There is something mysterious about Bhutan, the easy yet mesmerizing land anyhow manages to touch your soul, soothe it with peace, and even fix the broken heart. The healthy climate, the breathtaking landscapes, and the sumptuous monasteries may seem a cliched way to express the beauty of Bhutan, but each term used for this beautiful country is in its most refined form. Visiting and exploring Bhutan can be a pleasant experience, something you will never disremember. Nestled in the Himalayas, the Kingdom of Bhutan is one of the most charming destinations that few tourists make it to due to its area, cost, or travel logistics.
As the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the world, Bhutan travel advice adds with a strong influential heritage, a harmonious society, and diverse natural scenery that range from Himalayan Mountains on the north to dense jungles on the south.
This all sounds wonderful and paradisiacal, it is– but since Bhutan is not your ideal holiday destination, there are various things you must take into consideration before planning your tour to “The Last Shangri-La.”
Everything That You Should Know When You Travel to Bhutan
Here are the 10 reasons explaining why you should add Bhutan in your travel bucket list:
1. Unimaginable Nature
Owing to its area in the Himalayas, Bhutan stretches over miles and miles of mountain ranges, rolling hills, and lush thick forests. In fact, over 70% of the country survives under forest retreat; this is in spring because a government policy subsists to protect Bhutan’s nature.
Bhutan is the unique country in the globe that is not only carbon neutral but is carbon negative – indicating that the Bhutanese account more CO2 than they truly produce! The air there feels much more relaxed and crisper and there is an apparently endless number of hiking routes to trek, so you can enjoy being in the magnificent outdoors during your Bhutan tour.
2. The Tiger’s Nest
Touring the Tiger’s Nest is a highlight of any Bhutan route.
Rested some 4,200m high on the end of a cliff, this is the ideal depiction of Bhutan that you observe in all of the postcards and travel writing. The quick ascent to high elevations make the trek challenging but completely worthwhile when you reach the top.
A monastery is a pilgrimage place for the Bhutanese, many of whom trek here numerous times a year. It is also, unsurprisingly, the most powerful monastery in Bhutan, having been built in the 16th century after Guru Rinpoche traveled there on the back of a flying tigress in a tender to trail away evil spirits.
3. Magic and the Mystery
Bhutan is a country where magic is weaved with history, and where mythological beings are believed to have survived. The stories you will hear here are unlike anything else you will have confronted on your travels.
Whether you accept the tales or not, your Bhutan travel experiences will certainly introduce you to a different new culture and some magical storytelling.
4. People
Bhutanese people are generous, welcoming, and fascinated about foreigners.
Buddhism is a powerful part of the culture here which likely has some influence on how incredibly peaceful the country and its people are as a whole.
The Bhutanese believe that all sensitive beings are created equivalent and may have been our friends or relatives in past lives. As such, they act towards everyone with honor and compassion.
5. Masked Festivals
Masked dances or “Tsechu” are a large part of Bhutanese culture and if you can, you should strive to get your Bhutan tour to harmonize with one of these events.
6. Deep Spirituality
Buddhism is strongly rooted in Bhutanese culture. In fact, this is the only “authorized” Buddhist country in the world. There are more monks than warriors and temples are dispersed everywhere. It is not unusual to visit these sites and hear the intense chanting of monks, the burning of sandalwood, and groups of elderly people rotating prayer wheels.
7. It’s the Happiest Place on Earth
Bhutan is usually mentioned as being the last Shangri-La, or as the happiest place on earth.
While the country is comparatively poor, and still not without its difficulties, it is obvious that it is ruled by a government that really cares about its people.
Bhutan is the only country in the world that holds Gross National Happiness as an amount, and which favors it over GDP.
8. It’s As Off the Beaten Track as it Gets
If you prefer traveling to destinations where you are not battling with touts attempting to sell you junk every time you step out of your hotel or struggling with crowds of tourists at every temple or museum then Bhutan is the ideal destination for you.
The fact that Bhutan is one of the least-visited countries indicates that you will often find you have complete temples, museums, and fortresses to yourself.
