Best Bhutan Tours & Holidays | Bhutan Travel Guide & Tips

Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in south-central Asia touched with Eastern Himalaya. Bhutan also known as the land of thunder dragons is a harmonious country, and awe-inspiring remote and culturally distinct nation that has been attracting tourists worldwide in recent years. Bhutan provides a sanctuary, where visitors find heavenly pleasures with archery and old-age crafts, dishes of homemade cheese, frightful hot chilies, stunning treks, and healthful stone baths. Buddhism is the main religion followed in Bhutan so travelers are hinted by the prayer flags across gorges and fluttering hillside. It is the best travel destination to explore epic landscapes, immerse yourself in wonder, and embark on exhilarating adventures.

History

Bhutan is derived from the Sanskrit language. The documented history of Bhutan was founded in the 8th century when Guru Rinpoche also known as Padmasambhava visited Bhutan after Tibet. There were different changes in a different era in the history of Bhutan. However, since 2008 the government of Bhutan has been a conditional monarchy and the head of the state is the king and the prime minister is the head of the government.

Nature

Bhutan is also known as Himalaya’s country and has different heritage sites. More than 70% of the land in Bhutan is covered with forests and is the first carbon-negative country in the world. Bhutanese people use different types of medicinal herbs to create different medicines. Bhutan has a number of national parks containing different plants and animals which helps create a good balance in the ecosystem including several species of flora and fauna.

Some Facts about Bhutan

Population: Around 766,000

Official Name: Kingdom of Bhutan

Government: Parliamentary Monarchy

Religion: 75% Buddhism, 24% Hinduism, and 1% other

Literacy rate: 65%

King of Bhutan: Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, born on February 21, 1980

Economy: Based on agriculture, tourism, hydropower, and forestry

Note: Around 56% of people engage in the production of agriculture and hydropower is the main backbone of the Bhutanese economy for the government.

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Visiting Bhutan

The journey to Bhutan is in itself an adventure to savor, from planning to arrival and departure. Bhutan is an ideal destination for travelers to crave an unspoiled nature, less crowded destinations, and to escape from life's hustles. Bhutan is considered a visiting paradise with its golden-roofed temples, magnificent fortress-like monasteries, high altitudes, rural villages, rich cultures, and undivided remote destinations. Bhutan is safe to visit for independent and group travelers. Bhutan offers unique species of flora and fauna including the different types of wildlife.

Bhutan is awe-inspiring and unspoiled marinated in ancient traditions and history as tall as its Himalayan peaks. The mystical kingdom of Bhutan is well known for Gross National Happiness with collective happiness and the well-being of the Bhutanese people. Buddhism thrives, national sport - archery, people wearing national dress, cultures, forests, and monasteries are the major attractions of Bhutan. Surrounded by the green hills, Himalayas, and forests, Bhutan is exotic, mystical, and almost unearthly. Bhutan is a joy to travel around the straddling Himalayas, have amazing cultural experiences, and explore dzongs that marvel at the Himalayas.

How to get to Bhutan from Nepal?

Getting to Bhutan from Nepal can be done in two ways: A direct flight from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu to Paro International Airport, Bhutan. Another way is traveling overland through Nepal, across India, and into Bhutan at the border crossing Phuentsholing.

Traveling overland to Bhutan from Nepal, first, you will require a local bus from Kathmandu to the border with India. The closest Nepal and India border for Bhutan is located at Kakarbhitta in Eastern, Nepal. Crossing the Raniganj immigration checkpoint over the Mechi Bridge, then you can get the local bus to Siliguri, the closest railway station to the Indian town of Panitanki.

From Siliguri, the trains run on a regular basis and direct from New Jalpaiguri to the closest railway station to the Bhutanese border at Phuentsholing, Hasimara. The trip takes around four hours to reach Hasimara. Reaching Hasimara, you can find the local buses to Jaigaon, opposite Phuentsholing on the Indo-Bhutanese border. After crossing the border, your tour guide will transfer to the hotel in Paro or Thimpu on a private car.

Best time to visit Bhutan

Bhutan is a landlocked country in the lap of the Himalayas so knowing the best time for traveling is most significant for the travelers. The best times to visit Bhutan are usually considered either in the Spring season (March to May) or the Autumn season (September to November). During these months weather tends to be pleasantly dry, with mild temperatures, and beautiful skies so travelers can experience Bhutan at its most glorious. Even lower altitude trek and the tour are also amazing in the rest of the months.

