Plizio Visual Lab
Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
wildlife-area
Weather…
Water temperature…
Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary is located in southern Bhutan on the border with the Indian state of West Bengal. It covers an area of 268 square kilometers and is characterized by a tropical and subtropical climate. The protected area is unique in Bhutan as it houses the country's only natural stands of Sal forests. It is an important habitat for a variety of animal species, including the Chital deer (spotted deer), which has its only natural occurrence in Bhutan here. Elephants, tigers, and golden langurs also find refuge in the dense forests and grasslands. The region is traversed by several rivers that provide vital water sources for wildlife. The Phipsoo sanctuary plays a central role in cross-border nature conservation between Bhutan and India. It preserves an important lowland ecosystem that differs significantly from the high mountain regions of the north.
- Location: Bhutan
- Nearby: Wangdue Phodrang (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 10 | 14 | 17 | 19 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 17 | 13 | 10 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 14 | 39 | 125 | 199 | 274 | 365 | 280 | 222 | 101 | 6 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The winter months are generally considered the most favorable time to visit southern Bhutan, as the climate is much cooler and pleasant. Avoiding the heavy monsoon rains ensures that the sanctuary's roads remain passable and the wildlife is more actively foraging.
Best time of day
To maximize your chances of spotting elusive species like tigers or elephants, plan your excursions for the early morning hours or late afternoon. These cooler parts of the day are typically when animals emerge from the dense undergrowth to drink and socialize.
Etiquette
Maintaining a safe distance from potentially dangerous megafauna like elephants is strictly required for your safety. Visitors must follow all guidelines provided by local rangers, remain inside designated vehicles if on a safari, and avoid any form of feeding.
What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots are essential for traversing uneven terrain, and packing a pair of high-quality binoculars will greatly enhance your wildlife viewing experience. Given the dense forest setting, bringing insect repellent and long-sleeved shirts is a practical precaution.
Getting there
Reaching this remote sanctuary typically requires specialized transport and often necessitates securing permits well in advance. It is highly advisable to arrange your visit through an officially recognized tour operator who can navigate the complex local regulations.
What to expect
Spotting large mammals in their expansive natural habitat is never guaranteed and requires realistic expectations. Spend ample time quietly observing near water sources or clearings, as sudden movements can quickly scare off cautious animals like the chital deer.
Geography
Facts
- Covers an area of 268 square kilometers.
- The only place in Bhutan with natural Sal forests.
- Only natural habitat for Chital deer in the kingdom.
- Located on the southern border with West Bengal, India.
- Home to rare golden langurs and Asian elephants.
- The climate is predominantly tropical and subtropical.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Phipsoo located?
In the southern Sarpang district, bordering the Indian state of Assam.
What can you see there?
It is the only place in Bhutan where spotted deer (Chital) are found.
Are there tigers there?
Yes, the sanctuary is home to Bengal tigers and elephants.
When is the best time to visit?
The cooler months from November to March are the most pleasant.
Do I need a guide?
Yes, visiting is only possible with authorized guides and a permit.
Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary: where is it located?
Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Bhutan.
Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.
Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary: why is it worth visiting?
Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary is located in southern Bhutan on the border with the Indian state of West Bengal.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Bhutan →
Nearby cities
Jakar
Jakar, known as the center of the Bumthang region, is considered the spiritual heartland of Bhutan with many ancient monasteries.
Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake)
A sacred gorge in the Tang Valley where the 15th-century saint Pema Lingpa is said to have discovered hidden religious treasures.
Jamalpur
A northern city known for its nakshi kantha (embroidered quilt) handicrafts and agricultural production.
Tangail
A district famous for its traditional handloom sarees and its scenic rural landscape north of Dhaka.
Wangdue Phodrang
Wangdue Phodrang is a picturesque town built around its large historic dzong, which controls an important trade route.
Khuruthang
Khuruthang is a planned new town serving as the commercial hub for the Punakha district, just south of the historic dzong.
Punakha
Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and is famous for its majestic dzong situated at the confluence of two major rivers.
Faridpur
A district in central Bangladesh, historically significant and known for its jute production and river trade.
Lhamoizingkha
Lhamoizingkha is a subtropical border town in Bhutan, situated on the banks of the Sunkosh River in an area with lush vegetation.
Sarpang
Sarpang is the administrative center of the Sarpang district, situated at the edge of the Indian plains and surrounded by dense jungle.
History & landmarks
Tang Valley
The most remote of Bumthang's four valleys, characterized by sheep breeding, high-altitude farming, and the historic Ogyen Choling Palace.
Bumthang (Chokhor Valley)
The Chokhor Valley in Bumthang is the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, dotted with ancient temples and sacred sites.
🗺️
Tharpaling Monastery
A peaceful monastery on a steep mountainside in the Chokhor Valley.
Tamshing Lhakhang
This temple in the Chokhor Valley is known for its ancient wall paintings.
Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake)
A sacred site that is actually a gorge on the Tang Chhu river.
Ogyen Choling Palace
A historic manor in the Tang Valley turned into a fascinating museum.
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery
An impressive temple and nunnery complex situated on a ridge.
Gangtey
A historic village at 3000 meters altitude, recognized for the majestic 17th-century Gangtey Goemba monastery.
Nature
More places
Jigmeling Industrial Park
A newly developed, large-scale industrial park in Sarpang district.
Gelephu Dry Port
This inland port serves as an important logistics center for the central-south of Bhutan.
Gelephu Special Economic Zone
A groundbreaking visionary project by the King, known as the 'Mindfulness City'.
Royal Manas National Park
Bhutan's oldest national park is located in the tropical and subtropical plains of the south, acting as a biodiversity hotspot.
Teri Kang
Another seven-thousander peak in the northern mountain range, hidden deep within the rugged glacial valleys.
🗺️
Dagachhu Hydropower Plant
A hydropower project in Dagana district developed as Bhutan's first infrastructure project under a public-private partnership model.
Madhupur Tract
An elevated plateau in central Bangladesh, known for its reddish soils and Sal tree forests.
Kangphu Kang
A massive Himalayan peak on the border with Tibet, known for its massive ice cap and inaccessible location.