Bhutan Tour Packages
Explore best offers on Bhutan packages at Thrillophilia. Book customizable Bhutan tours with exciting deals & offers.Bhutan packages let you experience the beauty of this charming yet unexplored part of the Himalayas. Located on the Himalayas’ eastern edge, Bhutan is a landlocked country known for its scenic mountainous beauty and its unique culture. Also known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, its old-world charm makes Bhutan stand apart from other tourist destinations. Bhutan offers a variety of places to visit. It is replete with monasteries and fortresses. In addition to that, nature has blessed Bhutan with the kind of beauty that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world.
Lush green valleys and rivers with blue waters flowing amidst them are just a normal site here. Bhutan is a heaven in the truest sense for nature lovers. For an adventurer, a trip to Bhutan is a perfect dose of thrill. For a photographer, this is the kind of place that makes you run out of space to store pictures. And, for a culture vulture, the rich culture of Bhutan is its real treasure. Explore and experience the untouched beauty of Bhutan with our Bhutan Tours. These specially curated packages let you tour the best of Bhutan, ranging from its most prominent dzongs and monasteries to the scenic valleys and picturesque rivers.
Every second place in this small piece of heaven has something to take you by surprise. It is actually unusual to see how meticulously nature has gifted every part of this country with something extraordinary. But the beauty of culture in Bhutan presides over everything else. The lifestyle of people in Bhutan is quite different from the other parts of the world. Still connected with the roots and preserving its nature and culture in the best possible manner, Bhutan has set an example for other countries to follow. It is amazing how centuries-old structures and monuments here are still as captivating as they must have been when they were constructed.
Apart from the wonders of nature, it boasts of, man has adorned this place with perfect craftsmanship too. The country is replete with beautiful places in the form of dzongs and temples, and the towns still wear an antiquated charm and are full of serenity. You can see it all, explore it and live it with the exciting Bhutan tours Thrillophilia has, to take you through the essence of Bhutan and make you familiar with its culture and heritage.
Adventure is an inseparable part of the Himalayas, and there is no way you can separate the two from each other. Since Bhutan is all about the Himalayas, it is naturally bound to be a place with lots of adventure to offer. From trekking to river rafting, there is a fairly good range of adventure activities to experience in Bhutan, which you can avail with our Bhutan tour packages, carefully designed to quench your thirst for the thrill.
The serene kingdom of Bhutan is blessed with some of the most picturesque rivers passing through valleys, creating frames that are worthy of being set as desktop wallpapers. You can try the adrenaline-pumping adventure of rafting in these rivers. The surrounding scenic beauty will definitely take your breath away while you try to catch your breath amidst the cold waters of one of the rivers in Bhutan. The good thing is, we have covered this unique experience in our Bhutan packages to add a perfect block to your whole experience in Bhutan.
The terrains of Bhutan are perfect for trekking. There are many thrilling trekking trails in Bhutan, capable of giving to a thrill seeker just what he wants. You can take these scenic treks on our tours. Thrilling trails featuring lush green Himalayan forests, pristine rivers and vast pastures enhance the experience of trekking in Bhutan. Our exciting packages which have been designed keeping in mind the experiences desired by adventure lovers are the perfect way to tour Bhutan.
If you are in the mood to get adventurous while exploring the unmatched natural beauty and unique culture and heritage of this country. Bhutan has some great trekking options for all kinds of trekkers – beginners and seasoned. Whether you want to trek through green valleys or you want to hike snow-laden slopes, you will find a suitable option. Some of the best treks in Bhutan are the snowbound Jhomolhari Trek, Druk Path Trek, Snowman Trek, Duer Hot Springs Trek, and Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek.
If you would rather prefer to explore Bhutan on wheels than on foot, how about a bike trip? Biking on the high altitude terrains of Bhutan is another level of adventure. We have an exclusive Bhutan bike trip package that lets you vroom through the beautiful valleys and high altitude roads of Bhutan on the bike. It is as thrilling as Bhutan trip can get. Biking in this beautiful country is the kind of experience one would remember in details for their entire life. On a bike trip in Bhutan, you have an opportunity of coming across some of the most scenic vistas you will have ever witnessed.
Just imagine a wonderful specimen of brilliant architecture standing by a river with lush green hills in its backdrop – that is the kind of beauty you can expect on your Bhutan trip. Bhutan is famous for its collection of the world’s best Buddhist monasteries and centuries-old dzongs, built on scenic locations. Without perfectly curated sightseeing packages of Bhutan, you can explore the richness of Bhutanese culture by visiting its most prized possessions in the form of captivating fortresses, stupas, and much more.
If you think it is the high time your gang of girls took the long-awaited international trip, what could even be a better destination than Bhutan? Thrillophilia’s exclusive ‘all women’ tour package offers you and your girls an unforgettable experience of this royal land adorned with nature’s bounty. Tour through the beautiful valleys and hills offering spellbinding views, check out the amazing monuments, witness the witness biodiversity, click an awful lot of selfies, and make the most fantastic memories with your gang on a Bhutan tour with Thrillophilia. All in all, Bhutan is one of the best destinations across the globe for any explorer. And, we have the best packages offering the best Bhutan experiences.
