Bhutan Tourism

With free healthcare and education, sustainable tourism practices, and a welcoming, secure environment, Bhutan ranks as one of the happiest places on earth. The best times to visit are from March to May and September to November, when the climate is pleasant for sightseeing and enjoying lively events like the Paro Tsechu festival and Thimphu Tshechu. A stay of 7-10 days is ideal for exploring Bhutan. For a smooth and enjoyable journey, customise your Bhutan tour packages with Travel Triangle. 

Quick Overview 

 Category  Details  Capital   Thimphu  Location  South Asia  Languages  Dzongkha,  Nepali, Tshangla, Assamese, Limbu, Santhali, Sherpa  Currency   Bhutanese Ngultrum  Festivals   Paro Tshechu, Thimphu Tshechu, Punakha Drubchen, and Jambay Lhakhang Drup  Cities  Thimphu, Phuentsholing, Punakha, Paro, Wangdue Phodrang, Trongsa, Samdrup Jongkhar, Jakar, Gelephu  Top Attractions   Paro Taktsang, Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, Paro Taktsang, Phobjikha Valley  Best Time to Visit  Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November)  Activities Hiking, trekking, and exploring ancient monasteries Famous Cuisine Ema Datshi, Jasha Maru, Phaksha Paa, Momos, Kewa Datshi, Red Rice, Khur-Le, Shakam Datshi, Puta. Shopping Places Thimphu Handicrafts Market, Paro Market, Punakha Craft Market, Jakar Market

Short Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Paro and drive to Thimphu 

Day 2: Go for local sightseeing in Thimphu- Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, 

Folk Heritage Museum,  Takin Preserve, Changangkha Lhakhang

Day 3: Head to Punakha via Dochula Pass and explore Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang

Day 4:  Drive to Phobjikha Valley and visit Gangtey Monastery and do a Nature walk on the Gangtey Nature Trail

Day 5: Drive back to Paro and explore the nightlife 

Day 6: Explore local attractions of Paro - Rinpung Dzong,  National Museum of Bhutan and Kyichu Lhakhang (7th-century temple)

Day 7: Trek to  Tiger’s Nest Monastery (4-5 hours round trip)

Day 8: Depart from Paro 

Budget & Accommodations 

Bhutan is a moderately expensive country due to its high-value, low-volume tourism policy, which includes a mandatory Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for all tourists. A trip to Bhutan can cost around INR 40,000 to INR 1,50,000 per person, depending on the duration, travel style, and accommodation choices.  

Bhutan offers a wide range of accommodation from luxury hotels to cosy guesthouses. A decent stay in Bhutan starts from INR 1,500 per night. However, it may vary depending on the location, duration, travelling season, number of people and amenities. Stay in a farmhouse or homestay to experience the local culture. 

How To Reach 

There are three ways to reach Bhutan from India. 

By Air: Fly to Paro International Airport, which is just 7 km away from the city centre. 

By Train: There is no direct train to Bhutan. However,  one can board a train from Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri, New Alipurduar, or Hasimara railway stations to Phuentsholing. 

By Road: Bhutan is well-connected with India by road. One can reach Bhutan from India via Jaigaon, Phuentsholing Border, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar.

Getting Around

Within the country, buses and taxis are the most convenient forms of transportation in Bhutan. For comfortable travel, one can hire a vehicle and driver from a car rental company. 

Culture 

Experience the cultural richness of Bhutan through its vibrant performing arts, diverse festivals, rich traditions, and unique language. 

Language and Attire

Bhutan is influenced by Buddhist and Hindu culture, which is reflected in its language and traditional attire. The majority of the population in Bhutan speaks Dzongkha as the official language. Hindi, Nepali and Lepcha are other languages spoken in Bhutan. The cultural identity of Bhutan can be seen through its attire, where men wear Gho, a knee-length robe and Kira for women, an ankle-length dress. 

Dance & Music forms

Dance and music are an integral part of Bhutanese culture. Some of the popular dance forms are Joenpa Legso, Drametse Nga Cham, Pa Cham, Zhungdra and  Boedra. The dances are performed with vibrant costumes and masks. Additionally, Bhutanese music encompasses a diverse range of forms, including folk, religious, and modern genres. The Traditional Bhutanese instruments include the drangyen (lute), chiwang (fiddle), lingm (flute), and yangchen (hammered dulcimer).

Festivals 

Bhutan celebrates numerous vibrant festivals with great enthusiasm, showcasing the country's richness, vibrancy, and happiness. Thimphu Tshechu is the biggest and most popular festival of Bhutan. Jambay Lhakhang Drup, Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu, Punakha Drubchen, Paro Tshechu, Matsutake, and Jomolhari Mountain are other famous festivals in Bhutan. 

