A Travel Guide to Bhutan: What You Need to Know Beforehand
Bhutan is Waiting for You
Where in the World is Bhutan?
Is English Spoken in Bhutan?
Bhutan: Its Name, Religion and Languages
The Kingdom and Its Population
Tsechus, Domchoes and Archery, Bhutan’s Main Festivals and Sport
When to Visit Bhutan
Valuable Information about Bhutan
Language
Key phrases in Dzongkha to practise beforehand
Visa Requirements for Bhutan
Money and Currency
Availability of ATM’s and Cash
Tipping in Bhutan
Travel Insurance
What Should I Pack for My Visit?
Bhutanese Cuisine; What to Eat and Drink
The Price of Drinks and Food
Dining in Bhutan
Footwear
Luggage
Equipment
Phallic Symbols in Bhutan are Not Pornographic
Entry Fees for Monuments and Other Destinations
Dzongs: Dress Code
Can I travel on My Own in Bhutan?
Taking Pictures in Bhutan
Safety While Traveling in Bhutan
How to Move Around Bhutan
Where to Stay
Sightseeing in Bhutan
Internet and Wi-Fi in Bhutan
Smoking
Availability and Consumption of Alcohol
‘Dry Tuesdays’ in Bhutan
May Alcohol Be Carried Around?
Bhutan and Environmental Sustainability: A World Champion
Shopping without Hassles
Archery or Dha
Hiking up to Tiger’s Nest
Adventure Activities
Costs of Bhutan Travels and Tours
Additional Expenses
How to Get to Bhutan from India
Getting Around in Bhutan
Interesting Facts to Know
Bhutan is Waiting for You
The modern world we live in never sleeps, everything and everybody is constantly on the move. In Bhutan, however, you will find a safe harbor away from the storms of life. Here, it is back to earthly joys and delights like time-honored crafts, the noble art of archery, meals with ferociously hot chilies and homemade cheeses, therapeutic hot-stone baths and amazing mountain treks.
But this remote kingdom has a more profound side to it as well, something you will immediately notice in the strings of prayer flags moving in every second hillside breeze and spanning gorges like bridges. It is here where pert humorous, laughter and deep ancient beliefs meet. This side of Bhutan leaves you in awe of the majestic landscapes, and leisurely journeys allow for quietude and tranquility. You will get to grips with things again, lose yourself in the wonder of nature and feed your inner being with thrilling experiences.
Seventy percent of Bhutan is under forest cover and its carbon footprint is zero, the first country to claim such a feat, while technological innovation and science are slowly starting to plant their seeds.
Bhutan is a multi-faceted diamond with much to discover. Its doors are wide open for visitors to enjoy the soaring mountain peaks and interesting cities. Bhutan is ready and eager to meet you.
Where in the World is Bhutan?
Bhutan is a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayan Mountains. It borders China to the north, and India to the south.
Is English Spoken in Bhutan?
The official language of the kingdom is Dzongkha, but as most of the school subjects are taught through medium of English, it is widely spoken. The young people who often watch Indian Bollywood movies also increasingly speak Hindi.
Bhutan: Its Name, Religion and Languages
Bhutan nestles on the southern end of the Eastern Himalayan Mountain Range and finds itself encircled by two large countries. China’s Tibet Autonomous Region lies to the north and four Indian States, Assam, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and West Bengal make up the rest of this small country’s borders.
The Bhutanese call their country Druk Yul and there is a legend to explain the name. While the Tibetan aesthetic Tsangpa Gyare Yeshe Dorji (1161 to 1211) started construction on the Ralung Monastery there was a violent storm. The thunder sounded like the roar of a fierce dragon or druk heralding the teachings of the Buddha. Tsangpa Gyare promptly called his monastery Druk-Ralung, and the disciples Drukpa or ‘Those of the Thunder’. The religious order he founded was known as Drukpa Kagyupa. In the 17th century his Mahayana Buddhism became the state religion of Bhutan and hence the country adopted the name of Druk Yul, the Land of the Dragon.
Over two thousand monasteries, dzongs and temples are scattered all over this small country and the omnipresence of red-clad monks of all ages is a good indication of the huge influence of the Buddhist religion on every facet on the lives of the Bhutanese people. Every single district has its dzong, usually a huge monastic fortress where the religious authorities resides and the temple are located. Village life revolves around the local temple. The second religion of note in the country is Hinduism, mostly amongst people of Tibetan descent.
The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, which is spoken more widely in the western regions. Two more major languages can be heard, namely Nepali in the south and Sharchopkha, also called Tshangla in the eastern parts. Another 19 dialects have survived in isolated pockets in villages separated from their neighbors by the mountainous terrain and in remote valleys.
The Kingdom and Its Population
Until the 1960’s Bhutan was misleadingly referred to as the ‘Forbidden Land’. Up until then the lack of roads made it inaccessible due its specific geography. Its unforced isolation was thus not the consequence of historical or political choice, but rather because of its remoteness.
The kingdom covers an area of 14,824 sq. mi./38,394 sq. km, around the size of Switzerland. The population of Bhutan stands at 780,000, making the population density quite low at around 18 people/sq. km. An interesting fact is that every citizen of the country owns land and 64.4% of the people depend on agricultural practices for their livelihood, making Bhutan a predominantly agrarian country. Forests cover about 81% of the country, and only 8% is cultivatable, with the rest under a permanent snow cover.