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Bhutan Top Attractions
Places To Visit In Bhutan
Jigme Dorji National Park is the second-largest national park in the country. Apart from covering multiple districts, it also pans over all three climatic zones of Bhutan. You can experience everything from frozen glaciers to dense jungles, rivers and historic sites without having to leave the park. It is home to important cultural sites like the fortresses of Lingshi Dzong and Gasa Dzong and sacred mountains like Mount Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake. The diverse animal cover in the area includes Bengal Tigers, bharals, black musk deer, Indian leopards and over 300 species of birds. If you decide to make it a place to visit in Bhutan in December, you can also witness the glaciers Lunana and Laya Gewogs in their full glory. Location: BhutanTiming: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PMPrice: Free
Tashichho Dzong is a gorgeous Buddhist monastery and fortress on the bank of the Wang Chu river in the northern edge of Thimphu city in Bhutan. In Bhutanese language the Dzong refers to a“Fortress” and every district in the country is blessed with this unique architecture. Tashichho Dzong is decorated with an illustrious history, glorifying architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. Tashichho Dzong is one of the prime places to visit in the capital city of Bhutan. The Tashichho Dzong is one of the most beautiful dzongs to have graced Bhutan. Also famous by the moniker “Thimphu Dzong”, this elaborate structure takes you back in time. Located beside the Wangchu River, it looks like an attractive painting out of a textbook. The impressive structure is in its full glory all throughout the spring season, when all the blossoms decorate the entire place. This serene palace also houses a monastery and temple. Currently, it also acts as the chief administrative building, housing the Bhutanese government. Offices of other departments are set across the building. The Dzong also serves as the summer residence of His Holiness who also is the Chief Abbot of the Religious Body. With so much to uncover within its perimeter we are sure that a visit to this place will be a rewarding experience, that you will treasure forever.
Rinpung Dzong holds an important place as a major religious and political centre of Bhutan. This large monastery and fortress belongs to the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school and is also home to the district Monastic Body. When here, you can visit the fourteen distinct shrines and chapels housed inside the Dzong and admire the rich Bhutanese architecture of the place. The original building has been a part of the landscape since the 15th century and has been capturing the imagination of people worldwide, especially after its appearance in the 1993 movie Little Buddha. The place also hosts colourful festivals during the Spring months where traditional mask dances are organised for several days.Location: Paro, BhutanTiming: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PMPrice: Free
More Bhutan Attractions
Popular Related Destinations
People Also Ask About Bhutan Tours
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Which are the best Bhutan tour packages?
Here are some of the best Bhutan holiday packages:
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What are the best places to visit in Bhutan?
Some of the most unique places that you need to include in your Bhutan tour package are:1. Tiger’s Nest: Tiger’s Nest, also referred to as Taktsang Palphug Monastery, is not only famous here but throughout the world. This 16th-century monastery has an extraordinary architecture and is a must-visit while in hutan. It is a cluster of buildings that looks as if it is cascading down a 900-metre high cliff. It consists of 4 temples, praying spaces, and residences for monks. The monastery is reachable only after a steep 2-3 hour climb.Location: Taktsang trail, Paro Valley.Price: The entry fee is INR 1,000 per person.Timings: Every day 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
2. Chele La: One of the most intriguing and exciting places to visit in Bhutan, Chele La is the country’s highest motorable pass. Located at an altitude of around 3988 metres above sea level, it divides the Haa Valley from Paro Valley. The pass offers stupendous views of the surrounding alpine forests, waterfalls, lush green valleys, and mountains like Jomolhari.Location: The pass is located on the Bondey-Haa Highway.Price: There is no entry fee.Timings: The pass can be accessed anytime.3. Punakha Suspension Bridge: This suspension bridge is the oldest and the longest bridge in the country built over the Po Chhu River. It is quite an exciting experience walking on this wobbly yet surprisingly sturdy bridge as one crosses over the rushing river. It is an amazing vantage point to see the beauty of the misty lush meadows and valleys around.Mountainous regions are synonyms with these amazing structures that seem to delicately hang in the air. One of the longest in the country, this wooden-planked bridge is a must-see. The length of the bridge is covered in colourful prayer flags and garlands that emit peaceful and positive vibrations as they flutter in the wind. The bridge connects the Punakha Dzong with the villages of Shengana, Samdingkha, and Wangkha.Location: Gunji Thang, Chuu Riverbank, 5 minutes away from the Punakha Dzong.Price: There is no entry fee.Timings: The Bridge is open 24/7.4. National Museum: There is no better way to know about the rich cultural heritage of this Himalayan kingdom than to visit its National Museum. The history of this museum is as intriguing as its treasures. This building was used as a watchtower in the 16th-century and reconstructed to house the museum in 1968.
