Bhutan Bliss: Celebrate Diwali Amidst Himalayan Serenity

This Diwali, why not celebrate amidst the serene beauty of Bhutan? Explore its most famous places like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, and the lush valleys of Paro. Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s rich culture, colorful festivals, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s the perfect way to make this festive season truly memorable, filled with adventure and cultural exploration.

Top 10 Things To Do In Bhutan

1. Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest)

Known as the Tiger’s Nest, the walk to Taktsang monastery in Paro is one of the top adventurous activities in Bhutan. The monastery was reconstructed in 1998 following its destruction by fire. With its steep, meandering trail up to 9,480 feet above the ground, it presents a challenge to trekkers.

The single rest stop along the route, Taktsang Cafeteria, serves delicious vegetarian Bhutanese cuisine. The monastery shuts at 1:00 pm, so make sure to start your hike early.

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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. Constructed around 463 years back, during the reign of Trongsa Penlop Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the stronghold enjoys an excellent site with a view of the Mangde River. It has also seen numerous significant occasions that have influenced the history of the country.

You can hear stories of bygone eras from the stone staircases, lovely courtyards, and corridors that resemble streets.

3. Bumthang Valley

Taking the Bumthang Cultural Trek is one of the greatest ways to experience Bhutan and discover a lot more than just the breathtaking Bumthang valley. Beautiful vistas of the monasteries, temples, and charming villages may be seen on the cultural trek. In addition, you get to see the lovely villages and receive wonderful hospitality. 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. There are charming villages with houses grouped together, sheep meadows, and potato farms. This is the type of valley where you can take a stroll and take pictures.

In addition to the stunning mountains and surrounding scenery, Bumthang valley is home to some of Bhutan’s oldest Buddhist monasteries. The birthplace of saint Pema Lingpa and the site of the initial introduction of Buddhism are both Bumthang.

4. Trashiyangtse

A visit to Trashiyangtse will be, to put it mildly, intriguing if you find nature mesmerizing. It was originally created as a separate district in 1992 from the Trashigang district and is located in the center of a tiny river valley, making it the perfect location for leisurely strolls around the countryside. Discovering Chorten Kora, one of the most significant stupas in Bhutan, which is located in Trashiyangtse near to the Kulong Chu River, is another of the top things to do.

Hikes to wood carving studios, monasteries, paper workshops, and natural reserves can all be started from Trashiyangtse. Black-necked Cranes, which migrate from Tibet in the winter, can be seen at Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a considerable walk away if you’re interested in bird watching nearby.

5. Wildlife Sanctuaries

One of the most well-liked activities in Bhutan is bird viewing, as the country is a birder’s paradise. Numerous bird species can be found in the nation, such as the Ward’s Trogon, Black-necked Crane, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Himalayan Monal, and Snow Pigeon. Watching birds extend their vibrant, silky wings as they soar across the sky and listening to their melodies is a sight to behold.

6. Punakha & Semtokha Dzongs

Bhutan places a strong emphasis on maintaining its culture, which includes a significant amount of art. Bhutanese art adheres to a unified style and is influenced by their religion. The craftworks place more of an emphasis on tradition than on innovation. Their art and craft are what make their culture so important.

For all art lovers, a do-it-yourself art and craft trip is one of the greatest things to do in Bhutan.

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7. The Memorial Stupa

To immerse yourself in the world of tranquility, visit The Memorial Stupa, which was constructed in honor of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third king, in 1974. One of the top attractions in Bhutan is the stupa, which boasts a gleaming finish, exquisitely carved images of gods, striking paintings, and an overall serene atmosphere. Devoted Buddhists and hermits frequently trek into the highlands for several months at a time to contemplate.

8. Bhutanese Cuisine

Generally speaking, when we think about Bhutan, we picture a variety of non-vegetarian meals served in quaint little cafes. Although there are many different kinds of non-vegetarian food available, vegetarians also have a wide variety of options. There are other ways to make datshi, but Ema Datshi is the most well-known. Ema Datshi is made with cheese, veggies, pepper, and chilies. Ema signifies chilli. 

9. Shopping

The main avenue in the city, Norzin Lam, is flanked by shops, cafes, hotels, and kiosks. It’s among Bhutan’s greatest locations for shopping. Everything is available, including handcrafted papers and boots with embroidery.  For travelers, adventurers, and photographers, the bustling market provides an amazing backdrop for photographs. 

10. Changlimithang Archery Ground

One of the greatest things to do in Bhutan is to see the archery tournaments, which are both the country’s national sport and one of the biggest tourist attractions.