Bhutan, beautifully situated in the heart of the Himalayas, is slowly becoming a desirable destination among travel aficionados! This surreal kingdom boasts its natural offerings wonderfully, including fascinating biodiversity, a deep spiritual heritage, and pristine landscapes.
The National Parks in Bhutan are a not-to-be-missed experience, offering a unique chance to witness some of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems. Continue reading to learn about these protected areas and their crucial role in safeguarding endangered species and upholding Bhutan’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Discover the List of the 10 Best and Most Famous National Parks in Bhutan
Are you ready to explore what Bhutan has to offer? Then, scroll down and explore our comprehensive and well-categorized list of the 10 most visited and recognized national parks in Bhutan, where wildlife roams free in forests.
Please note: As of current exchange rates, 1 BTN (Bhutanese Ngultrum) = 1 INR (Indian Rupee), since the currencies are at par.
Jigme Dorji National Park
Jigme Dorji National Park and Hot Spring is one of the most famous and second-largest protected areas in Bhutan. This ecologically and culturally rich park in the Eastern Himalayas is spread over 4,300 km, beautifully showcasing the alpine meadows and glaciated peaks. In this National Parks, visitors will have a stunning chance to spot several rare animals in Bhutan. The Hot Spring at the Jigme Dorji National Park is ideal for individuals, especially the elderly, who wish to come and relax in the hot waters of the spring.
- Location: Northwestern Bhutan (Gasa, Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, and Wangdue Phodrang)
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fees: BTN 500 for SAARC nationals; BTN 1,000 for others (subject to change)
- Famous For: Snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, high-altitude trekking routes, and Mt. Jomolhari.
Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread over 1520 square kilometers, Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary is internationally recognized for its endangered black-necked crane, which mainly attracts conservationists worldwide. The ethereal atmosphere of this wildlife reserve, along with its picturesque setting featuring alpine lakes, lush valleys, and forested mountains, supports a diverse array of flora and fauna. Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 300 species of birds and rare mammals, providing a unique wildlife spotting experience for visitors. Culturally, it is believed that Bumdeling is deeply rooted in Bhutanese tradition, where various remote farming communities practice age-old customs and sustainable living in harmony with nature.
- Location: Northeastern Bhutan (Trashiyangtse and Lhuentse)
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fees: BTN 500 for SAARC nationals; BTN 1,000 for others
- Famous For: Black-necked cranes (winter visitors), alpine pastures, and rich flora.
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Royal Manas National Park
This is the oldest and biologically diverse national park in Bhutan. Spanning over 1000 square kilometers, Royal Manas National Park is a wildlife treasure trove, referred to as the “crown jewel of Bhutan’s conservation.” Visitors, be prepared to spot some of the rare animals in Bhutan, offering awe-inspiring moments.
- Location: South-central Bhutan (Sarpang, Zhemgang, and Pemagatshel)
- Timings: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry Fees: BTN 500 for SAARC nationals; BTN 1,000 for others
- Famous For: Golden langurs, Bengal tigers, elephants, and its status as Bhutan’s oldest national park.
Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary
Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Phipsoo, is Bhutan’s smallest protected area, spanning 269 square kilometers. This wildlife hotspot is home to stunning Bhutanese wildlife, and its dense subtropical, deciduous, and moist forests harbor a variety of species. This sanctuary is significant in regional ecology, serving as a biological corridor connecting Jigme Singye Wangchuck and Royal Manas parks, providing a way for genetic exchange and wildlife movement.
- Location: Southern Bhutan (Sarpang and Dagana districts), along the border with Assam, India
- Timings: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry Fees: BTN 500 for SAARC nationals and BTN 1,000 for other foreign nationals
- Famous For: Natural sal (Shorea robusta) forest, Gaur (Indian bison), Asian elephants, and chital (spotted deer)
Torsa Strict Nature Reserve
Torsa Strict Nature Reserve (officially Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve) is an excellent place for Birdwatching in Bhutan. Spanning approximately 609 square kilometers, this natural reserve encompasses diverse habitats, including montane broadleaf and conifer forests, alpine meadows, and scattered lakes, such as Sinchulungpa. Recognized as an IBA (Important Bird Area), Torsa is significant for vulnerable species, including the chestnut-breasted partridge, wood snipe, and rufous-necked hornbill. This place serves as an ideal place for researchers and conservationists, boasting rugged terrain, pristine forests, and rare wildlife encounters.
- Location: Western Bhutan (Haa and Samtse districts)
- Timings: Varies based on permit
- Entry Fees: Restricted entry- special permit required
- Famous For: Undisturbed temperate ecosystems, rare birds, and being Bhutan’s only strict nature reserve.
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Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park
This is one of the largest ecologically abundant National parks in Bhutan, covering approximately 1,730 square kilometers across the heart of the country. Boasting an extraordinary altitudinal range, this park features a fascinating diversity of ecosystems. Housing several endangered and iconic species, the park also features the Mangdechu and Chamkhar rivers, beautifully flowing through its plush valleys. Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park also supports more than 5,000 residents, who live within its borders seamlessly, practicing sustainable agriculture and yak herding.
