Nestled in the mighty Himalayas, Bhutan is a land of stunning beauty and vibrant culture. Its dramatic landscapes, warm people, and unique traditions make it a truly one-of-a-kind destination. Bhutan is not the cheapest travel destination due to the prices of the flights and the fee for tourists, but if you do your research you can travel relatively cheap.
Main Things to See
As you journey through Bhutan, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering mountains, lush valleys, and pristine forests. The iconic Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched precariously on a cliffside, is a must-see. This ancient marvel offers breathtaking views.
Beyond the usual tourist spots, explore the charming town of Punakha, where the Punakha Dzong stands proudly amidst rice paddies and serene rivers. This architectural masterpiece serves as a reminder of Bhutan’s rich history.
For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to the Haa Valley. Its rustic beauty, traditional villages, and vibrant festivals offer a glimpse into Bhutanese rural life. Trekking enthusiasts can embark on the Druk Path Trek, a stunning route that weaves through rhododendron forests, pristine lakes, and high mountain passes.
Activities
Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s culture by attending a local festival, such as the Paro Tsechu. Vibrant costumes, traditional dances, and religious rituals come together in a vibrant celebration of Bhutanese heritage.
Food in Bhutan is a unique experience in itself. Don’t miss the chance to savor ema datshi, a spicy dish made from chili peppers and cheese. Red rice, momos (dumplings), and butter tea are also staples that offer a taste of Bhutanese flavors.
What sets Bhutan apart from other destinations is its focus on Gross National Happiness (GNH). Unlike GDP-driven economies, Bhutan places the well-being and happiness of its citizens at the forefront. This philosophy is woven into every aspect of life, creating a sense of contentment and balance that is palpable throughout the country.
Engage in activities that reflect this holistic approach to life. Join a meditation session with monks, practice yoga amidst the serene landscapes, or simply take in the tranquility as you stroll through prayer flag-adorned paths.
Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its environment is equally remarkable. The country is carbon-neutral, and over 70% of its land is under forest cover. This dedication to sustainability ensures that Bhutan remains a pristine paradise for generations to come.
Other Information
It used to be mandatory to hire a travel guide in Bhutan. This does not apply anymore (from 2022). There is a fee for tourists, current info is $200 per day to stay in Bhutan (+ some free days after that, you need to do your own research).
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to its awe-inspiring landscapes, rich culture, or unique way of life, Bhutan offers an unforgettable experience that is as authentic as it is inspiring. Bhutan is not the cheapest travel destination due to the prices of the flights and the fee for tourists, but if you do your research you can travel relatively cheap.
Seasons info
The peak tourist season in Bhutan is in spring and autumn. Summer a monsoon season in Bhutan, but you can still visit – expect rain. Winter is cold in Bhutan and some regions may not be accessible.
You can find weather by month in a table in Data tables.
Prices info
To visit Bhutan, you need to pay a daily fee which is relatively high (currently $200 per day). You do not need to hire a local guide anymore. On the other hand, the prices of everything are much lower than in western countries.
Traveling to Bhutan is only for experienced travelers so we will include it here. Traveling to India and then crossing the land border probably cheaper. Obviously, you need to research what documents you need to travel to India and to cross the land border to Bhutan.
Customs, laws, safety
Customs and laws in Bhutan can be different than in EU and US so do your research before your stay.
We have marked Bhutan as difficult destination. It is because the country is not very touristy so there is a language barrier and you will find the country is very different from western countries. Things like organising where to stay and transportation are complicated. The culture is very different and we believe you need to be an experienced traveler to go to Bhutan.
If you are beginner and still want to go, there are local guides (who used to be mandatory) so if you hire someone for the whole of your stay, research customs, and listen to the guide, you can probably go.
– Bhutan is not LGBTQIA+ friendly, homosexuality is illegal in the country.
Food and water safety
It’s recommended for tourists to opt for bottled or boiled water to avoid any potential risks. When it comes to food, Bhutan offers a unique culinary experience, but it’s advisable to eat from reputable and hygienic establishments and only eat vegetables and fruit which can be peeled or properly washed.
Digital nomads
Bhutan is not an ideal destination for digital nomads. Internet connection is not widely available and there is a high fee for tourists to stay in the country.
Other info
– Safety – US Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
– UK, EU and US citizens need visa to visit Bhutan
– Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid vaccinations are recommended (consult with your doctor)
– Read our Cheap travel tips
– You can find weather by month, difficulty level, and LGBT friendliness in our Data tables.
– You can join Couchsurfing for free accommodation
– Follow us on social media for every day suggestions:
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