Bhutan

What You Should Know More About Bhutan

• About the destination:

  Bhutan is one remarkable tourist place. Enshrouded in magic and mystery, it is the last extravagant Himalayan kingdom where the traditional Buddhist culture humbly embraces the international developments. So, why should you put in money and spend your holidays here? First and foremost, Bhutan is an incredible Himalayan landscape with its snow capped mountains towering the canyons veiled in the primeval forests. What really holds a significant position in the picturesque landscape of Bhutan is its royal citadel like monasteries and dzongs. Its exquisite architecture makes way for the eye catching dance festivals or tsechus that receive a footfall of predominantly medieval looking audience. Further there is stunning flora and faina, array of water sports, high altitude trekking trails, textiles and handicrafts to indulge in some traditional shopping along with outrageous archery competitions. If it is not ‘Shangri La’, it is just as close as it could get.

  People of Bhutan take immense pride on its sustainable approach to tourism that is in keeping with the philosophy of Gross National ‘Happiness.’ Bhutan does foster its Buddhist Traditions however it is not a museum. People here are fun loving, well educated and well informed about the world around them. It is this amalgam of traditional and modern that makes Bhutan effortlessly fascinating.   

  
  

• Travel Advice

  • Make sure you have a medical or travel insurance before going to Bhutan. One can easily get a travel insurance via the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan.

  • Some of the currency notes denominations (500 and 1000) are not accepted in Bhutan. So, avoid using the same.

  • You can easily spot an ATM after a distance of 2-5 km. So, make sure when you go out there is just enough cash that lets you commute and enjoy. Carrying excess cash can be an invitation for pick pockets.

  • Strictly avoid traveling during the night hours.

  • Make sure whenever you go in secluded trails or destinations, you are in a group.

  • Don’t let anyone mislead you.

  • Stay away from drugs or narcotics in any form.

  • Bhutan is slightly on a cooler side. So, ensure that you have your woolens with you when traveling here.

  • If you are up for some trekking, do wear comfortable shoes as the trails are steep here.

  • Carry your first aid kit with you.

  • Trekkers must have a trekking kit with them.

  • Dress appropriately if you go to a religious place.

  • Don’t photograph wherever prohibited.

  • Film or take videos only with permissions.  

  • Hire a guide only from a reputed agency.

• Drinking Laws

  There is no ban on alcohol in Bhutan. Moreover, drinking the traditional alcohol of this place is believed to be a tradition.

  
  

• Our Recommendations: What you can’t afford to miss?

  Taktsang

  This is one of the pivotal sightseeing destinations and Buddhist monasteries of Bhutan. Nestled on the vertical cliff that lies 3000 meters north of Paro, this monastery was constructed in the year 1692. If legends are to be believed, Guru Rinpoche flew on this cliff from Tibet on the back of a raging tigress.  

  
  Gangtey Valley in winter

  Majestic valley of Gangtey is indeed one of the most eye catching valleys in the Himalayas. Many refer to this valley as the Shangri-La of Bhutan. This beautiful valley encloses within it an element of surprise. It is often rare to spot a wide, flat valley bereft trees after making a hard climb amidst the dense forests since most of the valleys of the Bhutan are tightly enclosed. Trekking to the valley is an important thing to do in Bhutan. Visit during the month of April when the valley is in full bloom. 

  
  Punakha Dzong

  Panukha Dzong is the second largest and second oldest dzong in Bhutan. Some even refer to this dzong as the Palace of Great Happiness or the Pungthang Dewachen Phodrang. This is indeed one of the most beautiful and majestic dzong of the country. You can reach the dzong by taking a 3-hour drive towards the east of the capital city, Thimpu. It strategically lies amidst the two rivers Mo Chu (female) and Pho Chu (male) that showcases a noticeable color difference when it comes to water. 

  
  Tiger’s Nest Monastery

  The Tiger’s Nest Monastery hangs on a tall cliff and towers above an enticing forest of blue rhododendrons and pines. To reach this striking monastery you will have to undertake a sheer climb up the hill of 900 meters. Trekking up to the monastery is an important adventure activity of this region. You can also take a pony ride but that is available only until the cafeteria. Post that you’ll have to take a steep walk with few narrow stairs towards the monastery. 

  
  

• What you will like there?

  Happiness is the key to Bhutan’s Tourism

  Bhutan takes immense pride on its sustainable approach to tourism. It is the only country in the world that measures GNH Gross National Happiness as the pivotal indicator of prosperity.

  
  

  Traditional – Authentic – Pure - Divine

  Wouldn’t it be great to tour to a country that still lives by its very values, traditions and the environment? In such a case, the future and legacy are of prime importance to the government and everyone works for development in a cultural way. That’s Bhutan for you!

  
  

  Low Volume, High Impact

  Except for tourists traveling from Maldives, India and Bangladesh, the tariff rates for tourist of US is $250 every day. Now, if you first look at the figure it may seem to be very pricey however, what’s important to know is that this amount is inclusive of food, accommodation, an official tour guide and transportation. To burst the myth, there is zero limit to the tourist visas. Nationals of India do not need a visa and a licensed tour guide to explore.

  
  

  Food Utopia

  Bhutan is one tourist place where chilies aren’t just a seasoning but rather the most important ingredient and rice is usually red. The national dish of Bhutan, Ema Datshi is a spicy blend of green chilies smothered in cheese.  

  
  

  A Cultural Legacy

  Bhutan is predominantly filled with citadels and monasteries. Buddhism is embossed deeply in the soul of the country and is galvanized by the intriguing cultural beliefs.   

  
  

  Natural Wonders

  When you are out exploring the various places to see in Bhutan, you’ll get the first hand view of the natural wonders found in this beautiful nation. Go on the adventure ride here and trek across the mountains to witness the flora and fauna, unique mammals and birds, that are protected in the different national parks here.  

  
  

  Welcomes with Goodbye

  Bhutan is one of the most amicable countries across the globe. Here you’ll have the warm smiles and sweet good byes (In Bhutan good byes are used for welcoming the tourists) greet you everywhere.

  
  

  Monklettes

  Monklettes or rather little kid monks clad in saffron robes are the cutest site to watch in Bhutan.

  
  

  Tshechu

  Tshechu is an annual religious festival of this country. This is widely celebrated in all the key dzongs and monasteries. Tshechus are typically social gatherings where people from near and far partake to witness the different dance and cultural performances.

  
  

• Recommended reads for destination

  Website : 

  Govt. Tourism

  Forum : 

  TripAdvisor Bhutan