Bhutan is still a hidden gem. There is a lot to see and do in this tiny but beautiful country!
Bhutan is better known as the country of spectacular mountains and the happiest people, and you wouldn’t want to miss the hypnotizing lush green valleys.
This small country has mesmerizing unexplored valleys that are often overlooked.
The unexplored valleys of Bhutan are for all the brave visitors who want to face the Himalayan pinnacles.
Let’s dive into the eight unexplored valleys of Bhutan!
This blog includes:
- Paro Valley
- Thimphu Valley
- Punakha Valley
- Phobjikha Valley
- Bumthang Valley
- Haa Valley
- Lhuentse Valley
- Trongsa Valley
1. Paro Valley
The Paro Valley is a large and flourishing valley often regarded as one of Bhutan’s most attractive destinations.
Paro’s lovely valley is home to ornately built monasteries, the National Museum, and coniferous trees.
It is one of Bhutan’s most fruitful and green valleys, with terraced fields producing red rice.
Besides, Paro is the most popular tourist destination for its cultural and historical splendor.
The most famous is Bhutan’s famed allure, Taktsang Monastery, commonly known as Tiger’s Nest.
The Paro National Museum displays the country’s remarkable wonders and Bhutan’s rich culture through historical collections.
Best Months to Visit: March, April, October, November
Sites To See: Taktsang Monastery, Rinpung Dzong, Ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, The National Museum, Chelela Pass, Airport Viewpoint, Namgay Artisanal Brewery, Druk Choeding Temple, Ugyen Pelri Palace
Things To Do: Trekking, kayaking, White Water River Rafting, Shop at Paro Craft Market, Trek to Tiger’s Nest, Participate in Snowmen Trek, Ride through Paro Ta Dzong Biking Trail, Camping at Bumdra
2. Thimphu Valley
Thimphu, the capital city, is one of the most picturesque valleys of Bhutan.
Thimphu attracts thousands of visitors with its vibrantly colored valleys every year. The valley mixes contemporary economic activity and its lovely tiny town.
Along with its traditional monuments and attractions, the valley offers continental drinks, food, and entertainment!
You can meditate next to a stupa during the day and dance the night away in the city’s nightclubs!
You may also stroll through the weekend market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs.
It is Bhutan’s most prominent and distinguished tourist destination. The site provides panoramic views of the spectacular surroundings.
Best Months To Visit: March, April, October, November
Sites To See: Simtoka Dzong, Changangkha Lhakhang, Tango Monastery, Cheri Monastery, National Library, Dochula Pass, Buddha Dordenma, Motithang Takin Preserve,
Things To Do: Rock Climbing, Take part in vibrant Tshechu celebrations, Attend a concert at clock tower square, Shop at Weekend Market, Visit Memorial Chorten
3. Punakha Valley
Punakha is one of the most scenic valleys of Bhutan. The Po Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers flow through the valley, giving it a more pleasant appearance.
Punakha Valley boasts several sightseeing opportunities, making it one of Bhutan’s most beautiful valleys to explore.
The fertile valley situated on the banks of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers favors the hardworking farmers.
You can enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas or relax and enjoy the tranquility among the friendly locals.
Best Time To Visit: March, April, May, September
Sites To See: Punakha Dzong, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Ritsha Village, Chimi Lhakhang, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang, Jigme Dorji National Park, Dochula Pass, Koma Tsachu, Limbhukha Village
Things To Do: Mountain Biking, White Water Rafting, Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Go Bird-Watching in Jigme Dorji National Park
4. Phobjikha Valley
Phobjikha is one of the most picturesque valleys of Bhutan, located in the Wangdue district. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful glacier valley in Bhutan’s heartland.
Naturally shaped like a bowl, the valley is densely packed with hiking paths, communities, potato plantations, and sanctuaries.
The Phobjikha valley is rich in beautiful floral and faunal species. There is plenty of lush pine, maple, and birch trees.
Yaks, Sambar deer, and foxes roam freely in the conifer forest on the outskirts of the Phobjikha valley.
Among the rich biodiversity, Black-necked cranes are the most valuable endangered species found in the valley.
Best Months To Visit: March, April, October, November
Sites To See: Gangtey Gompa, Kuenzang Choling Shedra, Kumbhu Lhakhang, Damchen Lhakhang, and Khewang Lhakhang
Things To Do: Trekking, Take part in the famous Crane Festival, spend a night in the homestay
5. Bumthang Valley
Bumthang is a Tibetan term that means ‘beautiful field,’ and Bhutanese believe gorgeous girls live in these valleys!
The valley is one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring valleys of Bhutan.
Views of the dense Rhododendron forests at higher elevations, the vast sheep pastures, and intermittent timberlands are some of the elegant features of Bumthang valley.
Apart from the valley’s aesthetic, Bumthang is rich in agricultural and dairy products.
