15 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan in December - 2024

Tourist Places to Visit in Bhutan in December

With dramatic views of the Himalayan mountains, the places to visit in Bhutan in December are sure to lure you with their beauty. During this month, the blue skies, bright green rice terraces, clear flowing rivers, and the unique Dzongs make for an alluring view that looks just like a fairy tale. December in Bhutan is also famous for the Druk Wangyel Tshechu festival, which showcases the colorful culture of these places.Exploring Bhutan in December promises an unforgettable experience, ideal for those seeking enchantment and cultural immersion. Including Bhutan packages ensures a seamless journey to this magical destination.

Amongst the many Bhutan places to visit in December, Paro is the most visited one due to Tiger’s nest. Apart from that, the capital city, Thimpu is one of the most scenic as well as a fun-filled destination in Bhutan.

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You will also find several holy monasteries along with other cultural and art destinations in this city. The ex-capital of Bhutan, Punakha is also pretty famous for its temples, valleys, viewpoints, and courtyards which are definitely worth a visit.  

Here are the best places to visit in Bhutan in December:

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01

Paro

The idyllic little town of Paro is tucked in the southern slopes of Eastern Himalayas at the foothills of Mount Jomolhari. It is a landlocked country bounded by India in South and South-West and Tibet in the north and north-west. 

The name Paro brings into our minds a plethora of images of the majestic Himalayas with its rugged terrains, rickety curves, alpine forests, sacred monasteries and expansive landscapes under the blue dome of the sky and takes you into a pristine world of peace and tranquillity. Your day begins by gazing at the surreal sunrise over the Himalayas leaving an enduring effect in your soul throughout the day. 

Paro is home to some of the ancient monasteries and temples of the world whose history traces back to the 7
th century and holds various myths and folklore to their names.  Fun lovers not to be disappointed at Paro! There are cafes, restaurants, museums and places of nature hiking that will certainly keep you engaged throughout your trip. The most iconic landmarks in Paro include Taktsang Monastery, Namsay Artisanal Brewery, Archery Ground, Chele La Pass and many more.

For the adrenaline junkies Paro is the perfect destination to try your guts! Paro has some of the most challenging biking trails of the world which is bound to allure any biker who wants to scale the height on the wheels. Apart from that you can go on hiking, trekking, rafting, kayaking and stargazing. The Snowman Trek which is one of the highest trekking trails of the world will leave you awestruck as you ride along the trail and get a bird’s eye view of the stunning panorama from a height of 5,400 metres.

Visiting Paro during summer will give you a chance to explore the nooks of the city of Paro and appreciate the stunning view of the landscapes at the backdrop of the shimmering white Himalayas.  During this time the climate is temperate and suitable for adventurous activities. But, if you want snow in your vacation, winter should be your choicest season.

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02

Punakha

Punakha was the capital of Bhutan before Thimpu was made the capital city. There are many places to see in Punakha. It is popular for its temples, sightseeing viewpoints, courtyards, valleys, towers, and mini excursions in and around this town. This is one of the religious centers of Bhutan. It is at the confluence of two rivers of Bhutan. You can visit this town for taking short tours, stopping before heading towards other things to do in the Haa Valley, Gangtey, and Wangdue which have many places that are a haven for wildlife and nature photographers. These valleys have Alpine forests and mountain views that are serene and breathtaking. You get a countryside feel when you visit this riverside town, Punakha.

There are not too many tourists places to visit in Punakha. Tourists come to this town to rest, eat, and drink, before visiting other places of interest in Bhutan. You can visit monasteries, temples, Chorten, walking bridge, hill side village, and a collage where you can interact with the monks. You can go to the riverside as a weekend getaway. For most part, there is handful of places to be visited in this part of Bhutan. Quiet and tranquil, this is one of the holy places in Bhutan that is a home to monks. However, around Punakha, there are numerous outdoor and adventure activities available for tourists.


