Bhutan – Venture into the Unexplored

There are some places which inspire, excite and make us gaze in admiration. Then there is Bhutan. Found in the midst of the towering Himalayan mountain ranges, with sounds of dzong bells ringing in the distance, and views that are straight out of a painting, Bhutan embodies the spirit of purity, peace and serenity.

While cities like Paro, Punaka and Thimpu are frequented by travellers, there are lots of places waiting to be discovered in the “The Last Shangri-La”, or this last utopian paradise. So if you’re looking to venture into the unseen, here are a few uncharted locations in Bhutan that will truly wow you.

​1. Trashigang

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Located on the hillside near the Gamri Chu River, Trashigang is the largest district in Bhutan, with its picturesque rice paddies and lavender fields, and forms an intersection between Samdrup Jongkhar and the Indian state of Assam. A 17-hour journey from Thimpu makes this a less visited place in Bhutan, adding to its untouched beauty.

Notable Landmark: Trashigang Dzong, a fortress built in 1659 for defence against Tibetan warriors.

2. Mongar

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Located on the road between Thimpu and Trashigang, lies this small district of Mongar, home to some of the newest dzongs in Bhutan. Built as early as the 1930s, these dzongs maintain the traditional style of architecture, and were built using the same methods, where nails and drawings were not used in construction. The scenic surroundings are a bonus to the awe-inspiring architecture.

Notable Landmark: Yagang Lhakhang, a temple built in the 16^th century, known for its wide collection of treasures, masks, musical instruments, armour, and more artefacts of great historical value.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know About Holidaying in Bhutan

3. Lhuentse

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In the north-east corner of Bhutan, the most isolated part of the country, the Lhuenste district boasts of spectacular visuals, rugged mountain ranges, towering cliffs and dense verdant forests. Once home to the royal family, this part of Bhutan is not a known tourist spot due to its less developed infrastructure and connectivity, as compared to the rest of the country. Nevertheless, the remarkable scenery, the traditional textile work and the sacred pilgrimage sites make the slightly difficult journey worthwhile.

Notable Landmark: Lhuentse Dzong, found in the Kuri Chhu valley, amidst the breath-taking steep cliffs and the staggeringly high peaks, this religious centre of the district will attract you with its spell-binding views and rich history.

4. Samtse

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​The Samtse District of Bhutan has a culture and geography which is diverse and quite different from the rest of the country. With a heavy influence of the Nepalese people, the culture of this district leans predominantly towards Hindu values. One of the lowest lying areas of Bhutan, the harmonious juxtaposition of diverse cultures makes Samtse unique, with a very interesting character.

Noted Landmark: Samstse College of Education, one of the most important facets of the district, which had a great influence over education in the country.

Read More: 10 Secret Places to Visit in Bhutan

5. Haa

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Located South-West of Paro, the Haa district is the smallest of the dzongkhas (districts) of Bhutan. One of the most isolated and pristine parts of the country, Haa is home to the Haa Valley, which looks straight out of a well-cinematographed movie! Abundant with historical temples, this is the land of many mystical legends. Haa’s fascinating stories, rich heritage and history will enchant you into exploring this wonderfully peaceful settlement.

Noted Landmark: The Black and White Temples, built at the sacred site of Miri Punsum, or “Three Brother Hills”.

There is a great sense of inner peace in the pure and harmonious religious sites and the amazing beauty of Bhutan. A journey into this unexplored country is sure to bring you one step closer to the middle path and the Buddhism way of life. Either way, Bhutan’s legends will leave you with many stories of your own. So, take this unusual journey, and find yourself in Bhutan.

Book Your Bhutan Holiday Now!