9. Food Delicacies
Speaking about food, Bhutanese cuisine is a true highlight thanks to its incredible flavor and spice.
Don’t worry though – chances are that the eateries and hotels you stop at as part of your Bhutan tour will organize for you to have a lighter version of the local dishes.
The Bhutanese diet consists of a lot of healthful stews and meat curries. Don’t miss trying a plate of EmaDatshi – the national dish of Bhutan which is made up of melted yak cheese served with chopped chilies.
10. It’s More Affordable than You Think
Bhutan is an extravagant place to travel to, there’s no doubt about that.
The country concentrates on “low impact, high-value tourism” and forces a minimum daily fee of $200 per person, per day to travel the country. In the peak months, this increase to $250 per person per day, and solo travelers has to pay an extra daily supplement of $40 per day.
What Should You Pack for Your Bhutan Trip?
If you’re the kind of person that takes a complete week to pack for a weekend getaway or even more critical, you end up packing 10 jackets and sweaters in your baggage because you don’t know much about the Backpacking Bhutan route and don’t want to suffer in the cold. Well, while preparing for a trip to such mountainous places, it is crucial that you bring the right stuff with you. But you don’t have to worry, here are some vital tips that could help you in a better way.
Bhutan is cold from December to February, with most days clear and bright and with very little rain. Therefore, the list of necessary things to bring in Bhutan is listed below:
Although you all are entitled to leave luggage at the hotel, still Bhutan travel advises carrying extra scarves, gloves, and jackets for when temperatures dropped later in the evenings in Bhutan. Temperatures vacillate considerably in Bhutan – a normal day could dip from 20 degrees Celsius in the days to just 5 degrees at nighttime, and if you are planning to explore higher altitudes as we did, you’ll need to be prepared for sub-zero temperatures:
1. Thermals- 3 or 4 long-sleeved thermals to cover each other, as well as beneath a big heavy, loose sweater. Based on your day and action, you’ll need to be able to exclude or add on layers as you go about your day, particularly if there’s hiking included. You can quickly find a big thermal.
2. Woolen sweater – 1 great quality woolen sweater to go over your thermals, tank tops, or t-shirts. This becomes convenient if you need to cover up when entering a temple as you’ll need to dress decently.
3. Woolen shawl/scarf – Girls solo backpacking trip to Bhutan must include this super handy shawl/scarf. If you’re sensing a little cold on the plane or in your tour transport – handy travel essential. If you don’t have a woolen scarf, you can also hit one of the many craft stores in Bhutan to purchase one stitched of yak wool, which is remarkably soft and feels super comfortable!
4. Leather jacket – A leather jacket never goes out of fashion. Bring one on sunnier days over your layers if you’re out for dinner or night drinks indoors.
5. 2 – in- 1 winter jacket + coat- If you are preparing to go hiking at high altitudes, carrying a waterproof and cold-resistant jacket is highly recommendable. Not only do temperatures drop drastically, but the wind also hits straight through your outer layers to your bones. Having some high quality and affordable jackets in Decathlon that came with a detachable fleece jacket is a plus!
6. Lightweight down jacket/vest – Do not undervalue this piece of clothing, my down vest kept me so warm during the cool Bhutan evenings even without a blazer on top. We highly suggest taking along a lightweight down jacket. If you need to lower the weight and have to give up one piece of outerwear, make it the leather jacket and put the down jacket in your bag.
7. Bottoms – 1 pair of jeans, 3 activewear long leggings – You can rotate your bottoms or jeans as per the weather in Bhutan. Everybody sweats mostly in summers and if you're visiting in that timeframe, then carry more jeans and long leggings. However, in winters it is not necessary.
8. Shoes – Unless you’re visiting a fancy dinner, there’s absolutely no need for high heels and elegant footwear. 2 pairs of sneakers, one for daily walkabouts, and one for hiking is more than enough. You will definitely be moving a lot in Bhutan and your shoes will collect a good amount of dirt on your trip, so if they are an old pair, you might have to leave them after the holiday.
