Cities in Bhutan

Known For : Buddha Dordenma Tashichho Dzong Changangkha Lhakhang

Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan. This place which has a population of somewhat 80,000 is known to be the largest city located in the country. Made the capital of the nation in the year 1961 this city is also known as the third highest capital in the entire world. An hour drive from Bhutan International Airport located in Paro it is known as a city which has a stronghold of the Bhutanese culture as well as tradition. This is also known as the only capital which doesn't have any traffic lights installed.

Best Time: September to November, March to May

45 Thimpu Attractions

Known For : Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) Rinpung Dzong Paro Chele La Pass

Paro is a small town located in the Paro Valley of Bhutan. This is quite location for someone who enjoys being close to the nature while at the same time appreciated sacred places. This town lies in the centre of valley at a height of about 2280 metres. This town was formed in the year 1985 and consists of colourfully painted shops lined all across the street. This valley is one of the most fertile as well as most historic valley located in Bhutan.

Best Time: September till November.

37 Paro Attractions

Known For : Trongsa Dzong Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park Chendebji Chorten

Located right in the center of the country, Trongsa is located on top of a cliff which provides a wonderful view of the Black Mountains and the surrounding valleys. Suiting the preferences of both history buffs and nature lovers, Trongsa offers not just an insight into its heritage but also also a treat for the eyes.

Best Time: November to February

7 Trongsa Attractions

Known For : Bhutan Gate Zangto Pelri Lhakhang Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre

The second largest town in Bhutan, Phuentsholing shares its borders with the Indian State of West Bengal. Serving as an entry point for travellers from Kolkata and Siliguri, it is an important economic hub of Bhutan. An urban centre, it is more developed than most of the towns of Bhutan, yet it has a perfect amount of nature's touch. It offers an experience like nothing else. Home to different communities, it's a must-visit place in Bhutan.

Best Time: April to June

5 Phuntsholing Attractions

Known For : Jakar Dzong Khurjey Lhakhang Jambey Lhakhang

Nestled at the foothills of the Choekhor Valley, the largest and most beautiful valley in Bumthang, Jakar is richly sprinkled with not just history and religion but also abundant natural beauty. Being surrounded by tree-lined mountain ranges, it proves to be a treat for both history buffs and nature-lovers.

Best Time: March to May, September to November

11 Jakar Attractions

Known For : Wangdue Phodrang Dzong Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park Phobjikha Valley

Being one of the largest Dzongkhags or districts of Bhutan, what Wangue Phodrang has to offer is varied flora and fauna coupled with immense beauty. From a beautiful valley to spiritual monasteries and temples and even some rustic villages, Wangdue would suit the taste bud of not just nature lovers but also those looking for a cultural experience as well.

Best Time: March to May, September to November

7 Wangdue Phodrang Attractions

Known For : Zangto Pelri Lhakhang Bhairav Kunda Shiva Mandir Hanuman Mandir NK Darranga

Samdrup Jongkhar is a small town in South-Eastern Bhutan and is located at the border of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Its proximity to the Indian border with multiple Indian shopkeepers and hawkers setting up shops here makes it one of the largest urban centres of Bhutan. Samdrup Jongkhar, a beautiful hill-station with elevations ranging from 200m to 3,500m, and is said to be the oldest town in Bhutan. An essential economic zone of Bhutan, the primary source of livelihood over here is coal mining. 

Best Time: March to May

3 Samdrup Jongkhar Attractions

Known For : Punakha Dzong Rafting and Kayaking in Mo Chhu River Punakha Suspension Bridge

Punakha is one of the 20 districts (dzongkhags) of Bhutan bordered by the Gasa, Wangdue Phodrang and Thimphu districts. Located at the height of 1200m above sea level, Punakha offers a mesmerising view of the Himalayas. It is also fertile as the two rivers - Po Chhu and Mo Chhu converge here in the Punakha Valley making it an excellent terrain for rice cultivation. It is usually warmer in Punakha as compared to Thimphu or Paro, making it an ideal destination any time of the year.

Best Time: March to May

11 Punakha Attractions

Gelephu is a town in Bhutan which is located on the Indian border. The city has a population of about 10,000. Gelephu is filled with traditions that can be traced back to nearly a hundred years ago. The city also consists of many rare animals such as Golden Langurs, Gangetic Dolphins and the Asian One-horned Rhinoceros. Gelephu is very well known for cross border trade, and you can visit this city for some last-minute shopping.

Nganglam is a small town in Bhutan which was left unnoticed for several years. The city came into existence recently when a huge cement factory was established. With a population of nearly 2500 people, today, this town is busy and ever-growing. With a warm tropical climate, Nganglam is an excellent place for birdwatching throughout the year.