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Located at a height of 3,810 meters above sea level, Cheli La Pass is the highest pass in Bhutan that can be accessed by road. The pass separates the valleys of Haa and Paro and offers stunning views of surrounding area with picturesque beauty. On the way you will get to see he roadside drub chuu with beautiful paintings of Guru Rinpoche with his two wives. Including a visit to Cheli La Pass in Bhutan packages offers travelers an unforgettable journey through the majestic mountainous terrain of the kingdom.


On a bright and clear day of October and November, you can have a spectacular view of the Mt. Jumolhari, Jichu Drake and other neighbouring peaks, covered in snow and glittering in sunlight.


Highlights: A small 2 kilometre detour leads you to Dzongdrakha Goemba, an architectural complex perched on a high ridge and consists of four chapels and a Chorten.


Location: Between Haa and Paro Valleys in Bhutan.


Timing: Best time to visit is October to November when the skies are clear.


Prices: N/A

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Taktsang Palphug Monastery or more popularly known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery is one of the most revered pilgrimage place in the Himalayan province. It is also one of the most visited tourists destination in Bhutan and is a place that showcases the great traditional values of the country.

Uniquely located on top of the mountain 1200 meters above the Paro Valley, this monastery is surrounded by the scenic beauty. This white building topped with the golden roof on the back drop of blue sky and lush green hills look stunning. The centuries old legend of this monastery makes it more mystical. The isolated location of Tiger’s Nest can only be reached by following the gruelling mountain paths.



Location
: The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is located in Paro, approximately 10 kilometres away from the city.

Best time/season
: March to May and September to November.

Approx Price: N/A

Difficulty Level
: Moderately challenging.
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The Gangtey Monastery is one of the most attractive places to visit in Paro because of its rich cultural heritage and its beautiful structure and location. It is a centre of art, culture, religion, spirituality and learning and is considered one of the primary religious centres for Nyingma Buddhism. Known as the Gangtey Gompa, this monastery was built in the 17th century in typical Tibetan style with pillars surrounding a courtyard and the rest of the structure decorated with frescoes and paintings.

Apart from the monastery itself, you can go on tours and treks in the vicinity from where you can observe the incredible beauty of the surrounding hills and forests. 

Location:
 Gangtey Valley, Bhutan 

Price: 
Free entry

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Punakha Dzong is also known by the name of Pungthang Dewa Chhenbi Phodrang which translates into ‘The Palace of Great Happiness’. This majestic building dates back to the 17th century and is the second largest and the second oldest Dzong in Bhutan.


The structure embodies authentic Bhutanese architecture, crafted from earth, stone, and timber across its six levels. For those seeking Bhutanese destinations to explore in December, few rival the breathtaking scenery surrounding Punakha Dzong. Situated between the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in the Punakha valley, the Dzong's charm is heightened by mist-covered landscapes, imparting an ethereal atmosphere. Its rustic beauty and natural surroundings make it a must-visit stop for travelers considering Bhutan packages, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the captivating allure of Bhutan's cultural and natural heritage.


Location: Punakha, Bhutan


Timing: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM


Price: Rs. 300

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This historical city of Bhutan lies on the Indo-Bhutanese border and is home to some amazing sites. Situated at an altitude of only 300 metres above sea level, this is the perfect place to visit in Bhutan in December. While here, you can admire the beautiful architecture of the Bhutan Gate which also marks the entrance to Bhutan from India.

Also, spend time with the crocodiles at the Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Center or visit the historic Zangto Pelri Lhakhang. If you are looking for a more nature-based experience, you can spend your time at the Zangto Pelri Park or enjoy a picnic by the Torsa riverside.

Location: Phuentsholing, Bhutan

Timing: Open all-day

Price: Free 

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Rinpung Dzong holds an important place as a major religious and political centre of Bhutan. This large monastery and fortress belongs to the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school and is also home to the district Monastic Body. When here, you can visit the fourteen distinct shrines and chapels housed inside the Dzong and admire the rich Bhutanese architecture of the place.

