Franklin Dean
Bhutan is a unique honeymoon destination, offering exclusivity, a wealth of culture and history, and the chance to explore multiple countries in one trip. Known as the 'Land of Happiness' or the ''Land of Thunder Dragons', this small Himalayan kingdom is filled with sacred sites, ancient temples, pristine rivers, and mysterious landscapes. With its recent rise in popularity as a honeymoon destination, here is a guide to the best places to visit in Bhutan for a romantic getaway.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country | Bhutan |
| Location | South Asia |
| Best time to visit | October to December |
| Weather | Clear and fresh with sunny skies |
| Scenery | Pristine natural beauty, mysterious landscapes, bucolic valleys, steep cliffs, gorges, waterfalls, rivers, mountains |
| Culture | Rich, vibrant festivals, textiles, traditions, sacred sites, folklore |
| History | Ancient temples, monasteries, fortresses, historic sites, museums |
| Flora and fauna | Rich flora and fauna, including the takin (Bhutan's national animal) |
| Accommodation | Luxury hotels, boutique villas |
| Activities | Hiking, trekking, archery, spa treatments, rafting, exploring museums and historic sites |
| Visa requirements | Indian nationals must carry a valid passport or voter ID card; all tourists must pay a minimum daily travel fee |
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What You'll Learn
Explore the mysterious Haa Valley, the 'Hidden Land Rice Valley'
The Haa Valley, also known as the Hidden Land Rice Valley, is a mysterious and serene destination in Bhutan, perfect for honeymooners seeking a mix of exploration, culture, and relaxation. Nestled in the Himalayan land, the valley is known for its incredible natural beauty, ancient traditions, and strategic importance near the Indo-Tibet border.
As the second least populated region in Bhutan, the Haa Valley offers a tranquil escape from the world, with its thin population and untouched landscapes. The river Haachu flows through the valley, originating from Mount Chomolhari, the second-highest peak in Bhutan. The views of the surrounding mountains and snow-covered peaks are simply magnificent, especially during autumn when the weather is moderate and perfect for hiking.
The valley is home to ancient temples, including the 7th-century Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), nestled in the foothills of the Meri Puensum mountains. The Tagchu Gompa, a hundred-year-old temple, and the 5-storeyed Dobji Dzong are also must-visit places in the area. Haa Valley is a place of spiritual significance, where the locals follow Shamanistic rituals and beliefs.
For adventurous couples, the Haa Valley offers countless streams, authentic Bhutanese villages, and hiking opportunities. The villages of Dumcho, Paeso, Bhagena, and Gurena are situated within the valley, boasting authentic Bhutanese homes and hot stone baths, a traditional healing experience. The Haa Tshechu festival, with its mask dance and cultural activities, is another highlight for visitors.
The Haa Dzong, the former seat of Bhutanese administration, now houses the Indian Military Training Team and is a significant landmark in the area. The nearby Haa Market is a great place to shop for Chinese brocade and local fabrics. The valley is easily accessible from the town of Paro, and the best time to visit is from October to mid-December, with clear skies and pleasant weather.
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Discover the historic village of Trongsa
Bhutan is a unique honeymoon destination, offering exclusivity, a wealth of culture and history, and breathtaking natural beauty. The small Himalayan country is known as the 'Land of Happiness' or the ''Land of Thunder Dragons', and is famous for its ancient temples, monasteries, pristine rivers, and fortresses.
One of the must-visit places in Bhutan is the historic village of Trongsa, located near the centre of the country. Trongsa is of great historical significance as it was considered crucial in controlling the kingdom in earlier years due to its strategic position. The village is situated on a steep ridge, offering spectacular views of the deep valleys surrounding it. The Trongsa Dzong, built in 1644, used to be the seat of power of the Wangchuck dynasty before they became rulers of Bhutan in 1907. The dzong, which is the largest in the country, controlled the east-west trade for centuries. It is built on a mountain spur high above the gorges of the Mangde Chhu and has a very picturesque location. There is a viewpoint on the Bumthang highway across the river where you can take in the stunning views.
Trongsa also boasts an impressive museum. The watchtower of Trongsa, Ta Dzong, has been converted into a museum dedicated to the history of the Wangchuck dynasty. The museum holds many artefacts related to the dynasty, including the Raven Crown of the Kings of Bhutan. A visit to the museum is a must, as it offers a rich insight into Bhutan's history and culture.
Trongsa is also home to the Trongsa tsechu, a five-day festival held in the northern courtyard during December or January. This festival is observed by every monastery in Bhutan and celebrates the arrival of Guru Rimpoche to Bhutan in the 8th century, marking the triumph of Buddhism over evil.
In addition to exploring the village's historical and cultural offerings, you can also enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The various hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants in Trongsa offer stunning views of the valleys from their balconies. So, if you're looking for a mix of exploration, culture, and relaxation on your honeymoon, Trongsa is a great choice.
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Adventure in Bumthang, with its four valleys and legendary Burning Lake
Bumthang is one of the 20 dzongkhag (districts) of Bhutan and is considered the cultural heart of the country. It is the most historic dzongkhag if the number of ancient temples and sacred sites is counted. The valley is home to revered temples like Kurjey, Tamshing and Jambay Lhakhang, each with deep spiritual significance. Kurjey Lhakhang, also known as Kurjey Monastery, is a major landmark where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint in a rock. This site stands as a testament to the valley’s spiritual significance.
Bumthang consists of four mountain valleys: Ura, Chumey, Tang and Choekhor ("Bumthang"). Tang is the most isolated valley among the four, with the soil being less productive for farming. However, in October, the valley is bright pink with buckwheat flowers. Ura is one of the most fascinating villages in Bhutan, with about 40 narrowly crowded houses alongside paved streets, and the main Ura Lhakhang ruling the town, providing it with a medieval atmosphere.
