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Bhutan Location Map - Where is Bhutan on Map
Bhutan Map of the World
Bhutan is a landlocked country with a land area of only 38,000 square kilometers, which is roughly the size of Switzerland. It is located in the eastern part of the Himalayas, the world's highest mountain range. The Himalayas run along the northern border of Bhutan. In comparison to the northern slopes of the mountains in the Tibetan Plateau, Bhutan, situated on the southern slopes, has a lower average elevation of around 2,000 meters.
Bhutan Map in Asia
Bhutan is located in South Asia, southwest of China and northeast of India. This region is the birthplace and hub of Buddhism, encompassing popular tourist destinations such as Tibet in China, Nepal, and India. However, Bhutan is the only country where Buddhism is the state religion, and its people are predominantly Buddhist. This has contributed to Bhutan being recognized as the nation with one of the highest Gross National Happiness indices. The quest to understand why Bhutan ranks so highly in terms of happiness has become a significant motivation for many travelers to visit the country.
Bhutan Map and Surrounding Countries
Bhutan shares its borders with two countries: to the north lies the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, and to the south is India. Additionally, Bhutan is near countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. It is important to note that Bhutan has only one international airport, Paro International Airport. Cities currently offering direct flights to Paro include Bangkok, Thailand; Singapore; Kathmandu, Nepal; Dhaka, Bangladesh; and several cities in India such as New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bagdogra. Some cities, like Hong Kong, China, operate direct charter flights to Paro during the peak tourist seasons from March to May and September to December.
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Bhutan Country Map - Learn Bhutan
Outline Map of Bhutan
The outline shape of Bhutan is like a mysterious treasure chest. The gems within the chest represent the magnificent mountain ranges, grandiose valleys, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife found in Bhutan. Additionally, the treasure chest symbolizes Bhutan's profound cultural heritage, including splendid temples, ancient traditional arts, and incredible festive celebrations.
Bhutan Map with States
Bhutan is divided into 20 Dzongkhags (districts), which are further geographically categorized into three regions: Western, Central, and Eastern Bhutan. The Western region is the main hub for tourism, featuring valleys and towns such as Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Haa which are essential stops for any visitor to Bhutan, mainly because the country's only international airport is located in Paro. The Central region boasts a more ancient history, with Bumthang and Trongsa being the most popular tourist destinations there. Eastern Bhutan remains the most enigmatic part of the country, with less developed transportation networks and a distance from the bustling urban areas. Trashigang is the most frequently visited Dzongkhag in this region by travelers.
Bhutan Map with Cities
The urban centers in Bhutan are quite modest in scale, and it's more accurate to refer to them as towns rather than cities. The principal towns of Bhutan are Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha. These three locations are also the most common and popular destinations for visitors to the country. Additionally, Haa, Gangtey, Bumthang, and Trongsa are also on the list of popular tourist spots in Bhutan.
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Bhutan Tourist Map
Bhutan Map of Top Attractions
Bhutan distinguishes itself in the realm of tourism through its commitment to natural preservation and the abundance of Buddhist cultural sites. Bhutan's natural landscapes have retained their untouched beauty, which is a direct result of the nation's pioneering policy of putting environmental conservation in the constitution.
The unspoiled valleys and serene forest trails offer visitors a tranquil retreat from the bustle of modern life. Bhutan's landscape is not just a feast for the eyes but also a sanctuary for the soul, providing a tranquil backdrop that complements the country's spiritual essence.
Buddhism is not just a religion in Bhutan; it's a way of life. Bhutan hosts a more concentrated collection of Buddhist temples, monasteries, and monuments compared to Tibet. This rich tapestry of religious heritage, coupled with the country's stunning natural environment, forms a unique spiritual landscape that fosters a profound sense of well-being among its inhabitants and visitors alike.
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Bhutan Map with Famous Dzongs
Dzongs, with their distinctive architecture, are the emblematic landmarks of Bhutanese cities, each region boasting its own unique version. These structures are the most iconic within Bhutanese architecture, notable for their grand scale, lofty stature, and vibrant color schemes. The red, white, and yellow hues of the dzongs stand out strikingly against the backdrop of lush greenery and blue waters.
Dzongs serve not only as the administrative and religious centers of Bhutan but also as the venues for the country's grandest festivals, including the Tsechu festivals celebrated across the nation.
Some of the most famous dzongs in Bhutan include the Rinpung Dzong, Tashichho Dzong, Punakha Dzong, Jakar Dzong, and Trongsa Dzong.
Bhutan Map with Popular Temples/Monasteries
Bhutanese temples are renowned for their distinctive Bhutanese architectural style, characterized by unique sloping roofs, colorful murals, and intricate wood carvings. The Tiger's Nest Monastery stands as the most iconic cliff-side temple, while the Chimi Lhakhang is known for its unique wall paintings featuring phallic symbols.
