Central Bhutan is a peaceful and safe destination for visitors. However, like any other remote destination with rugged terrains, hiking trails, and wildlife, some basic precautions should be taken to ensure your safety. Always carry a map, water, and snacks while hiking, and make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation.

Health in Central Bhutan

Central Bhutan has good healthcare facilities, but visitors should get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies before arriving. Visitors should also take precautions against altitude sickness, as many destinations in Central Bhutan are at high elevations. Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions should consult their physician before planning a trip to Bhutan.

Getting to Central Bhutan: Transportation Options and Logistics

The most accessible way to reach Bhutan is by air. There are only two international airports in Bhutan - one in Paro and the other in Gelephu. Visitors must book their flights with a Bhutanese tour operator, and a visa will be issued upon approval. Once in Bhutan, visitors can travel around the country on foot or by car.

Airports Near Central Bhutan

  • Paro International Airport
  • Gelephu Domestic Airport

Bus Stations Near Central Bhutan

  • Punakha Bus Station
  • Trongsa Bus Station

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Bhutan by road through Phuentsholing, which is connected to the Indian state of West Bengal. There are regular buses from Kolkata, Siliguri, and Darjeeling to Phuentsholing. Visitors should note that a permit is required to enter Bhutan by road.

How to Get Around in Central Bhutan

The most common mode of transportation in Bhutan is by car or 4X4 vehicles. Visitors must travel with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, and the operator will arrange for a car and a driver. Taxis, buses, and hitchhiking are not permitted in the country.

Where to Go Next from Central Bhutan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Central Bhutan is a gateway to other destinations in Bhutan. Here are some popular places to visit:

  • Thimphu: The capital city of Bhutan with many cultural landmarks, museums, and markets.
  • Paro: A beautiful valley town featuring stunning landscapes, monasteries, and Bhutan’s only international airport.
  • Phuentsholing: A bustling border town that serves as the entry point to Bhutan from India. It is famous for its vibrant bazaar and delicious street food.

Conclusion

Central Bhutan is a land of magic and mystery, with rugged terrains, ancient fortresses, and unique cultural heritage. This comprehensive travel guide can help you plan your trip to this mystical destination so that you can explore its hidden gems and immerse yourself in its culture and traditions. Remember to respect the local customs and traditions, and take adequate precautions to ensure your safety and well-being. Happy travels!



    Damphu
    Jakar
    Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
    Tang
    Ura