This intriguing conch-shaped building is a testimony of how this country evolved. It has 6 floors, with each of them narrating a unique story through the preserved paintings, royal dresses, weapons, wildlife specimens, jewellery, masks, scrolls, carved stones, etc. The biggest attraction here is the ‘Egg of Mule’ that came to the museum in 1928.
While nobody knows how this intriguing exhibit came to the museum, there are many legends that one hears. It is said that there was a rich businessman Tshongpo Wangdi who possessed 2 mules with extraordinary strength. One day, one of his mules dropped dead and an egg was found beside his body. This egg, considered to be lucky, saved the family from an epidemic that destroyed their entire village.Location: The museum is located above the Rinpung Dzong, Paro.Price: INR 25 per person.Timings: Summers (March-October)- 9:00 am to 5:00 pmWinters (November-February)- 9:00 am to 4:00 pm5. Dochula Pass: This mountain pass, standing at an elevation of around 3100 metres, is one of the most striking locations in Bhutan. The pass is famous for offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of surrounding mountains and valleys shrouded in silvery mist.
Thickets of flowers like magnolia, rhododendrons, surround the pass and Daphne and are framed by Himalayan ranges in the background. At the pass’s summit, you will see the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens (stupas) that stand as a memorial to the fallen Bhutanese soldiers in the 2003 armed rebellion. Every year the Dochula Druk Wangyal Tsechu is held at the festival ground near the pass.Location: The pass is located on the road between Thimphu to Punakha.Price: There is no entry fee.Timings: Can be accessed any time of the year.6. Haa Valley: Surrounded by miles of brown-golden rice fields, meadows, and high mountain peaks in the background, Haa Valley is one of the most stunning places to include in your Bhutan tour package. Home to the Queen Grandmother of the Dorji dynasty, this valley was opened to the tourists only in 2002.
This is why it has mostly remained untouched and is the best place to spend some laid back time. Don’t miss seeing the White Temple and the 15th-century Haa Wangchuk Dzong while here. The valley is quite popular with adventure enthusiasts for its numerous rugged trails that are perfect for hiking and mountain biking.Location: The valley is located in the south-west of Paro and connects it with Chhukha and Samtse.Price: There is no entry fee.Timings: Can be visited any time of the year.7. Royal Manas National Park: Bhutan is abundant in wildlife and has rich & diverse fauna ecosystems throughout its landscape. This national park, sharing its border with the Manas Tiger Reserve in India, showcases how the Bhutanese people lovingly conserve their nature. It houses hundreds of endangered and vulnerable species of birds, plants, animals, butterflies, and fish that are rarely seen in any other countries besides Bhutan.
Some of the park’s most famous and exotic residents of this park are Himalayan Black Bears, Royal Bengal Tigers, Asian Elephants, Asiatic Gaur, Pygmy Hog, Golden Langur, Red-headed vultures, White-bellied herons, etc.If you plan in advance, you can also participate in bird watching tours that are conducted regularly at the park.Location: South-central Bhutan.Price: INR 100 per person.Timings: Every day from 5:30 am to 6:30 pm8. Choki Traditional Art School: Bhutan has a rich culture of art and craft and this beautiful place showcases how the love of these extends beyond barriers. This art school was specially established to teach arts to students who were talented but couldn’t afford to pay to learn. On your visit, you will be met with smiling little faces who will happily take you on a round of their school to see children engaged in clay art, carvings, and painting.Location: Kabesa Lam, Thimphu.Price: The entry is free.Timings: Every day from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.9. Weekend Handicraft Market: Also known as the authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar, this vibrant market is the highlight of any Bhutan tour. This is where people go to catch the vibrant and happy pulse of the country.
Sellers from all across the country come to this bazaar every weekend to sell amazing bamboo products, silk fabrics, statuettes of Buddha, prayer flags, brass incense holders, carved dragons, thangkas, bells, drums, jewellery, etc. You can also pick up locally made beer, honey, cheese, tea leaves, noodles, and spices here. Don’t miss to try delicious and authentic Bhutanese snacks like Ema Datshi, Shakam Paa, Juma, and a huge range of momos.Location: Below Norzim Lam, Thimphu.Price: There is no entry feeTimings: Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm -
What are the best things to do on Bhutan Trip?
1. Soak in the spirituality: Bhutan is a deeply spiritual country dotted with monasteries and temples that welcome everybody to soak in the aura of calm and peace irrespective of the faith that one follows. Some of the best temples and monasteries to include in your Bhutan tour package are the Tiger’s Nest, Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong, and Trashigang Dzong.
