Visiting Bhutan is an enriching and unique experience that offers travelers a chance to explore a land of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a commitment to sustainability and happiness.

If you want to enjoy a breathtaking international vacation, Bhutan would be the right choice for you. I have visited this mesmerizing Mountain Kingdom, and I must say it’s worth visiting, the scenic beauty, the stunning monasteries, the exotic flora and fauna, everything is simply spellbinding. Check out the Affordable Bhutan Holiday Packages.

Here’s a simple guide as to what you can explore and things to do in this Mountain Kingdom.

Top Places To Visit & Things To Do In Bhutan

1. Paro: Paro is home to Bhutan's only international airport and is a great place to start your journey. Visit the Paro Dzong, the National Museum, and take a hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) perched on a cliff.

2. Thimphu: The capital city offers a mix of modernity and tradition. Visit the Tashichho Dzong, the Memorial Chorten, and the National Textile Museum. Don't miss the weekend market and explore the vibrant streets. For honeymooners, if you want to enjoy a romantic budget-friendly honeymoon trip, checkout the Affordable Bhutan Honeymoon Packages.

3. Punakha: This valley is known for its stunning Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of two rivers. Take a leisurely walk through the countryside and visit Chimi Lhakhang, known as the "Temple of the Divine Madman."

4. Bumthang Valley: Explore the heart of Bhutan and visit the sacred sites of Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang. Enjoy hiking and biking in the beautiful landscape.

5. Wangdue Phodrang: Explore the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong and enjoy scenic drives through the valley. The area is known for its traditional bamboo bridge.

6. Haa Valley: Visit this lesser-explored valley with its stunning scenery, traditional architecture, and unique Haa Summer Festival.

7. Phobjikha Valley: Experience the natural beauty of this glacial valley and visit the Gangtey Monastery. It's also a winter home to the endangered black-necked cranes.

8. Trongsa: Explore the Trongsa Dzong, which is perched high on a ridge and offers panoramic views. The town is a central point for travelers heading east or west.

9. Dochula Pass: This mountain pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. Visit the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens and the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang.

10. Experience Festivals: Bhutan is known for its vibrant festivals or Tsechus. Plan your visit to coincide with one of these colorful events, such as the Paro Tsechu or Thimphu Tsechu.

11. Try Bhutanese Cuisine: Sample Bhutanese dishes like Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew), Momos (dumplings), and Red Rice. Don't forget to try the butter tea and Ara, a local alcoholic beverage.

12. Trekking: Bhutan offers a variety of trekking routes for all levels, from the famous Snowman Trek to shorter hikes like the Druk Path Trek. Each trek offers stunning landscapes and a chance to explore remote villages.

13. Attend an Archery Match: Archery is Bhutan's national sport, and watching a match can be an exciting cultural experience.

14. Visit Monasteries and Temples: Bhutan is dotted with monasteries and temples, each with its own unique history and architecture. Be respectful and follow local customs when visiting these sacred sites.

15. Experience Local Life: Take the time to interact with locals, visit their homes, and gain insights into their way of life. Bhutanese people are known for their warmth and hospitality.

16. Enjoy the Scenic Drives: Bhutan offers some of the world's most beautiful drives. Be prepared for winding mountain roads, but the scenery is worth it. To explore the best of Bhutan, go for Affordable Bhutan Holiday Packages.

What Are The Authentic Dishes To Try In Bhutan?

Veg Authentic Dishes To Try In Bhutan:

1. Kewa Datshi: This is a popular vegetarian alternative to the non-vegetarian Ema Datshi. It features potatoes (kewa) cooked in a cheese (datshi) sauce with chilies.

2. Phaksha Paa (With Radish): While Phaksha Paa is typically made with pork, you can enjoy a vegetarian version with radishes instead. It's a spicy stir-fry dish.

3. Kewa Phagsha: This dish combines potatoes (kewa) and thin strips of dried radish (phagsha) sautéed together with spices and chilies.

4. Shamu Datshi: Shamu Datshi is made with mushrooms (shamu) cooked in a cheese sauce with chilies. It's a flavorful and spicy dish suitable for vegetarians.