This is a country blessed with jaw-dropping natural beauty, clean air and friendly people. Its ancient spiritual culture is alive and well, and the amazing architecture takes the breath away. The wise kings who rule the country introduced the GNH, the principal of gross national happiness, a measure to gauge its prosperity by the happiness and well-being of its people. Here legends and visionary ideas are born and anything seems possible.
Tsechus, Domchoes and Archery, Bhutan’s Main Festivals and Sport
Religious festivals are by far the most important events in this kingdom. Tsechus and domchoes are the two festivals that draw thousands of people to numerous large dzongs and monasteries scattered over the kingdom very year. Tsechus are mainly celebrated in autumn when farmers have completed most of their chores. The popular Paro Valley Tsechu, however is the exception and celebrates in spring. These festivals consist mainly of masked dances performed by laymen and monks dressed in extravagant masks and costumes. In between the dances red-faced atsaras or clowns provide light entertainment with farcical routines often involving outsize wooden phalluses. Families hold chokus or private yearly prayer meetings, after which there is a village feast. An important Hindu religious festival, the Dashain is also held in autumn and is mainly celebrated by the Lhotshampa. Everyone dresses in brand new clothing, enjoy lavish feasts, watch joyful dances accompanied by drumming, and family members gather to receive blessings from their elders.
Datse or archery is the national sport of Bhutan and also its most popular pastime. Traditionally arrows and bows are made of bamboo. The aim is to hit two small painted wooden targets placed 459 ft./140 m apart at opposite end of the field. This means the archer is 476 ft./145 m from his target, an amazing feat since the international distance is only 164 ft./50 m. There is an archery field in just about every village and during weekends and holidays you are bound to see several matches taking place. If you happen to drive by, rather close you window; an unwanted stray arrows may just find its way into your car with dire consequences. Teems are usually cheered on by enthusiastic female ‘cheerleaders’. Those archers who shoot with imported modern-day bows with pulleys for greater force and speed are the envy of everyone and are regarded with envy.
When to Visit Bhutan
The autumn months September, October and November are the best months for a visit, with less rain and beautiful clear skies. However, winter has its own charm and will fulfil every photographer’s dream. Mountain peaks are covered in bright white snow and prayer flags add splashes of color. Just be aware that especially at night temperatures can drop down to under zero and roads are often closed because of mudslides and landfalls. The spring months from March to May are often wet and rainy but is a wonderful time for hikers, as all the wild flowers like rhododendrons are in bloom, and the air is filled with bird song. From June to August the monsoon is in full swing and most travelers avoid these months, but there are always visitors who do not mind the July heat. Also remember that weather conditions change dramatically according to the altitude.
High Season: March to May and September to November 2023
Low Season: December to February and June to August 2023
Valuable Information about Bhutan
Capital city: Thimphu
Language: Dzongkha is the official language but English is widely spoken.
Currency: The Ngultrum is equal to the Indian rupee. Rupees are accepted widely across the country
Religion: Tantric or Vajrayana Buddhism is the official religion of Bhutan
Local time: Bhutan is 6 hours ahead of GMT and 30 minutes ahead of the standard time in India
Altitude: Elevation varies drastically, but lies between 787 ft./240 m and 24,741 ft./7,541 m
Land area: 14,824 square ft./38,394 km²
Forested area: 72.5% of the country
Language
The national language of Bhutan is Dzongkha and in 1971 it was declared the state language. It is spoken mainly in the western part of the kingdom. However, this is a multilingual country and its people speak an astonishgly nineteen different langauges and dialects. Besides Dzonghka three more principal languages can be heard, namely Nepali or Lhotshamkha in the south, Bumthangkha in the central region, and Englash. Since English is the instruction medium in schools, it is commonly spoken amongst the people. Bollywood has left its liguistic mark as well, in the form of Hindu which is followed and spoken by most locals.
Key phrases in Dzongkha to practise beforehand
Hello: Kuzu zangpo la
How are you?: Gaday bay zhui?
Yes: Inn
No: Men
Thank you: Kadrin chhe la
Nice to meet you: Ga choe da je di sem ga yi
Excuse me: Atsi zur nang
Visa Requirements for Bhutan
Bhutan has strict tourist regulations and all foreign travelers need a visa to enter the country. You should make arrangments for your visa before your arrival, so when you make your Bhutan Tour Package booking with us, this will form part of the whole process. Your passport must be valid for 6 months after you depart Bhutan and have at least one blank page. The cost is 50 USD for all visitors except those from Bangladesh, India and the Maldives who are exempt. Citizens from these 3 countries can get visas upon entry in Bhutan. To summarise:
▪ Passport valid for 6 months after you depart Bhutan is required for all foreigners. Only a voter ID is needed for adults if you are an Indian national
▪ Children of Indian nationality need a passport valid for minimum 6 months or a birth certificate
▪ Comprehensive health insurance which also covers treatment for COVID-19 is mandatory
▪ Passport size photographs. Digital mobile photos are acceptable
Make sure to include all the above documentation when booking your Bhutan Tour with the tour operator
Money and Currency
The BTN, ngultrum is the official Bhutanese currency. One ngultrum is equivalent to one Indian rupee. Although ngultrums are not valid in India, rupees are widely excepted in Bhutan up to denominations of 500. Therefore, notes of 2,000 rupees are not excepted in the kingdom.