The best time to visit Bhutan depends on what type of activities you want to do in Bhutan. The ideal time for visiting Bhutan according to activities are enlisted below:

Tours or sightseeing: All around the year

Trekking or hiking: Spring and Autumn Season

Water Sports (Rafting or Kayaking): Months of October and November

Mountain Biking and Rockclimbing: All around the year

Bhutan Visa Information

Visas for travel to Bhutan are being issued only by the Department of Immigration, the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs, Bhutan. All visitors will need a visa to visit Bhutan except the visitors from India, who will require a permit. Nationals of Bangladesh and Maldives shall be eligible for a visa on arrival at the port of entry. Visitors can process a visa or permit online from the website of the Department of Immigration by visiting https://visit.doi.gov.bt/ with your Bhutanese tour operator or foreign travel operator. Your visa will be processed via the Tourism Council of Bhutan once you paid the travel fee. Your visa clearance will take a minimum of 72 working hours and you should have at least 6 months passport validity date.

The visa fee is US$ 40 per person and it is non-refundable.

The following documents are required to process the visa:

A passport copy is required. The passport must be valid for 6 months from the intended date of departure from the Kingdom

Travel Insurance valid for the duration of the trip

A recent passport-size photo

Visit Tiger's Nest Monastery

Taktsang Phalphung Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest Monastery visiting is one of the best activities to do in Bhutan. The Tiger's Nest monastery is a small set of buildings delicately settled on a cliff, 900 meters above the Paro Valley. This holy site is located on the Upper Paro Valley with an elevation of 3,120 meters/10,235 feet. It features the great traditional values of Bhutan through its architecture and offers a unique monastery circled by the scenic beauty of lush forest. A visit to Tiger's Nest monastery is a breathtaking experience with a stunning backdrop of blue skies and lush green hills, making this century-old structure even more mystical. The main highlight, reaching an isolated monastery is only possible by trekking through rugged mountain paths.

Trekking and challenging the Himalayas

Trekking is the ultimate adventurous activity that provides a thrilling experience to the trekkers. The country, Bhutan is settled amidst the captivating peaks of the mighty Himalayas. Bhutan is considered a trekking paradise that offers the most stunning and breathtaking treks for beginners to expert trekkers.

For a day hike to multi-day trekking, Bhutan offers an exploration of pristine wilderness, awe-inspiring glaciers, and some of the most endangered species of the mountainous arena. One of the most adventurous day hikes is Kila Goemba Hike which offers spectacular views of the World's third-highest peak, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m/28,169ft). Other most scenic and adventurous trekking trails in Bhutan are DrukPath Trek, Snowman Trekking, Chomolhari/Jomolhari Trek, Lunana Trek, Bumthang Cultural Trek, and Gangte Trek.

Water Sports (Rafting and Kayaking)

River rafting is a thrilling water sport that excites all adventurous freaks to embark on. Unlike regular rafting in the strong currents, rafting in Bhutan is a unique and pleasurable ride on the gurgling river surrounded by the beauty and exciting cascade of water. Apart from enjoying the rafting, you will be amazed by the lush greenery, rare birds, clear skies, and blue waters of Bhutan.

Kayaking is another adventure sport in Bhutan where adventurers can enjoy the thrill of rivers. Traversing the river's changing currents provides kayakers, a chance to explore the nearby fortress, winding forests, and rare avian species, and, finally, relish an adrenaline rush while white-water kayaking.

The Paro Chhu River and the Mo Chhu River are the perfect locations for rafting and Kayaking in Bhutan. Rafting or Kayaking in these rivers is graded as moderate so every adventure lover can try this famous water sport activity during the Bhutan visiting trip. River rafting or Kayaking in Bhutan is mostly preferable in the months of October and November when the flow of water increases after the monsoon season.

Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking is an adventurous and eco-friendly sport to experience the place culturally and naturally. Bhutan is blessed with different mountains and valleys offering fascinating trails for mountain bikers. Passing through their rugged terrain, climbing and descending through many villages while peeking at people's lifestyles, mountain biking becomes the most preferable adventurous activity to do in Bhutan.

Mountain biking is the best way to witness and feel the destinations letting you explore the heights of the magical world. Embarking and biking around the beautiful backdrops of Bhutan, you can experience the Buddhist culture, visit monasteries, and collect a glimpse of flora and fauna. Some of the most popular and amazing places where you can enjoy this thrilling activity are Paro Valley, Phobjikha Valley, Trongsa, Wamrong Wangthang La, Punakha, Khotokha Valley, and Dobji Dzong.

Wildlife Safari

The holiday packages or tours in Bhutan are incomplete without exploring the wildlife. Around 70% of land in Bhutan is covered with forests offering a habitat for a variety of animals, plants, and birds. Bhutan, a land of the Himalayan Kingdom is blessed with rich and lush forests, Travelers witness the varied species of floras and faunas making it a paradise for nature lovers.