Temperatures can vary widely from day to night in Bhutan. Bring lots of layers so you can modify them accordingly!
9. Warm accessories – If you are intending a Bumdra Trek or any trek into higher altitudes, particularly if you are staying overnight, we would highly recommend woolen gloves and socks. At approximately 3900m altitude during the Bumdra trek late at night, you may freeze in cold and the water in bottles converts into ice. Without a good pair of gloves, your fingers and toes would break off from the cold! A nice woolen beanie also benefits, if not for the cold, clearly with stopping hair from touching your face.
10. Rucksack/tote bag – Apart from your bigger piece of luggage, its good to take with you a backpack (for hikes) or a tote bag to stock your necessary belongings for the day. Keep in mind that tours usually take a whole day so you’ll have to take whatever you need for the day out along with you. Bhutan has banned plastics!
11. Sun cream + sunglasses + lip balm + moisturizer – It’s essential to transcribe that Bhutan’s high altitude typically means you are closer to the sun. All that added to bright blue skies and cool winds equal an imminent disaster for your skin. Make sure you stay ahead of it and apply SPF 50 and moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!
12. DSLR/mirrorless camera + selfie stick – Yes you read it right, Selfie-stick is a must! To get that flawless selfie with the Himalayas in the backdrop. It absolutely depends on your preferences and choice, whether you would prefer your phone for taking pictures or you have the budget to invest in expensive DSLRs to capture that lifetime moment.
13. Toiletries- If you are not concerned about the brand of toiletries, most resorts and accommodation in Bhutan offer the basics: shampoo, body soap, conditioners. They might not be the same brands you’re intimate with back home, but they get the job done. However, we would recommend bringing a set of travel-sized items of your own, particularly if you want to stick to your daily skincare regimen while abroad. Your skin will thank you for it!
Here's a quick list of everything that you need to carry for your Bhutan Travel:
Winter Wear:
• Thermal innerwear – 3/4 long-sleeved
• Woollen sweater
• Shawl/scarf
• Leather jacket
• Waterproof jacket
• Down jacket/vest
Bottoms:
• Jeans
• Activewear trousers x 2/3
Shoes:
• 2 pairs
• Hiking boots (optional)
Warm accessories:
• Gloves
• Wool hat
• Wool socks
Daily essentials:
• Sun cream
• Sunglasses
• Lip balm
• Moisturizer
• Toiletries
Photography essentials:
• Power bank for phone
• Camera
Best Tour Packages of Bhutan
Witness the unmatched scenic beauty of Bhutan, Bhutani culture, and colorful festivals through Bhutan tour packages.
On the Dragon Trail
This special tour covering the culture, history, and natural legacy of Bhutan. This tour will take you to the wonderful Himalayan scenery and you will experience Bhutan with dramatic land architecture and medieval fortress/monastery.
Walking Tour of Bhutan
We offer an active hiking and walking tour of Bhutan. This walking tour is perfect for the traveler who is interested to walk through the valleys of Bhutan. This tour is specially customized for our clients who are adventurous and like trekking in the Himalayas.
Short Adventure Tour of Bhutan
Embark on Trekking Bhutan Tours and explore the beautiful medieval monasteries, verdant vegetations, attractive and enchanting backwaters and lakes, splendid backwaters, calm and quiet rivers, heritage museums, marshes and the rest. Bhutan tour packages offer the tourists, vacationers, and fun-seekers with a mystifying assortment of unforgettable experiences.
Beautiful Bhutan Tour
Bhutan is famous for its beauty, cultural, and regional importance too. Explore the beauty of Bhutan with this tour and start dreaming about the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Bhutan is blessed with Natural Beauty with an immaculate and intact environment and very friendly people. Experience tradition, Buddhist culture, landscapes, fresh air, flora and fauna, and many other exciting things that have been preserved here through the centuries.
• Bhutan Walking TourWe offer an active hiking and walking tour of Bhutan. This walking tour is perfect for the traveler who is interested to walk through the valleys of Bhutan. This tour is specially customized for our clients who are adventurous and like trekking in the Himalayas.
