THE KINGDOM OF BHUTAN AWAITS….

Bhutan, the land of the Thunder Dragon, is for many people, one of the dream locations to visit on their lifetime ‘bucket list’.  This small landlocked nation sitting on the eastern side of the Himalayas (between Nepal, Tibet and India) is famed for its stunning and varied topography, including subtropical plains, verdant valleys and dramatic steep mountains.

Foreigners Now Visit

Interestingly, Bhutan (officially called Kingdom of Bhutan) was actually closed to foreign visitors until 1974. During the first year of opening, Bhutan received less than 300 foreign visitors. However, in 2018 the number reached 250,000, of which more than 90% of these were Indian nationals.

Visas & Costs

Trips to Bhutan are actually quite expensive and not easily undertaken, however, they are certainly worthwhile.  Travellers require a visa in advance of arrival (except for passport holders from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives who are classified as ‘regional tourists’). Although deemed somewhat high, your fee of US$200 to US$250 per person per day covers the costs of accommodation, food, ground transportation, entrance fees, and a private guide and driver. This cost is based on a standard level of accommodation. Supplements will apply for the upgraded superior and deluxe options. See ‘how to book’.

Seasonality

In short, the peak tourist seasons for travel are March to May and September to November (US$250 per person per day). In particular, March, April, October and November are more in demand. For December to February and June to August, the daily tariff drops to US$200 per person per day, so if you want to travel to Bhutan on lower budget then arrange your trip during the off-peak months.  Saying that, it really depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to trek, April, May, September and October are regarded as the best months weather-wise. Although colder at this time, the skies are typically blue and cloud free.  Mid-June to Mid-September is considered as the wettest time to go.

Places To Visit

The most popular attractions are typically located within western and central regions, in and around Paro, Thimphu and Punakha.

The city of Paro is where most tourists arrive when entering Bhutan, as it houses the country’s only international airport.  A small and charming valley town sitting to the west of the capital Thimphu and renowned for many historic sites.  North of the town, Bhutan’s most iconic landmark Taktsang Monastery (known as the Tiger’s Nest) clings to cliffs above the forested Paro Valley. Northwest from here are the remains of a defensive fortress, Drukgyel Dzong, dating from the 17th century.

The capital, Thimphu, occupies a stunning valley in the country’s western interior (50 km from Paro). The city lies on the banks of the Wang Chhu Riveis and has a number of interesting tourist attractions including:

  • Tashichho Dzong is an ancient fortress monastery located to the edge of the city. The Dzong houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and the National Assembly Hall is close by in a modern building on the other side of the river from the Dzong.
  • Buddha Dordenma is a huge statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and considered to be one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. It sits on a mountain top in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, overlooking Thimphu valley.
  • Other notable attractions to be visited include: Memorial Chorten, Simtokha Dzong, National Library, National Textile Museum, Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, Coronation Park, Nado Poizokhang Incense Factory …and more.

Two of Bhutan’s important rivers converge in the town of Punakha. Here is where the majestic 17th century fortress, Punakha Dzong, sits at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers (also famed as the location for the endangered white-bellied herons).  Interestingly, Punakha actually served as Bhutan’s capital and seat of government until 1955.  It is home to many wonderful day hikes into traditional villages in and around the Punakha Valley.

Typical Visit Duration

To make the most of the best sights and experiences in Bhutan we recommend at least 5 days.

Where To Stay

Bhutan offers a wide selection of accommodation types and levels.  A recent review by The Telegraph offers one expert’s advice on luxury hotels, boutique hotels and budget hotels.

How To Book

Select Representation’s trusted partner Trail Blazer Tours offers superb tours of Bhutan.  Providing assistance with visas, accommodation, transport, guides, entrance fees and local knowledge. For more details, please contact Ms Varsha Deshpande on:  varshad@tbi.co.in

Fast Facts

Official Name: Kingdom of Bhutan

Capital: Thimphu

Population: 750,000

Area:  38,364 sq km

Language: Dzongkha

Religion: Buddhism (official) & Hinduism

Festivals:  There are many throughout the year.  See:  https://www.tourism.gov.bt/events

Life expectancy:  66 years (men) & 70 years (women)

Currency: Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN95 = £1 @ 17Apr20)

Article written by Jonathan Wilkins from Select Representation who look after the sales & marketing for a number of reputable hotels & destination management companies. Select Representation is a travel sales & marketing representation company, headquartered in the UK. This experienced consultancy provides the perfect option for hotels & destination management companies (DMC’s) wishing to expand their business from the UK, Ireland, Belgium, Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Iceland. Our DMC partner in Cambodia is the experienced Tour East. We are also a founder member of Global Travel Representation Alliance.