Bhutan Tour

Important:

• Please note that Bhutan is culturally very rich and have intentionally preserved their cultures by maintaining distances from western cultures. So please respect their culture and please refrain from commenting on bullying about Bhutanese and their culture.
• Bhutan still follows Monarchical System. Thus, please respect The King and The Queen and please refrain from commenting anything about the same. Please use “His Highness” or “Her Highness” if you need to refer The King and/or The Queen or anyone from Royal Family in public.
• Bhutanese on a regular basis chew “Doma” which is dried Areca Nut. The smell can be an issue for some days though until you get accustomed!!
• Bhutanese are very religious and follow Buddhism. Please refrain from touching holy items without permission and maintain discipline within Monasteries and Dzongs. Dzongs are also the administrative office of respective districts (Dzongkhags) and this is where the Royal Family is supposed to live. So please maintain extra caution while visiting Dzongs in particular.
• You must be dressed moderately while visiting Monasteries and Dzongs. You’ll not be allowed to enter in revealing dresses and thus please refrain from wearing such dresses.
• Participants must carry cash in order to survive and buy anything in Bhutan. Except high end luxury hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops, plastic money such as credit card and debit card are not accepted throughout Bhutan.
• Most Indian Debit Cards are not authorized to use in Bhutan even if International Transaction is enabled. So please carry cash from your home town.
• Avoid wearing precious Jewelry, as Treks and Trails won’t be responsible for any losses for the same.
• Please make sure you report at the start location as per the itinerary. No refunds would be entertained by Treks and Trails. Consult your Treks and Trails buddy in advance in case of any changes.

FAQ

1. Visa Requirements: To travel to Bhutan, all tourists must obtain a visa. This involves submitting an application through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or travel agent. The government mandates a minimum daily tariff covering accommodation, meals, transport, and a guide, with visas issued by the Department of Immigration upon payment.
2. Best Time to Visit: The optimal times to visit Bhutan are during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) for mild weather and clear skies, ideal for trekking and sightseeing. However, Bhutan offers attractions year-round, each season presenting unique experiences.
3. Getting to Bhutan: Bhutan's sole international airport, Paro International Airport, is served by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, offering flights from various cities including Bangkok, Delhi, and Kathmandu. Additionally, entry is possible via road through southern border towns.
4. Currency: The official currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), pegged to the Indian Rupee. Indian Rupees are widely accepted alongside the Ngultrum.
5. Language: Dzongkha is the official language, though English is prevalent, particularly within the tourism sector.
6. Vaccinations: Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and, if applicable, yellow fever. Consultation with a travel health professional before departure is advisable.
7. Credit Cards: Credit cards are not extensively accepted, so carrying cash or travelers' cheques in major currencies is advisable.
8. Tourist Attractions: Key attractions include the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Paro Valley, Thimphu, and the scenic Bumthang Valley, offering trekking and hiking opportunities.
9. Cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is renowned for its spicy flavors, with dishes like Ema Datshi, a chili and cheese stew, being popular.
10. Cultural Customs: Visitors should dress modestly and respect local customs, such as removing shoes and covering shoulders and legs when visiting temples and monasteries.
11. Dress Code: Modest attire covering shoulders and legs is required when visiting religious sites like temples and monasteries.
12. Souvenirs: Popular souvenirs include textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, Bhutanese paper products, incense, tea, snacks, stamps, and souvenir coins.

These guidelines ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience in Bhutan, rich with cultural immersion and natural beauty.

Places to Visit in Bhutan

Bhutan, nestled in the Himalayas, boasts breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant cultural tapestry. Here are some top destinations to explore:

1. Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang): Perched on a cliff in Paro Valley, this sacred Buddhist site offers not only spiritual solace but also panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Accessible via a scenic hike, it's a must-visit for its awe-inspiring beauty.
2. Punakha Dzong: Situated at the convergence of two rivers, Punakha Dzong stands as a majestic fortress, once serving as Bhutan's capital. With its grand architecture and historical significance, it remains a captivating sight for visitors, housing relics and artifacts of cultural importance.
3. National Memorial Chorten: Located in Thimphu, Bhutan's capital, this stupa is a symbol of reverence for the late King of Bhutan. A hub of spiritual activity, it offers visitors a glimpse into Bhutanese religious practices and provides a serene setting for contemplation.
4. Dochula Pass: En route from Thimphu to Punakha, Dochula Pass mesmerizes with its breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas. Adorned with 108 chortens and a temple honoring the goddess Druk Wangyal, it's a spiritual and visual feast for travelers.
5. Gangtey Valley: Nestled amidst central Bhutan's splendor, Gangtey Valley captivates with its natural beauty and the presence of the revered black-necked crane during winters. Visitors can immerse themselves in the valley's tranquillity, explore its trails, and visit the ancient Gangtey Monastery.
6. Haa Valley: Tucked away in western Bhutan, Haa Valley enchants with its untouched landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Trekking through its pristine terrain, visitors encounter ancient temples and monasteries, while experiencing the unique traditions of the Haa people.
7. Bumthang Valley: Known as the cultural heartland of Bhutan, Bumthang Valley beckons with its historic temples and monasteries. Exploring this valley, either on foot or by bicycle, offers a journey through Bhutan's spiritual legacy amidst picturesque scenery.

These destinations offer a glimpse into Bhutan's soul, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its natural splendor and cultural treasures.

Shopping to do in Bhutan

Bhutan is known for its unique arts and crafts, and shopping in Bhutan can be a delightful experience. The country is a treasure trove of unique handicrafts that are handmade by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. Here are some shopping experiences to enjoy while in Bhutan:

1. Textiles: Bhutan is known for its beautiful textiles, which are handmade by local weavers using traditional techniques. The most famous Bhutanese textile is the kira, a woven dress worn by women. Other popular textiles include the gho, a woven robe worn by men, and the yathra, a woven woolen fabric used for blankets and clothing.
2. Handicrafts: Bhutan is home to many skilled artisans who make a variety of handicrafts. Some popular handicrafts include wooden bowls, prayer wheels, masks, and hand-carved wooden items.
3. Jewelry: Bhutanese jewelry is unique and often incorporates traditional symbols and motifs. Silver and turquoise are popular materials used in jewelry making in Bhutan.
4. Paintings: Bhutanese art is heavily influenced by Buddhist traditions, and many artists create intricate paintings and thangkas (scroll paintings) depicting religious figures and scenes.
5. Incense and traditional medicine: Bhutanese incense is made from natural ingredients, and the country is also known for its traditional medicine, which uses local herbs and ingredients.
6. Handmade paper products: Bhutanese paper is handmade from the bark of the daphne plant and is used to make a variety of products such as journals, greeting cards, and lampshades.
7. Bhutanese food: Bhutanese food is unique and offers a range of flavors and spices. Some popular Bhutanese food items that you can take back as souvenirs include red rice, buckwheat noodles, and Bhutanese chili sauce.

While shopping in Bhutan, it is important to buy from licensed stores and support local artisans. The Bhutanese government has a policy of promoting locally made handicrafts, and buying these items helps to support the local economy and preserve traditional crafts.