Jigme Dorji National Park Bhutan , is Bhutan's biggest park, and let me tell you, it's wild up there. Tucked away in the northwest, this place has got everything – thick forests, open valleys, mountains that punch through 7,000 meters. It's one of those undefined places to visit in Bhutan where you actually feel small.
Snow leopards? They're around, but don't hold your breath. Those guys are impossible to spot. You'll probably see takin, though – Bhutan's national animal that looks like nature couldn't decide between a goat and a moose. Blue sheep hang out on the cliffs, and if you're really lucky, a red panda might waddle past.
The Snowman Trek cuts straight through here. Brutal trek, but the kind of views that make your phone run out of storage. Glaciers everywhere, meadows that go on forever, villages that feel untouched by modern life.
Here's the thing – the park changes completely as you climb. Start off sweating in green forests, end up freezing near glaciers. Local families still live here, doing what their ancestors did generations back.
Thinking of going? Our Bhutan Tour Packages sort out the tricky bits so you can just show up and explore.
Basic Facts About Jigme Dorji National Park
Here are some simple facts to help you understand the park better:
- Jigme Dorji National Park Location: Gasa, Bhutan.
- Jigme Dorji National Park Entry Fee: INR 150
- Facebook Official Page: Jigme Dorji National Park
- Area: The park covers about 4,316 square kilometres. That’s huge!
- Altitude: The park starts at around 1,400 meters and goes up to more than 7,000 meters above sea level.
- Named After: Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third king of Bhutan.
- Special Feature: It is home to many endangered animals and plants.
These Basic Facts About Jigme Dorji National Park show that it is not just a tourist spot but also an important home for wildlife and nature conservation.
How To Reach Jigme Dorji National Park
Getting to this park takes some planning, but the journey is full of amazing views.
- By air
- Fly into Paro International Airport, which is the only international airport in Bhutan.
- From Paro, you’ll continue by road toward the park.
- By road
- From the capital Thimphu (or nearby), drive by car or taxi toward areas close to the park. For example, from Thimphu you can reach the park’s entry region in about 4 to 5 hours, depending on the road and weather.
- One common route: Paro - Thimphu - Punakha/Gasa - into the park region.
- If you arrive at towns near the park (such as Gasa), you may then take a local vehicle or shared taxi for the last stretch.
- By trekking/footpaths: Some parts of the park (for deeper treks) require walking or trekking after the road-head. Once you are near the park, you may need to walk along trails into more remote zones.
Key Points to Note
- There’s no direct flight into the park itself; you must use Paro and then road or trekking.
- Road conditions can vary; high altitude, mountain roads, and weather may slow you down.
- Plan transport ahead, especially the final segments toward the park’s entry.
- If you are going into very remote sections of the park, you’ll need to be prepared for trekking, possibly with a guide.
Best Time to Visit Jigme Dorji National Park
The Best Time to Visit Jigme Dorji National Park is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is clear, and the skies are blue. Flowers bloom in spring, while autumn offers great views of the mountains.
Winter is cold, and some parts may be covered in snow. Monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rain, making trekking difficult. So, plan your trip when the weather is dry and comfortable.
Places to visit in Jigme Dorji National Park
Here are some great places to visit in Jigme Dorji National Park that you’ll love - simple to understand and full of natural beauty:
1. Gasa Hot Springs
A relaxing place within the park, the Gasa Hot Springs offer warm natural baths surrounded by forest and mountains. After walking or trekking, it’s a great stop to soak your feet and enjoy nature.
Why go: Refreshing, easy on the body after a walk, tranquil setting.
2. Laya Village
High up in the mountains of the park, Laya Village is one of the highest settlements in Bhutan. You’ll see traditional homes, mountain views, and meet the Layap people.
Why go: Unique culture + spectacular views + stepping into remote mountain life.
3. Mount Jomolhari (also written Jomolhari)
This high peak rises to about 7,326 m and lies in the border region within or near the park. It’s sacred, dramatic, and part of many treks.
Why go: For epic mountain scenery and to feel how big the Himalayas are.
4. Mount Jitchu Drake
Another high peak near Mt Jomolhari, Mount Jitchu Drake, offers majestic views and is part of the mountain scenery in the park.
Why go: If you love mountains and want to see less common peaks.
5. Gasa Dzong
A historic fortress in the outer part of the park region, Gasa Dzong gives you culture + nature. You can explore old architecture, walk around the area and enjoy the setting.
