Planning a trip to Bhutan and wondering about the best places to visit? Bhutan, tucked away in the Eastern Himalayas, isn’t a typical tourist hotspot mainly because you can’t travel there independently. To preserve its unique culture, Bhutan’s government has strict tourism policies in place.
For any visit to Bhutan, you need to join an organized tour with a set daily fee determined by the government. This policy ensures Bhutan remains free from the overwhelming impact of mass tourism, making it one of the most special destinations on the planet.
Interested in exploring Bhutan? Let’s dive into the details on how to travel there and the must-see spots.
Traveling to Bhutan
Independent travel to Bhutan is not currently an option. You’ll need to book a tour with a minimum daily tariff that varies based on your group size and the time of year. This fee covers accommodation, meals, transport, and guides. There are many government-approved travel agents offering various tour packages that range from cultural tours to treks and adventure tours. These typically last from five days to two weeks, so you can pick one that suits your interests.
If trekking excites you, Bhutan offers some breathtaking trails with views of the Himalayas’ seven-thousand-meter peaks. The Snowman Trek, known for its difficulty and stunning vistas, is among these trails.
Getting There
Paro is the main entry point for tourists arriving by air, home to the only international airport in Bhutan. Tucked among 5.5 km-high peaks, Paro Airport is renowned for its difficulty, with only a few pilots licensed to navigate its short runway.
Paro itself is a charming, historical town adorned with traditional houses. The standout building here is Rinpung Dzong, along with its Nemi Zam bridge, both beautifully illuminated at night. Just 12 km from Paro lies Paro Taktsang, also known as “Tiger’s Nest,” a sacred monastery perched on a cliffside that features intricately designed temples and meditation caves. It’s one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks.
Spotlights in Bhutan
Chele La Pass: This is the highest motorable point in Bhutan at an altitude of 3,988 meters. The pass, adorned with prayer flags, offers picturesque views of snow-capped peaks on clear days. However, it’s a tricky drive in winter due to snow and ice.
Thimphu: Bhutan’s capital and largest city, Thimphu houses Tashichho Dzong, a large Buddhist monastery with beautiful gardens and shrines. Other attractions include the National Memorial Chorten, an impressive Buddhist stupa, the towering Buddha Dordenma statue, the serene Royal Botanical Garden, Changangkha Lhakhang temple, and the Royal Takin Preserve that’s home to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin.
Punakha: A three-hour drive from Thimphu, Punakha was Bhutan’s capital until 1955 and is now popular for its picturesque Punakha Dzong, a magnificent fortified monastery. The complex also includes a charming wooden bridge over the Mo Chu River.
Trongsa Dzong: This is Bhutan’s largest Dzong, dramatically set on a mountainside overlooking the Mangde River gorge. It’s a wonderful example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, featuring an array of temples, courtyards, and passageways spread across multiple levels.
Trekking Routes
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek: This popular six-day trek takes you through high-altitude lakes, traditional villages, and mountain passes, showcasing breathtaking natural landscapes and views of the Himalayas.
Snowman Trek: Known as the longest and one of the hardest treks in Bhutan, this challenging 347-kilometer hike takes about 25 days to complete and traverses rugged terrain, remote villages, and several mountain passes. Trekkers might even spot snow leopards along the way.
Though demanding and pricey (averaging $6,000), the Snowman Trek offers extraordinary experiences, with only a handful of adventurers attempting it annually. A slightly less demanding option is the 14-day Laya Gasa Trek, which also promises spectacular scenery and unspoiled landscapes.
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If you’re eager to visit Bhutan, these highlights and tips will surely help you plan an unforgettable journey amidst its unique culture and stunning natural beauty.