Tiger Nest Monastery
The prime attraction of the country, it is hard not to be awed by the Tiger Nest Monastery: a spectacular location, views, and history. The hike up makes for a good exercise.
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Burning Lake
Burning Lake is an intriguing place in Bumthang, a natural place with strong religious significance for Bhutanese Buddhists.
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Rinchengang
A village perched on a hill overlooking Punak Chhu river, Rinchengang is one of the oldest villages in Bhutan, and can give the visitor an insight into the life of Bhutanese people.
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Tango Monastery
A 12th century monastery, Tango is located at the northern end of Wang Chhu valley, and surrounded by many places to meditate, like most Bhutanese monasteries.
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Thimphu Dzong
Unlike other dzongs in the country, Tashichoe Dzong is not located high above the city but rather on the banks of a river. In addition to administrative and religious functions, it also accomodates the Bhutanese government and the offices of the king.
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Thowada Goemba
High up at the end of Tang Valley, Thowada Goemba can make for an adventurous hike with high rewards: isolated place with magnificent views over Tang Valley.
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Prayer flags
Prayer flags are everywhere in Bhutan: and come in different sizes and colours. They are the finishing touch of temples, homes, and the Bhutanese landscape.
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National Memorial Chorten
Probably the main religious site of the capital city Thimphu, the relatively new National Memorial Chorten draws people from everywhere.
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Ugyen Chholing Palace
Perched on top of a hill in central Tang Valley, Ugyen Chholing Palace is a peaceful place with wonderful views. The exhibition inside gives a good insight into Bhutanese life in all its aspects.
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Chimi Lhakhang
Lying on top of a hill amidst rice terraces, Chimi Lhakhang is frequently visited by couples who cannot have children, seeking for a blessing in this temple of fertility.
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Bumthang Tsechu
A highlight not just because of the performance of the dancers, but definitely also because the Bhutanese visitors all dress up in their nicest kira and gho, a tsechu is a happening of dazzling movements and colours.
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Bhutan phallic symbols
It is impossible not to be surprised by the paintings on the walls of many houses in Bhutan. Enormous penises painted on walls or hanging above doors are supposed to ward off evil spirits.
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Cheri Monastery
Conveniently close to Thimpu, Cheri Monastery lies at the end of the valley and requires an uphill walk - but the rewards are a peaceful monastery with fine views.
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Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten
Proof of the vitality of Bhutanese Buddhism, newly built Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten stands high above the floor of Punakha Valley.
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Petsheling monastery
Located high above Jakar on top of a mountain, Petsheling is visible and calling out to those below to hike up and visit. A friendly lama might even welcome you once inside.
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Punakha Dzong
Former seat of government, Punakha Dzong is one of the main attractions of Bhutan, and still stands proudly at the confluence of two rivers in Punakha Valley.
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Kunzangdrak Monastery
Important place for Pema Lingpa, Kunzangdrak Goemba is one of the most important religious sites in the heartland of Bhutan, but often overlooked because it is less easily accessed.
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Bhutanese monks
An integral part of Bhutanese public life, you can see monks everywhere while traveling around this small Himalayan kingdom.
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Bhutanese women
Charming and attractive, Bhutanese women come in many ways: tall, dark, short, light; they can be funny and entertaining, often shy, but always very friendly and good company.
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Trongsa Dzong
Probably the most magnificent structure in the entire country, Trongsa Dzong is a spectacularly located dzong with sweeping views, but also fine courtyards and quiet corners.
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