Bhutan: The 5 National Parks

Bhutan, the country with the gross domestic happiness, also makes visitors happy with its national parks. Amazing nature happens in beautiful mountain landscapes. In total, there are five national parks and several other protected areas and nature reserves.

Royal Manas National Park

The Kingdom of Bhutan used to have a royal hunting ground. Today, here is the Royal Manas National Park, which protects a large area of nature on more than a thousand square kilometers. As early as 1966, the park was designated as a Wildlife Sanctuary, making it the oldest protected area in Bhutan. Several unique animal species live here in a unique ecosystem. To support the protection, this park is now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Located in the south of the country, the national park borders with the Mana River on the northern border of India. In the summer months, the monsoon brings heavy rains, so if you prefer it dry, it is better to visit this park in winter. During the visit, besides impressive landscapes, extraordinary animals can be found. For example, armored rhinos, Asian elephants and the majestic Royal Bengal tigers live here. In addition, there are over 500 different species of birds, some of which are threatened with extinction and find protection here.

Wangchuck Centennial National Park

With almost 5000 km², this park is the largest in the whole kingdom. Since it was only established in 2008, it is also considered the youngest park in Bhutan. The mountains rise here over 5000 meters in height and several long rivers run through the country. Due to the high altitude in the north of the country, rare animals can be found in Wangchuck-Centennial National Park, such as snow leopards and Bengal tigers. The shaggy takine and Himalayan black bears are also among the inhabitants of the park. 

In addition to nature and wildlife, traditional Bhutanese nomadic life can be experienced here. Every year at the end of February the nomad festival takes place, in which the nomads present their dances, traditional food and handicrafts.

It is also worth visiting the hot springs of Dhur. The nine springs are said to promise different healing effects for various diseases. A visit to the springs is always beneficial!

Jigme Dorji National Park

With over 4000 km², the second largest national park in Bhutan borders directly on China in the Himalayas and is home to mountains over 7000 meters high. These promise for the experienced hiker dreamlike views over the vastness of the natural landscape. However, it is not always easy to get there in this park: trekking is allowed, but there are only very few developed paths. For the most part, nature has free rein here without being disturbed by crowds of people. Thus, snow leopards, cat bears and golden langurs feel particularly at home here.

What is unusual about this park is that all four national symbols of Bhutan can be found here: not only blue poppies and cypresses grow here, but also ravens and takins can be found in the area. Thus, the Jigme Dorji sets an important foundation stone for the Bhutanese nationality.

Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park

Named after the former king of Bhutan, who relinquished the throne to his son in 2006, this national park is located in the center of the country. Characterized by gigantic mountain peaks and picturesque valleys, the park is a must-see for all lovers of good views. The fauna is also a unique feature here, quite a few animal species that most Europeans have never heard of can be found here. Ever seen a sambar? The horse deer grows up to 260 kilos and is one of the larger inhabitants of this mountainous area.

Of interest to birdwatchers: the endangered imperial herons are also at home here, and black-necked cranes sweep their mighty wings through the cold air when they come all this way to winter.

Phrumsengla National Park

Pristine coniferous forests as far as the eye can see in the mountains blend with dense, vibrant deciduous forests in the subtropical areas of this park. An ideal place for hikers! Even more, if you are lucky, you can encounter the red panda or a snow leopard. Less hidden are the breathtaking waterfalls that line the mountains. You will not regret a visit to this park in the center of the Asian country!

The five national parks in Bhutan are definitely worth a visit. If you're looking for more travel inspiration, check out TripLegend on Instagram by. Or book directly your own Bhutan adventure.