Chukha Bhutan is a small country nestled in the Himalayan Mountains between India and Tibet. It is a place of great beauty and cultural diversity, and it has many incredible places to explore. From stunning monasteries to breathtaking mountains, here are the top 20 places to see in Chukha Bhutan.
1. Taktsang Monastery: Located in the Paro Valley, Taktsang Monastery is one of the most iconic places to visit in Chukha Bhutan. It is perched on a cliff overlooking the valley and is believed to be the site where Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, meditated in the 8th century.
2. Punakha Dzong: This magnificent fortress is located at the confluence of two rivers and is one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan. Built in 1637, it is the second oldest and second largest dzong in the country.
3. Bumthang Valley: Located in the central part of Bhutan, the Bumthang Valley is a beautiful area of rolling hills, lush green forests, and crystal clear lakes. It is also home to some of the oldest Buddhist temples in the country.
4. Dochula Pass: Located at an altitude of 3,050 meters, the Dochula Pass offers stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains. It is also home to the Druk Wangyal Chortens, 108 stupas built in honor of Bhutan’s victory over the Indian forces in 2003.
5. Gangtey Goempa: Located in the Phobjikha Valley, Gangtey Goempa is one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan. It was founded in the 17th century and is home to hundreds of monks and students.
6. Rinpung Dzong: This impressive fortress is located in the Paro Valley and is one of the most important monasteries in the country. It was built in 1646 and is home to many ancient temples and artifacts.
7. Tashichho Dzong: Located in Thimphu, Tashichho Dzong is the seat of the government in Bhutan. It was built in the 13th century and is home to many important religious and administrative buildings.
8. Kyichu Lhakhang: This ancient temple is located in the Paro Valley and is one of the most important temples in Bhutan. It was built in the 7th century and is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.
9. Chele La Pass: This stunning pass is located in the Haa Valley and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountains. It is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan and is a popular destination for trekkers.
10. Chimi Lhakhang: Located in the Punakha Valley, Chimi Lhakhang is a popular pilgrimage site for couples looking to start a family. It is home to a temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman”, a Buddhist saint.
11. Paro Taktsang: This stunning monastery is located in the Paro Valley and is one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan. It was built in the 8th century and is perched on a cliff overlooking the valley.
12. Trongsa Dzong: This impressive fortress is located in the Trongsa Valley and is the largest dzong in Bhutan. It was built in the 17th century and is home to many ancient temples and artifacts.
13. Jigme Dorji National Park: This stunning park is located in the northwestern part of Bhutan and is home to many rare species of flora and fauna. It is also home to some of the most stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains.
14. Thimphu: The capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu is a bustling city filled with colorful markets, temples, and museums. It is also home to some of the most important government buildings in the country.
15. Wangdue Phodrang: Located in the western part of Bhutan, Wangdue Phodrang is home to many ancient temples and monasteries. It is also home to the breathtaking Wangdue Valley, which is a popular destination for trekkers.
16. Kurjey Lhakhang: Located in the Bumthang Valley, Kurjey Lhakhang is one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan. It was built in the 8th century and is home to many ancient temples and artifacts.
17. Gangkhar Puensum: Located in the eastern part of Bhutan, Gangkhar Puensum is the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. It is a popular destination for trekkers and offers stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains.
18. Bumthang Cultural Trek: This popular trek takes visitors through some of the most beautiful and culturally significant parts of Bhutan. It is a great way to experience the stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and traditional villages of the country.
19. Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the eastern part of Bhutan, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is home to some of the rarest species of flora and fauna in the world. It is a great place to spot the rare red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan black bear.
20. Phobjikha Valley: Located in the Wangdue Phodrang district, Phobjikha Valley is a stunning glacial valley filled with lush green forests and crystal clear lakes. It is also home to the Gangtey Goempa monastery, one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan.
From majestic monasteries to breathtaking mountains, Chukha Bhutan has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual journey or a breathtaking adventure, these top 20 places to see in Chukha Bhutan will not disappoint.