10 Most Happy Things to Do in Bhutan in 2025 for an Enthralling Adventure

There are many activities in Bhutan that will captivate you, such as trekking to breathtaking mountains, touring the vibrant villages, meditating inside serene monasteries, and discovering the dzongs’ history. The world’s happiest nation attracts tourists with its natural beauty, historic monasteries, vibrant festivals, and kind Bhutanese people. Are you prepared to experience the best that Bhutan has to offer? Let’s get started!

10 Things To Do In Bhutan In 2025

Every year, hundreds of bikers and lone travelers visit India’s stunning neighbor, which has something to offer everyone. Bhutan is a unique location on Earth with very little evidence of commercialization, making it an ideal destination. And the main reason for this is that there are plenty of sights and activities to see in Bhutan for tourists.

1. Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest)

One of Bhutan’s top adventure activities is the hike to Taktsang monastery near Paro, often known as the Tiger’s Nest. The monastery was reconstructed in 1998 after it was devastated by fire. It tests the trekkers’ ability to navigate the rough, zigzag road as it rises 9480 feet above the ground. The sole restaurant serving delicious vegetarian Bhutanese cuisine is Taktsang Cafeteria. Throughout the journey, you will be accompanied by the sight of Paro Valley, the sound of prayer wheels rattling, the colorful prayer flags, and soothing chanting. The monastery shuts at 1:00 pm, so make sure to begin your hike early. Therefore, don’t forget to include this gem while creating your list of things to do in Bhutan to add even more excitement to your trip.

2. Trongsa Dzong

The Royal Family’s ancestral house, Trongsa Dzong, is one of the top tourist destinations in Bhutan if you enjoy exploring ancient sites. The fortress, which was constructed during Trongsa Penlop Chogyal Minjur Tempa some 463 years ago, is in a prime site with a view of the Mangde River. It has also seen a number of significant occasions that have influenced the history of the country. Don’t miss seeing the museum in the watchtower and the 24 chapels at Trongsa Dzong as you go around it. You may hear the stories of the past through the stone stairs, lovely courtyards, and street-like hallways. This location has significant religious significance and is well-known for its amazing printery, which is used to create sacred texts. Travelers from all over the world come here to experience its distinct charm.

3. Bumthang Valley

Taking the Bumthang Cultural Trek is one of the greatest ways to experience Bhutan and discover more than only the stunning Bumthang valley. Beautiful vistas of the monasteries, temples, and charming villages may be seen on the cultural trek. Along with experiencing wonderful hospitality, you get to tour the lovely villages. Mules and muddy tracks were the only ways to get to the area until the 1970s. Another location in Bumthang lost in time is Ura Valley. Sheep meadows, potato farms, and clumped cottages make up these charming villages. You can take a photo walk in this type of valley. In addition to its stunning natural beauty and mountains, Bhutan’s Bumthang Valley is home to some of the country’s oldest Buddhist monasteries. Saint Pema Lingpa was born there, and Buddhism was initially established there as well.

4. Trashiyangtse

A trip to Trashiyangtse will be, to put it mildly, mesmerizing if you are captivated by nature. It was created as a distinct district from Trashigang district in 1992 and is located in the center of a tiny river valley, making it the perfect location for leisurely walks in the countryside. Exploring Chorten Kora, one of the most significant stupas in Bhutan, which is located in Trashiyangtse near to the Kulong Chu River, is another top activity. Hikes to monasteries, paper factories, wood carvings, and natural reserves can all begin in Trashiyangtse. Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to Black-necked Cranes that migrate from Tibet in the winter, is a long walk away if you want to go bird watching nearby. Bomdeling is well-known for its exquisite woodworking as well.

5. Wildlife Sanctuaries

The kingdom of Bhutan is a paradise for bird lovers, and bird-watching is one of the most popular Bhutan attractions. The country harbours many species of birds, including the Himalayan Monal, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Black-necked Crane, Ward’s Trogon, and Snow Pigeon. It is beautiful to listen to the music of birds and see them soar high in the sky, spreading those colorful, smooth wings. There are many tour guides around the sanctuaries to take you on a bird-watching tour. Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, Jigme Dorji National Park, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Adjoining India’s World Heritage, and Thrumshingla National Parks are some of the protected areas in Bhutan where you can also find migrating and endangered birds.

6. Punakha & Semtokha Dzongs

Bhutan prioritizes the preservation of its culture, and a significant component of that culture is art. Bhutanese art has a consistent style and is rooted in its religion. Instead than focusing on innovation, the crafts adhere to traditional values. Bhutanese art and craft are what make their culture so significant. You must visit the several dzongs in the kingdom, such as Punakha Dzong and Semtokha Dzong, to see the exquisite art and craftsmanship. One of the top activities in Bhutan for any art enthusiast is a do-it-yourself art and craft tour. Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most popular tourist destinations, attracts large crowds with its architectural marvels and historical charm. Alongside the river, there are numerous locations to explore where you may take innumerable Instagram-worthy photos.

7. The Memorial Stupa

Visit the Memorial Stupa, which was constructed in 1974 in honor of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third king, if you wish to lose yourself in the world of peace. History enthusiasts from all over the world are drawn to the location, which is also known as Thimphu Chorten. The nation’s citizens have a particular place in their hearts for the Stupa, which stands for honor and international peace. One of Bhutan’s most popular tourist destinations, the Memorial Stupa has a lot of interesting characteristics, including a picture of the Druk Gyalpo wearing a ceremonial garment. With its gleaming finial, exquisitely carved sculptures of deities, vibrant paintwork, and ultimate tranquility, the stupa is among the top attractions in Bhutan.

8. Bhutanese Cuisine

Typically, when we think about Bhutan, we picture a variety of non-vegetarian dishes served in quaint little cafes. Although there are many different kinds of non-vegetarian food available, vegetarians can also find lots of options, such as Datshi, a traditional dish in Bhutan. There are many different types of datshi, but Ema Datshi is the most well-known. Ema Datshi is cooked with cheese, pepper, veggies, and chillies. Ema means chilli. Some of the greatest places to sample the various flavors and textures of Bhutanese cuisine include the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant (Thimphu), Zombala, Bukhari at Uma by COMO (Paro), Ambient Cafe (Thimphu), Galingkha (Thimphu), and Chig-ja-gye at Taj Tashi (Thimphu). One of the nicest things to do in Bhutan is to go on a local food tour.

9. Shopping

The city’s main boulevard, Norzin Lam, is dotted with stores, cafes, hotels, and kiosks. It’s among Bhutan’s top shopping destinations. Everything is available, including handcrafted papers and boots with embroidery. Carpets, silver, jewelry, hand-woven bamboo items, colorful masks, and wooden goods are some of the best things to purchase in Bhutan. For travelers, adventurers, and photographers, the bustling market provides a fantastic photo opportunity. It is one of the greatest locations in Bhutan where you can experience the true spirit of the country, showcasing its lively environment and local culture. Explore a range of products, such as textiles, scarves, and craft booths, and enjoy a fun shopping experience with well-known Bhutanese items.

10. Changlimithang Archery Ground

One of the top things to do in Bhutan is to watch the archery tournaments, which are also the country’s national sport. Wandering through Bhutan’s roads and alleys, you’ll come across vibrant groups of men in traditional robes shooting arrows alternately. This social event attracts a lot of people because of the archery tournaments, which are held between amateur teams, municipalities, and villages. It offers a wonderful window into their culture. An immersive experience in Bhutan is practicing archery, a traditional martial technique in Bhutanese culture. If this is your first time, you can also seek professional assistance.