One of the best places to soak in the mountainside serenity is the Great Buddha Dordenma. Being in the presence of this 51-metre high statue that’s encircled by 1,25,000 miniatures of the same statue is quite a surreal experience.Location: These temples and monasteries are spread throughout the country.Price: Every monastery has its own entry system.Timings: Generally between 9:00 am-5:00 pm every day.2. Enjoy the thrill of river rafting: Not many people know that Bhutan is quite an amazing destination for river rafting. There are several rivers with rapids ranging from 1-6 ( 1 being the easiest) that are popular rafting locations. Whether one is a beginner or an experienced rafter, there is something for everybody.
It is an amazing experience seeing the stunningly rugged landscape of Bhutan from its waters as you pass through thick forests, ridges, valleys, and farmlands. The best time to enjoy river rafting here is between March-April and November-December.Location: Some of the best places to enjoy white water rafting here are Po Chhu and Mo Chhu (Punakha Valley), Mangde Chhu (Trongsa), Kuri Chhu, Puna Tsang Chhu & Wang Chhu (Thimphu)Price: Depending on the season (peak or off) and the rafting school that you choose, the price varies between INR 2,000-4,000 per person.Timings: Any day from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.3. Trace the ancient trade route: What’s better than enjoying a trek in the pristine countryside of Bhutan? Taking a trek route that will take you through one of the oldest trade routes in the world. Running between stunning mountain passes, the route will take you through some of the most amazing & unforgettable landscapes.
You will pass through lush yak pastures, emerald-green lakes, forests of rhododendron, apple orchids, and lush green ridges as your guide narrates interesting stories about the trade route. Views of Mount Jumolhari, Jitchu Drake, and Gangkar Punsum will accompany you throughout your trek.Location: The trek starts from Paro and ends at Thimphu as it passes through places like Damchena Village, Jele Dzong, Jangchulakha, Simkota, and Phajoding.Price: The trek costs around INR 70,000 per person.Timings: This is a 5 night and 6-day long trek.4. Enjoy the exotic Bhutanese cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is considered to be amongst the most exotic cuisines in the world. It is known around the world for its comfortable and subtle flavours of yak meat, pork, eggs, and vegetables combined with undertones of cheese and varieties of chillies.
Some of the best dishes to try here are the huge range of steamed & fried dumplings, Goep, Juma, Gondo Datshi, Jasha Maru, Hoentay, Lom, and Khatem. Don’t miss to include local food sampling in your Bhutan tour package and try the local ‘Ara’, creamy liquor made of wheat, rice, or barley.Location: Some of the best places to eat are Bukhari at Hotel Uma, Ambient Café, Galingkha, Swiss Guest House, and Baan Thai.Price: A meal for two, depending on the restaurant, will cost between INR 400-1000.Timings: The restaurants are generally open till 9:00 pm.5. Enjoy traditional hospitality: One of the best ways to learn about and enjoy the happy relaxed, and slow-paced Bhutanese lifestyle is to stay with a local family in a homestay. Not only would you get to know the native language, traditions, and culture, but you can also experience amazing things like a hot stone bath, milking farm animals, and even cooking along with the family. Don’t miss trying the hot buttery tea, pork fat flavoured rice, and khuli (traditional pancakes).Location: Some of the best homestays in Bhutan are Damchoe (Thimphu), Aum Om & Authentic Bhutanese Homestay (Paro), Haa Valley Homestay & Ugyen (Haa Valley)Price: Depending on the homestay that you choose, the prices range between INR 1500-3000 per night.Timings: The homestays are available round the year.6. Attend a festival: Bhutanese people, known as the happiest people on earth, surely know how to celebrate their culture and heritage. Any Bhutan trip is incomplete without attending one of these glorious riots of colour, music, dance, and fanfare. One of the best festivals to attend is Paro Tsechu (March) to see dance performances by lamas and the unrolling of a 4-storey high thangka.
You can see traditional dance forms like Shingje Yabyum and Drametse during this festival. Another not-to-be-missed celebration is the Haa Summer Festival (July) to see dancers wearing colourful masks, costumes, and jewellery dancing to local drum beats. There are also sporting contests, food & drink tasting, and religious performances, which one can attend.
Bhutan also hosts the world’s only festival dedicated to mushrooms! Known as the Matsutake Festival (August), it not only educates people about the thousands of existing varieties of mushrooms but also how they are grown sustainably in Bhutan. You can enjoy delicious foods made of mushrooms and participate in mushroom picking activities.Location: Paro, Bumthang, and Haa Valley.Price: There is no entry fee.Timings: The festivities generally last for 2-3 days. -
What are the best things to do on Bhutan trip?
1. White water rafting in Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu River: Both these streams are famous for offering the adventure lovers a much required thrill in their Bhutan trip. The gushing streams of the white waters offer enough rapids to make rafting a must do activity here. Life jackets and other first aid is always available at site, thus helping you to enjoy this adventure at its best.
2. Kayaking: Either travelling solo or enjoying a trip with your friends, a session of Kayaking in Wang Chhu is a must do activity. Traversing the deep blue waters in a raft while immersing yourself into the wilderness of slowly gushing streams will provide you with much required adventure.