Numerous farms produce food items like cheese, apples, honey, potato, rice, buckwheat, and other dairy products.
Bumthang is also a notable area with various historic monasteries and sanctuaries. It is a place for hundreds of sacred religious sites – a famous pilgrimage site for both tourists and locals!
Best Months to Visit: March, April, May, September, October, November
Sights To See: Jakar Dzong, Jambay Lhakhang (one of Bhutan’s most ancient monasteries), Tamshing, Koenchog Sum Lhakhang, Jakar Lhakhang, and Wangdue Choling Palace
Things To Do: Visit Sheep breeding farm, Trekking, Horse Riding, Taste Red Panda Beer Straight from the factory, Picking Wild Berries, etc.
6. Haa Valley
The breathtaking grandeur of Bhutan’s Haa Valley is a must-see for anybody visiting the country.
It is one of the amazing valleys of Bhutan, with the Haa Chhu River flowing through it.
Haa valley, surrounded by mountains and vast meadows, is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful valleys. It offers a great view of Mount Jichu Drakey and Jhomolhari.
This serene location is also rich in culture. Visit this valley during the annual Haa Summer festival to see the weaving and construction of yak hair tents!
You will also have the opportunity to see a diverse range of yak items on display at the festival.
Learn about the process of wool production and yak shearing and their culinary customs, like preparing delicious meals from yak dairy.
Best Months To Visit: March, April, May, October, November
Sites To See: Lhakhang Karpo and Nagpo (White and Black temples), Haa Gompa, Dumchung Dzong, Wangchuk Lo Dzong,
Things To Do: Biking, Participate in Haa Panorama Hike, Visit Trout Breeding Center, Try the Traditional Hoentay.
8. Lheunste Valley
Lhuentse valley is also known as the Kurtoe Valley and is one of Bhutan’s hidden valleys.
The Lhuenste valley, located in the northeast corner of Bhutan, boasts of breathtaking landscapes, towering peaks, and thick conifer trees.
Lheuntse is known worldwide for its expertise in weaving one-of-a-kind materials known as ‘Kishuthara.’
The beautiful scenery, traditional textile art, and holy pilgrimage sites are just a few things that will make your trip to this valley worthwhile.
Best Months To Visit: April, May, September, October, November
Sites To See: Lheunste Dzong, Kilung Monastery, Dungkar Nagtshang, Khoma village
Things To Do: Trekking and Hiking, Watch Weaving activities, Village Tours, Camping
8. Trongsa Valley
Trongsa is a small yet lovely town in Bhutan’s central region. It’s a historical location where most monarchs ruled throughout ancient times.
Trongsa, a gorgeous valley of Bhutan, is the sweet spot for nature lovers, travelers, and honeymooners.
Amazing views of the black mountains, deep surrounding valleys, impressive Dzong, and many other aesthetic and touristic delights will give you the best of times!
This strategically essential picturesque valley serves as a link between the country’s eastern and western regions.
Trongsa valley is famous for its rich historical and cultural significance as the ancient seat of Bhutan’s Wangchuck dynasty.
The valley is for travelers to stroll down memory lane and learn about the rich and fascinating history of this peaceful but pleasant town.
Best Months To Visit: March, April, October, November
Sites To See: Trongsa Dzong, Chendbji Chorten, Thruepang Palace, Semji Village
Things To Do: Go cycling, Cultural tours, Local sightseeing, Monastery visits, Village tours.
Something About Trekking in Bhutan
Trekking trails in Bhutan allow trekkers to enjoy the country’s untouched nature and its beauty.
Trekking trails wind through green valleys, yak grazing fields, and mountains with large rhododendron trees blooming.
Some treks are fun and easy, taking you through Bhutan’s warmer, central parts, while some may test your cardio!
The 26-day Snowmen Trek in the Himalayan mountains is considered one of the hardest in the world.
The Snowmen Trek will lead you through nomadic yak herder communities and to give you the chance to experience their way of life.
Most Trekking routes are wound in the Himalayan mountains, allowing you to see breathtaking views of unclimbed snow-capped mountains.
Norbu Bhutan offers about nine trekking tour packages to visitors. Their package includes fun short trails that you can conquer in a few days and some challenging ones for genuine adventure seekers.
Final Thoughts
Bhutan is not only known for its snow-capped mountains, shimmering rivers, and cascading waterfalls but also for its magnificent and lush green valleys.
Bhutan’s rivers groove into the lowlands, fed by glacial melt and monsoon rainfall, creating those mesmerizing valleys.
A journey through these secret valleys will lead you through the unique Bhutanese lifestyle, history, and culture.
Apart from the valleys, Bhutan has a lot to offer its visitors. Norbu Bhutan offers fantastic tour packages for solo, group, and family visitors.
They will give you the best times to remember forever whenever or wherever you visit!
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