Why go: A blend of cultural heritage within wild terrain.
6. Glaciers & Alpine Meadows
As you explore deeper into the park, you’ll reach glaciers, alpine meadows, high rivers and very wild terrain. There are fewer “single destinations” and more of the experience of being in the park.
Why go: For full immersion into mountain wildness-great for trekking and nature lovers.
Things to Do in Jigme Dorji National Park
There are so many things to do in Jigme Dorji National Park for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and photographers. Here are a few favourites:
1. Trek & Hike
One of the most popular things to do in Jigme Dorji National Park is hiking or trekking. The park has a wide ranges-from forest trails to high-mountain paths. For example:
- You can join the trail to the base of Mt Jomolhari, walking through beautiful valleys, alpine meadows and glacial views.
- For a more serious adventure, there is the long trek called the “Snowman Trek” through remote parts of the JDNP.
- Trekking here gives you fresh air, wide mountain views and a chance to be deep in nature.
2. Wildlife & Nature Watching
If you love animals and nature, exploring the wildlife in Jigme Dorji National Park is a must. You’ll see forests, alpine zones and rare species. Some highlights:
- The park is home to animals such as the takin (Bhutan’s national animal), the snow leopard, red panda and many birds.
- In forests and meadows, you might spot deer, musk deer, black bear, Himalayan blue sheep and more.
- Bird-watching is great because the park hosts over 300 bird species.
- This is nature in a big way-wild, high altitude, beautiful.
3. Visit Villages & Culture
Apart from scenery, you can meet people living in and around the park. Things like:
- Visiting remote villages such as Laya, where traditional lifestyles are still strong.
- Seeing how local herders live, especially at higher altitude pastures. The mix of nature + culture is special.
- This gives you a chance to connect with local Bhutanese life, not just landscapes.
4. Hot Springs & Relaxation
One of the more gentle activities is visiting natural hot springs:
- Near the park, there are places like the Gasa hot springs, where you can relax after walking or exploring.
- It’s a different type of “nature experience” - comfortable, soothing and scenic.
5. Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
If you prefer less walking, there are scenic roads and viewpoint stops near the park. For example:
- Driving up to passes and high viewpoints gives you sweeping views of the Himalayas and valley forests.
- From the car, you can stop at look-out spots, take pictures, breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the quiet.
- So even if you’re not doing deep trekking, you can still enjoy the grandeur of JDNP.
6. Photography & Nature Trails
If you carry a camera (phone camera counts!) or just love walking, this park is ideal for slow nature walks, capturing golden hours, or exploring trails.
- The variety of terrain-from forests, streams, meadows, to glacier peaks-makes great backdrops.
- Even short “nature trail” type walks are rewarding, especially early or late in the day.
7. Educational & Eco Travel
For young travellers or anyone curious, this park offers learning opportunities:
- You can learn about ecosystems: the way plants and animals change.
- Understanding conservation: how Bhutan protects its wildlife, forests and culture while letting travellers visit responsibly.
- This kind of travel makes you more aware of nature and how important it is.
8. Jigme Dorji National Park Safari
Though there isn’t a jeep safari like in African parks, you can still enjoy a Jigme Dorji National Park Safari in a Bhutanese way. The “safari” here means guided nature walks, bird-watching, or riding yaks or horses in some areas. These eco-friendly safaris help you explore wildlife without harming nature.
Trekking in Jigme Dorji National Park
Here are some of the well-known treks inside or around the park.
- Jomolhari Trek
The Jomolhari Trek is one of the most beautiful trekking routes in Bhutan. It takes you close to Mount Jomolhari, which is one of the highest mountains in the country. The trek passes through peaceful villages, green valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. You can also see yaks, blue sheep, and many types of birds along the way. The views of snow-covered peaks are breathtaking.
- Duration: about 7-9 days.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (you’ll be gaining altitude, walking many days).
- Highlights: Views of Mt Jomolhari, alpine meadows, yak pastures, and forests.
- Good for: Trekkers who have done smaller treks before and want a multi-day adventure with scenic rewards.
2. Snowman Trek
The Snowman Trek is one of the toughest and most beautiful trekking routes in Bhutan. It takes you through remote villages, high mountain passes, and stunning valleys surrounded by snow-covered peaks. Only a few people complete this trek each year because of its challenging weather and rough terrain. It’s perfect for experienced trekkers who love adventure and want to explore Bhutan’s most remote and peaceful landscapes.
- Duration: Very long-around 24-30 days in the park area.