The original building has been a part of the landscape since the 15th century and has been capturing the imagination of people worldwide, especially after its appearance in the 1993 movie Little Buddha. The place also hosts colourful festivals during the Spring months where traditional mask dances are organised for several days.

Location: Paro, Bhutan

Timing: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Price: Free

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Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which is situated in the mountain ranges of Bhutan. It was constructed to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the fourth King of Bhutan. This architectural marvel houses over a hundred thousand smaller statues of Buddha inside of it.

Both the bigger statue and the ones inside have been built using bronze gilded in Gold. This 169-metre tall statue stands amidst the ruins of Kuensel Phodrang, the palace of the thirteenth Desi Druk. If you are looking for places to visit in Bhutan in December, this beautiful gold and bronze structure sitting amidst a 943.4 acres wide conserve forest must be on your list!

Location: Kuensel Phodrang, Thimphu, Bhutan

Timing: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Price: Free

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For adventurous souls seeking Bhutan places to explore in December, Royal Manas National Park stands as an ideal destination. Spanning an expansive 1,057 square kilometers, it encompasses three districts and four wildlife sanctuaries and parks. Here, you can indulge in hiking, trekking, or embark on a thrilling jungle safari amidst the wilderness.


Home to Bengal tigers, elephants, gaurs, golden langurs, and numerous bird species, a journey here promises exciting encounters with wildlife. Including Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan travel packages ensures an unforgettable adventure amidst nature's untamed beauty.


Location: Bhutan


Timing: Daily, 5:30 AM - 6:30 PM


Price: Free entry

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Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan and stretches up to a length of approximately 520 feet! You can enjoy spectacular views of the river flowing underneath the bridge or the valleys rolling in every direction.

Made with solid planks of wood and cables anchored to massive cement block,  the bridge is surprisingly stable for its length and is covered in colourful religious flags at all points. It also acts as a starting point for several multi-day trekking trips in the region.

You can also stopover at the bridge if you are visiting the famous Punakha Dzong as it lies only half a mile away from the religious centre. You simply have to head north from the dzong, walk past the cremation grounds and follow the river to reach the bridge.

Location: Punakha, Bhutan

Timing: Open all-day

Price: Free

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Simtokha Dzong, alternatively named Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang or the ‘Palace of the Profound Meaning of Secret Mantras,’ stands as Bhutan's inaugural and comparatively modest dzong, erected in 1629. Presently, it serves as a prominent institute for the study of the Dzongkha language. With its historical significance and educational role, Simtokha Dzong is a must-visit attraction for travelers exploring Bhutan tour packages.


While here, you can spend your time admiring the architecture of the place with traditional Buddhist aspects like prayer wheels or around 300 carvings of saints and philosophers made in slate. This dzong is one of the most popular Bhutan places to visit in December and welcomes people from around the world.


Location: Simtokha, Bhutan


Timing: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM


Price: Free

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Jigme Dorji National Park is the second-largest national park in the country. Apart from covering multiple districts, it also pans over all three climatic zones of Bhutan. You can experience everything from frozen glaciers to dense jungles, rivers and historic sites without having to leave the park.

It is home to important cultural sites like the fortresses of Lingshi Dzong and Gasa Dzong and sacred mountains like  Mount Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake. The diverse animal cover in the area includes Bengal Tigers, bharals, black musk deer, Indian leopards and over 300 species of birds. If you decide to make it a place to visit in Bhutan in December, you can also witness the glaciers Lunana and Laya Gewogs in their full glory.

Location: Bhutan

Timing: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Price: Free

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People Also Ask About Bhutan

  1. Is December is a good time to visit Bhutan?

    Yes, the months from October to December are the ideal months to visit Bhutan as the weather is pleasant and is accompanied by clear blue skies. The later months get quite cold and make a significant drop in tourism.
  2. How cold is Bhutan in December?