What are the Top Places to Visit in Bhutan?
Bhutan is embellished with refined culture and diversity. There are so many festivals that are held here from time to time. Every single village in this country has its own festival and one of the popular is the annual Tshechu and it’s a highly religious festival of this place. So here we've listed some of the best places that you can explore in Bhutan:
1. Thimpu
Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan. A place that has a population of slightly 80,000 is acknowledged to be the most populous city across the country. Made the capital of the land in the year 1961 this city is also recognized as the third highest capital globally.
2. Paro
Paro is a little town established in the Paro Valley of Bhutan. This is beautiful a location for someone who appreciates being close to nature while at the same time honors sacred places. This town rests in the center of the valley at a height of about 2280 meters.
3. Wangdue PhodrangBeing one of the biggest Dzongkhags or districts of Bhutan, what WanguePhodrang has to contribute is diverse flora and fauna coupled with endless beauty. From a lovely valley to spiritual monasteries and temples and even some charming villages, makes WangduePhodrang a must-visit the place.
4. Jakar
Settled in the foothills of the Choekhor Valley, the biggest and most wonderful valley in Bumthang, Jakar is lavishly sprinkled with not just history and religion but also plentiful natural beauty and is being enclosed by tree-lined mountain ranges.
5. Punakha
Punakha is one of the 20 districts discovered in Bhutan. This place was the former capital of Bhutan up until 1955 after which the center was changed to Thimpu. This place is in the vicinity of Thimpu, and one can quickly reach here using a car.
6. Phobjikha Valley
Situated in the panorama of Black Mountains, Phobjikha is one of the blooming valleys in the country which contributes to some breathtaking views of extensive expanses of green fields visible from a number of points along the route.
7. Haa Valley
Situated in the most modest out of the dzongkhags in Bhutan, Haa Valley discovers a way to stand out as one of the most attractive and charming valleys in Bhutan. The Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is not a nation that one would say has been thoroughly revealed to the world.
8. Samdrup Jongkhar-
SamdrupJongkhar is a little town in South-Eastern Bhutan and is positioned at the boundary of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. A distant city recognized for peace and serenity, SamdrupJongkhar is the sort of place where one encounters internal peace and satisfaction.
9. Mongar
Mongar is a town located in Eastern Bhutan, popularly known for lemongrass production in the nation. It is also one of the best education centers in the country.
10. Trongsa
Positioned right in the middle of the country, Trongsa resides on top of a cliff that provides a pleasant view of the Black Mountains and the encompassing valleys. Trongsa satisfies the preferences of both history buffs and nature enthusiasts.
11. Lhuentse
A kingdom of illusions, as we may summon it, Lhuentse is a place where a person finds stillness. Tucked away in Eastern Bhutan, we can essentially call it paradise on Earth because of the magnificent views it offers. A favorite camping site, Lhuetnse is the satisfied owner of some of the biggest textiles in Bhutan.
12. Trashigang
Trashigang, named the 'Jewel of the East', is a fascinating hill station inhabited in Eastern Bhutan, scattered across an area at an altitude ranging from 600 m to over 4000 m. Recognized for famous tourist magnetism, it serves as an important trade center on the trade path between Assam and Tibet.
13. Royal Manas National Park
The most magnificent national park in Bhutan, Royal Manas National Park is one of the biggest national parks in the country. Recognized as the "conservation masterpiece of the Kingdom", it is the greatest example of tropical and sub-tropical ecosystems in Bhutan.
14. Laya Gasa
LayaGasa trek is one of the most attractive and scenic long-distance treks in the northern Himalayan range of Bhutan, along the border with Tibet.
15. Dochula Pass
Nestled in the eastern edge of the Himalayas, the Kingdom of Bhutan possesses magnificent mountain views and some of the most peaceful people in the world. And with this wonderful outlook of life came the universe of Dochula Pass, a breath-taking hill pass, in remembrance of Bhutanese soldiers who sacrificed their lives.
