The Royal Botanical Park falls under the biological corridor connecting the two national parks. It is the first of its kind in the country, which is designed to inspire the overall preservation of Bhutan’s rich ecological and cultural heritage. About an hour drive from the capital city, close to the magnificent 108 Druk Wangyal stupas at the Dochula pass (3100m), the park has a rich biodiversity. The highlight, however, is the rhododendron garden, which boasts 29 species, of the 46 found in Bhutan. It is in full bloom from mid-March till early-August.
In addition there are many nature trails that you can take up for hiking across the landscape, which can be best described as breathtaking.
Demography: 1st time Leisure Travelers / Nature Enthusiast / Explorer.
Duration: 5-7 days
Best to visit: Throughout the year.
Highlights
- It’s only about an hour drive from the capital city of Thimphu.
- The Rhododendron Garden featuring 29 of the 46 species found in Bhutan.
- Eco-Camp with tenting sites let nature lovers and enthusiasts more time to explore the wilderness.
- Baritsho Lake within the park is considered sacred; prior to farming or harvesting, the local people make offerings to this lake.
- Open picnic spots with children’s playground.
- Nature Trails that can be hiked in one day: Rhododendron Trail (25 minutes); Serchu Nature Trail (45 minutes); Dochula Nature Trail (1hour); Lumitsawa Ancient Trail (2 hrs); Lungchu Tshey Pilgrimage (2hours); Thadna Jungle Walk (8hrs).
- You can visit the 108 Druk Wangyel stupas and can see the magnificent Himalayan range at a distance.