Make sure to carry cash, especially when traveling to rural areas. It is also handy for buying souvenirs and snacks. Cash can be withdrawn from ATM’s at banks in the larger cities by using a Master or Visa card. USD are valid as means of payment, but you will probably receive your change in rupees.
Money Exchange
Your tour guide will inform you of the best places to exchange your money.
Credit Cards
Payment by credit card is highly limited and a surcharge of 5% is levied on transactions if these facilities are available.
Availability of ATM’s and Cash
You will find ATM’s in all the major towns in Bhutan. Three banks will accept foreign credit cards, namely Bhutan National Bank, Druk Punjab National Band and the Bank of Bhutan. Money can be withdrawn at ATM’s with a Master or Visa card although you should be aware of the fees that apply.
We recommend you get cash apon arrival in Paro or Thimphu before you start your travels to areas further afield. You can exchange your foreign currency for Nu at arrival. Also be aware that the ngultrum is not used anywhere else outside the kingdom of Bhutan. If you come with US dollar, $100 notes are better since their exchange rate is higher than smaller denominations.
It is advisable not to depend on cash machines as they are unreliable and their availability is limited. Neither can you depend on plastic, it is much better to use cash in euros, British pounds or US dollars.
Tipping in Bhutan
Although it is not compulsory to give tips, we are committed to make sure that all our tour leaders and guides receive a decent wage. You can acknowledge good service and a job well done by tipping your driver or guide as a monetary sign of appreciation for their hard work and dedication. Travelers constantly ask what a decent amount for tipping would be, and it is a tricky question. Everyone has his/her own idea about the matter, but if we have to make a recommendation, five to ten euros per person per day is considered acceptable.
Local staff
Again, tipping locals is not compulsory, but you should know that tipping is common and an integral part of showing appreciation for providing good service in Bhutan. Local staff will also sometimes expect a tip from individual tour members as recognition when providing services of a more personal nature. Allow about 30 euros for local staff gratuities during your Bhutan Tour.
Travel Insurance
Valid, full travel insurance which also covers treatment for COVID-19 is mandatory for all visitors entering Bhutan. It should be valid until you exit the country.
What Should I Pack for My Visit?
Because the Kingdom of Bhutan lies in the Himalayan Mountains the weather will change according to the altitude. Bhutan is a strict Buddhist country so dressing modestly will show your respect for the cultural norms of the people. When visiting temples and while walking in towns and villages cover up.
Hiking/walking shoes: Bhutan has lots to explore and you will do much of that on foot, so your choice of shoes is very important. You need comfortable, sturdy shoes to enjoy your trip to the full.
Walking stick: Walking sticks will help you keep your balance on those paths and roads that are uneven or wet.
Layers: Make sure to bring layers of clothing: a warm woolen under layer for the upper body and legs, a mid-layer, and for outer wear rain pants and a waterproof jacket.
Hat: You may be exposed to lots of sunshine while trekking in the mountains, so bring a Tilly Hat or good quality peak hat to cover your head and neck.
Sunscreen: In higher altitudes, the sun can be quite strong, and it is essential to use protection.
Lip balm: The climate in Bhutan can become very dry, so a good lip balm or chapstick and moisturizer for the body is a good idea.
Medicine for motion sickness: You will be traveling on lots of winding roads, so if you are prone to motion sickness, pack medicine.
Swimwear: If you plan on enjoying the hot springs or the traditional hot stone baths pack your swimwear.
Umbrella and rain coat: If your Holiday in Bhutan coincides with the monsoon season, these items will be essential.
Bhutanese Cuisine; What to Eat and Drink
The Bhutanese cuisine is unique and differ from the food in all other countries. Its remote location in the mountains of the Himalayas, and the fact that it is sandwiched between China, Tibet, India and Nepal mean that its food shows influences from all these countries. Despite all this, Bhutan has amazingly managed to keep its own food culture. There is a limit to what produce can be grown in the cold mountainous regions, but the fertile valleys and milder climate zones have the perfect conditions to grow lots of fresh products. These ingredients are therefore easily available and used in many different ways. They include red rice, butter and cheeses made from cow and yak milk, dried pork, beef and yak meat (to preserve meat during winter), buckwheat for noodles, pancakes and such-like food, as well as vegetables like cabbage, mushrooms, potatoes, even consumable ferns.
Although the meals in Bhutan are delicious and wholesome, foreign palates may find it somewhat repetitive. Local dishes invariably consist of red rice, fresh vegetables, and usually some meat. Since Bhutan is a Buddhist country, many of its people are completely vegetarian, so non-meat eaters will have plenty to eat.
Ema datshi, a hearty soup with chili peppers and cheese, accompanies every meal in Bhutan and is its national dish. In fact, the Bhutanese have an undying love of chilies; here it is treated as a vegetable and not a spice like in the rest of the world. For instance, you will be served a meal of red rice, chilies and home-made cheese, topped with a kind of chutney made from dried red or green chilies. This may sound alarming to non-spicy food lovers, but be assured it is a wonderfully tasty accompaniment to any meal. Not all the chilies are of equal heat and the yak milk cheese often smothers the worst spiciness. Ema datshi is commonly served on the side, so you will be in full control of the level of hotness you are braving.
