In this article, I will discuss the best living places in Bhutan, a country with beautiful scenery, rich history, and a pleasing way of life.
Venturing to different areas of Bhutan is ideal as different regions provide different but appealing experiences.
Bhutan has it all, whether calm valleys or bustling cities, seeking a better place to live for some change.
Key Points & Best Living Place In Bhutan List
| Location | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Pangri Zampa Monastery, Thimphu | A significant Buddhist monastery known for its serene atmosphere and stunning views. |
| Wangchu River, Thimphu | A picturesque river offering scenic walks and views of the surrounding landscapes. |
| Chele La Pass, Paro | The highest motorable pass in Bhutan, famous for breathtaking views of the Himalayas. |
| Tango Buddhist Institute, Thimphu | A prominent monastery and center for Buddhist studies, set amidst tranquil nature. |
| Punakha Suspension Bridge | A stunning suspension bridge providing access to Punakha Dzong and offering beautiful views. |
| Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory | A factory specializing in traditional handmade paper production, showcasing local craftsmanship. |
| Haa Valley | Known for its pristine natural beauty and traditional Bhutanese culture, ideal for hiking. |
| Handicrafts Market, Thimphu | A vibrant market offering a wide range of traditional Bhutanese handicrafts and souvenirs. |
| Crocodile Breeding Centre, Phuentsholing | A unique center focusing on the conservation and breeding of crocodiles in Bhutan. |
| National Museum of Bhutan | Showcases Bhutan’s cultural heritage and history through various artifacts and exhibits. |
| Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary | A protected area known for its rich biodiversity, including unique flora and fauna. |
| Bumthang Hidden Valleys | Known for their scenic beauty, traditional villages, and ancient temples. |
| Jigme Dorji National Park | Bhutan’s first national park, home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. |
| Dagala Thousand Lakes, Paro | A breathtaking area with numerous alpine lakes, perfect for trekking and nature lovers. |
| Clock Tower Square, Thimphu | A central landmark in Thimphu, known for its iconic clock tower and vibrant atmosphere. |
| Taktsang Palphug Monastery, Paro | Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, a famous monastery perched on a cliff, offering stunning views. |
| Mo Chhu River | A beautiful river flowing through Punakha, popular for rafting and scenic views. |
| Bumdra Monastery Trek | A popular trekking route leading to Bumdra Monastery, known for its stunning vistas. |
| Punakha Dzong | An architectural marvel and the administrative center of Punakha, known for its beauty and history. |
| Phobjikha Valley | A glacial valley famous for its black-necked cranes and stunning landscapes. |
20 Best Living Places in Bhutan
1. Pangri Zampa Monastery, Thimphu
Pangri Zampa Monastery in Thimphu has been rated as one of the most livable places in Bhutan.
Located in such peaceful surroundings, this monastery provides peace of mind and a spiritual experience.
Visitors can appreciate the fantastic views while experiencing the traditions of Bhutan and Buddhist culture.
Its quiet environment makes it perfect for people who wish to escape and meditate in silence.
2.Wangchu River, Thimphu
Wangchu River in Thimphu is one of the most preferred places in Bhutan. This beautiful river adds charm to the city and is a great place to unwind and have fun.
The beautiful banks of the river make walking easy, and the soothing nature around makes it a good place to stay for both locals and tourists.
3.Chele La Pass, Paro
Chele La Pass in Paro is regarded as one of the finest places to live in Bhutan. It is situated at a height of 3988 meters and provides soul-satisfying views of the mountains and green valleys.
The environment and fresh air of the mountains make it very calm and relaxing, making it perfect for nature lovers and peace seekers.
4. Tango Buddhist Institute, Thimphu
Tango Buddhist Institute in Thimphu is one of the best living places in Bhutan.
It is located in a quiet forest. A famous monastery, it also focuses on inner development and cultural aspects.
Visitors can practice Buddhism and study it in a beautiful environment. The peaceful surroundings make it perfect for finding solace and contemplating.
5.Punakha Suspension Bridge
Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of the best living places in Bhutan.</ P> As its name implies, this bridge, which crosses the Mo Chhu
River gives the most beautiful view of the surrounding landscapes and of the Punakha dzong.
The quiet environment is conducive to thinking and meditating, making it a good place for people to commune with nature.
Thus, this place has become a place of stay for many people from within and outside the country.
6. Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory
Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory is one of Bhutan’s finest places to live. This remarkable plant contains unique creations that still employ age-old Bhutanese paper-making traditions.
Visitors can see how skilled craftsmen create art and beautiful paper products.
For one thing, the factory has a tranquil atmosphere and is surrounded by crafts, which makes it a pleasant and refreshing place to stay or visit.
7.Haa Valley
Haa Valley has been promoted as the best settlement in Bhutan. Famous for its beautiful scenery and traditional Bhutanese architecture, this valley provides a calm escape with stunning surroundings.
Residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including mountain trekking, visiting beautiful villages, and learning about the local cultures, making Haa Valley very peaceful and sociable.
8. Handicrafts Market, Thimphu
There is a Handicrafts Market in Thimphu, which is why many people choose Thimphu as one of the best living places in Bhutan.
The place has a wide range of facilities and many other unique features, including a permanent temple and a craftsmen’s bazaar where different handicrafts, including textiles and wooden sculptures, are available.
The residents benefit from being close to culturally enriching activities such as purchasing genuine handmade articles and interacting with local handcrafters.