3. Trekking: The quaint valley of Paro is home to many beautiful trails loaded with a wide variety of local flora and fauna. These trails are perfect to indulge in a session of trekking and ascending to the top of the hills like Jomolhari Peak.
4. Paragliding: Get a chance to marvel at the panoramic scenery of the mountain area and the beautiful valley while flying like a bird and enjoying an adrenaline rushing session of Paragliding. The scenic Ura Valley is famous for paragliding due to its height, thus attracting flocks of crowds towards it. -
How to reach Bhutan from India?
It is convenient to reach Bhutan from India. You can either reach Bhutan by air or by road.
By Air: Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. The best way to reach Bhutan by air is to take a flight from Kolkata as there are direct flights to Paro from Kolkata. However, you can also fly to Paro from Mumbai, Delhi, Guwahati and Bagdogra but only connecting flights are available.
By Road: Phuentsholing in Bhutan is 170 km away from Bagdogra and can be accessed by road through bus, private taxi or private vehicle. However, an ‘entry permit’ from the Immigration Office of Royal Government of Bhutan in Phuensholing is required in order to travel to Bhutan by road.
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Which are the best Bhutan tour packages?
Here are some of the best Bhutan holiday packages:
- Bhutan Tour Package From Bangalore 2020 | Flat 9% Off
- Bhutan Tour Package From India 2020 | Flat 15% Off
- Bhutan Tour Package From Mumbai 2020 | Flat 15% Off
- Bhutan Tour Package From Kolkata 2020 | Book @ Flat 15% Off
- Bhutan Tour Package From Delhi 2020 | Flat 20% Off
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Which are the most adventurous treks in Bhutan?
For those who seek thrill and for those who prefer going places that aren’t run-off-the-mill, trekking in Bhutan is the best adventure to indulge in! This is one of the great things about visiting Bhutan now. Bhutan treks are as close to unspoilt and pristine as you can find and even the best trekking routes are incredibly quiet.
There is no shortage of treks in Bhutan, ranging from the relatively easy and scenic Druk Path, to one of the world’s hardest treks, the Snowman Trek.
The best adventurous treks of Bhutan are:
- The Jhomolhari Trek
- Druk Path Trek
- Snowman Trek
- Duer Hot Springs Trek
- Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek
- Bumthang Owl Trek
- Punakha Winter Trek -
What are the different modes of travel I can use to reach Bhutan?
One may opt for any of the following modes of travel to reach Bhutan from India:
- Airway: Airway is the fastest mode to reach Bhutan from India. Kolkata is the only city in India with direct flights to Paro in Bhutan. However, connecting flights to Paro are available from Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati and Bagdogra.
- Roadway: Bhutan shares 3 border points with India but the most preferred entry points for Bhutan from India is The Jaigaon – Phuentsholing border for being easily accessible. Moreover, getting the ‘entry permit’ is easier here. You may either opt to travel to Bhutan in a private vehicle or hire a taxi or take a bus to travel between Bagdogra and Phuentsholing. The journey takes around 4 hours.
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How many days do you need to visit Bhutan?
4 to 5 days are enough to traverse the beautiful and serene areas of Bhutan. From the beautiful monasteries to the gushing rivers, every prominent destination of tourist interest can be easily covered in this time.
A 5 day trip to Bhutan will also provide you with enough time to indulge in adventurous activities like trekking and paragliding. -
How much does a trip to Bhutan cost from India?
A trip to Bhutan costs around INR 28000 to INR 33000 for a single person. However, if you book your package from Thrillophilia, you might get a chance to enjoy some coupons or deals to customise your own package. -
How far is Bhutan from Siliguri?
Bhutan is 224 KM away from Siliguri and to cover this distance, one can easily board a train from NJP and reach Bhutan in around 10 hours. -
Which is better: Bali or Bhutan?
If you are looking for a quiet and crowd-free location then Bhutan is the best place to enjoy a vacation. From paragliding to rafting, every kind of adventurous activity can be enjoyed here. Bali is also a good option if you are interested in the hustle and bustle and want to enjoy the beaches. Both the places are better in their own way. -
Which are the best camping sites in Bhutan?
Camping can be enjoyed as an adventurous activity in Bhutan with a bunch of outdoor experience filled with much more fun like organizing archery using traditional bow and arrow, khuru-dart, organizing cultural program, campfire and even organizing the private festival is possible.
Camping in Bhutan is combined with sightseeing like culture and outdoor sports which will give you a complete sense of the vibrant culture of Bhutan.Camping can be organized in any of the places mentioned below for any duration:
- Punakha
- Phobjikha falls
- Bumthang
- Haa
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Do I need a visa for Bhutan?
No, if you are an Indian national, a visa is not required to travel to Bhutan. However, you must carry either of the two documents while travelling to Bhutan:
- Valid Indian Passport having validity of minimum 6 months
- Voter Identity Card, issued by the Election Commission of India
If you are not a citizen of India, Bangladesh or Maldives, you are required to apply for visa in advance through your travel agent.