There are numerous national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and reserve areas that offer wildlife safaris, tiger safaris, and birdwatching tours. Some of the perfect places in Bhutan for wildlife safaris are Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Jigme Dorji National Park, Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve etc. During your wildlife safari in these areas, you can witness some charming animals like Asian elephants, golden langurs, black bears, Bengal tigers, clouded leopards, and snow leopards.

Attending Festivals

Bhutan is a Buddhist country and festivals here are a combination of vibrancy, happiness, and richness. There are a number of traditions and festivals in Bhutan celebrated in a unique way with much appreciation. You can enjoy the unique masked dance, gastronomic delights, and the bull's eye archery contests. During the festive events in Bhutan, various temples, monasteries, and dzongs are decorated throughout the country and marked with splendid colors, music, beautiful dances, and delicious foods. The must-attend festivals during your trip to Bhutan are Thimpu Tshechu in September, Paro Tshechu in March, Jambay Lhakhang Drup in October, Punakha Drubchen in February, and Haa Summer Festival in July.

Rock Climbing

Rock Climbing surely is one of the adventurous activities that you don't want to miss in Bhutan. Naturally blessed with the mighty Himalayas, the beautiful country is home to different mammoth rocky structures. Rock climbing on those stones undoubtedly is a thrilling experience to engage in the thick if astounding view of the country. The Rock climbing in Bhutan is specially designed for an adventurer with good physical strength and active mindsets. You can test your climbing skills in some trails Dead Man Walking, Reach and Preach, Easy Peasy, Wedding Present, and Half Moon. In addition to joy and thrilling experience, rock climbing in the land of thunder dragons also offers adequate opportunity to explore the beauty of surrounding Himalayan Peaks and snow-capped mountains.

Archery

During your trip to Bhutan, you must attend the archery competitions - one of the major attractions held in festivals. Archery is the national sport played with high spirit every year during tournaments and festivals. You'll find colorful gatherings of men dressed traditionally and taking turns to shoot arrows while wandering through highways. Archery competitions are a significant part of Bhutanese culture, held between villages, towns, and amateur teams during festivals.

Fishing

Bhutan is also known for fishing which is an entertaining activity that can be enjoyed at ease. In Bhutan, there are a number of rivers and lakes home to different species of fish making it a perfect place for fishing. Snow trout and brown trout are the two most commonly found species in the rivers and lakes of Bhutan. Special permits should be obtained before proceeding with the fishing activity. Paro Valley, Lhuentse region, Bumthang Valley, and Thimpu Valley are the perfect places to showcase fishing skills and techniques.

Kathmandu

The Kathmandu Valley, together with Patan to the south and Bhaktapur, features 7 out of 10 UNESCO world heritage sites in Nepal. It's no surprise that Kathmandu is known as one of the most historical cities worldwide. Hundreds of temples, shrines, and stupas can be found in Kathmandu, the capital city, earning it the nickname "the city of temples". As a cultural hub, Nepal's capital offers a distinctive experience that you won't want to miss. The city's chaos of sounds smells, and action characterizes it, providing a unique side of Nepal to explore. The Durbar square, dating back to the third century, is where the city's kings were crowned and legitimized and is enclosed by courtyards and temples. If you're planning a visit to the Kathmandu Valley, you'll find plenty of things to do and see.

City of Temples

In Kathmandu, you'll witness temples in the vibrant street every 15 to 20 minutes of walk as there are more than 2,000 temples in Kathmandu that hold ancient spirituality and historical architectural significance.

Densest Concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Hike in the hills

Nepal's Kathmandu Valley possesses the sense concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and stunning hillside hikes offering a unique blend of cultural treasures and natural beauty in one unforgettable experience.

Explore the Narayanhiti Palace Museum

The Narayanhiti Palace Museum in Kathmandu offers a unique gesture into the country's royal history, featuring opulent rooms, artifacts, and exhibits that shed light on Nepal's monarchy and transformation into a federal democratic republic.

Explore Royal Botanical Garden

The Royal Botanical Garden Godawari, located near Kathmandu, is a tranquil oasis where lush gardens, exotic plant species, and scenic trails invite visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Nepal.

Enjoy Birds-eye view of Kathmandu from Swayambhunath Stupa

Savor the breathtaking bird's eye view of Kathmandu Valley from the top of Swayambhunath Stupa which is nestled amidst the lush hills.