Chilies are grown in abundance on every farm in the country and have infiltrated every menu of the Bhutanese cuisine. It has become a staple like potatoes, ginger and rice. Chili peppers define every aspect of the local food and come in green, red and sometimes even yellow varieties. Food in this country without some form of chilies is unimaginable, they are used dried, fresh, cooked, chopped and raw, to name but a few options. During your Bhutan Travel, whether you find yourself in a city or a small village, you will see bucketsful of chilies and long strings hanging at market stalls. The cold mountain weather is often given as the explanation for the locals’ affinity with this fiery little vegetable; it heats them up from the inside and drive away the cold. Whatever the reason, they are loved both for their heat and their flavor. If a whole nation is so in love with this vegetable, there must be good reason, so why not be brave and challenge yourself by adding some more fire to your food.
Bhutanese food has a lot of dairy products because up and down the country, people raised livestock of some kind or other. Butter and full cream cheese are made of yak and cow milk, even water buffalo and are plentiful.
If you like a tasty little snack, you are in the right place. Bhutan’s dumplings, called momos, are deliciously filled with potatoes, pork or chicken meat, or cheese. The filling is wrapped in a dough and then steamed. You will be interested to know that pigs are raised on marijuana found all over the central valleys, which adds a unique special flavor to the pork in Bhutan. Another snack not to miss is zow, cold red rice roasted and mixed with whatever left-over vegetable are available, with small amaranthus seeds mixed in sometimes. Yak cheese balls cut into small blocks and dried on a string is another tasty, handy snack especially when trekking. Shakam paa is perfect for meat eaters, the meat is dried and preserved before it is cooked with radish and chilies.
After all this food, you need some form of liquid so why not try one of the rich, filling beverages typical of Bhutan. Butter is an essential ingredient in butter tea, the popular warm drink of unpasteurized yak milk, black tea, milk and for special flavor, a small pinch of Himalayan salt, perfect for keto diets. This may sound like a strange combination, but remind yourself of the bulletproof coffee trend which involves grass-fed unsalted butter. Yak butter is also used in the alcoholic drink of rice whiskey and eggs that will quickly drive away the cold. Ara is popular in Bhutan and is privately distilled or fermented in homes and on farms. To serve, the ingredients are mixed in a pot, heated on a fire and then ladled or poured into mugs.
Other locally brewed drinks are Druk Lager, Druk 11000 and Red Panda Beer. Natural fermenting processes are followed and only recycled bottles are used for this surprisingly good beer.
The Price of Drinks and Food
All three meals are included in the cost of your Bhutan Luxury Tour but here are some guidelines on the food and drink costs in the country for your information. Many factors play a role in what you will pay for a meal, like the location, the kind of eatery and items on the menu chosen. Like everywhere in the world, upmarket restaurants in city centers will definitely charge more than a local eatery in a more remote location.
The following are the prices of a few basic items in the capital Thimphu:
▪ Still water 330 ml: 15 BTN/$0.20
▪ Coke 330 ml: 30 BTN/ $1
▪ Regular cappuccino: 85 BTN/ $1
▪ Imported beer 330 ml: 250 BTN/$3
▪ Mid-range bottle of wine: 250 BTN/$3
▪ Cheeseburger: 70 BTN/$0.85
▪ Cheap restaurant meal: 180 to 200 BTN/ $2.20 to $2.50
Decent restaurant meal: 250 to 400 BTN/$3 to $5
Dining in Bhutan
Taking an official guided tour is the only way visitors are allowed to travel in Bhutan, which means your guide or tour leader will be in charge of the choice of restaurants you visit. That said, your dining experience will vary from more upmarket restaurants in Thimphu to much more informal locally run family establishments in the rural areas. Meals are filling and hearty with an abundance of meat, cheese and butter used in almost every dish. Vegetarians must be vigilant as many vegetable meals also contain dried meat, so make sure to communicate your preferences well.
Whatever you choose from the menu, you are likely to receive a number of small side dishes like chili sauce, chilies, rice, cheese, vegetables and condiments, turning each meal into an exciting taste adventure of the local delicacies.
Footwear
During the course of your Bhutan Tour you will do a lot of walking so make sure to pack comfortable trainers, walking shoes, or light walking boots. For the ascend up to Tiger’s Nest shoes with ankle support are recommended.
Luggage
Economy passengers on Druk Air are allowed to check in 66 pounds/30 kg of baggage and take 11 pounds/5 kg into the cabin.
Equipment
We recommend you pack the following items: Torch, binoculars, a water bottle, lip balm with good sun protection, a high STPF sunscreen (at least factor 15), insect repellent and a pair of high quality sunglasses. A walking stick for the trek up to Tiger’s Nest is a good idea, otherwise you can rent one at the start. Also bring a swimsuit if you want to cool off in the hotel pools in Bhutan and India.
Phallic Symbols in Bhutan are Not Pornographic
You may find it strange to be confronted by so many phallic symbols everywhere you travel in Bhutan. This obsession is actually an integral art of the Bhutanese religion and culture. Expect to see penises of all sizes painted on walls and doors, offered as souvenirs and even in the form of giant sculptures.
This unusual worship stems from the much loved saint Drukpa Kunley, who believed in using unconventional, bizarre methods to get his teachings across. During your Holiday in Bhutan you will learn much more about this yogi’s interesting life and how it came that the phallus gained such prominence in Bhutanese Buddhism. Even though you may not agree with his outrageous behavior of using sex as a tool to convey his message, he is part and parcel of the Bhutanese history. Chime Lhakhang, a temple located in the beautiful Punakha Valley is believed to induce fertility and couples who wish for children travel here to make offerings, pray and seek blessings from the saint. It is common to see women carrying a large wooden phallus like a baby walk three times all around the temple, a local fertility ritual to counteract infertility.
