Bhutan

Bhutan: general info for travelers

Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas of South Asia. It is bordered by India to the south, east, and west, and by China to the north. Bhutan has a population of approximately 770,000 people and its official language is Dzongkha. The country is known for its unique culture and history, as well as its commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH) over Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Bhutan is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with mountain landscapes, forests, rivers, and diverse wildlife. It is a popular destination for adventure tourism, cultural tours, and spiritual travel, with many ancient Buddhist monasteries and pilgrimage sites.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Bhutan, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Bhutan: places to visit

Sure, here are the main places to visit in Bhutan, along with a brief description for each of them: 1. Paro Valley: Located in the western part of Bhutan, Paro Valley is home to some of the country's most famous landmarks including the Paro Taktsang monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. The valley is home to traditional Bhutanese architecture, rice fields, and ancient temples.
2. Punakha Dzong: This magnificent fortress stands at the intersection of two rivers and is both an administrative and a religious center. Punakha Dzong is considered one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and is the winter residence of the head abbot.
3. Thimphu: The capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu boasts a range of attractions including the Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang, and Tashichho Dzong. It also features an extensive craft market and the Folk Heritage Museum.
4. Phobjikha Valley: This idyllic valley is one of the few places in the world where the rare Black-Necked Crane can be found. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and traditional Bhutanese villages.
5. Bumthang Valley: Bumthang is considered the cultural heartland of Bhutan and is home to a number of ancient temples and monasteries. The valley also offers scenic hiking trails and hot springs.
6. Haa Valley: This picturesque valley is located in the western part of Bhutan and offers views of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas. The valley boasts traditional architecture, scenic hikes, and a vibrant cultural landscape.
Bhutan is a beautiful country with much to see and explore. I hope this information helps you to plan your trip!
There is more to see and do in Bhutan: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Bhutan: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Bhutan, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Bhutan's climate is generally influenced by its altitude and location in the Himalayan range. Generally, Bhutan experiences four seasons: spring (March - May), summer (June - August), autumn (September - November), and winter (December - February).
From March to May, the weather is usually mild to warm with occasional showers. The landscape is green and lush, and the flowers are in full bloom, making it a great time to visit for nature lovers.
From June to August, it is the monsoon season which brings heavy rainfall, making some areas inaccessible. However, if you're a budget traveler, this season offers good deals and fewer crowds.
From September to November, the weather is generally pleasant with clear skies and cool temperatures, perfect for trekking and outdoor activities. During this time, you can witness the famous Thimphu Tshechu festival.
From December to February, it's winter, and the temperatures can go below freezing point. This is an excellent time for snow lovers as the high altitude regions receive heavy snowfall. December is also when the Black Neck Crane Festival is held in the Phobjikha valley, which is a must-see.
Overall, the best time to visit Bhutan is in the spring and autumn seasons (March to May and September to November) when the climate is mild, and the landscape is at its best.

Bhutan: activities and what to do

Bhutan has plenty of adventurous and exciting activities to offer to visitors. Some of the popular activities and sports to do on holiday in Bhutan are: 1. Trekking and Hiking: Bhutan has much amazing trekking and hiking trails for trekkers of all abilities. Some of the most popular trekking routes are the Jomolhari Trek, the Druk Path Trek, and the Snowman Trek.
2. Mountain Biking: Bhutan’s rugged terrain and beautiful landscapes make it an ideal destination for mountain bikers. You can enjoy a mountain biking adventure on some of the country’s scenic routes.
3. Cultural Tours: Bhutan is a country steeped in history and rich in culture. You can do cultural tours and visit some of the important monuments and landmarks, such as the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
4. River Rafting: Bhutan has several rivers where you can go on a thrilling rafting adventure. The Paro, Punakha, and Wang Chhu rivers are popular choices.
5. Archery: Archery is Bhutan’s national sport and is deeply rooted in the country’s culture. You can join in the local archery competitions and see how good you are at hitting the target.
These are just a few of the exciting activities and sports that you can do on a holiday in Bhutan.

