Wangdue Phodrang is probably not the first place one would think of while planning a Bhutan holiday, but believe us, it's one of those hidden gems that should not be missed. Located at the heart of Bhutan between two rivers, the place is full of a relaxed vibe that cannot be noticed easily elsewhere.
The central attraction was the ancient dzong sitting atop a hill, but they've been reconstructing it since it caught fire a few years ago. Worth the visit anyway. It's the small things that make this place stand out - relaxing in natural hot springs after a day of trekking, walking through villages where people still weave bamboo the old-fashioned way, and sampling the renowned red rice that's native to this area. Even though there are so many places to visit in Bhutan, this is one gem that you should not miss.
The locals are really friendly and love to have a conversation anytime. At festival times, the entire area is full of dancing and celebrations. It's not touristy like other areas in Bhutan, so you get a more true experience.
Most Places to visit in Wangdue Phodrang provide you with a true flavour of the Bhutanese way of life. That's most likely why it's emerged as one stop in our Bhutan Tour Packages - it reveals the soul of the nation, not simply its top attractions.
How to reach Wangdue Phodrang?
Most of the tourists prefer to stay either in Punakha or Wangdue before they go anywhere else. You must immerse yourself in the very beautiful Wangdue Phodrang sightseeing and other memorable things.
By Air
Paro International Airport (PBH) is Bhutan's sole international airport, located approximately 105 km from Wangdue Phodrang. Upon arrival, you can hire a taxi or arrange a private transfer to Wangdue Phodrang, a journey that typically takes about 4 hours through scenic mountainous terrain.
By Train (from India)
Bhutan does not have a railway network. However, travellers from India can take a train to Hasimara, New Alipurduar, New Jalpaiguri, or Siliguri in West Bengal. From these stations, proceed by road to Jaigaon, the Indian town bordering Bhutan. Cross into Phuentsholing, Bhutan's border town, and then continue by bus or taxi to Wangdue Phodrang.
By Road
From India:
- Via Phuentsholing: Regular buses and taxis operate from Phuentsholing to Wangdue Phodrang, covering approximately 224 km in about 5.5 hours.
- Via Gelephu: Travellers can reach Gelephu from Bongaigaon in Assam (186 km/4 hours). From Gelephu, local buses or taxis are available to Wangdue Phodrang.
Within Bhutan:
- From Thimphu, Wangdue Phodrang is about 70 km. Buses and taxis are readily available, with the journey taking approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on road conditions.
Local Transportation
Once in Bhutan, you can utilise services like DrukRide to book taxis, buses, and other travel services online. This platform offers convenient options for intercity travel within Bhutan.
Best Places to Visit in Wangdue Phodrang: Know More
Let us know about some of the greatest places to visit in Wangdue Phodrang and see what things we can witness here in the mesmerising location.
When we talk about this beautiful town, it has some of the top tourist attractions in Wangdue Phodrang. So, let us make a virtual tour for you!
It looks like it is wrapped and frozen in the 16th century, and you will get that nostalgic feeling of having travelled back in time. There are some places to shop, and people mainly survive here through occupations like farming and animal husbandry. This is surely one of the best places to see in Wangdue Phodrang.
While you are in this small town, you should know about its bamboo weaving and slate carving culture, which is extremely famous in Bhutan. For a long period now, families of craftsmen have been selling their woven bamboo products or stone carvings in the local markets.
There are many local markets to shop in Bhutan where you can get all these things and pick up some interesting souvenirs or home decor items. Also, stay at some of the best hotels in Bhutan, where you can have the easiest and most comfortable time in this region.
Also, when you are coming here, make sure it is Saturday or Sunday, as you get to experience many things. The Wangtue Phodrang sightseeing is one of the best things you can experience while visiting the town. So, why miss some extremely beautiful moments while in Bhutan? Make the maximum out of your trip!
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2. Wangdue Phodrang Dzong
There are many monasteries and temples in Bhutan, but this Dzong was built in 1638 on top of a high-rise cliff overlooking Wangdue town.
It also caught fire in 2012, and the gigantic work plan of rebuilding it will go on till the year 2021. It is now definitely one of the best places to visit in Wangdue Phodrang. Also, there are so many beautiful stories attached to the Dzong!
When Buddhist monks were looking for an appropriate site for the Dzong, four ravens flew in 4 separate directions, and this was deemed to be a sacred symbol denoting the spread of Buddhism in all four directions. This is surely one of the best places to see in Wangdue Phodrang.
Also, the governor of this popular Dzong, called Penlop, had control over the routes to Dzongkhag, Trongsa, Punakha, and Thimphu. Also, it stands at the confluence of two rivers, Pho Chu and Mo Chu.
So, don’t forget to mark the monasteries in Bhutan on your itinerary!
If you are interested in historical masterpieces and want to stop over at the Rinchegang village, then you must witness some of the things that are worth visiting. This village is only a few km away from the Wangdue Dzong.
This village is also home to some of the stone carvers and features some of the traditional Bhutanese methods of Stone Masonry. Don’t miss the beautiful landscapes and views, which can mesmerise you.
Many photographers come here as this is the ideal spot for some beautiful captures. This village can also be seen on your way to Wangdue Phodrang from Punakha because it is known as the last village of western Bhutan. It is surely among the calm and charming places to explore in Wangdue, Bhutan.
