Kate Middleton and Prince William Are in Bhutan: Here Are 4 Places They Should Visit Inline
Photo: Getty Images1/4Punakha Dzong, or “The Palace of Great Happiness”
This architectural wonder—six stories, centered around three courtyards, and situated on an island—was built in 1638 (the site of the coronation of Bhutan’s first king) and served as the seat of government of Bhutan until 1955. The building also represents the country’s vow to uphold Buddhist values and houses many sacred religious relics. The site is one of the country’s most visited and most nationally admired—Kate and Prince William and are sure to spend some time here, since their hosts, Bhutan’s king and queen, were married here in 2011.
Photo: Courtesy of The Paro Taktsang Monastery2/4Paro Taktsang Monastery
Also known as Tiger’s Nest, this Himalayan Buddhist site is one of Bhutan’s most sacred. The site was founded in the eighth century as a meditation cave, with a temple building that is situated on the edge of a very steep cliff. While it may take several hours to trek (trek being the operative word, not hike), this is one of Bhutan’s most spiritual excursions, one that the royal couple can surely handle—there are rest stops for tea and beautiful shrines along the way.
Photo: Courtesy of Amankora3/4Amankora
Unless King Jigme and Queen Jetsun put Will and Kate up in their palace for the entire trip, this is the place where royalty should stay. An Aman resort, the Amankora is made up of five lodges—in the towns of Paro, Thimphu, Gangtey, Bumthang, and Punakha—with 72 suites total, all gorgeously wood paneled and minimally decorated. There are spa treatments and private hot spring baths, as well as fine dining that gives nod to traditional Bhutanese dishes (yak carpaccio, anyone?).
Photo: Getty Images4/4Thimphu
The current capital of Bhutan, Thimphu is home to many colorful dance festivals and markets throughout the year. Specifically, the Centenary Farmers Weekend Market is perhaps the best place to view and shop the largest variety of produce and crafts from local farmers. Wandering through Thimphu, one can also visit cultural centers like the Royal Textile Academy, the National Folk Heritage Museum, and the bronze Statue of Sakyamuni Buddha.