Bhutan: few words on history and culture

Bhutan is a small, landlocked country in the eastern Himalayas with a unique blend of culture and tradition. Bhutan's history is deeply rooted in Buddhism, and the country is known for its deep spiritual connection with nature and its devotion to Gross National Happiness instead of Gross Domestic Product. Bhutan's cultural heritage is displayed in the country's architecture, festivals, cuisine, and clothing. Bhutan is famous for its large number of ancient temples, monasteries, and traditional fortresses called dzongs, which showcase the rich Bhutanese architectural style. Bhutanese cuisine is spicy and incorporates a lot of chilies, cheese, and meat, while the national dress for men and women is the Gho and Kira, respectively. The country's colorful festivals, such as the Paro Tsechu and the Thimphu Tsechu, are symbolic of the country's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Overall, Bhutan is a country with a rich history and cultural heritage that has managed to preserve its traditions despite the influence of modernization.

Bhutan: how to move around on holiday

The most common means of transport to reach Bhutan is by air. There are only two airlines that operate in Bhutan - Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan, and it is well connected to major cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, and Kathmandu. Once you reach Bhutan, the best way to travel around the country is by car. There are no railways in Bhutan, and the road network is limited. However, the roads are well-maintained, and the scenery is breathtaking. If you are looking for a more authentic experience, you can also explore Bhutan on foot. There are several trekking routes that take you through the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas. To hire a car to visit Bhutan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Bhutan: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Bhutan with a full stomach:D
Bhutanese cuisine is rich in flavors and traditionally consists of spicy chilies, rice, meat, and dairy products. Here are some of the main typical foods of Bhutan: 1. Ema Datshi: Considered as a national dish of Bhutan, it is a spicy chili and cheese stew that contains slices of fresh green chilies cooked in a creamy sauce made of yak cheese.
2. Red Rice: A nutritious staple food of Bhutanese cuisine, red rice is a short-grain rice that is slightly nutty in flavor.
3. Jasha Maroo: A popular chicken dish that is cooked with ginger, garlic, onions, and green chili.
4. Phaksha Paa: This dish is a combination of sliced pork and red chili flakes cooked in a stew with daikon radish.
5. Momos: A type of dumpling that is typically filled with pork or beef and served with a spicy dipping sauce.
6. Suja: A salty butter tea served as a traditional beverage in Bhutan.
7. Yak Milk Products: Bhutanese cuisine incorporates various dairy products made from Yak's milk, including cheese, butter, and yogurt.
Overall, Bhutanese cuisine is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes that reflect the country's indigenous culture and influence from neighboring countries.

Bhutan: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Yes, Bhutan is generally considered an expensive country for tourists due to its policy of High Value, Low Impact Tourism. All tourists are required to pay a minimum daily tariff set by the government which includes accommodation, meals, transport, and a licensed guide. The minimum daily tariff ranges from $200 to $250 depending on the season and the type of accommodation chosen. However, this fee also ensures that visitors have access to quality services and minimal impact on the environment and culture of Bhutan. It's important to note that the daily tariff does not include international airfare to and from Bhutan.

Bhutan: where to find accodation

There are several places where you can look for accommodation in Bhutan, such as: 1. Online booking platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia.
2. The official website of the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB).
3. You can also contact a local tour operator or travel agency for assistance in arranging accommodation.
4. Additionally, some hotels in Bhutan have their websites where you can directly book a room.
It is important to note that when traveling to Bhutan, you must book your accommodation and travel through a Bhutanese tour operator, as independent travel is not permitted in the country.
You can check hotel prices in Bhutan here:
Booking.com

Bhutan: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Bhutan receives around 280,000 tourists annually. The peak tourist seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and there are festivals happening. During these times, there can be quite a few tourists and popular destinations can get crowded. However, Bhutan's tourism policy limits the number of visitors each year, and it is unlikely to get as crowded as other popular tourist destinations.
Yes, Bhutan is generally considered a safe country for tourists. The crime rate is low, and violent crime is rare. However, it is always a good idea to take basic precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings.
There are no places that are strictly off-limits for tourists, but as in any country, there may be certain areas that are more prone to petty theft or other non-violent crimes. It is always a good idea to check with your hotel or tour operator for any advice or recommendations about areas to avoid.
Additionally, some areas of Bhutan require a special permit to visit, such as certain parts of the border regions with China and India, so make sure to obtain any necessary permits before your trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Bhutan on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Bhutan: events for tourists

