14 Things to Do in Bhutan

Paro Taktsang — a 17th-century monastery perched on a 900m cliff face, one of the world's most dramatic sacred sites.

Rinpung Dzong — a massive white-washed fortress-monastery above the Paro River, used as a film location for Little Buddha.

Bhutan's most beautiful valley — Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers, surrounded by rice paddies.

108 memorial chortens at 3,100m with panoramic views of the high Himalayan peaks on clear days.

Bhutan's largest traditional market — fresh produce, textiles, incense, and local crafts by the Wang Chhu river.

A glacial valley that is winter home to the endangered black-necked crane — sacred and serene.

Asia's most dramatic monastery — clinging to a 900m cliff, reachable only on foot or by pony.

Bhutan's most beautiful fortress-monastery at the confluence of two glacial rivers.

One of the world's hardest treks — 30 days crossing Bhutan's remote high Himalayan north.

Annual November festival in Phobjikha celebrating the arrival of endangered cranes from Tibet.

The 'Fertility Temple' of the Divine Madman — a pilgrimage site for couples seeking children.

Bhutan's national sport — spectacular traditional archery competitions between villages and army units.

Bhutan's most spectacular Buddhist festival — mask dances, silk thangkas, and monastic rituals.

A traditional Bhutanese spa treatment — river rocks heated in a fire and placed in a wooden tub of medicinal herbs.