Entry Fees for Monuments and Other Destinations
Taktsang Monastery at Tiger’s Nest, Paro, the most revered dzong in the kingdom:
▪ Adults: BTN 2000/$25
▪ Children between 5 to 18 years old: BTN 1000/$12.50
▪ Children younger than 5 years: Free of charge
Other sacred sites and monuments, including dzongs and the famous Buddha Dordenma statue in Thimphu:
▪ Adults: BTN 2000/$25
▪ Children between 5 to 8 years old: BTN 1000/$12.50
▪ Children younger than 5 years: Free of charge
Dzongs: Dress Code
You certainly do not want to miss the opportunity to see as many of Bhutan’s impressive dzongs as possible. These fortress monasteries are large traditional, historic buildings with a temple, courtyards, a tower and municipal spaces. Dzongs are the tangible proof that state and church are inseparable in Bhutan.
The dress code for entering any dzong is quite strict. No jeans are allowed, and wrapping a jacket round the waist will not suffice. Jackets have to be zipped or buttoned up and no shorts, hats, short skirts, T-shirts or flip-flops are allowed. Although tourists do not have to dress in the national kira or gho, you should dress modestly with covered legs and arms.
Can I travel on My Own in Bhutan?
No, according to government regulations, all travelers to the country have to book a tour with a licensed local tour operator.
Taking Pictures in Bhutan
Before filming or taking pictures inside a dzong, monastery, temple or any other religious building, first consult your tour leader or guide, since it is not always permissible. It is important to show the necessary respect for the cultural and religious practices and norms of the country you travel in.
Safety While Traveling in Bhutan
Bhutan is a safe country to travel in. Visiting Bhutan is seen as a privilege so visitors are treated and regarded as honored guests. Crime is almost non-existing throughout the country. Of course the usual minor problems exist like in all countries worldwide, and you should be aware of things like adverse weather conditions, high altitude, and sometimes a lack of clean water due to poor treatment.
If your Bhutan Travel coincides with the monsoon season, you can expect mudslides and adverse hiking and trekking conditions. Inform yourself of the best months weather-wise for your visit, especially if hiking is your thing. Always give your body time to acclimatize to higher altitudes to make the best of your experience before you ascend to higher elevations. Driving on the winding mountain roads can be a safety hazard and night driving should be avoided. The roads are very poorly lit and often cling precariously to the mountainside. Always buckle up; road accidents are a common occurrence.
Street dogs are a common sight in towns and cities, but even if you are an animal lover, rather stay clear of them as the risk of catching rabies do exist. Only drink filtered or bottled water. Tap water is not treated and may cause sickness.
Just like on travels anywhere else in the world, we always advise our clients always to safeguarding their personal belongings. Although petty crime is only occasionally reported, people will be people and not everyone can withstand the temptation. Our travel guides stress this point, as well as the necessity of taking out medical and travel insurance before travel internationally.
Before you book your Bhutan Tour Package consult your own government’s recommendations for traveling to Bhutan. There might be rising tensions in some border areas like the far southeast and these regions are best avoided. However, if it forms part of the itinerary you have booked, catch up on the latest news before setting out on that leg of your journey.
How to Move Around Bhutan
The only way to travel and see Bhutan is with a guided tour, which means a driver with private car will be at your disposal during the entire trip. This will be included in the cost of your Bhutan Tour Package. We always use vehicles like Kia Seltos or Hyundai Cretas for our tours in Bhutan.
Where to Stay
The choice of overnight stays will be determined by the tour package you have selected and the type of experience you expect from your visit. If you chose to stay in hotels, they will vary from 3 star to luxury 5 star.
Travelers who prefer an authentic experience to become more acquainted with the local people, should go for either home of farm stays. Here you will be served home cooked food and may even lend a hand with the chores. If hiking forms part of your trip, we will provide all the necessary equipment.
▪ Thimphu: Recommended 3-star hotels are Osel, the Namgay Heritage Hotel and the Lemon Tree Thimphu
▪ Punakha: Recommended 3-star hotels are the Four Boutique Hotel, Ramada Valley Resort and the Meri Puensum Resort
▪ Punakha: A good 4-star hotel is the Dhensa Boutique Resort
▪ Paro: Recommended 3-star hotels are Drukchen and the Khangkhu Resort
▪ Amankora is a luxury resort with 5 lodges in Thimphu, Paro, Punakha Bumthang and Gangtey. They were the first foreign company who was allowed to construct hotels in the kingdom. The Paro Valley hotel is especially magnificent with views of the snow-covered Jomolhari Peak. With an all-inclusive Amankora Journey pass you can move from hotel to hotel.
▪ The luxurious Hotel Gangtey Palace previously served as residence for the country’s second king and does justice to the title palace. Most Bhutan homes has a shrine, but the altar room in this gem of a hotel is something exceptional. The nineteen rooms are of generous size and the restaurant serves Western, Bhutanese and Indian dishes. You can also relax at the bar or lounge and admire the majestic Paro Dzong and beautiful gardens.