The Burning Lake, or Mebar Tsho, is a sacred site located a few kilometres away from Bumthang Town. It is considered one of the most holy and spiritual places in Bumthang, flourishing in the supernatural and the spiritual. It is also related to Guru Rinpoche and Terton Pema Lingpa, a religious treasurer who discovered sacred treasures within the lake in the late 15th century.
Bumthang is also home to the Jakar Dzong, famous for the Castle of the White Birds, which sits on the hills of Chamkhar Valley. This fortress provides stunning views and offers insights into Bhutan’s administrative and religious history.
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Experience the capital, Thimphu, and its towering Buddha Dordenma
Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, is a great place to start your honeymoon. The city has a population of around 100,000 and offers a mix of exploration, culture, and relaxation. You can wander the picturesque cobbled streets, visit shops selling handmade paper and traditional arrows, and sip on butter tea. Thimphu is also home to the towering Buddha Dordenma, a 51.5-metre-tall bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, located in the Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park. The statue is one of the largest Buddhas in the world and houses over 125,000 smaller Buddhas within, effectively outnumbering the human population of Thimphu. The statue was built to commemorate the 60th birthday of the fourth king of Bhutan and is situated in the ruins of the Palace of Sherab Wangchuk, the 13th Desi Druk of Bhutan. The meditation hall that forms the throne of the Buddha Dordenma also includes the names of sponsors and countries that contributed to its construction.
The Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, which houses the Buddha Dordenma, is a 145-acre gift to the monks of Bhutan and was opened in 2011. As you climb the hill in the park, the enormous statue of Lord Buddha comes into view, with a backdrop of mountains. The statue is not only impressive for its size but also for the surprise of the thousands of miniature Buddhas that it contains. The Buddha Dordenma is associated with two prophecies. The first, made by Yogi Sonam Sangpo, foretold a Buddhist statue that would 'bestow blessings, peace, and happiness to the whole world'. The second prophecy was made in the 8th century by Guru Padmasambhava, also known as the second Buddha, who is widely respected by Tibetan Buddhists.
In addition to the Buddha Dordenma, Thimphu offers other attractions such as the entirely nail-free Tashichho Dzong, the country's first monastery Cheri Goemba, and the Simtokha Dzong, one of the first Dzongs built in Bhutan. You can also experience the local culture through food, such as the traditional hot stone bath, and activities, such as archery, the country's national sport.
Bhutan, as a whole, offers a unique honeymoon experience with its rich flora and fauna, historic temples and monasteries, pristine rivers, and cultural experiences. The country is known as the ''Land of Happiness' and the ''Land of Thunder Dragons', and its location in the Himalayas provides breathtaking natural beauty and cultural treasures. The country also offers outdoor adventures such as whitewater rafting on the Mo Chhu River and trekking or biking along the Dochula Pass. For animal lovers, the Motithang Takin Preserve is a must-visit to see the national animal of Bhutan, the takin.
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Relax in Punakha, with its glacial river and spa treatments
Punakha is a picturesque valley in the Kingdom of Bhutan, surrounded by terraced rice fields, forested mountains, and verdant paddy fields. It is one of the warmest valleys in the country, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas and exhilarating treks. The Mo Chhu River, also known as the Female River, flows through this valley and is known for its calmer currents compared to the Po Chhu or Male River. The glacial waters of the Po Chhu river offer a gentle rafting experience with spectacular views of the fertile valleys.
For those seeking relaxation and pampering, the &Beyond Punakha River Lodge offers a range of decadent treatments and traditional wellness therapies. The lodge is nestled along the banks of the Mo Chhu River and provides a secluded sanctuary where nature and tranquility intertwine. The spa treatments are lulled by the sights and sounds of the nearby orange orchard and perennial stream, creating a peaceful atmosphere for couples to unwind and rejuvenate.
In addition to the spa treatments, the lodge also offers yoga sessions, blessing ceremonies at local monasteries, and immersive cultural experiences in the nearby villages. The Punakha Suspension Bridge, a nearly 600-foot-long bridge covered in prayer flags, is another popular attraction in the area. For those interested in exploring sacred sites, the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten is a 45-minute hike from the lodge along the river.
Punakha is known for its majestic dzongs, serene temples, and pristine surroundings. The Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Po Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, is an iconic landmark and a popular destination for river rafting excursions. The Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery is another beautiful attraction in the area, showcasing the unique architecture and spiritual traditions of Bhutan.
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Frequently asked questions
Bumthang, located in the Black Mountains, offers treks to Burning Lake and White Horse Treks. Other attractions include Jakar Dzong, Tamzhing Monastery, Jambay Lhakhang, Ngang Lhakhang, and Kurje Lhakhang.
The Taj Tashi Hotel in Thimphu is inspired by the dzongs of Bhutan and features hand-drawn Buddhist murals and a heated indoor pool. Como Uma in Punakha offers views of the Mo Chu River and sensational spa treatments. Como Uma in Paro sits high on a hillside and offers world-class cuisine, superb hospitality, and private spa suites.
Bhutan is known for its traditional healing stone baths and spa treatments. For animal lovers, the Motithang Takin Preserve is a must-visit to see the national animal of Bhutan, the takin. For outdoor adventurers, there is whitewater rafting on the Mo Chhu River and the nearly 600-foot-long Punakha Suspension Bridge.
Bhutan is filled with sacred sites, ancient temples, and fortresses. The Tiger's Nest Monastery, also known as Taktshang, is a iconic temple situated on a steep cliffside in Paro. Buddha Dordenma in Thimphu is one of the largest gilded Buddha statues in the world, containing over 125,000 smaller Buddhas inside.