- Difficulty: Very Hard. High mountain passes, very remote.
- Highlights: Upper reaches of the park, remote villages, glaciers, sweeping views.
- Good for: Fit and Experienced trekkers, have time, and want a major adventure.
3. Laya‑Gasa Trek
The Laya-Gasa Trek is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and challenging trekking routes. It takes you through stunning mountains, green valleys, and remote villages like Laya, where you can meet friendly locals and see their unique culture. The trek offers amazing views of snow-covered peaks, including Mount Jomolhari. You can also spot rare animals like blue sheep and takins along the way.
- Duration: Moderate to long (e.g, around 15 days for the Laya-Gasa route)
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.
- Highlights: Mix of nature and culture (for example, semi-nomadic Layap people, high valleys, green meadows).
- Good for: Trekkers wanting a strong trek but maybe not the longest/hardest.
Flora and Fauna of Jigme Dorji National Park / Wildlife in Jigme Dorji National Park
The Flora and Fauna of Jigme Dorji National Park are exceptional. The park supports many ecosystems and therefore many species.
- There are more than 300 species of medicinal plants, hundreds of bird species (300+), and 30+ mammal species recorded.
- Some of the remarkable wildlife in Jigme Dorji National Park include:
- The elusive snow leopard.
- The Bengal tiger is recorded at a very high altitude in this park.
- Bhutan takin (the national animal of Bhutan).
- Red panda, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan blue sheep (bharal).
- The park is especially unique because it combines very high altitude terrain and, therefore, species you might not find elsewhere.
- In short, if you care about wildlife in Jigme Dorji National Park, this is one of the richest places in Bhutan for that.
Accommodation Near Jigme Dorji National Park
For staying inside or near the park, you’ll look for Accommodation Near Jigme Dorji National Park. Because many routes are remote, accommodation is limited. Options include:
1. Zhingkham Resort, Punakha
Zhingkham Resort is one of the most popular places to stay near Jigme Dorji National Park. It offers a peaceful view of the Punakha Valley and has rooms with traditional Bhutanese design. The resort provides modern facilities like Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a spa. It’s a great place to relax before or after exploring the park.
Best for: Mid-range travellers who want comfort with local culture.
2. Khuru Resort
Khuru Resort is a budget-friendly stay located close to the countryside. It provides all the basic facilities like Wi-Fi, parking, and clean rooms. The staff is friendly, and the food served is homely. This is a good choice if you are travelling on a budget but still want a comfortable stay near JDNP Bhutan.
Best for: Budget travellers and backpackers.
3. Dhensa Boutique Resort
Dhensa Boutique Resort is a stylish resort set on a hill in Punakha, offering lovely views of the valley. The rooms are spacious, and the property is surrounded by forests, giving a calm environment. The resort has a restaurant serving local Bhutanese dishes and a spa for relaxation.
Best for: Travellers looking for peace, comfort, and scenic views.
4. Pemako Punakha
Pemako Punakha is a luxury resort located near the park’s region. It offers elegant rooms, great food, and excellent hospitality. This resort is perfect for those who wish to enjoy a bit of luxury before or after their trek in the national park.
Best for: Luxury travellers and honeymooners.
5. Lemon Tree Hotel, Thimphu
Lemon Tree Hotel in Thimphu is a good option if you are starting your trip from the capital. Though it is a few hours away from the park, it’s a comfortable stay with modern facilities and good service. You can rest here before travelling toward Jigme Dorji National Park.
Best for: Travellers beginning their JDNP Bhutan journey from Thimphu.
Here are some simple tips to make your trip safe and enjoyable:
- Always travel with a local guide.
- Carry warm clothes and good trekking shoes.
- Drink lots of water to avoid mountain sickness.
- Respect local customs and wildlife.
- Keep the park clean – don’t leave litter behind.
- Plan your trip early and check for permits.
These small steps help protect the park and make your journey more enjoyable.
The Jigme Dorji National Park is truly a wonder of nature. It is not just a tourist spot but a living museum of wildlife, mountains, rivers, and culture. Every step you take inside this park brings you closer to nature.
Whether you want to trek through snowy passes, spot a red panda, bathe in a hot spring, or simply enjoy the mountain air, Jigme Dorji National Park Bhutan, will make your trip unforgettable.
It reminds us how beautiful our planet is and why we must take care of it. So, if you ever dream of visiting Bhutan, make sure Jigme Dorji National Park is on your list - it’s an experience you will never forget.
