Bhutan

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.