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While you are in Bhutan, you cannot miss such beautiful places to visit in Wangdue Phodrang. This temple of Sha Radap is also known as Rada Lhakhang, and it is situated near the Dzong.
This is famous for celebrating the guardian goddess of the Wangdue region and is named Sha Radap. Also, you would get to know about this custom of bringing the newborn children and getting them named and blessed by presiding monks.
Also, there is one interesting thing to know about this temple, here a dice is rolled which is kept in the temple compound, and utter your wishes silently while the deity there blesses you with the fulfilment of your wish. The Sha region lies to the east of Wangdue and is populated by a cult of nature-worshipping Buddhists. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Wangdue Phodrang.
5. Gasleo and Nahee Village
These are the popular twin villages in the Wangdue region. They lie on the western side of Wangdue and take 2 hours to reach.
They are the ideal spots for having a great picnic or even a day trip while you explore these beautiful villages. Also, you get to see the rural Bhutanese life in its purest form at these villages, making it one of the best Places to explore in Wangdue Bhutan.
If you plan to visit and do some Wangdue Phodrang sightseeing, remember that the autumn season is the best time to have a village excursion, as it is the harvest time as well.
So, if you are here in this beautiful location, don’t miss out on these hidden gems, which can give you a good experience.
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6. Adha and Rukha Villages
Let us introduce you to the two beautiful rural gems which are located towards the south of Wangdue town.
Here, you get to experience the adventurous activities in Bhutan, like camping and enjoying a night under the stars. Also, you can go for the village economy by choosing to stay at one of the many farmhouses that are in these villages.
They are at a very low altitude and also have tropical vegetation, which particularly means that summers here are not very pleasant because of the incidence of sand flies, buzzing mosquitoes, and leeches.
But, during the autumn season, you will have a good time here! While you visit these beautiful villages, you will see how friendly the villagers are.
They also demonstrate their Bhutanese recipes for making fish roast, while the older folks will regale you with some of the famous stories of monarchs, princesses, mermaids, and much more. These places give you a chance to see the real side of Bhutan and are great places to visit in Wangdue Phodrang if you want to connect with the culture.
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7. Black Mountain National Park
This is a rocky mountain dotted with black, also one of the largest protected natural reserves in Bhutan.
You can find the exotic varieties of fauna here, they include musk deer, which are famous for their glandular secretions that are more expensive than gold, goat antelopes, red pandas, fierce wild boars, and golden-skinned langurs and tigers.
However, the park has its glory from the clouded leopards as they are the most dangerous yet beautiful members of the cat family. Their hunting prowess and skills are iconic.
Also, there is a guesthouse in the area, but you have to get prior written permission from the government to stay inside it. Also, a good way to explore the western part of the park is by participating in the Adha Rukha community tourism programs.
Go on a 6-day, 5-night trekking in Bhutan to have a beautiful experience while witnessing some of the endangered species like the leopards. So, get ready to have a novel experience like never before while in these tranquil villages.
Bajo is the main town in Wangdue Phodrang district. It is small and quiet, but it’s growing slowly. This is where you can find markets, local restaurants, and basic services.
If you want to rest during your travels or need to stop for food and supplies, Bajo is a good place. You can also walk around the town to meet locals and learn about their way of life. While it may not have big landmarks, it’s still one of the common places to visit in Wangdue Phodrang during your trip.
Khotokha Valley is another hidden gem in Wangdue Phodrang. Like Phobjikha, it is a flat valley surrounded by forests and hills. This area is less developed and gives a true feeling of being in nature.
The valley is home to several temples and is another place where black-necked cranes can be seen during winter. If you want quiet walks, fresh air, and birdwatching, this is a perfect spot. It is one of the peaceful places to visit in Wangdue Phodrang for nature lovers.
Best time to explore Wangdue Phodrang tourist spots
The best time to explore Wangdue Phodrang tourist spots is between October and April. During these months, the weather is clear and cool. This is also when the famous black-necked cranes arrive in the Phobjikha Valley.
Spring (March-May) is also a good time because flowers bloom and the hills look very green. The monsoon season (June-September) is best avoided because roads can become slippery due to rain.
Top things to do in Wangdue Phodrang
- Birdwatching: Visit Phobjikha or Khotokha Valley to see black-necked cranes in winter.
- Cultural tours: Explore villages like Rinchengang and enjoy homestays.
- Monastery visits: Spend quiet time at Gangtey Monastery or Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.
- Nature walks: Walk through valleys and forests with stunning views.
- Attend local festivals: Join festivals like the Black-Necked Crane Festival for fun and culture.
All these are considered top things to do in Wangdue Phodrang for a true Bhutanese experience.
Conclusion
Wangdue Phodrang is a peaceful district filled with nature, tradition, and history. From valleys full of birds to strong Dzongs and kind-hearted villages, this place offers a lot to every traveller. If you are looking for Places to visit in Wangdue Phodrang, start with Gangtey Monastery, Phobjikha Valley, and the Wangdue Dzong. Then move on to hidden gems like Adha Village and Khotokha.
This district may not be as popular as some other parts of Bhutan, but that’s what makes it special. It is quiet, kind, and full of soul. So, if you're planning a trip to Bhutan, make sure you include these amazing places to visit in Wangdue Phodrang in your list.
