Bhutan

What You Should Know More About Bhutan

• 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 Bhutan. 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

  
  

  
  

  
  

• When is the best time to visit Bhutan?

  Bhutan is a beautiful place and is all weather friendly country attracting tourists throughout the year. Spring is considered as the best time to explore Bhutan because of the flora that turns this country into a spectacle.

  • October to December is considered as the ideal time to explore Bhutan as the weather remains calm and fresh. This is also the period when you can attend Black-Necked Crane Festival.
  • If you want to experience the winter, then January and February is the right time to visit. This is also the period when you can join the Punakha Dromche & Tshechu festival in February. You can even expect some snowfall during the month of Feb.

• How to reach Bhutan?

  The best and fastest way to reach Bhutan is by airways. The country has the only one International airport at Paro located at the 7,300 feet above the sea level. If boarding from Kathmandu airport, one can enjoy some enigmatic mountain views between Nepal and Bhutan.

  • By Air:

  Bhutan can be reached by Air, and its National Air Carrier Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operates regular flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and other regions. IGIA (Delhi), Bagdogra International Airport (Darjeeling, West Bengal) and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata) are major airports serving direct flights to Paro Airport. There are no direct flights from Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Chennai.

• Do I need a visa for Bhutan? How does one get a Bhutan visa?

  For Indian nationals visiting to Bhutan are not required to carry Visa, but instead can carry two valid documents "Valid Indian Passport with the validity of 6 months and Voter ID. However, tourists coming from other countries must have visa clearance before arriving to the country. Indians arriving to Bhutan by road need to obtain "Entry Permit" from the Immigration Office of Royal Government of Bhutan

• What is the currency of Bhutan and where can I get my money exchanged?

  The currency of Bhutan is called as Bhutanese Ngultrum and Indian currency is acceptable in Bhutan. However, you cannot carry Rs 500 and Rs 1000/-.

  International tourists can exchange currency at the Foreign exchange desk at Paro Airport and Banks in Bhutan. You’ll find ATMs frequently, so you don’t have to worry about carrying heavy cash. You can even exchange currency in Hotels.

• Which are the major tourist attractions in Bhutan?

  Bhutan is the most beautiful country and is known for its mountainous regions and beautiful monasteries. Trekking spots, monasteries and Buddhist Relics create visuals around. Bhutan is called as Last Shangri-La comprising of Majestic Himalayas and plethora of flora and fauna. For tourists, there are some amazing places to visit in Bhutan which are an absolute no-miss:

  • Rinpung Dzong, Paro
  • Chele La Pass, Paro
  • Punakha Dzong
  • Buddha Dordenma Statue, Thimphu
  • Tiger Nest Monastery
  • Zuri Dzong Hike
  • Gangtey Valley
  • Phogjikha Valley
  • Chomolhari
  • Cheli La
  • Wangchuck Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Tower of Trongsa Museum

• What are the things to do in Bhutan?

  Bhutan is an adventurous location offering multiple options for tourist to do around. From trekking to visiting monastery or joining the festival celebration, there are many things you can do throughout the trip. You can make your trip memorable by planning things prior to the trip and hunting down some amazing locations to explore. Bhutan has a colourful story and its every place has something to offer. You can set a theme holiday to explore the place that can remain in your memories lifelong:

  Adventurous Things to do in Bhutan:

  • Rafting
  • Trekking
  • Take a Bike Trip to different Places
  • Camping in Wild areas of Bhutan
  • Trek to Dagala in winter
  • Nabji Korphu Community Trek
  • Kayaking at Paro Valley, Trongsa and Punakha Valley
  • Cycling in Paro Valley passing through Thimphu, Dochula and Ura
  • Rock Climbing in Thimphu
  • Mounting Biking in Paro Valley, Wangthang La, Tongsa and others
  • Taste the Bhutan Food:

  One of the important things to do in Bhutan is to taste the Ema Datshi- red hot mix of chillies and cheese, and is the country's favourite dish. You can even try- Phaksha Paa, Jasha Maru and others.

  Attend Festivals:

  Bhutan is colourful and its festivals and tradition are worth witnessing. Attending festival is a must in monasteries and temples. Tsechu is one such festival that draws huge crowd.

• What is the local food of Bhutan? Which are the best places to taste this food?

  The culinary and cuisine of Bhutan is spicy, and if you love spicy food, then Bhutan has lot to offer. There are hotels in Bhutan that offer some tasty and spicy food. Bhutanese food has a quite influence of China, India and Tibet. If you want to try some local food here, then some of the best options are:

  • Ema Datshi
  • Jasha Maroo or Maru
  • Phaksha Paa
  • Momos (Dumplings)
  • Red Rice

  Restaurants where you'll find this food items are:

  • Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant
  • Bukhari at Uma by COMO
  • Ambient Cafe
  • Galingkha
  • Chig-ja-gye at Taj Tashi
  • Swiss Guest House

• What is the best public transport to commute around Bhutan?

  Bhutan doesn’t have huge population and neither it is too large that requires trains to get transported and tour around. The best way to explore and tour around is by foot or by road. The local transport here is the Taxi which you can majorly find in Phuentsholing, Paro, Jakar and Thimphu. Though they have meters, but are hardly used and so taxis run on flat rate.