- Location: Central Bhutan (Trongsa, Wangdue Phodrang, Tsirang, Sarpang, Zhemgang)
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fees: BTN 500 for SAARC nationals; BTN 1,000 for others
- Famous For: Pristine forests, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and rich biodiversity corridors.
Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary
This is Bhutan’s smallest protected area, spread over an area of approximately 334.73 square kilometers. The Jomotsangkha wildlife sanctuary was established in 1993, serving as a significant transboundary habitat for several endangered species. It’s recommended to visit this place between March to May and late August to November for the best wildlife spotting conditions.
- Location: Southeastern Bhutan (Samdrup Jongkhar)
- Timings: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry Fees: BTN 500 for SAARC nationals; BTN 1,000 for others(Visitors are advised to contact the Bhutanese Department of Forests and Park Services or local tourism offices for the most accurate and up-to-date information)
- Famous For: Indian pangolin, gaur (Indian bison), and subtropical forests.
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
This is a remote jewel, covering 342 square kilometers with elevations from 1,500 to 4,100 m. Spotting stunning Bhutan wildlife, especially the legendary migoi (Yeti), is what makes this sanctuary widely recognized! Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is also known as the “Paradise of Rhododendrons”, harboring 35 of Bhutan’s 46 rhododendron species. The wildlife and birdlife here are equally abundant, making it a paradise for nature aficionados, birdwatchers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. It’s a rapidly growing ecotourism destination offering community homestays, guided treks, eco-camps, and conservation programs.
- Location: Eastern Bhutan (Trashigang District)
- Timings: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry Fees: BTN 500 for SAARC nationals; BTN 1,000 for others
- Famous For: Isolated semi-nomadic Brokpa community, endemic flora and fauna, and mythical yeti legends.
Wangchuck Centennial National Park
Established on December 12, 2008, Wangchuk Centennial National Park is a perfect place to experience untouched nature in Bhutan. Named in honor of Bhutan’s royal dynasty, this national park rises from roughly 2,500 m to over 5,100 m, featuring blue pine, mixed-conifer forests, alpine meadows, and scree fields. The remarkable fact about this wildlife spot is that botanical surveys have recorded over 690 species of vascular plants, which primarily include rare, high-altitude flora such as Himalayan yew, giant blue poppies, and endemic rhododendrons. Visitors can seize the excellent opportunity to witness the unique Gangkhar Puensum, the iconic and world’s highest unclimbed mountain.
- Location: Northern Bhutan (Lhuentse, Bumthang, Wangdue Phodrang, and Trashiyangtse)
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fees: BTN 500 for SAARC nationals; BTN 1,000 for others
- Famous For: Himalayan landscapes, glaciers, snow leopards, and high-altitude medicinal plants.
Thrumsing La National Park (Formerly Known as Phrumsengla)
Phrumsengla National Park, now known as Thrumsingla National Park, is a park bisected by the Lateral Road and encompasses the Thrumshing La pass, the second-highest motorable pass in Bhutan. The stunningly diverse ecosystem, featuring 152 medicinal plants and 21 species endemic to Bhutan, makes this park truly unique. This is a significant national park, serving as Bhutan’s biological corridors by connecting various protected areas and facilitating the movement of wildlife. The best part about visiting this place? Visitors can explore the in situ Rhododendron Garden at Thrumshing La Pass, which features 22 rhododendron species. It is believed to be best visited from March to May.
- Location: Central Bhutan (covers Bumthang, Lhuentse, Mongar, and Zhemgang districts)
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fees: BTN 500 for SAARC nationals; BTN 1,000 for others
- Famous For: Rufous-necked hornbills, red pandas, and Himalayan black bears
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bhutan’s National Parks open to all tourists?
Yes, all national parks in Bhutan are open to tourists. However, they follow a strictly regulated and controlled entry under the country’s “High Value, Low Impact” policy. Traveling with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator is advisable, as park entry is subject to specific permits and entry fees.
Is camping allowed inside National parks in Bhutan?
Yes, camping is permitted in specific designated zones within national parks in Bhutan. Wild camping refers to setting up a tent or campsite anywhere without prior approval, which is strictly prohibited to protect delicate ecosystems and minimize wildlife disturbance.
Is spotting snow leopards in Bhutan National Parks possible?
Spotting a snow leopard in Bhutan is possible, but a rare experience. This is possible in Wangchuck Centennial National Park, Jigme Dorji National Park, and certain parts of Phrumsengla National Park.
Which plants are protected in Bhutan’s national parks?
Bhutan’s national parks are home to a diverse species of beautiful plants and flora. Over 5,400 plant species are found across the country’s ecosystems, ranging from tropical forests in the south to alpine meadows in the north.
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