    Speaking of winters in December, they are not much extreme at this time as the temperature hovers between 10-degree celsius to 7 degrees celsius which is quite pleasing.
  3. Does it snow in Bhutan in December?

    No, there is no snow in Bhutan in the month of December. Though the temperature drops at this time, but there is no snowfall. Apparently, there are many places to visit in Bhutan in December but there is hardly any snow.
  4. Is Bhutan safe for tourists?

    Yes, Bhutan is safe for the visitors as there is easy access to the emergency services and the crime rate is quite low.
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18 November 2015
Excellent
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek was a great experience. It passes by picturesque lakes, Alpine meadows and villages set to a backdrop of magnificent mountainous landscapes. The experience was amazing and brilliant. We had a really great trek. It was sheer brilliance.
16 August 2015
Excellent
The trekking experience was great. I had a really nice trek here. It was an inexpensive and a really nice trek. I had a great time.
10 October 2015
Excellent
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is something that every trekker must take in his life. It is so poignant and brilliant. I totally loved this. WOW can be an understatement. The crystal clear, poignant lakes just give me goosebumps. The pristine lakes are so beautiful that you will forget yourself here. The trek is difficult, but nevertheless it is an amazing and a beautiful experience to say the least. I totally loved this trek and I just still can’t get enough of this trek. The experience would not have been this nice if the planning was bad. Special cheers to the team for handling the organization and planning of this tour in such a beautiful manner. If you are planning to have heartfelt trek, then look no further than here.
Excellent
I had been always thinking to make a trip to Bhutan with my friends for a long time but we could not make it. because we didn't find any best trip planner sometimes we are okay with the plan but the price was too way expensive which is why our trip is pending... But we are so lucky enough that this time we found it with Thrillophilia we go through the website and even call the company and we get the full info about the tour with details...The price they offer too was affordable and the itinerary is very satisfying... The booking was easy, mode of payment was secure, and instantly shared the voucher and with important details in it about the operator contact number, locations, and all...We are a party of 4 adults who went on this trip and really we are so impressed by the way they organized, it is exactly as in the itinerary...The place was very rich with culture, heritage, architecture, and art, all over it surrounded by beautiful sceneries...good photograph we took at each...Excellent accommodations, on-time picked-up, and dropped-off, very welcoming, friendly, and well-spoken English guide... Overall we had the most brilliant tour with Thrillophilia.
Excellent
A well-organized trip from start to finish...The entire Thrillophilia team was helpful and always available at any time we need any help or queries, the arrangement of accommodations was great along with nice service and also they served good breakfast during our stay. The private cab was well-maintained, spacious, and clean along with an experienced and well-behaved driver who took us to all the popular places and even shared the history, stories, and religion of the place we visited. The main hightlight of our trip was the 5-hours trekking we had a team-leader with us who was kind and helpful with good knowledge about the place...Easy trek but yes tiring once reach the top we were impressed by the breathtaking views of the place...Overall the team made a great effort to ensure that we managed to experience everything we wanted to and what we supposed to get from the itinerary.
Excellent
I booked this tour package all inclusive from our arrival till our departure, the hotels, the transportation and everything. In love with the way you work would definitely plan again.
Excellent
I booked this tour to Bhutan from Delhi. The places we covered were pious and had attractive and eye-catching Buddha statues. Also we gained a whole new experience by exploring through the markets on our own like locals. was exceptionally well planned and executed, right from our timely pick-up from the airport till drop, the driver was friendly and supportive and the breakfast served was delicious. Thanks team.
Excellent
We booked this trip to Bhutan as a family trip. And it was amazing and exciting to get to know their culture and traditions in a completely understandable manner. The people were welcoming and loving. Enjoyed the trip.
Excellent
I booked this tour for a solo trip from Ahmedabad to Bhutan and everything was up to the mark and as expected. Brilliant team and execution of the plan.
Excellent
We booked this complete pre-planned tour to Bhutan, and it was exactly how it was described. Being it all the visiting or the services and facilities provided were all good. Loved it.

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