  For a full day trip, you can expect a charge of Rs 1500-Rs 2000/- charge from taxi driver. Avoid travelling in public bus because they're mostly crowded and you may get confused in getting down at the dropping point.

• Do I need to have any vaccinations before the trip to Bhutan?

  Well, it is recommended to carry some medications when packing for Bhutan. As the climatic condition and food taste changes, there can be health issues following you. There is a high risk of diarrhoea, respiratory infection and other infectious disease. This will certainly interrupt your trip. Before you head for Bhutan, do pack some medications and seek doctor advice regarding the medicines that need to be taken during health issues. Get yourself equipped with vaccination for Hepatitis A/B and Typhoid that can attack your body through contaminated water and food in Bhutan.

• Which are the best shopping places in Bhutan and what are they famous for?

  Bhutan is rich with linguistic and 19 dialects are spoken in the country. The national language spoken in Bhutan is Dzongka, which means the language spoken in Dzongs. Along with this, there are two other languages spoken- Tshanglakha and Lhotshamkha. The language differs according to the region. English is being taught in schools and colleges and is widely spoken as communication.

  Some of the common greeting phrases are:

  • Greetings: Kuzoo Zangpo La
  • How Are You?- Gadaybay Zhu Ga?
  • Thank You-Kaadinchey la
  • Welcome- Tashi Delek

• What are the top Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan?

  Bhutan is known for offering handmade items including hand-woven fabrics, carved masks, woven baskets and others. If you're in a mood to shop some handicrafts products, then Bhutan offers some great options. Bhutanese textiles are the best way thing you can invest on while shopping.

  Bhutanese Textiles:

  Bhutan is rich with textiles and defines cultural identity. The fabrics weaved are intrinsic and are finely printed. So when it comes to buying textile items, you've options like- eternal knots, double thunderbolts, tree of life etc. You can shop for shawls made up Yak wool, Pashmina and sheep wool that are highly sold across markets of Bhutan.

  Visit Thimphu where you'll find some craft stalls in Norzim Lan near Taj Tashi. Some of the good options to shop around are:

  • National Handicrafts Emporium
  • Sephub Gyeltsen Tsongkhang
  • Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre
  • Cheencho Handicrafts
  • Main Market Paro to shop for paintings
  • Authentic Crafts Bazaar in Thimphu

• What are the top water sports in Bhutan?

  Bhutan is blessed with some finely architect Buddhist monasteries that offers peace and solace. Be it the exterior or interior, every monastery here is amazingly designed keeping the culture and tradition in mind. Most of these monasteries are situated on the hill top giving an amazing view of mountains. Reaching these monasteries can be a task, but upon reaching you'll fall in love with its artistic work and peace the place offers. Some of the top Buddhist monasteries to visit in Bhutan are:

  • Taktsang Dzong
  • Punakha Dzong
  • Tango Monastery
  • Tongsa- The Door to Heaven
  • Cheri Monastery
  • Rinpung Dzong- Paro
  • Lhuentse Dzong
  • Pangri Zampa Monastery
  • Dechen Phodrang Monastery

• Where to go rock-climbing in Bhutan?

  Planning for some adrenaline experience while in Bhutan? Then why not try your hands on some water sports. Rafting and Kayaking are the most favourite adventure followed in Bhutan and offers an amazing experience. The crystal clear water of Bhutan are the part of six major rivers-Wang Chhu, Sunkosh, Puna Tsang Chhu, Mangde Chhu, Kuri Chhu and Dangme Chhu and their tributaries. These rivers are formed by the glacial-melt of the Eastern Himalayas.

  Bhutanese rafting and kayaking guides offer complete safety to rafters. Some of the best routes of Kayaking and Rafting are:

  • Paro Chhu (Bondey- Isuna Bridge)
  • Upper Pho Chhu ( Wangthangkha – Samdingkha)
  • Mo Chhu – Tashitang Devil’s Gorge Section (Tashithang- Below Punakha Dzong)
  • Mangde Chhu – Upper Section (Yundo Choling Palace- Langthel)
  • While drifting through the water, one can enjoy the scenic view of mountains and monasteries.

• Where can one witness archery competitions in Bhutan?

  Introduced in the year 1998 by Vertical Bhutan Climbing Club, Rock Climbing in Bhutan is the most promising act tourists can enjoy. The Nose is the iconic place located above Bhutan's capital Thimphu having 13 different climbing routes.

• Which are the famous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Bhutan?

  Bhutan has some protected areas which are also national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. It covers approx. 42% of the country and is largely in northern regions. These wildlife sanctuaries are home to endangered species like- kin, snow leopard, blue sheep, tiger, musk deer, red panda, Himalayan black bear and others. National parks are also rich with floral species making it worth to explore. Jigme Dorji National Park is the only park in the Bhutan which is the home to national animals like taking, raven, and cypress are found.

  Below is the list of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries:

  • Jigme Dorji National Park
  • Royal Manas National Park
  • Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Black Mountains National Park
  • Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Sakteg Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Motithang Takin Preserve
  • Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary

• Which are the top festivals in Bhutan and when to experience them?

