In 1974, Bhutan opened to international tourism. It has a rich culture, natural environment, and old-style monasteries. Bhutan is a power-packed tourism destination with mountainous terrain, a deliberate approach, and in-depth spiritual culture. If you have patience and curiosity at the same time, then Bhutan is the ultimate travel spot.
Bhutan - A Country Full of Great Wellbeing!
Bhutan has a different philosophy. It measures its GDP on the basis of how happy the citizens are instead of economic output. Moreover, Bhutan is considered to be one of the carbon-negative countries all around the globe. Almost 60% of the land has its forest cover area.
How many Days to Explore Bhutan?
A visitor should spend 8-14 days to have a complete exploration of Bhutan. To explore Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, a week is required. A minimum of 2 weeks is required to explore the glacial scenery of Phobjikha and the valleys of Bumthang.
How to Travel in Bhutan?
You can hire a tour guide or get your own vehicle on rent. However, with a tour guide, you get the assurance that you are completely in safe hands.
Bhutanese Food, Drink & Practical Tips
Bhutanese food is warm, hearty, and mainly has cheese and chilli. The national dish of Bhutan is Ema Datshi, made using local cheese and a stew of chillies. You can grab some dried meat, red rice, and buckwheat, especially in the colder months.
Suja, i.e., butter tea, is a traditional drink. It is served hot and has a strong, salty flavor. While travelling, make sure not to drink tap water; instead, carry a reusable bottle.
Read more - What to Eat in Bhutan
Main Travel Attractions in Bhutan:
Paro Valley - An Entry Way to the World’s #1 Sacred Site
This travel spot in Bhutan requires more than a passing visit. Paro is popular for the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which clings to a sheer face at around 3,120 metres. For hiking, almost 2 - 4 hours are required. That is why it is known as the most rewarding walk. Also, in Paro Valley there are different monasteries with remarkable architecture.
Thimphu - Bhutan’s Capital with Alluring Charm
Thimphu Dzong, formerly known as Tashichho Dzong, sits at the end of the city in the northern area. It also serves as the government seat and working monastery. Thimphu is known as the most photographed city in Bhutan. On the hillside to the South, you can have the best view across the valley. One can see the Buddha Dordenma statue that looks out over Bhutan, and has mountains surrounding it.
Punakha - The Palace of Great Happiness and the Fertile Valley
There is a drive starting from Thimphu to Punakha, crossing through the Dochula Pass at over 3,000 metres. One can get amazing views of the eastern Himalayan range. Punakha has a warmer climate. There is Punakha Dzong, the Palace of Great Happiness, which stands at the center of the two rivers.
Bumthang - Bhutan’s Spiritual Heartland
In the center of Bhutan, Bumthang is known as the cluster of four valleys. It is Bhutan's spiritual place, as there are different monasteries and temples. There is Ngang Lhakhang Temple in the Tang Valley. Here, the celebration of the Nalakhar Festival is held for three days. The Shechen Nunnery, situated in the Bumthang area, is considered a religious institute and has a serene atmosphere.
Phobjikha Valley - The Black-Necked Cranes and the Glacial Scenery
In the western part of Bhutan, there is Phobjikha, a glacial valley. In the month of November, there are many black-necked cranes migrating to Phobjikha Valley from the Tibetan Plateau. The Black-Necked Crane Festival is celebrated every year with school performances and traditional-style dances.
Main Festivals of Bhutan - The Moment when the Kingdom becomes Alive
When you visit Bhutan during festival time, you get a completely transformative experience. Bhutanese communities have celebrated in style for centuries. Usually, Bhutanese festivals take place over 2-3 days at a dzong or monastery. The laypeople and monks perform charm, masked dances, and then re-enact Buddhist teachings.
The two main festivals of Bhutan include Thimphu Tsechu and Paro Tsechu. You get to see different inmates by witnessing the Black-Necked Crane Festival and the Nalakhar Festival in Bumthang.
Read more - Monasteries in Bhutan
The roundabout!
Bhutan is an ultimate destination, asking one to experience its unique beauty in style. It demands respect, attention, and a willingness to take a breath to view Bhutan. In return, one gets festivals, cultural experiences, and landscapes. Bhutan is a tourist destination that demands experiencing without any rush.
Suggested Bhutan Tour - 6 nights and 7 days to Explore Bhutan
