Bhutan Travel Guide: Essential Tips and Information for Visitors
Embrace Breathtaking Bhutan, Responsibly
Travel that is sustainable and regenerative is better for the planet. It’s not only responsible, but also more interesting and memorable. If you’re a nature and culture enthusiast, and are environment-conscious, there’s a charming destination you can explore responsibly – Bhutan, a Himalayan kingdom that’s small in size, but mammoth in stature.
Although Bhutan’s climate crisis is a concern, the authorities have ensured that every decision is taken with eco-consciousness. The result is a country abundant in nature’s blessings; replete with forests, mountain ranges, waterfalls and streams that will take your breath away! Add to that cultural sites like monasteries, fortresses and dazzling festivals and you have a holiday that will be etched in your memories for a lifetime.
Bhutan’s unique approach to development places a strong emphasis on sustainability and preserving the country’s natural and cultural heritage. This encourages slow travel, opening its lands to be savoured by eco-savvy travellers, who wish to explore unhurriedly and with open minds. If you enjoy taking off on hiking trails, where you discover remote villages, interact with local communities, enjoy ethnic food at small eateries, all while making a meaningful impact, Bhutan is for you.
Top places to visit in Bhutan
Thimphu
The capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu is also the largest in the country, and offers a blend of traditional Bhutanese culture and modern lifestyle.
Head to Tashichho Dzong, a beautiful fortress and Buddhist monastery, situated at the northern edge of the city. Here, you can explore typical Bhutanese architecture, with intricate woodwork and murals.
At the National Memorial Chorten, a revered Buddhist shrine, witness the daily prayers of the locals and learn more about Buddhism.
Take a hike to the Buddha Dordenma Statue, situated in the ruins of Kuensel Phodrang. This statue is one of the largest Buddha rupas in the world, at a height of 52 metres. Made of gilded bronze, the structure houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues.
Other interesting sites in Thimphu include the Folk Heritage Museum, the Bhutan Textile Museum and the Bhutan Postal Museum. There are a number of hiking, trekking and biking opportunities too that will allow you to experience Thimphu’s natural beauty, architecture, cultural sites and local communities.
Paro
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Paro, a small yet stunning town, located in the Paro Valley.
Paro’s star attraction is the Taktsang Palphug Monastery, popularly known as Tiger’s Nest. The monastery structure sits precariously on a cliff; and although it looks unapproachable and even intimidating on a misty day, there are paths that lead you to it and offer some truly stunning views.
Other must-visit sites in Paro are Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery that is over 400 years old; Chele La Pass, the highest motorable point in Bhutan, which also offers beautiful views of the Himalayas and the Paro Valley; Drukgyel Dzong, another fortress and Buddhist monastery that now lies in ruins; and the National Museum of Bhutan, which houses a collection of traditional Bhutanese art, textiles and artifacts
Punakha
Your trip to Bhutan would be incomplete without a visit to this lovely, historic district in the kingdom.
Start by exploring Punakha Dzong, one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan. This 17th century fortress is located at the confluence of two rivers, and served as the seat of the government until the capital was moved to Thimphu in the 1950s.
Hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a charming four-storey monastery, situated at a ridge above the Punakha Valley. A relatively new one, this temple offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss the Punakha Suspension Bridge. Spanning the Mo Chu River, it’s one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan and will leave you with lifelong memories of views of the surrounding hills and forests.
A couple of other sites includes Gangtey (Phobjikha), the Chimi Lhakhang temple, and the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery.
The Magic of Bhutan: Immerse Yourself in Unforgettable Adventures and Cultural Delights
Bhutan is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to unfold. To begin with, there’s Bhutanese cuisine, a unique blend of Indian, Chinese and Tibetan flavours that you’ll particularly enjoy if you love spicy, savoury dishes. Try Ema Datshi, Bhutan’s national dish, made from chili peppers and cheese, and served with rice. Don’t miss out on momos (dumplings) and soups, made from a variety of meats and vegetables. There is also Ara, a traditional Bhutanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice, maize or wheat that you can try.
Want some self-pampering? A hot spring therapy would be just right! Gasa Tsachu, a two-hour drive from Punakha, near the banks of Mo River, is believed to heal ailments and is quite popular during the winter months. Chuboog Tshachu, another hot spring, is accessible only by trekking, but it promises great relaxation after all the hard work.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, Bhutan will surprise you! Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Motithang Takin Preserve and Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary are four great options in different districts of the country that will offer you fulfilling opportunities to witness Asia’s biodiversity. From birdwatching to wildlife safari, your tour operator can provide you with an enjoyable and memorable time at these destinations.
For those who love to deep dive into culture, a Bhutanese festival is the ideal opportunity. Witness a variety of traditional shows like fire ceremonies, mask dances, cultural music and performances that celebrate different occasions or are a tribute to Guru Rinpoche. Some festivals you can check out are Thimphu Tsechu, Paro Tsechu, Punakha Drubchen and Haa Summer Festival.
And finally, how can a Bhutanese holiday be complete without shopping at the local markets for traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts? Shop for locally-made, authentic products like thangkas (Buddhist religious paintings), wooden bowls and cups, handmade paper, and traditional Bhutanese clothing, in addition to handmade textiles, prayer flags and jewellery. The Centenary Farmers’ Market in Thimphu and the Saturday market in Paro are popular shopping destinations you must visit.
Bhutan’s Exclusivity is for a Good Reason
Bhutan charges tourists a development fee that enables it to preserve its natural environment and cultural heritage, helps fund conservation efforts, including the preservation of forests and wildlife, the restoration of cultural sites, and the promotion of eco-friendly tourism practices. It also plays a major role in supporting local communities by providing employment opportunities in the tourism sector.
If you admire Bhutan’s efforts to manage its climate crises and are sincerely interested in exploring the Kingdom, Earthy Hues Tours will provide you with a responsible, sustainable and regenerative travel experience. We’ll help you explore the real Bhutan – one that will allow you to feel the country’s true essence, which is driven by its warm and welcoming people.
Get ready to soak yourself in local Bhutanese experiences that will open your life and soul to meaningful learning and create memories that you’ll carry in your hearts forever.
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