  Archery also called Da in Dzongkha is the national sport of Bhutan and started in 1971. It is widely used as a part of sports competition in Bhutan. Many royals and locals play this game as a part of the competition. Yangphel Archery hosts the largest events naming-Yangphel Open Archery Tournament. During the tournament, there are more than 260 teams participating and is a 3 month long event.Changlingmenthang National Stadium is the place where you can enjoy watching and playing archery.
  

  Presently, tournament organizers such as Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC) encourage new archers to participate in the game and take the game forward. For Bhutanese, archery is not just sports, but is an expression of rich culture followed since ages.

• What are the adventures one can try in Bhutan?

  Bhutan is known for culture and tradition that has been followed since decades. This can also be witnessed in its festivals tourists can enjoy. These festivals are held throughout the year and offers great visuals for tourists. Masked dances, colourful dresses and pyrotechnics are some of the features of these festivals.

  Some of the festivals celebrated in Bhutan are:

  Thimphu Tsechu: It is a ten days festival held to pay homage to Guru Rinpoche and is usually held during September-October.

  Haa Summer Festival: Celebrated in the month of July, the festival is all about letting your hair down and is set in the stunning wild region of Bhutan. It is a highly waited summer festival.

  Sakteng Festival: This festival is celebrated in the month of June and is a 3 day festival. The festival is celebrated in Sakteng Valley.

  Punakha Drubchen and Tsechu:

  Celebrated in the month of February, the festival described dramatic recreation of Bhutan's 17th century battle with Tibetan army.

  Other festivals are:

  • Paro Tshechu
  • Jambay Lhakhang Drup

• Which are the most visited hot springs in Bhutan?

  Bhutan is gearing up to become the most desirable adventure location. Majestic Himalayas offer a great activity experience including- Trekking, Kayaking, Mountain Biking, Cycling and Fishing. White river rafting is the most thrilling adventure to be enjoyed in Bhutan. Thimphu, Bumdrak Camp and Paro are some of the top location for adventure activity.

• What are the top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bhutan?

  Hot spring in Bhutan is known as Tshachus and is found across Bhutan. Bhutanese people use this hot springs as a medicinal property to curve various health ailments and body pains. While you're in Bhutan, it is important to visit these hot spring locations:

  • The Gasa Tshachu
  • Chubu Tshachu
  • Dur Tshachu
  • Duenmang Tshachu
  • Gelephu Tshachu

• What are the most romantic experiences in Bhutan for Honeymoon couples?

  Bhutan is rich with some architectural marvellous that stands out from others and are worth to be in the list of UNESCO Heritage site. These sites are characterized by their uniqueness and structure.

  Some of the best sites are:

  • Ancient Ruin of Drukgyel Dzong
  • Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Jigme Dorji National Park
  • Royal Manas National Park
  • Sacred sites of Phajo Drugom Zhigpo and his Descendants
  • Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Tamzhing Monastery

• Which is the best clubs one can visit to experience nightlife in Bhutan?

  Bhutan may not offer the most crazy nightlife like other countries, but it will still amaze you with its nightlife. Thimphu is the city where you can enjoy the best of nightlife. It has hosted some events of big names like- Mick Jagger, Cameron Diaz, Matt Dillon, etc. The entry fee is cheap and you'll enjoy some traditional Bhutanese music in some occasion. Some of the best clubs to enjoy the nightlife of Bhutan are:

  • Vivacity
  • Mojo Park
  • Club Ace
  • Space 34

• Which are the best trekking trails in Bhutan?

  If trekking is in your list on touring to Bhutan, then you're going to enjoy the best of the journey. The country has long preserved its culture and amazing scenic views that makes it most revitalizing place on the earth. For those who want to have some adventurous time and challenge themselves, then Bhutan offers some amazing and thrilling locations for trekking trials. For trekking, the best months are March to May and September to October. These trekking trails in Bhutan, are easy to very difficult. Depending on your experience and energy level, you must try these trekking trails. Some of the top trekking trails are:

  • The Jhomolhari Trek
  • Druk Path Trek
  • Snowman Trek
  • Duer Hot Springs Trek
  • Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek
  • Snowman Trek II
  • Nabji Korphu Trek
  • Merak Sakteng Trek
  • Gangtey Trek
  • Bumthang Owl Trek

• Here are the best tips Thrillophilia has to offer for your trip to Bhutan

  Bhutan is the storytellers’ country and offers some great locations to explore. Its rich culture and tradition shouldn't be missed. Some of the advice Thrillophilia would like to give are:

  • Stay equipped with health and travel insurance
  • Don't carry enough cash, as it can attract pickpockets. Also you'll find some ATM at every 2-5km of distance
  • Stay updated with locations and its name
  • If trekking, then do carry trekking kits
  • Hire a guide if needed

  Recommendations:

  Some of the recommended places are:

  • Taktsang
  • Gangtey Valley
  • Punakha Dzong
  • Tiger's Nest Monastery

  Do a good research about the places in Bhutan to make your journey easy.