Bhutan Tourism

Explore Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon

1. Description

Visit Bhutan with Bhutan tour packages to slow down, breathe in the pristine air and seriously find happiness. The ‘land of the thunder dragon’, Bhutan is a remarkable country loved by all tourists since Bhutan tourism started in 1974. This landlocked country with Thimphu as its capital is located in the Eastern Himalayas, largely bordered by India and China. Bhutan tourism is famed for its stunning valleys, lush greenery, magnificent mountains and colourful culture that you can experience at Bhutan tourist places. Sample the unique local cuisine and seek blessings at monasteries with Bhutan tourism. Feel the warmth of the local hospitality as you discover the otherworldly sights on your holidays to Bhutan as a couple, solo or with family. So book Bhutan tour packages today for a one-of-a-kind holiday.

1. Overview

1. Bhutan Currency

The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese ngultrum&(BTN). The value of 1 BTN is almost equal to 1 INR. The Indian rupee (INR) is widely accepted throughout the country. The US dollar (USD) is also accepted in certain places as a result of growth in Bhutan tourism.

1. Best Time to Visit Bhutan

The perfect time to visit Bhutan tourist places with Bhutan tour packages is October to December. This is when the skies are clear. However, Bhutan tourism has its distinctive charm in each season, especially the spring months of March-April when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.

1. How to Reach

The best way to reach Bhutan tourist places is by air since it is a landlocked country. You can buy Bhutan tour packages with flights to enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains. However, taking a train to the nearest Indian railhead followed by a drive to Bhutan is very comfortable as well.

Road: India has three border points on roads with Bhutan. Phuentsholing is the most preferred option for those trying to reach Bhutan by road. It is around 170 km from Bagdogra in West Bengal. The ride from Phuentsholing to Thimphu takes 5-6 hours. It’s great if you want stunning views while experiencing Bhutan tourism.

Air: The only international airport in Bhutan is in Paro. It contributes to a large portion of Bhutan tourism arrivals. It is 7 km away from the city and has regular direct flights to Delhi and Kolkata. The two airline operators include Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines.

Train: You can reach railway stations like New Jalpaiguri and New Alipurduar in North Bengal. From there, you would have to embark on a car ride to Bhutan.

1. Official Language

The only national and official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, the native language of the Ngalop community of western Bhutan. However, English and Hindi are widely understood and recognised in Bhutan tourist places. Bhutan tourism rules ensure that tourists wouldn’t face any problems at all. So choose Bhutan tour packages of your choice without thinking twice.

1. Bhutan Tourist Places

Paro

Referred to as the ‘Last Shangri-La’ on earth, Paro is an ancient city with historic and sacred attractions. The Paro valley is one of the most popular Bhutan tourist places to visit as part of Bhutan tourism as it offers an unusual confluence of natural beauty, colourful display of traditions and modernization. The inspiring practice of terraced farming and red rice cultivation is also widely seen in this valley.

Paro offers the only international airport in the country and is home to the famed Tiger’s Nest monastery. Other attractions of Paro include Ugyen Pelri Palace, Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and Jangsarbu Lhakhang. You must include these in your Bhutan tour packages.

Thimphu

Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan. Amongst the first Bhutan tourist places to be visited with Bhutan tour packages, it is home to the royal family and is the commercial centre of Bhutan as well. It is set on the banks of the serene Raidak River. The city offers an interesting showcase of the gems of Bhutan tourism and the indigenous culture of Bhutan.

The beautiful city of Thimphu has an abundance of luxury stays, tourist attractions and modern facilities. The famous places of attraction include Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), Tashichho Dzong, Memorial Chorten, Centenary Farmers’ Market and The Folk Heritage Museum among others.

Punakha

The former capital of Bhutan, the scenic valley of Punakha is more suitable than other Bhutan tourist places to visit all-round the year with Bhutan tour packages. Punakha is set amidst Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. It is around a 3.5 hours drive away from Thimphu through the famed Dochula Pass.

Punakha is home to the Punakha Dzong, known as the Palace of Great Happiness. This architectural marvel is located at a height of 1,200 metres and proves to be an important tourist landmark in Bhutan tourism. Other attractions include Chimi Lakhang and Jigme Dorji National Park.