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What is the best time to visit Bhutan?
The best season for an amazing Bhutan tour is the spring season that lasts from March to May. The daytime weather is sunny, bright, and pleasant and the nights are cool. The temperatures range between 3-25 degrees, perfect to be outdoors. This is when the valleys and meadows burst with the brilliance of spring flowers and the country celebrates the Paro Tshechu festival.The second favourite visit season is autumn that stretches from September to November. The temperatures range between 10-23 degrees with a pleasant chill starting to set in. There is no rainfall during these months and the skies are clear rewarding the travellers with amazing views of the landscape.Adventure enthusiasts who love experiencing extreme cold and snow, love to visit in the winter months (December-February). The temperatures range between minus 5 to 10 degrees making the day cold and nights freezing. This is the best time to see the mountains coated in snow and experience mild snowfall in cities like Paro and Thimphu.
Summer months in Paro also reward travellers with stunning views of the mountains and valleys. The temperatures range around 24 degrees and the weather is clear accompanied by mild showers. This is the perfect time to see the waterfalls, scores of migratory birds flowing into Bhutan, and clear views of the lakes, peaks, and forests. -
Can I get visa on arrival in Bhutan?
If you are an Indian, Bangladeshi or Maldivian national, you do not need a visa to travel to Bhutan.
For other tourists, no, you cannot get a visa on arrival in Bhutan. Visa is arranged in advance by a local tour company.
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Which are the best monasteries to visit in Bhutan for a spiritual tour?
Bhutan has a deeply spiritual aura with some of the most beautiful monasteries in the world, famous for its architecture and stunning locations. Some of the best monasteries for a spiritual Bhutan tour are:1. Taktsang Monastery: Famous around the world as the Tiger’s Nest, this bronze-gold hue monastery is the one you see on picture-postcards of Bhutan. Edged precariously on a cliffside 3000 metres above sea level, this 8th-century monastery is shrouded in legends and mysticism. The journey to reach this spectacular monastery is quite exciting. One can only reach the temple on foot through a 2-3 hour long trek.2. Punakha Dzong: This 16th-century monastery is the second-largest and the second-oldest monastery in Bhutan. Located at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, it justifies the name given to it by the locals ‘Place of great happiness’. The monastery’s calm and serene aura accentuate the only sounds that you will hear around- those of the rustling river waters.3. Trongsa Dzong: Famous for its captivating views, Trongsa Dzong stands like a shining white jewel amidst the black-green mountains and misty valleys. It is one of the largest monasteries in the country and now serves as the administrative headquarter of the Trongsa district. -
How much time does it take to get a visa to Bhutan?
If you are an Indian, Bangladeshi or Maldivian national travelling to Bhutan, you do not need a visa.
As for the other tourists, though it may vary depending upon the peak-season and off-season situation, it normally takes from 8 to 10 days to get a visa to Bhutan.
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Which are the best places for a biking in Bhutan?
Biking in Bhutan is an enormously elevating experience, allowing one to feel the way of life in Bhutan at one’s own pace. Even the towns can be exciting given the limited parking space; however, the country sides are a gem. With its very limited density of population, 70 percent of the country under forest areas, fresh mountain air, and clear blue skies, one cannot ask for a better location to go biking than Bhutan.
Areas around Paro, Thimphu and Punakha are highly recommended for a biking tour in Bhutan because of its cycle-friendly routes and beautiful landscape amidst local villages.
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How much it will cost me for a tourist visa to Bhutan?
Indian, Bangladeshi or Maldivian national travelling to Bhutan do not need a visa.
As for the other tourists, the visa fee of $40 is charged. Besides, a fee of $200 during low season and $250 during high season is charged on a per day basis.
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Where are the best places for mountain cycling in Bhutan?
Mountain cycling in Bhutan is relatively new, but within the span of short time it has gained much momentum among the locals as well as visitors. Bhutan is a natural Mountain Biking Country with its environment, landscape, villages, valleys, mountain passes and so forth. Bhutan has an amazing east-west road through the ‘middle hills’ and valleys, which not only offers amazing cycling, but also takes you into the heart of Bhutan.
Places for mountain cycling in Bhutan are:
- Paro to Trashigang
- Western Bhutan
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Do I need a visa for connecting flights?
No, you do not need a visa for connecting flights in Bhutan.
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Which are the famous pilgrimage sites in Bhutan?
Bhutan is the only country in the world that officially practices Mahayana Buddhism or Vajrayana Buddhism. More than a religion, Buddhism is a way of life in Bhutan. Since time immemorial, Buddhism has shaped local beliefs, culture and identity.
If you’re vacationing in Bhutan and interested to take part in some pilgrimage tours, the best places are:
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery
- Cheri Mountain
- Gangtey village
- Punakha Dzong
- Tango monastery
- Tongsa Monastery
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Which currency is used in Bhutan?
