Bumthang
Myth and legacies of great saints permeate the valley. Bumthang is known for its cheese and textile production.
- Getting there: 266 km / 10 hours drive from Thimphu. 30 min domestic flight option from Paro.
- Weather: 5°C in winter – 25°C in summer
- Elevation: 2800 meters
Phobjikha Valley
Idyllic valley, home to endangered black-necked cranes with multiple hiking trails through small communities.
- Getting there: 140 km / 6 hours drive from Thimphu
- Weather: -4°C in winter – 2°C in summer
- Elevation: 3000 meters
Punakha
A unique medieval experience with beautiful paddy fields, especially during spring and autumn.
- Getting there: 70 km / 2 hours drive from Thimphu
- Weather: 4°C in winter – 30°C in summer
- Elevation: 1200 meters
Thimphu
Capital city of Bhutan with 17th century fortress, parliament, and rich cultural landmarks.
- Getting there: 56 km / 1 hour drive from Paro International Airport
- Weather: -2.5°C in winter – 25°C in summer
- Elevation: 2334 meters
Trongsa
Central region with magnificent Tongsa Dzong and Ta-Dzong (watchtower museum).
- Getting there: 68 km / 3 hours drive from Bumthang
- Weather: Average 16°C
- Elevation: 2170 meters
Paro
Western valley with traditional architecture, handicraft shops, cafes, and Paro International Airport.
- Getting there: Paro International Airport. 160 km / 5 hours drive from Phuntsholing southern border
- Weather: -5.8°C in winter – 26°C in summer
- Elevation: 2195 meters
Wangdue Phodrang
Scenic valley with restored century-old fortress, warm summers, and pleasant winters.
- Getting there: 4 hours drive from Thimphu
- Elevation: 1310 meters
Gasa
Northwest Bhutan, home to pristine glacial lakes, scenic treks like Jomolhari Laya Gasa Trek, Snowman Trek, Merak Sakteng Trek, and healing hot springs.
- Getting there: 102 km / 3 hours drive from Punakha
- Weather: Average 10°C
- Elevation: 5018 meters
Mongar
Eastern Bhutan, rich rhododendron forests, views of Gangkhar Puensum, and finest textiles.
- Getting there: 189 km / 6 hours drive from Bumthang via Ura, or fly to Bumthang and drive
- Weather: Average 12°C
- Elevation: 400–4000 meters
Haa
Southwest of Paro, isolated valley with historical/cultural sites, birdwatching, hiking, and rare flora like white poppy.
- Getting there: 61 km / 2 hours from Paro via Chelela Pass or 3 hours from Thimphu
- Weather: 22°C summer – -2°C winter
- Elevation: 3056 meters
Trashigang
Extreme east Bhutan, base for Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, home to Merak and Sakteng communities, and Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche.
- Getting there: 246 km / 8 hours drive from Bumthang or domestic flight to Yongphulla Airport
- Weather: 10°C in winter – 32°C in summer
- Elevation: 1100 meters