Evening Aarati at Pashupatinath

The evening Aarati at Pashupatinath Temple is an alluring and deeply spiritual ceremony where Hindu priests offer prayers, incense, and oil lamps to lord Shiva, creating a mesmerizing and sacred atmosphere along the banks of the Bagmati River.

Thamel - A hub for tourists

Thamel is a major tourist-centric point in Kathmandu which is renowned for its vibrant street life, diverse shopping, and lively nightlife, making it a hub for travelers from around the world.

Kathmandu is a gateway to Nepal's diverse attractions and its rich heritage and spirituality make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this Beautiful country.

Trekking in Nepal

Trekking in Nepal

Pokhara

Situated in the serene lap of the Annapurna Himalayas, Pokhara is a picturesque paradise in Nepal. Its breathtaking beauty is showcased by the tranquil Phewa Lake, where you can enjoy boating and soak in the mountain reflections. Adventure gestures with paragliding, trekking, and exploring mystical caves like Gupteshwor is a fascinating experience for every traveler. You can witness the dramatic Seti River Gorge, and Devi's Fall, a mesmerizing waterfall. Pokhara's vibrant Lakeside area offers an abundance of restaurants, shops, and accommodations, while World Peace Pagoda provides panoramic views. This tranquil city is the gateway to renowned treks like the Annapurna Circuit, offering a harmonious mixture of relaxation and adventure.

Places to visit around Pokhara

Lakes: Phewa, Beganash & 5 other small lakes

Temples: Bindabashini/Gupteshor

Caves: Mahendra, Gupteshor, Bat Cave

Museums: International Mountain Museum, Gorkha Museum

View Points: Sarangkot, World Peace Pogoda, Rupakot, Australian Camp

Some Popular trekking starts from Pokhara

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking (Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek)
Upper Mustang Trekking
Mardi Himal Trekking
Mohare Danda Trek
Khopra Trek

Peak Climbing/ Expedition starts from Pokhara

Pisang Peak Climbing

Thorong Peak Climbing

Things/Activities to do around Pokhara

Trekking/Hiking
Rafting
Boating
Paragliding
Mountain Biking
Peak Climbing/Expedition
Touring
Bungy Jump
Zip Flying
Ultra-Light Flight / Helicopter Tour

Sagarmatha National Park (Mount Everest Region)

Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nepal, is a breathtaking natural wonderland nestled in the Himalayas. Home to the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, it offers an unparalleled opportunity for adventure and exploration. The park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush rhododendron forests to rugged alpine terrain. Trekkers flock here to embark on iconic journeys like the Everest Base Camp Trek, where they traverse charming Sherpa villages, cross suspension bridges, and witness awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Sagarmatha National Park is not only a sanctuary for rare wildlife but also a place where the indomitable human spirit meets the majesty of the Earth's tallest peaks, creating an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

CSome Popular Trekking Trips of Sagarmatha National Park (Mount Everest Region)

Mount Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Panorama Trek (Recommended for beginners to experience Sherpa Culture, Mount Everest & Himalaya Range)
Everest Three-Pass Trek
Everest Gokyo Lake Trek (Everest Base Camp & Chola Pass)

Popular Climbing & Expedition of Sagarmatha National Park (Mount Everest Region)

Mount Everest Expedition
Island Peak Climbing
Labuche Peak Climbing
Mera Peak Climbing

Trekking in Nepal

Annapurna Conservation Area (Mount Annapurna Region)

The Annapurna Conservation Area, situated in the western Himalayas of Nepal, is a breathtaking natural paradise encompassing diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. Towering peaks, including the iconic Annapurna Range and Machapuchare, offer trekking enthusiasts some of the world's most sought-after trails. Amidst lush forests and pristine rivers, this protected area showcases unique biodiversity, with endangered species like the snow leopard and red panda calling it home. Travelers can explore traditional Gurung and Manang villages, immerse in local culture, and savor authentic cuisine. With its awe-inspiring scenery and sustainable tourism practices, the Annapurna Conservation Area fills you with an unforgettable adventure while preserving its ecological integrity.

Annapurna region includes one of the world's highest lakes, Tilicho Lake. Likewise, there is another founded lake, known as Ice Lake.

Places to visit in the Annapurna Conservation Area

Annapurna Base Camp
Mustang, Manang
Muktinath
Ghale Gaun

Lakes

Tilicho
Ice Lake
Gangapurna
Dhumba
Damodar Kunda

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Bhutan Travel Trekking Guideline

FAQ List

Approximately 20 languages are spoken in Bhutan but the Dzonkha is the official language of Bhutan. Besides, people in Bhutan mostly speak Nepali, Tshangla, and English languages.

Bhutanese currency called ngultrum is used in Bhutan.

Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in the Eastern Himalayas between India and China. It extends an area of 38,394 square km in between the latitude of latitudes 26°N and 29°N, and longitudes 88°E and 93°E. Its landscape ranges from Subtropical plains and forests in the south to subalpine forests and the snowy Himalayas in the North

All foreign tourists planning to visit Bhutan must require a visa except for a few southeastern countries like India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives. You cannot apply for a visa on your own and that should be pre-arranged through a licensed Bhutanese Tour Operator or any of their international associates. Certain documents particularly the electronic copy of your passport are required for visa processing by the travel agency and will cost around 40$ for the application.

Tourism in Bhutan was opened in 1974 to promote the unique culture, tradition, and landscape of Bhutan. Tourism in Bhutan is strictly regulated by the government under the 'High Value, Low Impact' policy, which targets a limited number of tourists who are respectful towards the preservation of Bhutanese culture. Here are the certain rules you need to follow:

If you are not a citizen of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, you'll need to require a visa to travel to Bhutan

You have to book your travel activities only through a government-licensed tour operator

There is a strict minimum daily package/minimum price of tours that a tourist should follow per night.

Bhutan is the safest country to travel even if you are heading to remote regions. The happiest country in the world relishes almost zero crime as the country is known for meditation and Buddhist belief in peace. You will not have to worry about getting caught up with corrupt officials. Nature is unspoiled, the villages and cities are clean, and the air is fresh for breathing making the Bhutan is safe even naturally.

Furthermore, you'll be traveling with your trained and experienced tour guide with the coordination of a travel agency, so you'll not have to worry about safety issues.

Yes, it is compulsory that you must use a multinational tour operator, a licensed Bhutanese Tour operator to book your trip to Bhutan or one of their international associates.

You can get to Bhutan from Nepal in the following ways:

A direct flight from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to Paro International Airport, Bhutan.

A domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur in eastern Nepal, and then a 6-hour road trip across India to Phuentsholing - a gateway to Bhutan.

Overland traveling from Kathmandu to Phuentsholing, the journey passes through Indian roads for 5 to 6 hours before arriving at the entry point of Bhutan.

Yes, all visitors must have full valid travel insurance for the duration of their visit. Visitors from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives have the option to purchase domestic travel insurance at their port of entry.

Festivals in Bhutan reflect the spirituality and vibrant culture of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Bhutan celebrates several traditional festivals throughout the year, and it is recommended to attend at least one stunning festival during your trip to Bhutan so you can witness the unique masked dance and approach authentic Bhutan with a friendly community. Thimpu Tshechu, Paro Tshechu, Jambay Lhakhang Drup, Punakha Drubchen, and Haa Summer Festival are the major festivals in Bhutan.

In Bhutan, rice forms the main body of the meals and it comes with one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Beef, Pork, and Chicken are the most frequently used meats. The unique feature of Bhutanese cuisine is its sharp taste. They use chilis as an essential ingredient and Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that is not spicy.

A wide range of Western and Indian cuisines are also accessible in many restaurants across the country.

Bhutan offers a wide range of accommodations from luxurious five-star hotels to cheerful homestays in traditional village settings.

Tap water is not considered safe in Bhutan for drinking purposes unless it is boiled or purified by a water purifier. Bottled mineral water is easily available in hotels and restaurants.

Traveling independently in Bhutan is not allowed. Traveling in Bhutan can be done only by hiring a tour operator who provides an experienced guide along with you to assist you throughout the trip. Hiring a tour guide and traveling with them is much easier and you will get to learn about the folklore, history, and hidden secrets of the valleys, hills, caves, monasteries, and mountains.

There are numerous famous places that travelers must visit in Bhutan. Before entering the land of thunder dragons, Bhutan, it is always in your favor if you know some of the most visited attractions and most considerable places. Rinpung Dzong, Dochula Pass, Gangte Monastery, Phobjikha Valley, Chomolhari, Jambay Lhakhang Temple, National Museum of Bhutan, Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang Phalpung Monastery), Motithang Takin Preserve, Punakha Suspension Bridge, Drukgyek Dzong, Haa Valley, Buddha Dordenma statue, Hidden Valleys of Bumthang, Chele La Pass, Punakha Dzong, Jigme Dorji National Park, Wangdue Phodrang, Chimi Lhakhang Temple, Royal Manas National Park, Kyichu Lakhang Temple, and many more. You can also check out the best places to visit in Bhutan.

Bhutan Destination

History

Nature

Some Facts about Bhutan

Browse Trips and Tours Around Nepal

Visiting Bhutan

How to get to Bhutan from Nepal?

Best time to visit Bhutan