▪ The Taj Tashi in Samten Lam, Thimphu opened its doors in the beginning of 2008 and is a blend of modern and old, encapsulating the mighty dzongs in structure and contemporary sleek furnishings of today. Up till now all hotels allowed in the country were exclusively set in the remote rural regions, but the Taj Tashi towers over Thimphu’s low-rise buildings. Although it is as imposing as a dzong, the hotel has only 66 spacious rooms with modern-style fittings, hand-made carpets and local blue pine lattice work. The public spaces are adorned with murals with intricate traditional emblems, like clouds, horn-like musical instruments called dhungs and symbolic thunderbolts called dorjes. In the Chig Je Gye Restaurant you can order traditional Bhutanese food or enjoy something in the Asian and Continental restaurants. There is also a bar, tea lounge, spa with hot stone treatments and an indoor pool.
Other luxury stays are at Le Meridien Thimphu, Como Uma Paro, Le Meridien Paro River Front, and Como Uma Punakhu.
Sightseeing in Bhutan
This small kingdom is known for its beautiful fertile valleys, astonishing mountain views, impressive dzongs and beautifully decorated temples. These are therefore the sites most popular with tourist and all worth a visit.
▪ Thimphu: Bhutan’s capital has a number of cultural and religious sites
▪ Punakha: Cultural sites and adventure
▪ Paro: The Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Bhutan’s International Airport
Internet and Wi-Fi in Bhutan
Mobile network coverage and services are erratic and not available everywhere in Bhutan, and not all overseas cellphone providers allow roaming here. Verify the situation with your own cellphone company before you embark on your Bhutan Luxury Tour.
You can always stay connected with a local Bhutanese SIM card especially intended for visitors. Have your passport ready to buy one and be aware that even with a local SIM card, the service will be a hit-and-miss affair and you will have internet access will mostly be restricted to the cities.
Most of the hotels do have Wi-Fi, but we still recommend getting a local guess SIM for a more reliable connection and convenient data access. Be aware that mobile data is expensive in Bhutan. A B-Mobile SIM card can be purchased in the larger cities at mobile stores and top-ups are easy with goBoB, the Bank of Bhutan app. This handy app can also be used for other payments in the country.
A Tashi Cell guest SIM is priced at BTN 600/$8 and allows texts and calls for up to BTN 300, as well as 2GB of 3G/4G data. You can top-up as you go along.
A Bhutan Mobile SIM card costs BTN 200/$3 to 500/$6 and allows for 100 to 200 minutes of talk time, as well as 1 to 3 GB of 3G/4G data. The charges for data are calculated according to pay-per-use at BTN 0.0003/KB.
Smoking
The recent 2021 Tobacco Act permits all licensed grocery retailers and pan shops to import and trade in tobacco products. Like alcohol, however, no tobacco products may be sold to persons under the age of 18. Smoking in public is still prohibited and smokers may only light up in one of the designated areas.
Smoking is allowed in private areas but banned in both indoor and outdoor public areas, on public transport and in taxis. Exceptions are made for lodgings and hotels, bars, discos and recreational centers. Here the manager may decide to allocate certain areas or rooms for smoking, or choose to declare the establishment a smoke-free zone.
Both locals and tourists may have ten packets, that comes to 200 cigarettes, 30 cigars, or 5.3 oz./150 g of tobacco products in their possession for personal use. You need to declare all tobacco products at customs on arrival in Bhutan, and show the bills of purchase. Tax will be levied and then you may smoke in the designated areas only.
Always consult your guide for an appropriated place before you decide to smoke; you do not want to cause unnecessary problems for your guide or yourself.
As stated above, hotels, restaurants and some bars have smoke rooms, while some of the nightclubs may allow smoking after dark.
Availability and Consumption of Alcohol
Drinking alcohol is part and parcel of the Bhutanese culture. It is served to honor and show hospitality and respect towards guests. An alcoholic beverage is offered to bestow well wishes on guests, and when sending off friends and family. Alcohol washes down meals, is often drunk as dessert after the meal, and even consumed before bedding down for the night.
The popular archery competitions are soaked in booze, and no-one leaves without enjoying a one-for-the-road drink. By now it must be obvious that the Bhutanese have an enduring love affair with alcohol.
Foreign visitors are always pleasantly surprised at the good quality of alcohol in Bhutan, and they expect large international companies to control the breweries. However, that is not the case. Bhutan may be a small country, but it produces some of the very finest alcohol in this part of the world, and the local craft beer industry is going from strength to strength.
Alcoholic drinks available in Bhutan:
▪ The traditional drink in Bhutan is ara, made from local high-altitude tolerant grains which is either fermented or distilled and has a clear, white or creamy color. Ara is consumed during religious ceremonies and flows freely at archery competitions and tournaments, so much so that most archers are convinced that it improves their skills.
▪ Chang, a relative of beer, is also brewed from fermented grains. It is mostly made by locals who claim that it is essential to keep the cold at bay during the winter months.
▪ Bhutanese beer is of a high quality and you can pick and choose from a large variety. It is a good idea to include a visit to either the Namgay Artisanal Brewery or Bumthang Brewery in your itinerary. Some local beers are Druk Premium Lager, Druk 11000, Druk Supreme, Red Panda Weiss Beer and Thunder 1500 Strong.
▪ The local Bhutanese liquor is also worth a sample. We recommend you try K5 Whiskey, The Silver Jubilee, Grain Whiskey, Prophecy or Special Courier.
▪ An interesting fact about Bhutanese wines is that the Bhutan Wine Company which is based in the US, has been collaborating with their Bhutanese associates to develop the very first vineyard for fine wines at Yusipang, outside the capital Thimphu. The local wines you will want to taste are Vintria Shiraz Dry, Takin Red and Zumzin Peach.