5. Ezay: Ezay is a type of Bhutanese salad made with chopped tomatoes, green chilies, onions, cilantro, and sometimes cheese. It's a refreshing and spicy side dish.

6. Khuley: Khuley are buckwheat pancakes that are gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians. They are often served with cheese, butter, or chili sauce.

7. Pho (Porridge): Bhutanese porridge is made from roasted rice flour and is a popular breakfast dish. It can be enjoyed with butter or cheese.

8. Red Rice: Bhutanese red rice is a staple and is commonly served with various vegetarian dishes. It has a nutty flavor and is highly nutritious.

9. Chogori: Chogori is a Bhutanese-style fried rice dish made with vegetables, and it can be customized to suit your preferences.

10. Bja Sha Maroo: This is a vegetarian version of the non-vegetarian Jasha Maroo. It features diced potatoes and chilies cooked with spices.

11. Suja (Butter Tea): While not a dish, Suja is a traditional Bhutanese tea made with yak butter and salt. It's often enjoyed by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

12. Dom Shatsi: Dom Shatsi is a dish made with green beans and potatoes cooked in a sauce flavored with spices and chilies.

Non-Veg Authentic Dishes To Try In Bhutan

1. Ema Datshi: Bhutan's national dish, Ema Datshi, consists of chili peppers (ema) simmered in a cheese (datshi) sauce. It often includes chunks of dried or fresh meat.

2. Phaksha Paa: This is a spicy stir-fried pork dish cooked with red or green chilies and radishes. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that pairs well with red rice.

3. Jasha Maroo: Jasha Maroo is a spicy chicken dish made with boneless chicken, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and red or green chilies. It's a popular and flavorful choice.

4. Phaksha Paa (With Radish): While the classic Phaksha Paa includes pork, you can also find versions of this dish with dried radish and pork, providing a unique flavor.

5. Sikam Paa: Sikam Paa is made with dried pork slices and radishes cooked with spices and chilies. It's a staple in Bhutanese cuisine.

6. Kewa Phagsha: Kewa Phagsha is a dish made with potatoes (kewa) and thinly sliced pork (phagsha), sautéed together with spices and chilies.

7. Shakam Paa: Shakam Paa is made with dried beef, green chilies, radishes, and sometimes cheese. The dried beef is typically smoked or sun-dried before being used in the dish.

8. Shay Paa: This dish features sliced pork belly cooked with green chilies and spices, resulting in a savory and spicy preparation.

9. Yak Meat Dishes: In some regions of Bhutan, you may also find dishes made with yak meat. Yak meat is often used in stews and curries.

10. Bjasha Maroo: This is a variation of Jasha Maroo, made with yak meat instead of chicken, and is popular among those who enjoy the unique flavor of yak.

11. Momo: While momo dumplings can be vegetarian, they are also commonly filled with minced meat, and served with a dipping sauce.

12. Dom Shatsi: Dom Shatsi is a dish made with green beans and meat, cooked in a spicy sauce.

Where To Enjoy Shopping In Bhutan?

1. Thimphu: As the capital city, Thimphu offers numerous shopping opportunities. You can explore the Thimphu Weekend Market, which features stalls selling fresh produce, handicrafts, clothing, and more. The Centenary Farmers Market is also a great place to shop for organic Bhutanese products.

2. Paro: The Paro Craft Market is a popular destination for shopping in Paro. It's located near the Paro Dzong and offers a variety of Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs.

3. Punakha: While Punakha is a smaller town, it has some shops and markets where you can find local crafts and souvenirs. The local market near Punakha Dzong is worth exploring.

4. Bumthang Valley: Bumthang is known for its woolen products, including handwoven textiles and yak wool items. Visit local stores and craft shops to find these unique products.

5. Trongsa: The town of Trongsa has a few shops and markets where you can purchase Bhutanese handicrafts and souvenirs. It's a good place to shop for traditional Bhutanese clothing as well.

6. Haa Valley: The Haa Summer Festival is an excellent opportunity to buy local handicrafts and products directly from artisans and farmers in the Haa Valley.

7. Local Artisan Workshops: Bhutan is famous for its traditional crafts, including thangka painting, weaving, and woodwork. Visit artisan workshops and studios to watch craftsmen at work and purchase their creations.