Bhutan is a unique and fascinating travel destination with many interesting events and festivals. Some of the most popular events for tourists include: 1. Paro Tsechu- This is one of the most popular festivals in Bhutan and usually takes place in March or April. It is a celebration of Buddhism and includes colorful dances and parades.
2. Punakha Drubchen- This festival takes place in February or March and celebrates the victory of Bhutan over Tibetan invaders. It includes mask dances and other religious rituals.
3. Thimphu Tshechu- This festival takes place in September or October and is the largest event in Bhutan. It includes various performances and dances that showcase the country's cultural heritage.
4. Jambay Lhakhang Drup- This festival takes place in November and is one of the oldest and most sacred festivals in Bhutan. It is a celebration of Guru Rinpoche, a Buddhist saint, and includes fire and naked dances.
5. Haa Summer Festival- This festival takes place in July and promotes the unique culture and traditions of the Haa Valley in Bhutan. It includes traditional music, dance, and sports activities.
These are just a few of the most interesting events that you can experience during your visit to Bhutan.

Bhutan: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Bhutan, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
A two week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Bhutan could include the following: Day 1-2: Arrival in Paro and visit to Paro Valley. Explore the Rinpung Dzong and take a hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery.
Day 3-4: Drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma statue, and the Thimphu Dzong.
Day 5-6: Drive to Punakha and visit the Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang temple, and take a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.
Day 7-8: Drive to Bumthang and visit the Jakar Dzong, Jambay Lhakhang Temple, and Kurjey Lhakhang.
Day 9-10: Drive to Gangtey and explore the Phobjikha Valley, home to the endangered black-necked cranes. Also visit the Gangtey Monastery.
Day 11-12: Drive to Trongsa and visit the Trongsa Dzong, Ta Dzong museum, and the Chendebji Chorten.
Day 13-14: Drive back to Paro and visit the Kyichu Lhakhang Temple, the oldest temple in Bhutan, and explore more of the Paro Valley.
This itinerary offers a well-rounded experience of Bhutan's culture, religion, history, and nature.