Ngultrum (Nu) is the name of the currency used in Bhutan. However, Indian Rupee except for the currency notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 are also acceptable in Bhutan.
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What are the most romantic things to do on your Bhutan honeymoon tour?
The breath-taking natural beauty and the cultural treasures of the last Shangri-La, coupled with comparative lack of tourists, will surely make your Bhutan honeymoon a perfect romantic getaway. The Land of Dragons, Bhutan is one of the most mystical places you can go to.
The most romantic things to do on your Bhutan honeymoon tour are:
- Rekindle your romance in Paro Valley
- Visit the new village of Trongsa
- Tour the lively markets of Thimphu
- Trek in Bumthang
- Enjoy your time in Gangtey valley
- Visit Punakha
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How much does a trip to Bhutan cost?
The cost of a 5-day Bhutan tour ranges between INR 30-50,000 per person (depending on the package that you choose). This includes the airfare, stay, visiting all the major attractions across the country, and food. You will have to shell out a little extra for shopping and tipping the guides. -
How much time do I need to explore Bhutan?
Bhutan is a small country with numerous amazing places to visit including nature escapes, dzongs, Buddhist monasteries and much more. The time duration you need to explore Bhutan depends upon how well do you want to explore it. If you want to cover the major tourists sights in the three major cities of Bhutan – Paro, Thimphu and Punakha – you can do it in 5 to 7 days. On the other hand, if you want to explore Bhutan in an ‘all-encompassing’ manner, you need one of the Bhutan tour packages with duration of 10-12 days.
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When is the best time to visit Bhutan for its festivals?
Being a small country Bhutan yet has many festivals and combining Bhutan tours with festivals of Bhutan is a better way to travel around Bhutan. Festivals in Bhutan are typically known as Tshechu (meaning 10th day) and they are celebrated with great fervor across the many monasteries, dzongs and temples dotting the Dragon Kingdom.
The autumn season between September and November is also the best time to visit Bhutan, as many tourists arrive for the big festivals like Tour of the Dragon, Thimphu Drubchen and Wangdue Tshechu and much more. Try to avoid the months of May to September as they are the warmest time of the year.
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Are there any options for women only tour in Bhutan?
Tucked into the eastern Himalayas between China and India, the Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan is a modern-day Shangri-La of awesome beauty and friendly people. Owing to its rich culture and heritage, the people here are very courteous which makes it a great destination to go for women only tours.
This tour will give you a very unique and fulfilling experience of this quaint but beautiful country. There are many tour operators that offer women only tours in Bhutan.
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Which are the places for a wildlife experience in Bhutan?
Bhutan’s great geographical diversity combined with equally diverse climate conditions contributes to Bhutan’s outstanding range of biodiversity and ecosystems.
Well known and keystone wild animals of Bhutan are Asian Elephant, Tiger, Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear, Black Necked Cranes, Himalayan Musk Deer, Asiatic Black Bear, Sloth Bear, Leopards and Grey Wolf. In addition, Bhutan is also home to the tiger, one-horned rhino, red panda and the Tibetan wolf.
The places for best wildlife experience in Bhutan are:
- Jigme Dorji National Park
- Royal Manas National Park
- Black Mountain National Park
- Phibsoo wildlife Sanctuary
- Thrumshingla National Park
- Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
- Khaling Wildlife Sanctuary
- The Manas Game Sanctuary
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Which are the best places for river rafting in Bhutan?
Rafting in Bhutan is of the most rejuvenating experiences as you enjoy the scenic vistas of the country with an adrenaline rush. The pristine natural setting and the sheer variety of the rivers’ courses provides a unique opportunity to explore Bhutan’s beautiful wilderness.
Fed by the glacial-melt of the Eastern Himalayas, six major rivers (Wang Chhu, Sunkosh, Puna Tsang Chhu, Mangde Chhu, Kuri Chhu and Dangme Chhu and their tributaries), have been scouted for kayaking and rafting.
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Is it really worth to do adventure activities in Bhutan?
Bhutan offers a lot of options in terms of adventure activities. If your trip duration is longer than 7 days, it is recommended that you try as much activities as the time allows for a complete Bhutan experience. Adventure activities like trekking require time, so it can be skipped by people travelling Bhutan with short duration Bhutan tour packages. However, activities like rafting which do not require much time can be tried even if you are on a 5 days Bhutan trip.
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Which are the best places for river rafting in Bhutan?
Rafting in Bhutan is of the most rejuvenating experiences as you enjoy the scenic vistas of the country with an adrenaline rush. The pristine natural setting and the sheer variety of the rivers’ courses provides a unique opportunity to explore Bhutan’s beautiful wilderness.
The six major rivers in Bhutan, namely Wang Chhu, Sunkosh, Puna Tsang Chhu, Mangde Chhu, Kuri Chhu and Dangme Chhu and their tributaries, are absolutely fantastic places for river rafting adventures.
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Is Bhutan worth visiting?