16. River Rafting in Paro Chhu
With an amount of strong, untamed rivers winding through its map, Bhutan offers the ideal destination for river rafting. Paro Chhu in Punakha is deemed to be the most suitable for rafting due to its easy access.
17. Jigme Dorji National Park
Jigme Dorji National Park is the second-largest sanctuary in Bhutan and also one of the best places to hit in Bhutan. Extending to a vast area of 1316 square km, this place is a gift for wildlife lovers. Spot animals like snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, Bengal tiger, and black bear. Keep your camera convenient because you will get numerous stunning landscapes to capture in your lens.
18. Phajoding
Phajoding Temple is a 15th-century temple that was built by a saint called Shacha Richen, the temple rests at an elevation of 12,138 feet. It is covered by the diverse conifer forests that offer you a majestic look. To reach the temple, you’ll have to undertake a 3-hour trek from the most adjacent road that is settled above the capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu. This once used to the most polished and richest monasteries in the country.
19. Kurjey Festival
KurjeyTshechu is a traditional festival celebrated in the Kurjey temple in Chokhor valley of Bumthang district. There is immense historical importance attributed to this temple as well as the festival. According to the legends, Guru Rimpoche meditated here for the destruction of evil spirits in this area.
20. Jagnothang
Jangothang is one of the most dramatic camping places in the intact Himalayas. Series of snow peaks from the eastern side of Paro River, which is a little stream here, and there are Yak herders, communities, and trout-filled lakes to explore. You may travel towards the glaciers of Chomolhari or towards the Tshophu Lake for luxurious views or fishing or travel the nomad’s houses villages. Of course, you can also opt to wait at camp, take in the pictures, and rest.
21. Sopsokha
The popular Chimi Lhakhang is located in Punakha district in a small village acknowledged as Sopsokha. Visitors mostly opt to hike along with the paddy fields, crossing by a village and farm roads. The originating story of this Lhakhang goes back to the 15th century, which was sanctified by Lam Drukpa Kinley as famously perceived as “The Divine Madman”. Along the hike towards the Lhakhang, one also has the chance to do some excursion, photography, and shop artifacts from mini textile shops.
What is the Best Time to Visit Bhutan?
Bhutan is one of the fortunate countries to have seasonal shifts. You can find different months of summer, winter, spring, and rain, making the weather in Bhutan enchanting and an entire year-round destination. Ideal for travel in any season of the year, Bhutan offers something incomparable to visitors depending on the time of their arrival.
The best time to visit Bhutan is through the spring months of March to May when the valleys come bustling with flowers in bloom. Be it in its celebrations or festivities, transparent skies, and flashes to the Himalayan peaks, thriving Himalayan flora, and fauna, or just beautiful snowfall. Bhutan assures you have a great time amidst nature and all its wonderful offsprings and take back home a remembrance you will preserve until your existence. June to August is deemed the low season due to the rains, which makes trekking less of an option.
The three regions of Bhutan experience significantly different climatic conditions, mostly in the northern regions of Bhutan persists perpetually cold and freezing with snow-capped peaks and mountains, the central region shifts between dry summers and cool winters and southern Bhutan that onlookers a sub-tropical climate with warm and humid climatic conditions that persists constantly throughout the year.
Bhutan also beholds travelers from around the world at various times of the year for different purposes. From those who aim to know more about Buddhism and monasteries and those who simply want to relax on the lap of the Himalayas to the ones flying the European summers and winters, Bhutan becomes a short home to visitors and travelers, providing them with great intensity of compassion. So despite when you land, you are always at the best time at home you can call Bhutan.
1. Summer
Summer begins in the month of June and stretches up to August. This is the most suitable season to visit Bhutan if you want to intercept a closer and clear look at the Himalayan Mountains and be astounded by the lush green paddy fields and panoramas.
• Temperature
The temperature in Bhutan around this time goes back and ahead between 24 and 25 degrees Celsius generally.
