Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park Travel Guide
Discover the culturally significant places, natural attractions, hiking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and more in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park. Read on for a comprehensive travel guide.
- Introduction to Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- List of Places to Visit in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Best Things to Do in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Food and Drink Scene of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Where to Stay in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Best Time to Visit Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Do’s and Don’ts of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Where to Go Next from Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, located in Central Bhutan, is one of the largest protected areas in the country. Covering an area of 1,730 square miles, the park is named after the fourth King of Bhutan who played a significant role in establishing environmental policies in the country. Home to diverse flora and fauna, the park is also known for its cultural significance as it contains many important religious sites. Visiting the park provides an opportunity to explore Bhutan’s natural and cultural heritage.
List of Places to Visit in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Trongsa Dzong: Built-in 1648, the fortress is a major tourist attraction and an important religious site. It also serves as the administrative center for the Trongsa District.
- Tangbi Goemba: Situated in the Ura Valley, the monastery is known for its religious significance and architecture.
- Kurje Lhakhang: This monastery holds immense religious importance and is believed to have been blessed by Guru Rinpoche.
- Jambay Lhakhang: An ancient temple in Bumthang valley, Jambay Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan and is believed to have been built during the 7th century.
Natural Attractions of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Phobjikha Valley: If you want to witness the Black-Necked Crane festival or see these endangered birds, this is the place you should be.
- Bumthang Valley: Known for its scenic vistas and historic sites, Bumthang valley provides an opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of Bhutan.
- Black Mountain National Park: The park is home to rare and endangered species like tigers, snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and golden langur.
- Gangtey Nature Trail: A hike across the valley takes you through local villages, wildlife, and stunning vistas of the valley.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Gangtey to Gogona Trek: The 3-day trek starts in Gangtey valley and takes you across the ridges of Tselela Pass to arrive at the scenic village of Gogona.
- Bumthang Cultural Trek: The 3-day trek takes you through major cultural sites of Bumthang valley, which includes monasteries, temples, and sacred sites.
- Nabji Korphu Trek: The 3-day trek takes you through local villages, forests, and valleys in the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park.
Best Things to Do in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Activities and Tours
- Attend a Black-Necked Crane Festival
- Visit the Trongsa Tsechu Festival
- Explore the Caves in Bumthang valley
- Take a Hot Stone Bath
Week-Long Itinerary for Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Paro and drive to Thimphu |
| 2 | Sightseeing in Thimphu |
| 3 | Drive to Punakha |
| 4 | Sightseeing in Punakha |
| 5 | Drive to Trongsa |
| 6-7 | Hiking in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park |
| 8 | Departure |
Food and Drink Scene of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Must-Try Dishes
- Ema Datshi: The national dish of Bhutan, made with chili peppers and cheese.
- Yaksha Shakam: A dried yak meat dish that is usually served with rice or noodles.
- Kewa Datshi: A potato and cheese dish that is a perfect comfort food.
Local Beverages
- Suja: A salty butter tea that is a Bhutanese specialty.
- Bangchang: Distilled liquor made with wheat, millet, or rice.
Where to Stay in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Gangtey Lodge
- Khuru Resort
- Tashi Namgay Grand
What to Buy in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Handicrafts woven with Yak wool, like scarfs, shawls or jackets.
- Handmade paper and diary.
- Dried fruits, yak cheese, and other local edibles.
Local Culture and Customs of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Bhutan is known for its preserved cultural heritage, which includes traditional festivals, dances, and songs.
Best Time to Visit Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
The best time to visit Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park is between March to May and September to November. The weather is pleasant, and the park is open for visitors during this time.
Do’s and Don’ts of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Do:
- Respect the local culture and customs
- Carry necessary permits
- Dress modestly
Don’t:
- Pluck flowers or disturb wildlife
- Smoke or litter in the park
- Click photographs without prior permission
Safety and Health
Safety in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
While the park is generally safe, be careful when hiking and take necessary precautions as the terrain is rugged and mountainous. Always carry a first-aid kit and a charged cellphone.
Health in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Medical facilities are limited in the area, and you should carry essential medicines and consult your doctor before visiting the park.
Getting to Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
The nearest airport to Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park is Paro International Airport, which is approximately 7 hours’ drive from the park.
Bus Stations Near Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Bhutan has an extensive road network, and it is easy to access the park from major cities like Thimphu or Paro through buses.
Other Options
Taxis, private cars, and bikes are also available to access the park.
How to Get Around in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
The park offers well-marked trails for walking, and tourists can also hire mountain bikes for exploring the park.
Where to Go Next from Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Paro Valley: Famous for the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the valley is a popular destination among tourists.
- Haa Valley: A stunning place that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Phuntsholing: A major commercial hub that borders India and is the gateway to the southern part of Bhutan.
Conclusion
Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park offers something for everybody, from cultural landmarks to natural vistas. By planning your trip according to our comprehensive guide, you can make your journey to Bhutan unforgettable. Don’t miss the chance to explore the natural and cultural heritage of Bhutan.