Bhutan: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Bhutan described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Bumthang is a district in Bhutan, located in the central part of the country. It is known as the cultural heartland of Bhutan and is home to several important temples and monasteries. The district is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bumthang
- Bumthang Valley is a scenic region in the central part of Bhutan, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. It is considered the spiritual heartl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bumthang Valley
- Chhukha is one of the 20 districts in Bhutan, a small country located in the eastern Himalayas. Chhukha district is situated in the southwestern part of Bhutan and is known for its beautiful landscape... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chhukha
- Daga is a small town located in the southwestern part of Bhutan. It is the administrative center of the Dagana District and is situated near the border with India. The town is known for its scenic bea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Daga
- Dagana is a district located in south-central Bhutan. It is known for its beautiful landscape, which includes valleys, forests, and mountains. The district is home to various ethnic groups, including ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dagana
- Gangtey, also known as Phobjikha Valley, is a glacial valley located in central Bhutan. The valley is well-known for being the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate here fro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gangtey
- Gelephu is a small town situated in the southern part of Bhutan. It is located in the Sarpang district and is close to the border with India. The town is known for its lush green forests and agricultu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gelephu
- Haa Valley is a picturesque valley located in the western part of Bhutan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine environment, and traditional way of life. The valley is situated at an a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Haa Valley
- Jakar is a town in the central-eastern region of Bhutan, located in Bumthang district. It is also known as Chamkhar, which is the name of the main road that runs through the town. Jakar is a major tou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jakar
- Laya is a small village in the Gasa District of Bhutan, located in the northern part of the country. It is situated at an elevation of 3,800 meters above sea level and is known for its unique culture ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Laya
- Lhuntse is a district located in the northeastern part of Bhutan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including rugged mountains, pristine forests, and roaring rivers. The district is also ho... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lhuntse
- Mongar is a district located in eastern Bhutan with an area of 1,954 square kilometers. It is situated at an altitude of 1,600-3,500 meters above sea level and is known for its beautiful landscapes, t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mongar
- Paro is a beautiful town located in the Paro Valley in the western part of Bhutan. It is one of the most picturesque towns in Bhutan, owing to its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paro
- Pemagatshel is a district located in the southeastern region of Bhutan, bordering the Indian state of Assam. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush valleys, dense forests, and snow-cap... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pemagatshel
- Phobjikha is a beautiful glacial valley located in Bhutan, surrounded by the Black Mountains National Park. It is a popular tourist destination because of its diverse flora and fauna, including the ra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phobjikha
- Phuentsholing is a town located in the southwestern part of Bhutan, near the border with India. It is the gateway to Bhutan for travelers from India and is an important commercial hub for both countri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phuentsholing
- Punakha is a small town located in the western part of Bhutan, known for its scenic beauty, sacred temples, and the gorgeous Punakha Dzong - one of the most iconic landmarks of Bhutan. It is the forme... CONTINUE here for a trip to Punakha
- Samdrup Jongkhar is a town located in the southeastern region of Bhutan, near the border with India. It is the country's main entry point for travelers arriving from India, as it is the only land bord... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samdrup Jongkhar
- Samtse is a district located in southwestern Bhutan, bordering India. It is considered one of the warmest areas in Bhutan due to its low altitude, and is known for its vibrant culture and natural beau... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samtse
- Tashi Yangtse is a small town located in eastern Bhutan, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its rich culture, traditional handicrafts, and stunning natural beauty. The town is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tashi Yangtse
- Tashigang is a district located in the eastern part of Bhutan. It is the country's third-largest district and is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is home ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tashigang
- Tashiyangste is a district located in the eastern region of Bhutan. It covers an area of 1,219 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 15,000 people. The district is known for its rich... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tashiyangste
- Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan, a small country located in the eastern Himalayas. It is the country's largest city and home to over 100,000 people. Thimphu is a picturesque city with a rich cul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Thimphu
- Trashi Yangtse is a small town located in eastern Bhutan. It is known for its beautiful scenery, rich cultural heritage and exquisite handicrafts. The town is situated at an altitude of around 1,800 m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trashi Yangtse
- Trashigang is a district located in eastern Bhutan, bordered by India in the south. It is the largest district in Bhutan and considered as the cultural and commercial hub of eastern Bhutan. Trashigang... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trashigang
- Trashiyangtse is a district in eastern Bhutan, bordered by the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh in the east. It is known for its natural beauty, with lush forests, deep valleys, and stunning mountain... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trashiyangtse
- Trongsa is a town located in central Bhutan and is the ancestral home of the royal family. It is situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters and is one of the most scenic places in Bhutan, with stunning v... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trongsa
- Trongsa Dzong is a fortress and Buddhist monastery located in the town of Trongsa in central Bhutan. It was built in the 17th century and is considered one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan. It ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trongsa Dzong
- Tsirang is a district located in the southern part of Bhutan. It is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere with lush green forests, rivers, and hills. The district covers an area of 1,44... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tsirang
- Ura is a small village located in the central region of Bhutan, known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional culture, and vibrant festivals. It is nestled in the Bumthang Valley, which is renowned ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ura
- Wangdue is a district in the central part of Bhutan, located at an altitude of 1,350 meters above sea level. It is known for its dramatic landscapes of rolling hills, lush forests, and fertile valleys... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wangdue
- Wangdue Phodrang is a district in central Bhutan, located about 70 km east of the country's capital, Thimphu. It is known for its scenic beauty, historical sites, and cultural heritage. The district i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wangdue Phodrang
- Zhemgang is a district in central Bhutan, located in the southern part of the country. It covers an area of approximately 2,947 square kilometers and has a population of around 19,000 people. The dist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zhemgang


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