Hot Springs in Bhutan: Gasa, Punakha and Bumthang Guide

Bhutan's natural hot springs, known locally as tshachus, are a genuine part of Bhutanese wellness tradition, believed to have healing properties and used by locals for both relaxation and, traditionally, treatment of specific ailments.

Gasa Tshachu Among the best known of Bhutan's hot springs, Gasa's tshachu sits near Gasa Dzong in the country's north and is popular with both locals and visitors, particularly in the cooler months when a hot mineral soak is most appealing.

Punakha and nearby springs The Punakha region, already a common stop on most Bhutan itineraries for its dzong, has hot springs within reach that can be added as a side trip for travellers with an extra day built in.

Bumthang's springs Bumthang, in central Bhutan, has its own set of tshachus and is generally visited as part of a longer central-Bhutan circuit rather than a standard western-Bhutan trip.

What a visit actually involves Most tshachus have several pools of varying temperature, often housed in fairly simple structures rather than resort-style spa facilities — expect a genuinely local, no-frills experience rather than a luxury wellness retreat, which is part of the appeal for many visitors.

Best time to visit Winter (roughly November through February) is traditionally considered the best season for a hot spring visit, both for the contrast with Bhutan's cold mountain air and because this is when locals traditionally use the springs most.

Planning your trip Gasa and Bumthang's hot springs sit outside our current Bhutan — Phuentsholing, Thimphu & Paro route, which covers western Bhutan — get in touch if you'd like a hot springs extension added to your Bhutan itinerary.