Trongsa

Trongsa is a town situated on a hilltop and is around a 6 hours drive away from Paro. It is renowned amongst Bhutan tourist places and is a significant part of Bhutan tourism for its panoramic views and scenic beauty. The rich history and whitewashed buildings add to the charming nature of the place. Its location lends it the name of ‘Balcony of Bhutan’. Amidst the many charms of this picturesque town, the palace of Trongsa Dzong, built in 1648, resembles a flying dragon. It serves as a considerably important attraction here. Other sights of interest in Trongsa include Ta Dzong, Chendbji Chorten and Kuenga Rabten Palace, which can be explored with holiday packages for Bhutan.

Bumthang

Bumthang is also known as the Jakar valley. It is located in the central-eastern part of Bhutan and offers splendid natural beauty just like other Bhutan tourist places. While there are seasonal flights, the scenic drive from Paro to Bumthang takes around 9 hours. Known as the ‘little Switzerland’ of the country due to its cheese production, its elegance surpasses several other cities and towns part when it comes to Bhutan tourism.

Surrounded by trees, the several challenging trails in the region entice adventure seekers as well. Places of interest here include Jakar Dzong, Wangdicholing Palace, Kurjey Lhakhang and Zangtopelri Lhakhang.

1. Best Places to Eat in Bhutan

Bukhari, Paro

One of the nicest restaurants in Bhutan, Bukhari is located in the opulent Uma by COMO hotel in Paro. It offers rich Bhutanese cuisine amongst other global dishes. Bukhari’s signature dish is Ema Datshi which comprises chillies and cheese. It's also the national dish of Bhutan!

Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant, Thimpu

Critically acclaimed to be the best restaurant in Thimphu, this eatery serves traditional Bhutanese meals. The popular dishes include buckwheat pancakes, local curries as well as butter tea. The ambience and interiors, designed to imitate a local home add to the experience of the holiday.

Sonam Trophel Restaurant, Paro

A moderately-priced eatery located in the heart of Paro, Sonam Trophel Restaurant serves local and Indian dishes. Their distinguished items comprise momos, noodles and datshi. Since it offers a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian options, it is amongst the most popular restaurants in the city.

Champaca Café, Paro

Champaca café is a cosy café on the main street of Paro. Delectable bites such as grilled sandwiches and all-day breakfast alongside their aromatic coffee and baked assortments make it a must for foodies. Catering to the likes of locals, hikers as well as tourists, it is a happening spot of the city.

1. Places to Stay in Bhutan

Bhutan tourism gives accommodation choices to suit everyone’s needs. Catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets, they vary from luxurious five-star options to cosy homestays. These are located throughout the country and can be added to Bhutan tour packages as per your choice. So try Bhutan this time instead of your regular Indian holidays.

Taj Tashi, Thimphu

Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa, Paro

Hotel Druk, Thimphu

Namseling Boutique Hotel, Thimphu

1. Don’t Miss Out

Trek to Taktsang Monastery

Trekking to the famed Tiger’s Nest monastery in Paro located at an altitude of 9480 ft is amongst the most outstanding things to do as a part of Bhutan tourism. The trek, often part of tour packages, takes 3-4 hours and offers extremely rewarding views on the way to the esteemed site.

Rafting in Mo Chhu River

Unlike conventional rafting which involves going against the currents, rafting in Bhutan on the Mo Chhu River provides the pleasure to gently float down the river. Soak in the views of mountains and appreciate the natural beauty as part of Bhutan tourism as you move at a moderate speed. You can opt for Bhutan tour packages with your India tours.

Nimalung Tshechu Festival

Bhutan tourism is renowned for its wealthy culture intertwined with its history. There’s no better event to learn more about it and indulge in than the 10 days Nimalung Tshechu Festival which includes devotional dances and performances. Book Bhutan tour packages in June to participate in this annual festival in Bumthang.

Weekend Market of Thimphu

Bhutan tourism would be incomplete without a trip to the weekend market in Thimphu. It’s open from 7 a.m. on Friday to 7 p.m. on Sunday. Take a look at the freshest produce and local life as well as buy intricate handicrafts, textiles and other souvenirs while you’re here.