Top things to do in Bhutan – Destination for Discerning Travellers

Dochula Pass is located on the Punakha - Thimphu route and is quite a favourite amongst tourists who love the expansive 360 degree views of the gorgeous Himalayan range. If you are lucky you may make it on a clear day when the views are excellent, offering one stunning sights of snow-capped mountains forming a frame against the 108 chortens or Buddhist monuments on the mountain pass.

This ethereal looking palace dubbed the palace of great bliss was built in 1637; the popular monument built by Zhabdrung is also called Punakha Dzong. This enormous Dzong was damaged over 6 times by fire alone while floods and earthquakes too caused damage. King of Bhutan was coroneted at this palace in 1907. Within the temple you will find the mummified body of Zhabdrung who passed on to the afterlife during a retreat held at this temple in 1651. Opposite the main Dzong is little Dzong which was constructed by Saint Ngagi Rinchen in 1328. Tourists are allowed to enter and explore the beautiful assembly hall – Kuenrey.

This is Bhutan's most iconic religious site with the name translating to Tigers Nest. It is revered as the holiest place in the country and indeed perches precariously on the side of sheer cliff face that's 900 metres above the lush Paro Valley. The site the temple sits was once a cave used for meditation in the 7th century; Paro Taktsang was constructed in 1692. The name owes its origins to the legend behind the cave. The cave was originally used by Guru Rimpoche who flew to there on the back of a mighty tigress, there he stayed and meditated for 3 whole years. The temple is located 10kms from the Town of Paro; it is easily accessed from COMO Uma Paro and sits at an altitude of 3,120 metres. Paro Valley is in fact one of the best locations for choosing a Bhutan luxury hotel.

This is Bhutan's second highest peak and shares the western border with Tibet. There have been only 6 successful climbs to the peak of this holy mountain as it is difficult to access due to strong winds, technical difficulties and access problems. Some of the problems lie with the army camp on the Tibetan side not granting access to tourists. Nevertheless the most advertised and popular climb in connection to the place is the Chomolhari Base Camp Trek. Some of the best photographic opportunities are obtained from the 'Land of Ruins' camping site in Bhutan.

This is a charming little town that sits by the banks of the Paro Chhu. It is quite close to Paro Dzong and has a main street that was built as recently as 1985. The road is lined with rustic little wooden shop fronts and restaurants in a multitude of colours.