Must See

The Flight

If you're fortunate enough to fly into Paro from neighbouring Nepal, you'll experience one of the most incredible flights of your life. Soaring up from Kathmandu, the journey passes 8 of the world's 10 highest peaks, including Kanchenjunga and Everest, before touching down at possibly the most ornate airport in the world.

Bumthang

Located in the centre of Bhutan, the country's spiritual centre is home to many precious Buddhist sites, dzongs (fortified monasteries), temples and palaces. Jakar Dzong, founded in 1549, is the largest in Bhutan. The temple of Jampa Lhakhang hosts the spectacular Jampa Khakhang Drup festival, in October.

Dochu La Pass

The 3,100 m-high Dochu La Pass, commands a breathtaking view of the eastern Himalayan chain. and on a clear day it is possible to see Punakha, the old capital. Bhutan's national animal, the takin, is known to roam here.

Paro

Paro is the heartland of the Drukpa people, with spectacular dzongs and a peaceful feel. As in the rest of Bhutan, locals in traditional dress go about their daily business, or play the national sport, archery. The National Museum of Bhutan is located in the Paro Watchtower in the Paro Valley, where antiques, weapons and Bhutanese artefacts may be seen. Visitors may also see the Drukgyel Dzong, (now in ruins after the 1954 earthquake), which once protected Bhutan against Tibetan invasions.

The more adventurous can hire mountain bikes in Thimpu to take advantage of the many trails along the Paro Valley. Although there are trails for a range of abilities, the steeper, longer rides should be left to the professionals (or the foolhardy).

Punakha Valley

The Punakha valley is home to a number of sacred temples, including Punakha Dzong. Straddling the confluence of the Pho and Mo Rivers, the Dzong was built by Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of the kingdom of Druk Yul (Land of the Thunder Dragon).

Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the easternmost part of the Kingdom, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary spans an area of 650 sq km and is Bhutan's newest protected area. The sanctuary presents a wide diversity of Himalayan terrestrial ecosystems, including alpine meadow, temperate forest, and warm broadleaf forest.

Not only is the area home to people of isolated nomadic tribes, but Himalayan black bears, red pandas, the hoary-bellied Himalayan squirrel, barking deer, snow leopards and the Himalayan red fox also roam in its habitat. It is also believed that it is home to the mythical Yeti, known locally as migoi, or strong man.

Tashichho Dzong

Tashichho Dzong is the country's main religious and administrative centre. It houses the Throne Room of the King, the National Assembly Hall, government ministries and the country's largest monastery, the summer headquarters of the Je Khempo and 2,000 of his monks.

Thimpu

The pretty capital of Bhutan is set in a wooded valley on the banks of the Thimpu Chhu (or Wangchhu River). Situated at a height of over 2,400 m (8,000 ft), it has a medieval feel, thanks to the many brightly painted buildings with beautifully decorated facades. Dominating the horizon is the imposing fortress monastery, Trashi Chhoe Dzong. Visit the Handicraft Emporium, which displays a wide assortment of unique souvenirs such as beautifully crafted and handwoven products.

Tiger's Nest

Nestled on a dizzy mountain ledge on the outskirts of Paro is the Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) monastery, which clings to the face of a 900 m (2,952 ft) high precipice. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this site on a tiger and meditated in a cave for three months.

Tongsa Dzong

Tongsa Dzong is the ancestral home of the Royal family and contains a magnificent collection of rhino horn sculptures and commands a superb view of the river valley.