When most people think about Bhutan, they picture the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery or the busy streets of Thimphu. However, the less-explored Eastern Bhutan contains an array of hidden jewels waiting to be uncovered. Therefore, in this travel blog, we will take you on an incredible tour and uncover the mysteries of this wonderful region. So, prepare to experience Eastern Bhutan’s rich culture, stunning scenery, and friendly hospitality. Hereafter, you will find eastern Bhutan’s most popular tourist destinations include Mongar, Trashigang, Pema Gatshel, Merak Sakten, Trashiyangtse, and Bumdeling National Park. Include these destinations on your Eastern Bhutan tour itinerary to experience true village life in Bhutan.
Lifestyle in East
The people of the East are well known for their hospitality. Regardless of how basic their rural lives are, they greet each visitor with a warm smile. Even if you happen to go into a stranger’s home, they will not allow you to leave without offering you a cup of locally brewed wine (Ara).
Time required to explore Eastern Bhutan
A two-week Eastern Bhutan tour package provides ample time to explore the country’s culture, history, and rural way of life. However, if you don’t have much time, you can cut it down to about 8 days by flying domestically.
Places to Visit in Eastern Bhutan
Trashigang
Trashigang is about 600 kilometres away from Thimphu. As it is a thriving community with a rich cultural history. So, begin your day with a visit to Trashigang Dzong, a 17th-century stronghold located on a rock above the Drangme Chhu River. Therefore, explore the lively market, which sells local handicrafts and fresh fruit. It is well-known for its lovely villages, as well as its weavers.
Highlights:
- Trashigang Dzong,
- Trashigang Market
- Radhi, Merak, and Sakten village
- Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
What to Do in Trashigang:
- Experience the rural life of Bhutan.
- Try a local homestay.
- Visit the wildlife sanctuary.
- Moreover, meet the semi-nomadic ethnicity of Bhutan (Brokpa) and study their culture.
Recommended stay: 2–3 days.
Trashiyangtse
Trashiyangtse, roughly a 3.5-hour drive from Trashigang, is also known as the Eastern home of the famed Black-Necked Crane. Also, it shares a border with Arunachal Pradesh, India. Travel to Trashiyangtse, since it is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and traditional handicrafts.
Highlights:
- Trashiyangtse Dzong,
- Chorten Kora
- Institute for Zorig Chusum
What to Do in Trashiyangtse:
- Attend the Chorten Kora Festival.
- Take part in the Gomphu Kora Festival.
- Visit the Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary.
Recommended stay: Day excursion.
Mongar
Drive to Mongar, a picturesque village set in the Alps. Mongar, which has towering cliffs and gorges as well as dense conifer forests, is well-known for its weavers, distinctive textiles, and fabrics. It is also a popular destination for Bhutan birding excursions. While Buddhism is widely practised in this area, Bon practices are also common. So, for your information the Kharpud (ceremony held to appease local deities and spirits) is an exciting event to observe.
Highlights:
- Drametse Monastery
- Mongar Dzong
What to do in Mongar:
- Birding, particularly in the Sengor-Yongkola-Lingmithang area.
- Afterward Attend the Drametse Festival.
Recommended stay: One night
Pema Gatshel
Travel to Pema Gatshel. As Pema Gatshel is recognized for its rich nature and peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Chimoong Lhakhang.
- Nature treks and village visits
What to Do in Pema Gatshel:
- Visit Chimoong Lhakhang.
- After that Enjoy nature treks and village visits.
Recommended stay: One night.
Merak Sakten:
Since it is the home of the Brokpa People, Merak Sakten is one of Bhutan’s most isolated districts, renowned for its distinct nomadic lifestyle. Moreover, the journey itself is an adventure, taking you through tough terrain and picturesque scenery.
Highlights:
- Camping at Merak.
What to do in Merak Sakten:
- Communicate with the Brokpa People
- Also, explore the distinct culture and traditions of Merak Sakten.
Recommended stay: One night.
Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
Bumdeling National Park is a refuge for nature lovers, with diverse flora and wildlife, including the endangered Black-necked Crane.
Highlights:
- Singye Dzong
- Risumgonpa
- Kholong Chu
What to do in Bumdeling National Park:
- Watch Ludlow’s Bhutan Swallowtail Butterfly
- Then, bird watching in Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
- Henceforth, Nature walks and wildlife spotting
Recommended Stay: One Night
The Ideal Time to Visit Eastern Bhutan
Most of Eastern Bhutan lies at lower altitudes. Thus, the late spring and summer months are very hot and humid. However, this is an excellent season for bird watching in the woodlands. It is advised to avoid travelling during the monsoon season, which runs from May to August, as rains tend to destroy the already poor road infrastructure. Therefore, late February to mid-March is an ideal time to visit. As it offers pleasant weather, low-season crowds, exciting festivals, and spring blossoms. For additional information and to schedule your Eastern Bhutan tour, here’s Bhutan Inbound. Experience a remarkable experience in Eastern Bhutan, where old traditions and breathtaking natural beauty await.
