“If I had to name the biggest difference between Bhutan and the rest of the world, I could do it in one word, civility.” – Linda Leaming
Yes, I agree with Linda, where ever you go in Bhutan you would experience nice, peaceful people all around you. They are modest, down to earth but extremely talented and hard working people. Blessed by nature the entire country is in love with the King and his government.
There are several other scenic places in Bhutan besides Thimphu, Paro and Punakha. Mostly you visit them during the day and return to your base at evening.
Chele La Pass
Chele La (pass), at an elevation 3,988 meters is considered to be one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan situated on Dantak Road. It is around an hour’s drive along a road with dense woods. A student of Botany would feel great to see the variety of available flora. Chele La Pass invites you to have sensational views of sacred mountain Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
A view from Chele La Pass
You can choose to trek for 10 minutes and reach the top position of the pass which offers more wonderful views of HAA valley and nearby mountains. Hundreds of prayer flags hovering with the wind make the place more colorful. Natural colors with deluge of wild roses, purple and yellow primulas make the place more attractive.
Haa Valley
Around three hours drive from Paro or two hours from Chele La, Haa Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan. It is one of the least populated valleys in the kingdom, can also be named as heaven for nature lovers. Haa is also known as the strategic military base of Indian Army as it is very near to Indo – Tibet border. Homestay can be a great option at Haa, gives you an opportunity to gel up with the local population and get to know about the rich heritage of the valley.
There are several places to go around in Haa Valley like below:
- White and Black Temple
- Haa Wangchuklo Dzong
- Ha Chu (River) bank
Phobjikha Valley
Plan a day trip to Phobjikha valley during your stay in Punakha. It is a U-shaped glacial valley in central Bhutan, known for black-necked cranes in the winter season. Also known as remarkable Gangteng Monastery. It said that black-necked cranes circle the Gangteng Monastery for three times on the arrival in the valley in the last week of October. The scenic beauty of the valley makes it one of the most picturesque places in Bhutan.
A view of Gangteng Monastery on a cloudy day
In case you are thinking to spend the evening in this awesome valley, you have home-stay options at Phobjikha too. If you have more time to spend, go for the popular three-day trek covers major panoramic places and cultural uniqueness of the dragon kingdom.