Central Bhutan has several interconnected national parks and sanctuaries, linking habitats from the icy north to the southern jungles.

The largest reserve is the Wangchuck Centennial Park, covering altitudes from 2500- 5000 metres and consisting mostly of blue pines and Alpine meadows. It contains the headwaters of four main Bhutanese rivers and is home to Takins, Snow Leopards, Black Bears and more than a hundred species of birds.

The Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park covers much of the Trongsa district. From the southern subtropical vegetation, it rises towards the chir pine, broad-leaved and conifer forests, meadows and snow of the north. Home to more than 450 bird species (resident and migratory), and Himalayan Bears, Red Pandas and even Tigers.

Along the southern border of Bhutan lies the Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhutan’s last natural sal forest. Hornbills, Spotted Deer, Elephants, Tigers and Gaur live here.

Royal Manas Natonal Park, separated from Assam’s World Heritage listed Manas National Park by the Manas river, is the oldest reserve in Bhutan. It has a rich variety of wildlife such as the Indian Rhinos, Clouded Leopards, Water Buffaloes, Tigers, Elephants, Gangetic Dolphins (in the Manas river) and rare Golden Langurs.

Outside of the national parks, one may encounter spectacular scenery and possibly wildlife sightings on half or full day walks. The Motithang Takin Preserve in Thimpu is ideal for having a look at this curious animal if you don’t have time to visit the national parks. The Botanical Garden in Serbithang is full of native and exotic trees, shrubs and herbs, orchids and fabulous rhododendrons.

The Royal Botanical Park has trails going into the Jigme Dorji National Park, where you may encounter Musk Deer, Red Panda, handsome pheasant varieties such as the blood pheasant or the beautiful Monal. Bears and other large creatures hide deep in the forest are are rarely seen. The area is popular with birders with more than 650 species recorded in the area.