The kingdom of Bhutan is an enchanting Himalayan location offering serene monasteries, ancient fortresses, picturesque mountain drives, green valleys, and many other interesting features that travelers come to explore. From the spectacular Tiger’s Nest Monastery located in Paro to the grand Punakha Dzong and breathtaking Dochula Pass, there are plenty of things to see and enjoy in this charming place.
Traveling around Bhutan by car will give you an opportunity to move easily from one town to another, stop at interesting places to admire the views, and visit numerous tourist sites while on your vacation. If you are planning a family holiday, romantic escape, or cultural tour, selecting the right type of car and planning the right route could be very helpful.
This article highlights some of the best sightseeing places in Bhutan which you can visit by car and gives you useful information about planning your road trip with Jaigaon Bhutan Taxi.
1. Paro: Discover Bhutan’s Cultural Heritage
The city of Paro is one of the most visited tourist spots of Bhutan and consists of traditional architecture, holy shrines, and scenic mountains. The tour sites are scattered around the valley, and a vehicle will be very helpful while sightseeing.
Must Visit Places in Paro
- Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery): This monastery of Bhutan is located atop a cliff overlooking the valley. While the trail to it starts from a driveable point, hiking is necessary to reach the monastery.
- Rinpung Dzong: This spectacular structure of Bhutanese fortress monastery displays typical Bhutanese architecture and provides good opportunities for photography.
- Ta Dzong (National Museum): Get insight into Bhutanese arts, antiquities, religious artifacts, and cultural displays.
- Kyichu Lhakhang: See one of the most ancient temples of Bhutan.
- Drukgyel Dzong: See the ruins of the place and enjoy the views of the mountains around it on a clear day.
You can see all these places leisurely and comfortably in a vehicle. You can also go to Paro town to shop and try out the traditional Bhutanese cuisine.
2. Thimphu: Experience the Capital City
Thimphu blends the Bhutanese tradition with modernity in urban areas. In the capital city, there are various places such as landmarks, cultural, religious spots, art markets and viewpoints which can easily be incorporated in one sightseeing plan.
Top Attractions in Thimphu
- Buddha Dordenma: A large golden Buddha statue situated above the valley of Thimphu.
- Tashichho Dzong: A landmark structure with respect to the Bhutanese government and administration of religion.
- National Memorial Chorten: A major religious landmark from where one can witness Bhutanese prayers.
- Motithang Takin Preserve: A place to know about the national animal of Bhutan, Takin.
- Simply Bhutan Museum: A chance to get a feel of traditional Bhutanese culture.
- Centenary Farmers Market: A place to buy local products of Bhutan while the market is functioning.
Taking a cab makes it convenient to visit all the attractions of the city located at different locations without being completely dependent on the public transport system.
3. Dochula Pass: Enjoy Panoramic Himalayan Views
Dochula Pass is undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable places to stop on the journey to Punakha from Thimphu. The pass is located at about 3100 m high, offering its visitors beautiful views of the peaks of the Himalayas and the 108 Stupas of Druk Wangyal.
On sunny days, you can enjoy magnificent views of the mountains. Today, the place is surrounded by forests, which makes the stop even nicer for photos and resting.
For those who like beautiful roads, a car trip to Dochula Pass is wonderful. Nevertheless, it is good to remember that because of its height, the weather can change quickly, so it is better to check the local weather forecasts before you go.
4. Punakha: Explore Historic Dzongs and River Valleys
The beauty of Punakha is well-known, and the scenic beauty, riverside beauty, temples, and villages are its highlights. This is an excellent destination for the nature lovers who want to enjoy the beauty of the places.
Places to see in Punakha
- Punakha Dzong: This outstanding fortress stands at the junction of the Pho-Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers and is one of the most famous buildings in Bhutan.
- Punakha Suspension Bridge: The bridge is beautifully adorned with colorful prayer flags and offers breathtaking views of the river and all others that surround it.
- Chimi Lhakhang: The temple is well-known for its ties with a saint of Buddhism named Drukpa Kunley.
- Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: The beautiful chorten is located at the top of the hill and can be reached by walking through the wonderful countryside.
- Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery: The site offers spiritual experience and picturesque views of the valley.
The drive from Thimphu to Punakha via the Dochula Pass is itself an enjoyable trip. Taking a private car makes it even easier.
If you want to have a multiple day vacation, check out the different Bhutan tour packages that will give you an idea of how places like Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro can be incorporated into one tour.
