Family Attractions to Visit in Bhutan
There is a famous saying – don’t listen to what they say… go see! and that definitely goes for Bhutan. This popular destination is one of the most influential countries in terms of environment and happiness and without a doubt; it is the best place you can visit. And if you plan on vacationing with family, there are plenty of reasons to choose Bhutan. There is not just one nor two but an array of wonders you can see, explore and savour. Expect to be welcomed by flamboyant Buddhist architecture, amazing dzongs, quiet streets, humble people and scrumptious food that will make you drool just by its aroma, Ema Datshi anyone?
Haa Valley in Paro
For those who like to experience an adventure with their children and also explore Bhutan’s rich culture and agriculture, a hike at the Haa Planters Trail may be an ultimate thing to do. This activity offers an insight into the country’s cultivation and agronomy as you walk along the ancient mud path that was once accessed by the rice planters. As you ascend further on this famous hiking trail, the route will traverse to various riveting sights of paddy fields.
A hike up at the Haa Valley also takes you across various Buddhist villages of Paro where you get an opportunity to interact with the locals. And during this heritage tour, one most important element we can extract is ‘peace’ that is found everywhere in abundance. Also, while in Haa Valley, you get an opportunity to go out for hiking to places like Katsho Goemba and Jana Dingkha which are two old monasteries. Consider the months from March to June for trekking as the popular Rhododendron forests explode in vividness then.
Dongkola Lhakhang in Paro
Hiking is always an exciting activity that can be partaken by any adventurist, which means, even if you are holidaying with family. That been said, one exuberant destination called Paro in Bhutan, has various landmarks that serve as best places to hike. Amongst the many, Dongkola Lhakhang takes the lead. What people go to see here is the ancient temple of Dongkola where the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni is placed. A hike to about 3,370 meters may be challenging (if you are an old timer) but if you have children with some passion for trekking, well, you will get there.
This Lhakhang (temple) is located on a hilltop between Paro and Thimphu and the closest village to start ascending is Shaba in Paro. The beauty you will witness are of several stupas and charming villages, surrounded with coniferous forest that are emerald green. And once here at Dongkola Lhakhang, the sight you get to witness are the breathtaking valley of Paro with snow-clad Himalayan range. Also, the two historical places you can layover to admire are the temples of Phudu Goenpa and Mendhu temple.
Paro Taktsang in Paro
One of the most treasured gem and a definite go-to place in Bhutan is Paro Taktsang or popularly known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This place is a famous destination in Paro, so famous that an introduction may not be needed. It is probably visited by a large number of tourists visiting Bhutan every year and a stopover here during a family holiday can’t get any better. It has a moderate steep climb but pony/horses are also provided (only till the cafeteria) if your legs get too wobbly. A visit to Paro Taktsang can offer a divine experience that words cannot express and no trip in Paro is complete without visiting this excellent monastery that looks like it has been glued to the surface of a rock wall.
Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Dordenma Statue) in Thimphu
Another attraction that must be visited during your holiday in Bhutan is Kuensel Phodrang, located in the capital, Thimphu. This place treasures a 51 metre tall Buddha Dordenma Statue and is probably visible from all around the town. A visit to this popular tourist spot is best done when the first ray of the sun touches the surface of Thimphu. It is when the golden bronze statue shines brilliantly and looks divine; it is also an ideal time to take excellent photographs.
Druk Wangyal Chortens
This famous attraction located in Dochula (Mountain) pass can be easily covered during your visit from Thimphu to Punakha. Druk Wangyal Chortens are 108 memorial stupas that were built in the memory of the Bhutanese soldiers. The stupas are beautifully decorated by paintings and are located against the gorgeous Gangkar Puensum Peak. This beautiful place also treasures another attraction, the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (monastery) that stores beautiful statues and images of Buddhist gurus and deities. Druk Wangyal Lhakhang is one of the most picturesque Buddhist temples that speaks of elegance and glory.