Bhutan Map with Mountains and Valleys
Valleys in Bhutan are characterized by their pristine beauty, lush greenery, and serene surroundings. They exude a sense of tranquility and provide an ideal setting for immersing oneself in nature and connecting with Bhutan's spiritual essence. The valleys are often dotted with traditional Bhutanese villages, monasteries, and sacred sites, adding cultural richness to the natural splendor.
Bhutan Travel Map
Bhutan Travel Map revolves around several key tourist regions: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey (Phobjikha), Haa, Bumthang, and Tongsa. These destinations form the core of almost 90% of Bhutan's travel itineraries, and the choice of visiting these regions determines the duration of your stay in Bhutan. It is important to note that Paro Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. Consequently, almost all itineraries begin and end in Paro, meaning that regardless of where you visit Bhutan, you will need to return to the starting point in Paro.
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Bhutan Travel Map for Paro, Thimphu
Paro and Thimphu are two must-visit neighboring cities in Bhutan, located approximately 50 kilometers apart, with a travel time of around 1.5 hours by car. Generally, you need 4 days to explore the top attractions in these two cities.
- Paro: Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, National Museum of Bhutan
- Thimphu: Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum
Bhutan Travel Map for Paro, Thimphu, Punakha
Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha are the three most popular tourist destinations in Bhutan. Thimphu, the capital city, is situated between the other two cities, approximately 50 kilometers from Paro and 65 kilometers from Punakha. It is common for travelers to opt for 6-day or 7-day itineraries covering these three locations.
- Paro: Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, National Museum of Bhutan
- Thimphu: Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum
- Punakha: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang
Bhutan Travel Map for Paro, Thimphu, Haa
Haa Valley is a relatively offbeat destination located to the west of Paro, approximately 70 kilometers away, with a travel time of around 2 hours by car, making it possible to visit within a day. With a 5-day itinerary, you can explore Paro, Thimphu, and Haa, enjoying the sights and experiences these destinations have to offer.
- Paro: Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, National Museum of Bhutan
- Thimphu: Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum
- Haa: Chele La Pass, Haa Dzong, Lhakhang Karpo, Lhakhang Nagpo
Bhutan Travel Map for Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey
Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley) is located approximately 75 kilometers east of Punakha, and it takes around 2.5 hours by car to reach there. To cover Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Gangtey, a typical itinerary would require around 8 days.
- Paro: Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, National Museum of Bhutan
- Thimphu: Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum
- Punakha: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choeten
- Gangtey: Gangtey Monastery, Phobjikha Valley, Black-necked Crane Visitor Centre
Bhutan Travel Map for Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Haa
Adding a day trip to Haa Valley on top of an 8-day itinerary allows for a more diverse and enriching experience of Bhutan.
- Paro: Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, National Museum of Bhutan
- Thimphu: Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum
- Punakha: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang
- Gangtey: Gangtey Monastery, Phobjikha Valley, Black-necked Crane Visitor Centre
- Haa: Chele La Pass, Haa Dzong, Lhakhang Karpo, Lhakhang Nagpo
Bhutan Travel Map for Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang, Trongsa
This is an extensive itinerary for a deep exploration of Bhutan , with the farthest destination being Bumthang in central Bhutan. Bumthang is approximately 300 kilometers away from Paro, and due to road conditions in Bhutan, it is challenging to reach there within a day. Visiting places like Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey (Phobjikha), and Tongsa along the way will make this itinerary more fulfilling and interesting.
- Paro: Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, National Museum of Bhutan
- Thimphu: Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum
- Punakha: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang
- Gangtey: Gangtey Monastery, Phobjikha Valley, Black-necked Crane Visitor Centre
- Bumthang: Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang, Jamphel Lhakhang
- Trongsa: Trongsa Dzong
Explore Bhutan with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel
Asia Odyssey Travel is a local-based travel agency that offers Bhutan Group Tours and customized tours in Bhutan. Our team of experienced local guides ensures that you have an immersive and insightful journey, sharing our deep understanding of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality.
Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a captivating destination with its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich Buddhist traditions. Asia Odyssey Travel can help you discover the highlights of Bhutan, including Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, Bumthang, and Gangtey.
Whether you're interested in trekking through pristine mountain trails, participating in vibrant festivals, or exploring remote villages, Asia Odyssey Travel can tailor Bhutan Trekking Tour and Bhutan Festival Tour itineraries to suit your preferences.
Embark on a memorable journey through Bhutan with Asia Odyssey Travel and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty and traditions of this unique Himalayan kingdom.
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