Cusine 

The kingdom of Bhutan offers a fusion of Tibetan, Nepali, Indian and Bhutanese dishes, which one shouldn’t dare to miss. Ema Datshi, Shakam Paa, Jasha Maru, Phaksha Paa, Zow Shungo, Shakam Datshi, Dumplings, Puta, Goen Hogey and Suja are the must-try dishes in Bhutan. Although the national cuisine features meat, Bhutan also offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes. 

Best Time To VisitBhutan 

Bhutan experiences four distinct seasons, i.e. winter, spring, summer and autumn. 

 Seasons  Min/Max Temperature  Ideal For   Winter(December to February) -5°C/10°C  Snow activities, budget travellers, Black-necked Crane Festival   Spring(March to May)  3°C/23°C  Trekking, sightseeing, and experiencing festivals  Summer(June to August)  24°C/29°C  Wildlife safaris and summer festivals   Autumn(September to November)  2°C/24°C

Things To Do

The land of the thunder dragon, Bhutan, offers exciting activities to do that satisfy your adrenaline rush. Trekking to Tiger’s Nest, hiking to Trashiyangtse, exploring the colourful villages and meditating inside the peaceful monasteries are the must-try things to do in Bhutan. Additionally, Archery at Changlimithang Archery Ground, river rafting on the Po Chu River and Mo Chu River, kayaking near Paro Valley and Punakha Valley, Wildlife Safaris, and Mountain Biking are other exhilarating activities to enjoy in Bhutan. 

What to shop 

From authentic local crafts to souvenirs, shopping in Bhutan offers a unique experience to all. 

Hand-woven Textiles, Cane and Bamboo Handicrafts, Dzi Beads, Gold and Silver Jewellery, Dappa (wooden bowls), wooden carved masks, Sculptures, and Buddhist Paintings are the must-buy items in Bhutan.  

Where to shop 

Head to  Norzin Lam in Thimphu for handicrafts, textiles, and jewellery.  For Bhutanese crafts and local produce, visit the National Handicraft Emporium and the Weekend Market. 

What to Pack:

For winters, pack warm clothes like a hat, a jacket, and gloves

Comfortable Shoes for exploring the country on foot and hiking shoes

A lightweight, waterproof rain jacket or umbrella is recommended, especially during the monsoon season. 

Pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, 

Carry a reusable water bottle

A basic first aid kit and necessary medications. 

Carry essential documents like ID proof, Visa, and passport  

Other essential Information

The natural beauty, peaceful and safe atmosphere make Bhutan an ideal destination for elderly people. Be careful in high-altitude areas. Bhutan is also a good place for kids due to its warm, welcoming atmosphere, outdoor activities, and a safe and clean environment. Additionally, it is an excellent place for pet owners as many hotels, restaurants, and cafes welcome your furry friends.  

Visa and Immigration

Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian citizens don’t need a visa to enter Bhutan but must obtain an entry permit at Paro International Airport or the Phuentsholing land border. For travel outside Thimphu and Paro, a special area permit is required, which can be obtained from the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB) Immigration Office in Thimphu. 

Tips:

Book your accommodation and flights in advance for a better price.

Do carry a valid ID card

Carry sufficient cash, as Bhutan is a predominantly cash-based economy, and ATMs are limited in availability. 

For better connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card. 

Pack clothes season-wise

Do stay at a local guesthouse for an authentic experience

Trekking in Bhutan:

A Bhutan trip will be as spiritually rewarding as it would be adventurous and exciting. Replete with many glacial rivers flowing down from the Himalayan peaks, there are lots of adrenaline-filled activities, including whitewater rafting and kayaking, waiting in the Land of Dragons. However, water activities are not your thing, but you still love to be outdoors, trekking is the best thing to go for. Bhutan trip is sure to include numerous trekking trails, of which Jomolhari Trek is the most famous one. Dochula Pass, the Druk Path, Snowman trek routes I and II and Dagala Thousand Lakes, there are many such trails all around the country with exciting paths and scenic beauties.

Festivals in Bhutan:

Being one of the most spectacular destinations on earth, Bhutan is famed for its religious festivals, like: Paro Tshechu, Thimphu Tshechu, Jambay Lhakhang Drup, Wangduephodrang Tshechu, Black-Necked Crane Festival and more.

Nightlife in Bhutan:

Besides sightseeing, adventure and festivities to savour in the Land of the Thunder Dragon, one will never be deprived of nightlife, here. Crammed with some of the best nightclubs, visitors can enjoy the best of nightlife in Bhutan. The list of some recommended nightclubs include: Vivacity, Club Ace, Mojo Park, Space 34, Om Bar, Khuju Luyang, Benez Bar and more.