Perhaps it is time to plan another holiday! How about Bhutan? An excellent choice and if you have been ignoring magical Bhutan until now or ignoring it on your itinerary list, it is time to start planning. Do not suppress that urge to visit Bhutan, especially if it has been lingering in your mind for some time now. After all, something is mesmerizing about Bhutan, its majestic monasteries, those breathtaking views and not to forget the salubrious climate. Get ready for a wonderful experience in this gorgeous country that boasts of being the happiest place on earth!
Bhutan is referred to as “The Land of the Thunder Dragon” by the locals, and it is because of the fierce storms that descend here during the summers from the Himalayas. The mysterious country is landlocked between India and China and is closed to the outside and untouched by the modernity. Bhutan has evolved over time and follows Tantric Buddhist beliefs. Still, do not have any confusion about this fascinating country and follow a complete guide that can help you plan your trip there.
Your
Bhutan travel guide
Although
you may have planned your trips and vacations several times before, you will
need some guidance with Bhutan trip. One can, of course, browse Bhutan Tourism
to know more about the country, its people and the top attractions.
How
to reach Bhutan
One
can reach Bhutan by air as it is well connected due to its international
airport at Paro. However, the most convenient way is to reach Bhutan via India
as many flights connect Bhutan to major cities of India. You can also reach Bhutan via rail or road if
in India. Mos6t of the international visitors arrive here either via Singapore
or Bangkok.
When
to go?
Although
Bhutan can be visited any time of the year, there are off and on-seasons. , and
September – November are the peak periods. Thus, if you are thinking of flying
to Bhutan during these months, make sure to book early to get booking on
flights and hotels. Many tourists avoid the peak season to get more deals and
to avoid the peak tourist period. Many travel to Bhutan during the months for
festivals and trekking. A major advantage of visiting the country during the
non-peak periods are the lower costs. As it is, it is hard to backpack in
Bhutan so staying away from high season can be a big advantage for
your wallet. Weather should be another consideration for tourists going to
Bhutan. Monsoon months should be avoided because of landslides, and it can be
difficult traveling during those months, and you will not be able to explore
the country or enjoy it.
What
to pack
Do
warm pack clothes when planning a trip to Bhutan, and it is a must to carry a
jacket and shawl, especially if in Bhutan during the colder months. If you are
here during the monsoons, do carry raincoat and umbrella. Pack light clothes
for summer and comfortable shoes as well as do not forget to pack motion
sickness medicine.
Documents
to carry
Once
you enter Bhutan, you would need to show certain documents so as to get the
permit. Those who fly to Paro can get their tourist permit from Paro
International Airport. You need your passport, itinerary, the hotel’s voucher
and a passport size photo. In case you are traveling solo, you need to show an
undertaking letter. The regular Tourist Permit will allow you to visit Thimphu,
Paro, and Punakha, but you will need a separate permit to visit Bumthang and
other tourist places. There are no charges to get the permit.
Food,
accommodation, currency, and language
Dzongkha
is the official language of Bhutan, but most Bhutanese are fluent in English.
Ngultrum is the currency used in Bhutan, and one INR is equal to 1 Ng. One can book hotels or even consider a
homestay. While the comfort of a hotel room cannot be ignored, it is indeed
enjoyable to look forward to the authenticity of staying with a local family.
There are also other accommodations available on a shoestring budget. Bhutan’s diet
is simple but hot and spicy and offers a selection of dishes such as pork
dumplings, momos, yak meat, beef or chicken. Ara is Bhutanese rice wine that is
similar to Japanese sake.
Places
of attraction in Bhutan
Bhutan
is a tiny country with changing landscapes and culture, and there is so much to
enjoy and explore in the incredible land. Exploring
Bhutan means getting in touch with heritage and traditions and enjoy
nature meditation and landscapes with the right balance.
Here are some of the leading places of attraction to explore in Bhutan.
- Punakha- Explore the green valleys and tropical weather of Punakha and trek across orchards and rice paddies.
- Tiger’s Nest – Trek to Tiger’s Nest and visit the monks that live in the monasteries above. It is a must to climb up to Tiger’s Nest.
- Trongsa – Trongsa Dzong is the largest fortress and a strategic point by a river. It is surrounded by a sheer drop that only adds drama to its beauty.
- Thimpu- Explore the sleepy and peaceful capital of Bhutan and enjoy looking at the preserved arts of Bhutan. Drive to Dochula Pass to enjoy fantastic views over the Himalayas.
- Gangtey – Explore the idyllic small village with beautiful landscapes and monastery. It is indeed the most tranquil part of the country.
- Temples and museums – Numerous religious buildings, temples, monasteries, and stupas are a must to see because of the exquisite architectural feats.
- Trekking And Hiking- Bhutan’s proximity to the Himalayas allow the locals and visitors to enjoy plenty of hiking and trekking trails through valleys and forests.
- Rich in culture and heritage – Bhutan is famous for its art and craft skills like weaving textiles, paper making, painting, carpentry, carving, bronze casting, and bridge building.
Now that you have a fairly good idea on how to plan a trip to Bhutan, get ready for an unforgettable experience of your life. Bhutanese approach life based on the principles of Buddhism and with a sense of spirituality. It is not just your body but also your mind and the soul that gets treated here!