8. Bhutanese Textiles: Bhutanese textiles are renowned for their intricate patterns and designs. Look for woven textiles, including kiras (traditional dresses), gho (men's robes), and other clothing items.

9. Handmade Paper Products: Bhutanese paper, known as "Dezho," is handmade from the bark of the Daphne tree. You can find journals, stationery, and decorative items made from Dezho paper.

10. Traditional Bhutanese Masks: Bhutanese masks are used in religious dances and festivals. They make unique and decorative souvenirs. Look for handcrafted masks in stores and markets.

11. Bhutanese Jewelry: Bhutanese jewelry often incorporates traditional motifs and designs. Silver, coral, and turquoise are commonly used materials for jewelry-making.

12. Local Food Products: Bhutan produces a variety of organic food products, including red rice, honey, and dried chili. These make for great gifts and souvenirs.

IMPORTANT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. How To Reach To Bhutan From India?

Reaching Bhutan from India is relatively straightforward, and there are a few options to consider, primarily by air and land. Here's how to reach Bhutan from India:

By Air:

The most common and convenient way to reach Bhutan from India is by air. Bhutan has only one international airport, Paro International Airport (PBH). Here's how to do it:

Fly to Paro International Airport:

You can book a flight from major Indian cities to Paro International Airport in Bhutan. The cities in India with direct flights to Paro include Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bagdogra.

Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines:

Druk Air (the national airline of Bhutan) and Bhutan Airlines operate flights to Paro. These airlines offer regular services between India and Bhutan. Be sure to book your flight well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Entry Permit:

You will need a valid passport and an entry permit to enter Bhutan. The Bhutanese government mandates that tourists book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator who will obtain the necessary permits for you.

Visa:

Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. However, you must obtain an entry permit.

By Land:

While traveling to Bhutan by land is possible, it's not the most common method for tourists. The land entry points from India to Bhutan are:

Phuentsholing:

Phuentsholing is the main land entry point from India, located in the Indian state of West Bengal. It's connected to the town of Jaigaon on the Indian side. Travelers can take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport and then hire a taxi to Phuentsholing.

Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar:

These two other land entry points are less commonly used by tourists and are located in the southern part of Bhutan.

When traveling by land, you will need to obtain an entry permit at the border crossing. It's advisable to check the latest travel regulations and entry requirements before your trip, as they may change.

2. What Is The Best Time To Visit Bhutan?

Spring (March to May) is one of the most popular times to visit Bhutan. The weather is generally pleasant, with blooming rhododendrons and clear skies. Explore the Best Destinations in Bhutan with our above guide.

3. Do Indians Need Visa To Visit Bhutan?

Indian citizens do not require a visa to visit Bhutan for tourism purposes. However, there are specific entry requirements for Indian tourists:

Entry Permit:

Indian tourists must obtain an entry permit to enter Bhutan. You can obtain this permit at the border entry points in Phuentsholing, Samdrup Jongkhar, and Gelephu, or at Paro International Airport if you are arriving by air.

Identity Documents:

You will need to carry a valid passport or Voter ID Card (also known as Electoral Photo ID Card - EPIC) issued by the Election Commission of India. Make sure your ID documents are valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Bhutan.

Bhutanese Tour Package:

Indian tourists visiting Bhutan are required to book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The tour operator will make the necessary arrangements, including obtaining your entry permit.

Sustainable Development Fee:

As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, Indian tourists visiting Bhutan are subject to a daily tariff, which includes the cost of accommodation, meals, transportation, and a guide. This fee helps support Bhutan's sustainable tourism policy. The fee may vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation chosen.

Restricted Areas:

Certain areas in Bhutan may be restricted or require additional permits for access. Be sure to check with your tour operator and obtain the necessary permits if you plan to visit these areas.

It's important to note that entry requirements and policies may change, so it's advisable to check with the Royal Bhutanese Embassy or Consulate in India or the Tourism Council of Bhutan for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip to Bhutan. Additionally, ensure that you have all the required documents and permits in order to have a smooth and enjoyable visit to this beautiful Himalayan kingdom