Yes, credited with being the happiest nation in the world, Bhutan is an amazing destination to visit. The country is largely untouched with not very high tourism levels lending it a calm, mystic and peaceful vibe. It is a culturally rich country with vibrant festivals and people who celebrate the stunning nature. It is one of the few carbon-neutral countries in the world with expanses of forests, snow-capped mountains, alpine forests, lakes, and waterfalls. Its monasteries like Tiger’s Nest are world-famous for their architecture. -
What sort of public transportation is there in Bhutan?
Bhutan does not have much in terms of public transport. There are no railway tracks. Domestic airway service is limited to Paro and Jakar. Taxis or rental cars and buses are the only means of transport you can avail in Bhutan. Public buses are normally too crowded and uncomfortable due to poor road conditions although the fares are cheap. Moreover, bus service is only available in districts with metalled roads. So, it is recommended that you use taxi services included in your Bhutan tour packages.
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Is travelling safe in Bhutan?
Bhutan is one of the safest countries with rare criminal occurrences. People of Bhutan are very helping and co-operative. However, it is advisable to be careful still and take care of your safety. And, from weather point of view, heavy rains during monsoon worsen the road condition in Bhutan and during winters, snow blocks some roads. So, you should consider the weather conditions before planning a trip to Bhutan, and consider Bhutan tour packages for autumn or spring.
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Is it safe for solo woman travelers to visit Bhutan?
Yes, Bhutan is safe for women solo travellers. All the arrangements are made in advance by tour operators in advance. Yet, it is advisable to be cautious just to be on the safer side.
However, if you are planning to tour Bhutan on a tight budget, it is recommended that you travel in a group to maintain your budget.
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What I should must pack while travelling to Bhutan?
The trick is to keep your luggage light by packing only essential items. Following are the items that should be part of your luggage on a Bhutan tour:
- Warm jacket
- Thermal innerwear
- Waterproof boots or trekking shoes
- Waterproof jacket
- Sunhat
- Sunglasses
- Woolen cap
- Warm Gloves
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Are there any restrictions regarding anything which I need to take care of?
Yes, Bhutan has imposed a few restrictions to preserve its culture, nature and heritage. The government preserves them through the following restrictions:
- You must use a travel agent to tour Bhutan
- There is a rule requiring a strict minimum spending of $200 to $250 per day which includes transportation and accommodation
- Tobacco and tobacco products are banned in Bhutan
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What kind of travelling luggage I should carry? What clothes and things are must to carry?
It is always best to keep the luggage light, irrespective of the destination, for your own convenience. Since Bhutan is a Himalayan country featuring a cold climate, you must keep winter essentials while packing for Bhutan trip.
Following are the clothes and things you must carry on your Bhutan trip:
- Warm jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof and comfortable running or trekking shoes/boots
- Thermal innerwear
- Woolen cap
- Warm gloves
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Sun screen lotion
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Do I need to follow any dress code in Bhutan?
No, the dress code in Bhutan is only meant for the local citizens and not for foreigners visiting the country. However, it is recommended to dress up modestly in Bhutan, especially when visiting religious places. There is no rule regarding this, but it is good to do it out of respect for their culture.
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Is smoking legal in Bhutan? What is the legal drinking age?
Though alcohol is easily available in Bhutan, tobacco products including cigarettes are banned, and you cannot smoke in public places. If you wish to take cigarettes to Bhutan, the upper cap is 200 sticks. Moreover, you need to pay 100% tax on their value.
As per the law in Bhutan, you must be at least 18 years of age to purchase alcohol in Bhutan.
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What is the time Zone in Bhutan?
The time zone in Bhutan is GMT+6. Which means, Bhutan’s time is 30 minutes ahead of time in India.
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Do I have to worry about altitude sickness in Bhutan?
Both no and yes because most people start to feel altitude sickness above an altitude of 2000 meters. It is unlikely that you will suffer from altitude sickness in the places with lower altitude in Bhutan. For example, Paro and Thimphu are slightly above 2000 meters. But if you go to high altitude places (places above 3000 meters) or take high altitude treks like Druk Path Trek (3900 meters), there is a possibility of suffering from high altitude or acute mountain sickness.
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What type of Vaccinations are required before arriving to Bhutan?
Following vaccinations have been recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) for people travelling to Bhutan:
- Diphtheria and tetanus (for adults)
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Polio
- Typhoid
- Varicella
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What type of Vaccinations are required before arriving to Bhutan?
The essential items that one must carry while travelling to Bhutan are:
- Weather/wind proof boots with good quality leather if you are going for trekking
- Layerable clothing for hiking and trekking as there are chances that weather might get cooler
- Rain poncho in case of unexpected rainfall
- Sturdy and comfortable walking shoes for hiking trails
- Thermals and woolen sweaters
- Sunscreen and sunhat
- Comfortable and breathable undergarment
- Cell Phone battery backup
- Personal medication and prescriptions in case you need to buy more.