• Weather
The weather is usually clear and fresh with moderate humidity filling the air. A primary blunder during the summer is that Bhutan is enclosed by rainy clouds of the monsoons. However, that’s not the plight. Monsoon in Bhutan is confined to mild afternoon drizzles that happen once every two or three days and the land remains relatively dry during these months.
• Significance
Summer begins and the Haa festival begins, which is celebrated amidst high altitude mountainous forests, lakes, and meadows is customarily the celebration of the Bhutanese way of life, local cuisines, and mouthwatering food.
2. Winter
The winter season in Bhutan starts in December and remains till February.
• Temperature
The temperature in Bhutan can differ from one region to another but remains in the range of around 10 degrees to minus 5 degrees Celsius.
• Weather
Though winter, most of Bhutan stay relatively dry in most regions. Towards the northern regions, where high-altitude mountain peaks endure, the temperatures can get sub-zero. In the following weeks of January and early February, you can encounter mild snowfall in cities like Thimphu and Paro.
• Significance
Winter is the season of Punakha Dromche and Tshechu - a festival that signifies the originating of Bhutan during the16th century. With celebrations unwinding around the regions of Bhutan’s old capital – Punakha – this is normally the time the locals avoid the winters in their regions and come to the festival to actively engage in the festivities.
3. Spring
Spring in Bhutan starts in March and stretches up to May.
• Temperature
The temperature in spring diversifies across provinces but habitually remains 3 degrees and 25 degrees Celsius generally.
• Weather
Spring is conceivably the most suitable season to visit Bhutan, where the climate is dry and less humid with accurate conditions to traverse Bhutan on hill foot and indulge in some trekking actions.
• Significance
This is the time the Jacaranda flower blossoms in Bhutan in May. Also, treks to Jomolhari and Drukpath begin and the Paro Tshechu festival unrolls in full swing.
4. Fall
Another recommended time to visit Bhutan is the rainy season, which commences in September and continues up to November.
• Temperature
The average temperature fluctuates between 10 degrees to 23 degrees Celsius nearly across the assorted regions and altitudes of the country.
• Weather
Weather is moderately sunny and cool during this time, making it the second-best season after spring to hit Bhutan. There is no rainfall and nature is correspondingly sumptuous and rewarding at this time.
• Significance
As soon as the rainfall begins, the Black-Necked Crane Festival happens throughout the beautifulPhobjikha Valley and the ThimphuTshechu around Thimphu, the modern-day metropolis unwind in full swing. Hotels are booked during this season and a lot of autochthonous festivals occur across the country. The deeper you traverse the more festivals and gatherings you will come across.
Here are Top tips for Solo Travelers in Bhutan:
1. Travel during Festival Celebration
Since Bhutan is recognized across the world for its fascinating culture, there isn’t a better time to visit this country than when it is rejoicing festivals. Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival, ThimphuTshechu Festival, and Paro Tshechu Festival are amongst the most eccentric festivals in Bhutan.
2. Opt For a Home Stay
A major reason why people travel to Bhutan is to witness its culture and lingering in a homestay will give you shrewdness into the traditions and of the country as you connect with local people during your stay. You must hire Tour Company for a better understanding of the landscape of Bhutan.
3. Learn A Few Phrases In Dzongkha
Dzongkha is the standard language of Bhutan, and even though you will be able to locate English-speaking guides and motorists easily, learning a little bit of Dzongkha will assist you to converse with locals and shopkeepers. Therefore, learn a few phrases in Dzongkha.
4. Buy Handicrafts but Not Antiques
Bhutan controls and prohibits the export of any archaic. So, if you don’t want to get fined, don’t go for it. You can buy workmanship from the local markets as the shopkeepers sell them at a reasonable price.
5. Tobacco Business is Illegal to beware
The country doesn’t enjoy tobacco! So if you’re seeking to buy or sell tobacco products here, you are summoning a serious problem. However, you can import a culmination of 200 cigarettes and that too after-tax payment and import duty of 200%.