‘Dry Tuesdays’ in Bhutan
Sorry to rehash, but to reiterate: Bhutanese people love their alcohol. If you are still doubtful; the small kingdom of Bhutan has over 5,400 bars and you will even find a number of clubs in the capital, Thimphu.
That said, every Tuesdays this habit is broken across the length and width of the country. On Dry Tuesdays you will not be able to buy an alcoholic beverage anywhere, not even in a bar, as it is strictly forbidden. You may wonder why this day was chosen as the unlucky one. According to James Montague, the British author, he asked the same question of a barman and the barman’s response was simply, “We had to pick a day.”
May Alcohol Be Carried Around?
There is absolutely nothing that prohibits you from carrying alcoholic beverages in Bhutan and you may even drink your beer in a park or other public place. You should make a note of two facts, though. Firstly, foreign visitors may have no more than 33.4 oz./1 liter of alcohol in their possession. Secondly, some of the monasteries and other religious sites do not tolerate alcohol on their grounds.
There is really no need to bring your own alcohol to Bhutan. The country is overflowing with all kinds of alcoholic drinks and the locals will love you for drinking the local produce with them. So, bottoms up!
Bhutan and Environmental Sustainability: A World Champion
Bhutan is amongst the greenest countries worldwide as far as sustainability is concerned. According to their constitution forest cover must make up a minimum of 60% of its surface area. At present forests cover about 70% of the kingdom. Furthermore, Bhutan acts as a role model for the rest of the world, and proudly carries the title of the only carbon free country worldwide. In Bhutan Mother Earth is respected and revered, and the preservation of nature is high on the agenda.
Shopping without Hassles
In Bhutan there is no need to test your bargaining skills. Haggling over the price of an item is a foreign custom to the Bhutanese, unlike many other countries in South and Southeastern Asia. In general things cost the same in different shops, a great relief for many tourists who have not yet honed their bargaining skills.
Archery or Dha
The national sport in Bhutan is archery or dha. You do not want to miss the opportunity to try your hand at this ancient practice, so make sure to include it in your planning. The Bhutanese are very enthusiastic about their beloved archery and will appreciate your interest. Ask your guide to take you to a nearby village field and at least let the world’s champion archers impress you at the local competition.
If you are in cities like Paro or Thimphu on a weekend, do take part in the merriment and fun at the archery matches. The fields are crowded with participants shooting away and everyone is having a jolly time.
Hiking up to Tiger’s Nest
The monastery at Tiger’s Nest dates back to 1692 and is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the country. The building seems to cling to a ridge at the side of a steep cliff some 10,000 ft./3,000 m high. To get to the starting point visitors must take a taxi and drive 20 minute from Paro in a northern direction. Then there is a 4 to 5-hour trek before you reach the monastery. The round trip is 4 mi./6.5 km long with and the elevation 1,700 ft./520 m. Try to spend some time in Paro at 7,200 ft./2,200 m in altitude to acclimatize beforehand, then this should not be too taxing to do in a day.
Good comfortable hiking boots are best for this hike and hiking poles or a walking stick will help with balance and knee support both uphill and downhill. Make sure you stay hydrated throughout and carry cash for lunch in the cafeteria on top.
Adventure Activities
You have probably seen in the itineraries for our Bhutan Tours that this country is synonymous with adventure. For seasoned hikers there are various multiday treks through the Himalayan Mountains but if you prefer something of a shorter duration there are lots to choose from, like white-water river rafting with rapids from class 2 to 4, kayaking, mountain biking, cycling and hiking.
To rent a mountain bike of good quality will cost you $35 per day. For river rafting on the Minas, Po or Mo Rivers a boat which takes 6 people will cost around $250.
Costs of Bhutan Travels and Tours
In order to protect the environment and control the influx of tourists to the country, the government has set a so-called ‘Minimum Daily Package” price for tours, which is non-negotiable. This price is almost all-inclusive and cover all accommodation and meals, porters, tour guides and transportation, as well as cultural activities. A percentage of these fees are used to provide free education, poverty alleviation and healthcare for the people of Bhutan.
Bhutan Tour prices depend on the size of a tour group and the season.
High Season – March to May, and September to November:
▪ Groups of 3 or more: $250 p/p
▪ Groups of 2 people: $280 p/p
▪ Individuals: $290
Low Season – January and February, June to August:
▪ Groups of 3 or more: $200 p/p
▪ Groups of 2 people: $230 p/p
▪ Individuals: $240
Discounts for students and children are available.
We cannot deny that a Bhutan trip may be costly, but it is hands down worth every cent. Remember that the $40 cost of your visa is additional. As soon as you have done the payment the Tourism Council will send you a clearance letter with a confirmation code. Your visa for Bhutan will only be entered into your passport when you arrive in the country.
Still wondering what you will get for your money? The answer is simple – everything! You will have your own driver to transport you everywhere, accommodation, as well as any equipment for camping you might need. Your friendly driver is even ready to lend a hand with your luggage. To summarize:
▪ Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily
▪ Minimum 3-star accommodation. If you need something more luxurious, a surcharge will be required
▪ Private border or airport transfers
▪ Licensed local tour guide throughout the entire trip
▪ Transport and driver, as well as equipment for hiking or trekking trips
▪ $65 Sustainable Development Fee
Every tour operator has his/her preferences for accommodation, often the less costly hotels. It is a good idea to find out beforehand which hotels have been selected for your trip, do your own research and ask you tour operator to make changes if you are not happy. Neither your itinerary nor the choice of hotels is set in stone, and to keep business and please their clients tour companies will always be accommodating.
