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Bhutan, a serene kingdom located in the Eastern Himalayas, is a beautiful small country that is famous for its scenic beauty, cultural traditions, and gross national happiness. Whether you are an adventurer, a cultural buff or a peace seeker, Bhutan is a paradise for you. Its clean nature, the hospitality of the locals and the religious monasteries make it a popular choice for travellers from all over the world. Let’s set your trip with this Bhutan travel guide, covering the top places and things to do in this natural paradise.
About Bhutan
Photo: Christopher J. Fynn / Wikimedia Commons
Bhutan is a small landlocked nation in South Asia. It is bounded to the north by Tibet (China) and to the south, east and west by India. Bhutan, a small country, is diverse in its geography, ranging from subtropical plains in the south to snowy mountaintops in the north. Because it lies at the heart of the Himalayas, it’s the perfect entry point to the world’s highest peaks. The nation is divided into 20 districts (dzongkhags), each with its own landscape and cultural assets.
How To Reach
Photo: Göran Höglund / Wikimedia Commons
This Himalayan wonderland is not as hard to reach as you would imagine. Here are a few suggestions you can try when coming to Bhutan.
By Air: Bhutan’s sole international airport, Paro Airport, links the country to India, Nepal, Singapore and Thailand through Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. Paro is a spectacle with a landing site giving you a great perspective of the Himalayan mountains.
By Train: Bhutan has no railways, but the nearest Indian stations are Hasimara, New Alipurduar and Siliguri. You can take a taxi from there to Phuentsholing.
By Road: If you’re coming from India, the closest gateway is the Jaigaon-Phuentsholing border. Phuentsholing lies some 170 km from India’s Bagdogra Airport, a major transit point for travellers.
Top 6 Places To Visit In Bhutan
Visit this beautiful land of happiness with this Bhutan travel guide, covering famous monasteries, traditional structures, and breathtaking nature landscapes.
1. Thimphu
Photo: Douglas McLaughlin / Wikimedia Commons
Bhutan’s buzzing capital, Thimphu, is the perfect combination of contemporary and traditional. It is the only capital city in the world with no traffic lights, and traffic officers navigate traffic using hand signals only. The city is also the location of Tashichho Dzong, a massive fortress monastery that functions as the administrative and spiritual centre. A must-see is the imposing Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley. You can wander around the Weekend Market to see culture or explore the Folk Heritage Museum to get a glimpse of traditional Bhutanese life. Thimphu is the entry point to Bhutan’s cultural treasures.
Location: Capital City
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November
2. Paro Taktsang
Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons
Paro Taktsang sits jubilantly on a cliffside, and it’s one of Bhutan’s most celebrated and sacred places. The monastery, established in 1692, is associated with Guru Rinpoche, who was supposedly meditating here for three months in the 8th century. Guests have to walk a two-hour hike through secluded pine woods and prayer flags to access it. The trail itself is as stunning as the destination, with an incredible panorama of the Paro Valley below. The religious feel and architectural beauty of the monastery makes it an essential part of any Bhutan travel guide.
Location: Paro Valley
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November
3. Punakha Dzong
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Punakha Dzong, known as the “Palace of Great Happiness”, is an architectural wonder located at the meeting point of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers. This great castle acted as the government seat until the mid-20th century and remains the winter home of the monastic community. The Dzong looks especially beautiful in the spring when the jacaranda trees bloom. Visitors can gaze upon its elaborate carvings and its sacred artefacts. A beautiful suspension bridge just a few steps away also makes for a wonderful experience when visiting this historic place.
Location: Punakha Valley
Best Time To Visit: February to April
4. Phobjikha Valley
Photo: Christopher J. Fynn / Wikimedia Commons
Phobjikha Valley, also known as Gangtey Valley, is a glacial valley teeming with peace and beauty. It is the winter residence of the critically endangered black-necked cranes, which arrive from Tibet. The valley is a good place to bird watch, trek and visit the holy Gangtey Monastery. It has its own wild lands, green pastures, and clear streams, which make it a paradise for visitors. The Crane Festival, usually held in November, commemorates the arrival of these magnificent birds and showcases local customs and traditions. The festival was first celebrated in 1998 and continues to this date.
Location: Western Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: November-February
5. Bumthang Valley
Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons
Bumthang Valley, also known as the spiritual heart of Bhutan, is full of history, culture and scenic beauty. It is the site of centuries-old monasteries such as Jakar Dzong and Kurjey Lhakhang that are religiously important. The picturesque hills, lush fields, and small villages in the valley are a perfect retreat. Tourists also get to experience traditional festivals such as Jambay Lhakhang Drup, with mask dances and fire performances. Bumthang’s tranquil setting and cultural heritage make it a must for any traveller interested in deeper immersion into Bhutanese culture.
Location: Central Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: October to November
6. Haa Valley
Photo: Christopher J. Fynn / Wikimedia Commons
Haa Valley is a Bhutanese wonder where unspoiled natural scenery and rural traditions can be enjoyed. This quiet valley is crowned by peaks covered in snow and sprinkled with temples such as Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), which are of spiritual significance. Also, Haa is famous for its beautiful landscapes, traditional farmhouses and festivals, like the Haa Summer Festival, that feature the local culture and traditions. For those who love the outdoors, Haa Valley will take you away to Bhutan’s quiet side from the tourist circuit, and it’s an experience worth visiting for nature lovers and cultural buffs.
Location: Western Bhutan, near the Indian border.
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November
Where To Eat
Photo: Doug Knuth / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
From local restaurants specialising in traditional Bhutanese cuisine, such as Ema Datshi, to international restaurants in large cities, there is plenty to eat in Bhutan. Some of the best restaurants in Thimphu and Paro are Folk Heritage Restaurant for a classic meal and Ambient Café for fusion food. Also, try Suja (butter tea) and homemade Ara. Local little restaurants in the countryside also offer an opportunity to enjoy homely Bhutanese cuisine.
Where To Stay
Photo: Khadeeja Yasser / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation in Bhutan ranges from luxury resorts like Aman Resorts and COMO Hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and farm stays. Thimphu and Paro offer the most options, including boutique hotels with modern amenities. For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a traditional farmhouse in Bumthang or Haa Valley. These stays often include home-cooked meals and insights into local life. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Bhutan can range from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 (approximately Nu 48,000 to Nu 95,000) per person for a week. This includes flights, accommodation, meals, and guided tours. The daily tariff set by the Bhutanese government is around $200 for peak season and $150 for off-peak, which covers everything from transport to meals, ensuring a comprehensive experience in this beautiful kingdom.
Tips For Travellers
- Pre-Booking: Bhutan requires all visitors (except for Indians, Bangladeshis and Maldivians) to reserve their ticket with an approved travel agency. Also, check Visa and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) requirements.
- Pack Smart: Bring layers, good trekking shoes, and a rain jacket.
- Keep Local Practices In Mind: Wear modest clothing when entering religious locations and always ask for permission before photographing locals.
- Currency: Indian Rupees are generally recognised, although Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is the official currency.
- Wi-Fi And Mobile Services: Bhutan is quiet, but there are few access points for Wi-Fi and mobile services in remote areas.
Bhutan is a paradise of nature, culture and spirituality where every traveller finds something worthwhile. This Bhutan travel guide offers many options, from trekking amongst mountains to immersing yourself in colourful festivals. Bhutan offers a chance to live in its serene surroundings and stay in the present moment. So get ready, pack your bags, and carefully plan your trip to Bhutan with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Raimond Klavins / Unsplash