9. Crocodile Breeding Centre, Phuentsholing
In terms of uniqueness in Bhutan, Phuentsholing has a crocodile breeding centre. In this facility, which is one of a kind, the emphasis is on conservation education by ensuring the crocodiles are kept in a safe environment.
People who live close by can enjoy watching wildlife and participating in green activities that raise awareness of biodiversity. At the same time, they can enjoy the tranquil beauty of nature, improving the quality of life in the community.
10. National Museum of Bhutan
The National Museum of Bhutan is one of the most comfortable places to live in Bhutan. This cultural institution is located in Paro and depicts the country’s culture in various aspects, ranging from art to artifacts.
Residents of these places have a strong sense of Bhutanese history and culture, which enhances their belonging to society.
11. Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is a magnificent natural habitat in eastern Bhutan. It is rich in wildlife and boasts stunning landscapes.
Such proximity allows these people to enjoy the environment through nature walks, sighting exotic animals such as the snow leopard, and even participating in conserving the environment.
12. Bumthang Hidden Valleys
Bumthang Hidden Valley has been rated as one of Bhutan’s best places to stay. Given their picturesque beauty and deep-rooted civilization, the valleys are a delightful escape.
People can undertake trekking activities, see old temples, and participate in local customs, all of which make it an excellent place for those in search of calmness and a better understanding of nature and Bhutan’s culture.
13.Jigme Dorji National Park
Jigme Dorji National Park is undoubtedly one of Bhutan’s preferred places. This park has different ecosystems suitable for planting and wildlife.
People and visitors can find scenic beauty, long trekking paths, and the possibility of seeing rare species.
The park’s boundaries contain rich biodiversity, which is complemented by solitude, making it an excellent place to reside.
14.Dagala Thousand Lakes, Paro
Dagala Thousand Lakes, situated in Paro, is considered one of the best living places in Bhutan by residents.
Clean alpine lakes and majestic mountains characterize this picturesque region.
People living in this area also have many opportunities to go on walks and fish, appreciate the beauty of the surrounding nature, and experience the peace that accompanies living here.
15. Clock Tower Square, Thimphu
Clock Tower Square primarily appealed to a group of survey respondents as one of the best living places in Thimphu, Bhutan.
This lively square fills traffic with culture and is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and local activities.
This allows the residents to enjoy a dynamic environment with access to the commotion of citizens performing daily routines.
While also enjoying magnificent images of the everlasting traditional buildings, encouraging patriotic feelings within the city.
16.Taktsang Palphug Monastery, Paro
Taktsang Palphug Monastery in Paro is more than just a glory; it is one of the best living places in Bhutan.
The hallowed monastery sits on a mountain cliff, embracing astonishing views and tranquillity.
Residents in its vicinity can live in nature and engage in spiritual activities.
Its diversity of history and calm atmosphere enhance the uniqueness and offer inspiration to most people who live in such a place.
17. Mo Chhu River
Mo Chhu River is one of the perfect living areas in Bhutan. This beautiful river flows through forests and hills and provides an environment for activities like fishing and rafting.
It’s pleasant for the people living here to hear the sound of water flowing and see hills, which can be calming and thus help people feel close to nature and at peace.
18. Bumdra Monastery Trek
Bumdra Monastery Trek is the most delightful place for safe living in Bhutan. Apart from scenic spectacles, this particular trek takes one to an exquisite monastery in the lap of mountains—overwhelming both physically and spiritually.
Living near the trail ensures plenty of fresh air and outdoor exercise, and it allows one to experience Bhutan’s cultural richness.
19. Punakha Dzong
Punakha Dzong is often considered as the best place to live in Bhutan. This impressive castle, where two rivers meet, is beautiful and full of history.
The inhabitants are offered a unique experience by the combination of culture and nature, meaning that they get to enjoy festivals and views of the rivers, stimulating community and connectivity.
20. Phobjikha Valley
Phobjikha Valley is a popular place in Bhutan where people prefer living.
This wonderful glacial valley is the habitat of the black-necked cranes, which are considered to be endangering their species.
The inhabitants can participate in recreational activities such as hiking or birdwatching while appreciating the rich culture surrounding the valley.
The social conditions there are healthy enough and promote a healthy, spacious environment for a nature lover.
How To Choose The Best Living Place In Bhutan
Location and Access
Think of the distance to cities, schools, hospitals, etc.; Check how you will get in and out of the area you are interested in.
Cultural Surroundings
Gather information from the local culture and society; pick a place where your beliefs and way of life are compatible.
Environing Nature
Look at the spectacular features of nature, such as mountains, rivers, and forests; find places that offer options for activities like jogging, hunting, and making new friends.
Weather Conditions
Different parts of Bhutan have different climate conditions, which is a factor upon the expat’s presence; Put in mind how tolerable you are with weather changes by seasons.
Living Expenses
Take a look at the rent and bills for various utilities and possibilities; find out how much people spend in a day, based on what is available in that region.
Neighborhood and Security
They have such an accommodation. The neighbourhood is very warm. Watch out for criminal activities like robberies, and measures are in place to tackle such issues and make the neighbourhood a secure place for habitation.
Conclusion
To conclude, finding the best place to live in Bhutan involves considering many essential elements, such as location, culture, beauty, and amenities.
As long as one takes into account one’s individual lifestyle priorities and preferences, one can find a place that is not only quiet but also full of culture and activities.
Hence, ultimately, the place would be perfect for exploring a more traditional and beautiful side of Bhutan.