6. Travelers have to pay daily spend package to the government
Bhutan tour cost is given by the government which strictly monitors tourists, though in a healthy way. There is a minimum daily spend package imposed by the government that tourists are required to follow when traveling to the Kingdom. The price varies between 200 and 250 USD dollars depending on the month you’re traveling. The cost covers convenience, meals, transfer, guide, etc.
7. Only US dollars and Indian currency is accepted
Another of our essential Bhutan tips is about money. After, of course, the local currency; you can prefer to pay in USD or INR. So, you need not bother too much about it.
8. Don’t Disrespect the Royal Family
The people of Bhutan look upon their monarchs as an embodiment of gods. They also don’t relish disrespect of their religious feelings and figures, along with the 1990s Nepali problem. So, make sure that you do not challenge them in any way. Also, while exploring temples and historical places wear decent clothes.
What are the Things to do in Bhutan?
1. Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest) – Amusing Trek
The trek to Taktsang Monastery in Paro usually called the Tiger’s Nest, is one of the pleasantest adventure pursuits in Bhutan. The monastery witnessed a disastrous fire and then it was rebuilt in 1998. Rising 9480 ft above the ground, it stimulates the trekkers to trek the stony winding path.
2. Trashiyangtse – Hike To This Heavenly Place
If nature stupefies you, a vacation to Trashiyangtse is going to be captivating, to assert the least. Born out of Trashigang district in 1992 as a separate region, it lies amid a small river valley giving it an ideal place for deep refreshing walks in the countryside.
3. Wildlife Sanctuaries – Go For Bird Watching
The territory of Bhutan is a utopia for bird lovers, and bird-watching is one of the most famous Bhutan attractions. The country suppresses many species of birds, including Rufous-necked Hornbill, Himalayan Monal, Black-necked Crane, Ward’s Trogon, and Snow Pigeon. It is fascinating to listen to the music of birds and see them fly high in the sky spreading those picturesque, smooth wings.
4. Bhutanese Cuisine – Relish The Delicacies
When we imagine of Bhutan, we usually envision kinds of non-veg food offered in small & cozy cafes. While it’s genuine that you get different types of non-veg cuisine, there is also a plethora of alternatives for vegetarians such as dashi – a staple food of the people of Bhutan.
5. Shopping – Explore The Local Stores Of Bhutan
Norzin Lam is the city’s significant street lined with cafes, hotels, stalls, and shops. It’s one of the top places to shop in Bhutan. You can get everything from embellished boots to handmade papers. Some of the great things to buy in Bhutan include silver, colorful masks, carpets, jewelry, hand-woven bamboo items, and wooden products.
6. Changlimithang Archery Ground – Try Archery
If you are in Bhutan, you must hit the archery competitions that are one of the most reputable Bhutan attractions and its national sport too. While wandering the highways and byways of Bhutan, you’ll find vivid gatherings of men dressed in their fabulous gowns taking turns to shoot arrows.
7. River Rafting – Treat Your Adventurous Soul
Unlike the regular river rafting in powerful currents, rafting in Bhutan is a pleasurable journey while floating down the river. You will get the opportunity at the lush greenery, clear skies, rare birds, and blue waters of Bhutan. The best time to do this venture is after the monsoon season as the current of water rises.
8. Kayaking – Try A New Adventure
Bhutan not only gives a chance to revel in whitewater river rafting but also offers tourists to opt for kayaking. Six rivers in Bhutan give abundant opportunity to water sports lovers and inexperienced kayakers. You can choose any kind of current flow you want from slow to stringent.
9. Suspension Bridge – Capture Postcard-Worthy
Near Punakha Dzong, you will get to behold the excellence of one of the largest suspension bridges in Bhutan. Encircled by the mountains of Bhutan, the whole background of the suspension bridge is captivating for any nature enthusiast. You will be shocked to know that the bridge does not shake even a little, being so long.
10. Wildlife Safari – Explore The Wildlife Of Bhutan
Bhutan is one of the excellent places to behold the biodiversity in Asia. The lush forests of Bhutan allow witnessing an amalgamation of flora and fauna. You will get to notice golden langurs, black bears, Asiatic lion, tigers, and a species of birds. To get a better outlook of these animals without exhausting, you can opt for a wildlife safari.
