Paro (Altitude: 2200m)

This beautiful valley, which encapsulates within itself rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends, is home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries, the country's only airport and the National Museum. Mount. Jhomolhari (7300m) reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley and its glacial waters plunge through deep gorges to form the Pa Chu (Paro river). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the Kingdom, producing a bulk of the famous red rice from its terraced fields.

Thimphu (Altitude: 2150m)

The capital of Bhutan, and the center of government, religion and commerce, it is a unique city with an unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital city, Thimphu is still a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants, expatriates and the monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural style.

Phuntsholing (Altitude: 400m)

It is the gateway to the south and a thriving commercial center on the northern edge of the Indian plains. Situated directly at the base of the Himalayan foothills, Phuntsholing is a fascinating mixture of Indian and Bhutanese, a perfect example of mingling of people and their culture. Phuntsholing serves as the convenient entry/exit point for Bhutan and also the important link to visit the Indian state of West Bengal, Sikkim and Assam.

Punakha (Altitude:1350m)

Punakha served, as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and is still the winter seat of Je Khenpo (chief Abbot). Blessed with temperate climate and fed by Pho Chu (male) and Mo Chu (female) rivers, Punakha is the most fertile valley in the country. There are splendid views of the distant Himalayas at Dochula pass (alt. 3,100 m) on Thimphu - Punakha road.

Wangdiphodrang (Altitude: 1350m)

The last town before central Bhutan, Wangdiphodrang is like an enlarged village with a few well provided shops. Located towards the south of Punakha, the higher reaches of the Wangdiphodrang valley provide rich pastureland for cattle. This district is also famous for its fine bamboo work and its slate, stone carvings.

Trongsa (Altitude: 2300m)

Trongsa forms the central hub of the nation and is historically the place from where attempts at unifying the country were launched. The landscape around Trongsa is spectacular and for miles on end, the Dzong seems to tease you, wondering if you will ever reach them.

Bumthang (Altitude: 2600m – 4100m)

This fascinating valley is the religious heartland of the nation and home to some of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. Here tales of Guru Padsambhava and his re-incarnates, known as Lingpas, still linger in most nooks and corners that have become now sacred ground.

Mongar (Altitude: 1700m)

The journey from Bumthang to Mongar is one of the most beautiful in the Himalayas crossing the 3,800m high Thrunsingla pass. Mongar marks the beginning of eastern Bhutan. The second largest town in the subtropical east, Mongar, like Tashigang further east, is situated on the side of a hill. This contrasts the towns of western Bhutan which are built on thevalley floor.

Trashigang (Altitude: 1150m)

In the far east of Bhutan, on the bank of Gamri Chu River, lies Trashigang, the country's largest district. Trashigang, once the center of a busy trade with Tibet, is today the junction of the east west highway with a road connecting to Samdrup Jongkhar and then to the Indian state of Assam. This town is also used as the market place for the hill people from Merak and Sakteng who are remarkable for their exceptional features and costumes.