Additional Expenses
You will need additional funds for tips for your driver and guide for good service rendered, to buy souvenirs, and for purchasing alcoholic drinks. Before you travel your travel agent must see your travel insurance, which is mandatory, flight tickets to Bhutan, and those for internal flights.
How to Get to Bhutan from India
There are no trains in Bhutan, so once you leave the cities and towns, the easiest and best way to travel is by car. Internal flights are almost non-existent. Some regions have public buses but they are usually uncomfortable and overcrowded. Previously the tourist daily fee included the services of a car with driver and the fuel.
By Air
All flights to Bhutan touch down at Paro International Airport, a thrilling experience in itself since the airport is located at 7,300 ft./2,225 m in a deep valley surrounded by high peaks. The two carriers operating flights into Bhutan are Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air. There are connecting flights from most of India’s major airports like Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Bagdogra, Gaya and Guwahati, as well as from Nepal, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand but none from China or Tibet. Make sure your international flight has a connection with one of these airports. If at all possible, book a flight between Kathmandu in Nepal and Paro. This will take you across the so-called Top of the World with spectacular views and you might even see Lhotse, Makalu and mighty Everest.
By Rail
A cheaper option if you travel from India is a train journey from Hasimara, the closest train station to Jaigaon on the border with Bhutan and some 10.5 mi./17 km outside the town. Trains run between Jaigaon and Kolkata, a 429 mi./690 km journey, and Delhi 1,003 mi./1,663 km apart. Another option is the railway station in New Jalpaiguri. Check the timetable and times on Indian Railway’s IRCTC website for more information. Traveling time by railroad is more time consuming but much more cost efficient than flying and therefore better suited to budget travelers.
By Road
Jaigaon in West Bengal is the preferred entry point for people traveling by road into Bhutan. From here it is just 2.7 mi./4.3 km to Phuentsholing, the border town in Bhutan. Take a private taxi from Jaigaon. Taxi services are also available from Bagdogra if you arrive by plane and New Jalpaiguri if you travel by train. Visitors on our Darjeeling, Sikkim and Bhutan Tours usually cross into Bhutan from the Indian border.
Getting Around in Bhutan
Bhutan does not have a railroad system and there is only one primary road running east-west through the kingdom. Therefore, the only possible way to travel in Bhutan is on foot, by car or on the few domestic flights restricted to Bumthang, Gelephu and Paro. Foreign visitors are not permitted to make their own flight bookings or travel in the country unaccompanied, so discuss the itinerary and routes you would like to take with your tour operator.
Traveling on the national road, known as the Lateral Road, is an exhilarating experience. A two-lane affair, it winds around mountains, makes its way across rickety bridges, goes all the way uphill to traverse high passes, only to descend down again along steep cliff sides. Construction to widen the road to double lanes is currently underway. This however, is not an easy task because of hazards like landslides, mudflows and rivers, especially during the rainy season. Landslides or heavy snowfalls often block roads and it may take an hour or even several days before they are navigable again. Even a widened road will not make a change to this situation. The public bus service is not recommended for foreign travelers, as the vehicles are uncomfortable and very crowded.
Taxis are available in Paro, Jakar and Thimphu and the drivers do not usually use meters. Travelers on tourist visas, however, do not pay for either long or short distance transport as a driver and vehicle is usually included in the tour price.
Interesting Facts to Know
Bhutan do not receive as many tourists as other more well-known destinations, and is therefore more of a mystery to most travelers. The following are just a few quirky facts and information to enlighten you about this remote, elusive kingdom before your trip.
▪ Bhutan’s carbon footprint is negative, meaning it removes more greenhouse gases than it emits into the atmosphere. It is also the first and only country on earth to accomplish this feat.
▪ Traffic lights are non-existent in Bhutan. One was installed in Thimphu, the capital but it caused such mayhem and confusion that it was removed almost immediately.
▪ Bhutan’s new 2008 constitution makes provision for the protection of its environment, the first time any country has included such regulations into its national constitution.
▪ Plastic was already banned in Bhutan in 1999, long before the rest of the world woke up to the dangers of using plastic.
▪ Smoking, except in designated areas is banned in Bhutan
▪ Do not immediately accept an offer of food, no matter how hungry you may be. The polite way is to use your hand to cover your mouth and say meshu, meshu. Only after the second or third offer can you accept.
▪ The endangered black neck crane is sacred and very highly regarded in Bhutan and any interference with this bird will land you in jail for life.
▪ This isolated country only opened its borders to tourists for the first time in 1974.
▪ Until 1999 the internet and TV was prohibited in Bhutan.
▪ Bhutan’s beloved good-luck symbol is a brinjal emoji. Paintings and carvings of phalluses are present everywhere and are believed to drive away evil spirits.
▪ In Bhutan the entire population celebrate their birthday on New Year, regardless of which day you were born.
▪ Polygamy is legal in Bhutan and women and men may have more than one spouse.
▪ In its long history, Bhutan never fell into foreign hands; it was never colonized not conquered.
Bhutan is the only country in the world that sets the happiness and well-being of its people above its gross domestic product. Many so-called ‘happiness tests’ exist worldwide and calling Bhutan the happiest country on the Asian sub-continent may be subjective, but it approach is a more holistic one which measures progress in GNH or Gross National Happiness.