11. Fishing – Go Catch Them
This might come as an astonishment to you but Bhutan is also recognized for fishing as it is home to several kinds of fishes. The two most basic types of fishes here are snow trout and brown trout. While exploring Bhutan, you can take permission for fishing and go on with the adventure.
12. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang Temple
It is also recognized as Kyerachu Temple and is one of the ancient monasteries in Bhutan, built in the 7th century. Kyichu Lhakhang Temple is settled in the Lango Gewog of Paro Valley and is composed of twin temples. Having historical significance largely, Kyichu Lhakhang Temple is a must-visit place in Bhutan.
13. Mountain Biking – The Adventure Ride
The country of Bhutan is endowed with the presence of valleys and mountains with well-maintained roadways. With that being said, mountain biking becomes the common choice for adventure exercises to do in Bhutan. If you are planning to drive solo, then do accompany yourself with a guide.
14. Attend Festivals – Get Acquainted With Culture
It becomes a royal pleasure if you get to acquire about a country’s culture during their festivals. Bhutan is a Buddhist state and the festivities are a mixture of happiness, vibrancy, and richness that let you uniquely explore the country.
15. Dochula Pass – An Auspicious DestinationLocated at an altitude of 3,100 meters from the sea level, the Dochula Pass in Bhutan is a hill pass dwelled on the road between Thimpu and Punakha. Visiting here for a trek can be one of the best things to do in Bhutan if you are an adventure freak.
16. Camping – Make Those Tents
It is no surprise that Bhutan is elegant, serene and one of the most picturesque destinations. Therefore, with a bevy of destinations, camping is one of the best activities to do in Bhutan to get a taste of the scenery around. Assume a bonfire under the colorful sunset, local music, food and your loved one sitting right by your side.
17. Cycling – Hustle To Perfection
Cycling is a comprehensive recreational thing to do. While you are on a trip to Bhutan, the magical land of valleys, streams, and mountains, nature, traveling it through two wheels is an adventure of a lifetime. You can visit Bhutan for the countless amount of Himalayan roads, clear air, and Buddhist temples that spread from one corner of the country to another.
18. Enjoy The Hot Springs – For Ultimate Wellness
The hot springs have been turned as a traditional wellness therapy solution by the locals for ages. So, you, as a tourist can get to undergo this treatment for an eloquent rejuvenation. The local name for these hot springs is Tshachus with therapeutic properties that cure sicknesses like arthritis and body aches.
19. Horse Riding – Ride Through A Grand Journey
Well, are you admiring about what to do in Bhutan, now that you have gone through this insane list? You will endure the most excellent of tracks and some amazing places on your way if you choose to ride horses in Bhutan.
20. Tour The Museums – Learn More About Culture
One of the best things to do in Bhutan is knowing and learning the grand culture that the country is. And a tour to the various museums is a perfect way to do it. Behold through the efforts of the people by going through their history, followed by traditions and religion.
21. Dance With Nomads at the Highest Settlement in Bhutan
The Royal Highland Festival is a nomad festival which takes place at 3800 meters in Laya, the most leading town in Bhutan. The festival is celebrated with the aim of making the Highlands a vigorous and thriving economy, the festival strives to improve the sustainable livelihood of the Highlanders, showcase the Highlanders’ discovery, and manifest the highlands as a treasure of Bhutan.
How to Get a Visa for Bhutan?
With the exception of visitors from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, It is mandatory for all the other tourists to obtain a Bhutan visa clearance prior to their travel to Bhutan. Visas applications are processed through an online system.
Tourists from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives can obtain a permit at the port of entry on producing a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity (Indian nationals may also use their Voters Identity Card).
Visitors from Bangladesh, India, and the Maldives can get a permit through Online Permit System. The system facilitates the online processing of permits by registered Bhutanese tour operators and TCB certified hotels.