5. Phobjikha Valley: Experience Bhutan’s Natural Beauty
Phobjikha Valley is also referred to as Gangtey. The expansive valley along with hills and large grasslands brings about a different experience compared to the hustle and bustle of towns in Bhutan.
The attractions in Phobjikha Valley
- Gangtey Monastery: The widely known monastery of Buddhism situated on the summit of a hill that has great views over the valley of Phobjikha.
- Black Necked Crane Information Center: The best place to familiarize oneself with the black necked crane bird being its migration route.
- Phobjikha Nature Trails: These are different walking trails enabling one to see how beautiful the valley is.
- Traditional Villages: Travelling around the valley can enable one to see how rural life operates in Phobjikha.
The valley is known to be the regular habitat for black-necked cranes during the winter season.
6. Phuentsholing: Begin Your Bhutan Journey
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Places to Explore in Phuentsholing
- Bhutan Gate: This is a good place to see the traditional architecture of the border gate.
- Zangto Pelri Lhakhang: If you feel like there is some peace and tranquility, visit this temple located within the town.
- Karbandi Monastery: Enjoy the view and the atmosphere at the monastery.
- Crocodile Breeding Centre: Learn about the conservation of crocodiles from this centre when it opens to visitors.
Spend some time in Phuentsholing before heading towards Thimphu or other destinations and make travel arrangements ahead of time to ensure smooth arrangements if coming from any of the other cities of India.
For convenient transport arrangements, visit the Jaigaon car rental service page to explore available vehicle options.
7. Haa Valley: Discover a Quieter Side of Bhutan
Haa Valley is a nice spot for those seeking relatively quieter areas, authentic settlements, and mountain scenery, away from the common tourist circuit.
Scenic views of forest, raw open countryside, and old Bhante destroyed and converted into villages will be seen while travelling through the surrounding hills.
There are some temples, traditional villages, and scenic views in and around Haa, and the valley is also suitable for travellers engrossed in photography and cultural explorations.
Because Haa isn’t always included in the shorter itinerary of Bhutan, discuss how much extra time you should allow with your taxi operator before adding it to your itinerary. Consider also the condition of the roads and seasonal weather.
Why Explore Bhutan Sightseeing Places by Car?
The points of interest of Bhutan are scattered in valleys, towns, and mountains. Travelling by car will give you many benefits:
- Sightseeing flexibility: Stay more at the places of interest and change your schedule accordingly.
- Easily connect cities like Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro on a single trip.
- Comfortable road trip: With a proper private car, it is easy to take long trips in the company of families and friends.
- Scenic spots: Possibility to stop at certain spots for photos on the way.
- Knowledge of the local routes: An experienced driver will show you how to travel through the mountains and plan
If you need transport for a longer journey, check the car rental in Bhutan for further information.
Tips for Planning a Bhutan Road Trip
While preparing for a journey through Bhutan by car, here are some practical things you should know:
- Plan enough days: You will need days to visit Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. If you wish to visit Phobjikha or Haa, add days to your schedule.
- Check entry requirements: Make sure you know all the latest information on immigration, permits, and travel requirements for your nationality.
- Choose the right vehicle: Take into account the number of passengers, amount of luggage, road conditions, and distance of the journey.
- Allow extra driving time: Roads, weather conditions, traffic, and sightseeing can affect your travel plans.
- Respect local customs:Wear appropriate clothes when visiting temples and obey photography rules.
- Confirm costs in advance: Inquire about vehicle fees, waiting time, distance covered, parking and other expenses.
- Check seasonal conditions: Rain, fog, and snow may influence your travel across mountains, especially at higher altitudes.
Plan Your Bhutan Sightseeing Tour with Jaigaon Bhutan Taxi
A car tour through Bhutan allows you the freedom to explore ancient dzongs, spiritual monasteries, tranquil valleys, and stunning mountain views at your leisure. Whether visiting the cultural sites of Paro and Thimphu, the river-side beauty of Punakha, or the natural sites of Phobjikha, there’s always somewhere different to explore.
Jaigaon Bhutan Taxi can assist with all transport arrangements during your visit to Bhutan – be it transportation for sightseeing around local areas or even a multi-day trip. Plan your itinerary ahead with the details on where you want to visit, when, how many people, and what vehicle requirements you have.
Ready to experience the beauty of Bhutan? Contact Jaigaon Bhutan Taxi now to make your car rental arrangements.