If you’re a lover of landscapes, who has always ditched the airplane and hopped inside a car to admire nature from a closer proximity, then we reckon that it’s time for you to head towards the Last Shangri La – Bhutan. This Buddhist kingdom that sits majestically amidst the undulating folds of the Himalayas, is an explorer’s haven. From blue-hued valleys that reverberate with seasonal thunders, to the calm, white-peaked mountains that decorate the Bhutanese skyline, Bhutan’s appeal is unfailingly grand. The moment you step within its premises, the sheer magnitude of its beauty is bound to leave you tongue-tied. And what best way to admire a thing of beauty, than an endless car-ride?
But before you embark on a trip of a lifetime, go ahead & read the list of 7 absolutely astounding locations we suggest, that are sure to fulfill your thirst for wanderlust, and let you soak in the magnificence of Bhutan to the fullest with just 7 stops –
1. Soak in the visual grandeur of the Punakha Dzong –
Allegedly known as the “most beautiful” dzong (fortress) in the Shangri La, this huge establishment is visible from a good distance as you ride into the roads of Punakha & enter the premises that encompass the fort. Amidst the scenic backdrop of green & blue hills, stands the stark white structure of the dzong, toppled with golden roofs. Drive by this ancient beauty during Spring & watch this spectacular structure tower the purpling jacaranda trees. The view is spell-binding.
Before you set out to Punakha, it’s always better to get informed about the place beforehand. If you’re planning on touring through Punakha, make sure you know more about car hire charges in Bhutan. Read more at (link).
2. See how old traditions merge with new philosophies in Thimphu –
Bhutan’s capital is perhaps some of those rare locations where you can witness the slow ingress of modernity in a nation that has remained close to the outside world since times immemorial. As the town makes its own improvisations, the most exquisite element you will run into in the streets of Thimphu is the “human traffic light” – a male traffic controller wearing white gloves who acts as a traffic light because the red light in the system caused discomfort to the Bhutanese locals.
Make sure you catch a glimpse of the best pieces of Thimphu by booking an exclusive Bhutan Car Rental with us.
3. Lay your hands on the exotic offerings of the Weekend Market –
When you tear your eyes away from the quaint surroundings of Bhutan, walk into the Weekend Market to stock up on some extremely endearing collectibles. Browse for some fresh produce like Bhutan’s famous soft cheese, curly edible ferns, exotic fruits, meat cuts, dried pork strips, hand-rolled organic incenses, high-quality woolens, richly embroidered apparels, colorful accessories, cute prayer flags, prayer wheels, miniature Buddhas & much more.
4. Get amazed by the architectural wonder of the Tiger’s Nest –
The Taktsang Monastery, globally known as the Tiger’s Nest, earned its name from a famous folklore that narrates the story of Saint Padmasambhava, who flew to meditate inside this monastery on the back of a shape-shifting flying tigress. The monastery is perched on an 8,000 feet tall granite cliff and radiates an aura of danger, challenge & extreme adventure. Drive to this destination & undertake a challenging trek to reach to the top. The view up there is inherently rewarding.
5. Cruise by the scenic Valley of Haa –
The Haa Valley, which lies in the southern chunk of Bhutan, is a warmer, brighter suburb, decked with the most brilliant of shallow valleys & rice fields dotted by the exotic Black-Necked cranes of Bhutan. Drive past the orange skies and lush greenery that ensues as you run into the famous Black & White Temples. An ideal time to visit Haa is during the Summer Festival when the indigenous tribes come together to celebrate their culture.
We arrange reliable car hire services for you throughout the year in Bhutan at reasonable prices.
6. Watch the unfurling of the giant Buddhist Thangka –
Every year, the monasteries of Bhutan celebrate the birthday of their patron saint – Guru Padmasambhava. The premises of these religious locations come alight with merrymaking, epic performances by monks, elaborate mask dances and narrative recitals. It is a visual delight to watch the locals get dressed in their candid best, their costumes a work of oriental art & intricacy. During the ceremony, a larger-than-life scroll, hand-painted to every hurtful detail, is unfurled in front of the public. This spectacle is worth witnessing once in your lifetime.
Visit Bhutan in the time of Tsechu & avail our exclusive vehicle hire services in Bhutan.
7. Count the Chortens on the Dochu La Pass –
When you hop from Thimphu to Punakha, you will encounter one of the highest passes in the western topography, 23 kilometers ahead of the capital city. Riddled with thousands of colorful prayer flags that flutter through the flawless Bhutanese skyline, the Dochu La Pass is dotted with 108 stupas. These stupas, known as “Chortens”, were erected by the Queen Mother in memory of the fallen soldiers of Bhutan who sacrificed their lives for their motherland.
With this, we’re sure you will cover ample of Bhutan’s virginal beauty on four wheels!
Happy journey to you.
