Camping in Bhutan is an incredible way to enjoy nature, mountains and valleys. Bhutan has fresh air, green forests and high snowy peaks, making it perfect for outdoor trips. You can choose camping or a more comfortable stay amidst the beautiful nature. There are several places to explore, including Paro’s beautiful mountains and the quiet Phobjikha Valley. Camping is also a nice way to enjoy trekking and explore nature. Spending time in nature with your loved ones imparts happy memories in this peaceful and beautiful country.
10 Best Spots For Camping In Bhutan
Here are some of the most amazing places for camping in Bhutan, offering a unique experience amidst the lap of nature:
1. Punakha Valley
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Punakha Valley is a beautiful place to opt for camping in Bhutan. It has green rice fields, small hills, and Punakha Dzong. The valley is not very high, so the weather is usually optimum. There are clean rivers where you can go rafting, fishing, or just sit and relax. You can also visit Dochula Pass to see the Himalayas and Chimi Lhakhang, a famous temple. The valley, being peaceful, is perfect for trekking. If you are an admiror of nature, this is an amazing place to enjoy camping and taking strolls in Bhutan.
Must Have Experiences: Camp along the Mo Chhu River and explore Punakha Dzong
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Paro International Airport (125 km)
2. Phobjikha Valley
Photo: Prof. Mortel / Wikimedia Commons
Phobjikha Valley is a wonderful place for a family to camp in Bhutan. It is in central Bhutan and has beautiful green fields and peaceful views. The weather is cool, and the air is fresh, making it perfect for camping. Rare black-necked cranes migrate here in winter, which makes it special for nature lovers. You can also visit the Gangtey Monastery nearby. It is a calm and quiet place to enjoy nature and relax. If your family loves outdoor trips, this valley is a great choice for a fun camping experience in Bhutan.
Must Have Experiences: Camp near the black-necked crane habitat and visit Gangtey Monastery
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Paro International Airport (150 km)
3. Haa Valley
Photo: Greenmnm69 / Wikimedia Commons
Haa Valley is a beautiful place in western Bhutan with green forests, quiet rivers, and small villages. It is perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy adventure. Many people visit to go trekking, see birds, and explore the outdoors. There are old temples like Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple). You can also camp here and see snow-covered mountains and farmhouses. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is nice. If you want to enjoy nature, camping in Bhutan for the family is a great way to experience this peaceful valley.
Must Have Experiences: Camp near the Haa River and visit Lhakhang Karpo
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Paro International Airport (65 km)
4. Bumthang Valley
Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons
Bumthang Valley is a spectacular place to go for winter camping in Bhutan. The valley has old temples, green hills, tranquil trails and mesmerising views. Known as the cultural heart of the country, it is perfect for people who love nature and serenity. You can visit famous temples like Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang to learn about Bhutan’s history. The weather is cool in winter, making it a nice time for budget camping in Bhutan. Bumthang also has the Jakar Tshechu festival, reflecting Bhutanese culture.
Must Have Experiences: Trek through the beautiful valley and visit ancient monasteries
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Bathpalathang Airport (Bumthang)
5. Ura Valley
Photo: Chris Hunkeler / Wikimedia Commons
Ura Valley is an amazing place in the Bumthang region, perfect for a peaceful trip. It has green fields, small stone houses, and yaks walking around. Every year, there is a special festival called Ura Yakchoe, where visitors can see Bhutanese traditions. During camping here, you can walk through the meadows, inhale fresh air, and meet friendly locals. The valley is also a great place for trekking, as the paths are easy to walk and offer amazing views.
Must Have Experiences: Visit Ura Monastery and interact with locals
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Bathpalathang Airport (65 km)
6. Jigme Dorji National Park
Photo: A. J. T. Johnsingh, WWF-India and NCF / Wikimedia Commons
Jigme Dorji National Park is the biggest park in Bhutan, covering 4,316 square kilometres in the northwest. It is a great place for nature and adventure lovers. You can see rare animals like snow leopards, Bengal tigers, and red pandas. The park has beautiful valleys, lakes, and forests. People also come here to trek and enjoy the fresh air. Staying here is an incredible way to be close to nature. This makes it a perfect choice for budget camping in Bhutan, where you can enjoy wildlife and amazing views.
Must Have Experiences: Wildlife spotting and hiking in the park
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Paro International Airport (120 km)
7. Paro Valley
Photo: Nina R / Wikimedia Commons
Paro Valley has tall mountains, green fields and ancient temples. The famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery is on a high cliff. You can camp near the Paro River, breathe fresh air and relax by a warm fire at night. In the daytime, you can visit temples and small villages, peaceful and perfect for nature lovers. A great place for trekking, many people come here to relax and enjoy the beautiful views. If you love nature and adventure, this is a wonderful place to visit.
Must Have Experiences: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery and camp near Paro Chhu River
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Paro International Airport
8. Laya Gasa
Photo: Hermann / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The best camp in Bhutan for an exciting experience is the Laya Gasa Trek. This trek takes you through high mountains, green valleys, and thick forests. You will see beautiful snow-covered peaks and wide grasslands. Laya is a small village where the Layap people live. Camping here lets you learn about their culture and way of life. The trek also takes you to the Gasa Hot Springs, where you can relax in warm water after a long walk. It is great for nature lovers and adventure seekers who want to explore Bhutan’s beauty.
Must Have Experiences: Meet the Layap people and enjoy the therapeutic hot springs in Gasa
Ideal Trip Duration: 5 – 7 days (includes trek)
Nearest Airport: Paro International Airport
9. Druk Path
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
The Druk Path Trek is a short and exciting journey in Bhutan. It connects Paro to Thimphu and passes through green forests, high mountains, and clear lakes. Along the way, you will camp in beautiful places like Jili Dzong and Phajoding Monastery. From these spots, you can see the amazing Himalayas. This trek is a great choice for people who love nature and adventure. The best time to go is in spring or autumn when the weather is clear. If you are looking for the best camp in Bhutan, this trek offers a wonderful camping experience in a beautiful setting.
Must Have Experiences: Witness the breathtaking view of Mount Jomolhari from Simkotra Tsho Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 6 days
Nearest Airport: Paro International Airport
10. Duer Hot Springs
Photo: ArtTower / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Duer Hot Springs Trek is great for people who love adventure and rest. It takes you to a beautiful hot spring deep in Bumthang. While walking, you will see thick forests, open fields, and high mountains. You can set up a tent near the hot springs and relax in the warm water, which is ideal for the body. This trek and camp is perfect for those who enjoy tranquil places and nature.
Must Have Experiences: Relax in the natural hot springs of Duer and enjoy the stunning views
Ideal Trip Duration: 5 – 7 days
Nearest Airport: Bathpalathang Airport (Bumthang)
Camping in Bhutan is perfect for those who love nature, adventure, and peace. Bhutan has numerous camping spots like Phobjikha Valley, Bumthang, Haa Valley, and Jigme Dorji National Park. You can enjoy stunning views, rich culture, and warm hospitality here. Whether you want a luxury or budget-friendly experience, Bhutan has it all. Plan your trip with TripXL and enjoy an amazing camping adventure in Bhutan!
Cover Photo: Scott Goodwill / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only