BHUTAN

Bhutan does things differently. This is a land whose worth is measured with Gross National Happiness instead of Gross Domestic Product. This small Himalayan Kingdom is simple yet mesmerising, a country that touches your soul with its natural beauty and a Happiness vibe that can mend broken hearts and bring peace.

In a breath-taking journey, you’ll discover why this land has inspired such joy from its locals.

Step inside Bhutan’s beautiful lifeline and mini metropolis Thimphu, and set your eyes on its many monasteries, forts, museums and natural vistas. Traverse in the glacial valley of Gangtey to experience its village life and quiet meadows. Wander in the quaint town of Punakha, once the capital of the Wangchuk kings that still rule the country. + Read More

 

SIGNATURE MOMENTS

Buddha Dordenma Statue

Buddha Dordenma Statue - located on top of a hill, this sitting Buddha statue is 51 meters in height, which make it one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world.

Bhutan’s meditation retreats

If you would like to get away from noise and chaos, Bhutan’s meditation retreats are a must visit!

Bhutan’s most dramatic festivals Tshechu

Bhutan’s most dramatic festivals are Tshechu, which display the country’s glorious cultural side. Held annually, it is conducted in all the dzongs and major monasteries.

Tiger’s Nest Monastery


Tiger’s Nest Monastery: This incredible sight is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan. Miraculously perched on a vertical cliff 3000m north of Paro, it was built in 1692. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew on this cliff from Tibet on the back of a flaming tigress.

Bhutan Tours

A country where rice is red and chilies aren't just a seasoning but the hero of the dish. The country’s national dish, ema datse, is a simple, fiery curry of chillies and farmer’s cheese, always paired with a generous helping of nutty red rice.

GOOD TO KNOW

  • Enter with an open mind
  • Connectivity may be sketchy, but that allows you to soak in the peace of this mystical land. Get a local SIM if you need to be in touch.
  • Bring dollars or Indian rupees with you. There are some ATMs in the larger towns, but they’re about 70 percent reliable and you can only withdraw small amounts. You can spend US dollars, or change them into the local currency, Ngultrum. Indian Rupees are accepted almost everywhere.
  • Don’t be alarmed by Bhutan’s phallic obsession. It is part of their culture. You will know more from your guide as you wander the country.
  • Mountaineering is forbidden in the country. Hiking is possible up to 6,000m in elevation. Anything above that is considered mountaineering, and it is forbidden as the mountains are sacred for the Bhutanese.
  • When visiting a Dzong or any monastery, make sure you are dressed properly; otherwise, you won’t be allowed in their interior spaces. Proper clothing consists of long pants and long sleeve shirts/t-shirts. Jeans are acceptable (as is casual clothing) as long as they cover your arms and legs. Closed shoes are also required. You can’t wear caps or hats inside the monasteries.
  • Being a majority Buddhist country, Buddha is a deeply revered religious figure here. Showing off tattoos or clothing that shows depictions is considered disrespectful here. Please avoid it. And never stand with your back to Buddha, and absolutely never take a photo with your back to Buddha either.
  • Do not disrespect the royals.

RECOMMENDED LUXURY TOURS

Travel Information

Between March to May and September to November is the best time to visit Bhutan.

Dzongkha is the official language of the country. English is widely spoken as it is the medium of instruction in schools.

- The History of Bhutan | Karma Phuntsho
- Buttertea at Sunrise: a Year in the Bhutan Himalaya | Britta Das
- Treasures of the Thunder Dragon: a Portrait of Bhutan | Ashi Dori Wangmo
- Beyond the Sky and Earth | Jamie Zeppa
- The Blessing of Bhutan | Russ Carpenter
- Seeing with the Third Eye: Growing up with Angay in Rural Bhutan | T. Sangay Wangchuk

Except for Indians, Bangladeshis, and Maldivians, all other nationalities require a visa to enter Bhutan

Travelogue

"If there is any country on Earth that qualifies as Eden - not just in part, but in its entirety - I believe it is Bhutan."

‘Harry Marshall’