2. Bhutan
About Bhutan
Bhutan is a small country in the Himalayas between the Tibet
Autonomous Region of China andIndia.
Besides the stunning natural scenery, the enduring image of the
country for most visitors is the strong sense of culture and tradition
that binds the kingdom and clearly distinguishes it from its larger
neighbours. Bhutan is the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the
world, and the profound teachings of this tradition remain well
preserved and exert a strong influence in all aspects of life. Due to
its pristine environment and harmonious society, the tiny Kingdom
of Bhutan has been called "The Last Shangrila.”
ThePunakhaDzongglistens under the
moonlight
3. Highlights
Thimphu: The capital of one of the
world's most intriguing destinations,
Thimphu combines a natural small-town
feel with a new commercial exuberance
that constantly challenges the country's
natural conservatism and Shangri La
image. Visit the Buddha Dodrenma, the
magnificient Dzongs, The Traditional Arts
and Crafts Museum and the Takin
Preserve.
Paro:The charming town of Paro lies on the
banks of the Paro (or Pa) Chhu, just a short
distance northwest of the imposing Paro
Dzong. The main street, only built in 1985, is
lined with colourfully painted wooden shop
fronts and restaurants, though these appear
under threat as the town grows and multistorey
concrete buildings continue to propagate. Your
ascent the the magnificient Tiger’s Nest
4. Highlights
Punkaha: Punakha sits in a sultry,fertile
and beautiful valley at the junction of the
Mo Chhu (Mother River) and Pho Chhu
(Father River). Commanding the river
junction is the gorgeous Punakha Dzong,
perhaps Bhutan's most impressive
building. Visit the famous Chimmi
Lakhang and marvel at the magnificient
scenery.
Trongsa: Trongsa is smack in the middle of the
country, set at the strategic junction of roads to
Punakha, Bumthang and Gelephu but
separated from both east and west by high
mountain ranges. The dzong and surrounding
town is perched above a gorge, with fine views
of the Black Mountains to the southwest. It's a
sleepy and pleasant town, lined with traditional
whitewashed shops decorated with pot plants.
5. ExperiencesinBhutan
Traditional Bhutanese meal with a family:
The flavours of Bhutan are unique and
would leave you asking for more. We
take you on a journey of making
traditional Bhutanese food with a local
family enriched with traditions of Bhutan.
Learn the art of Bhutanese cooking and
discover new techniques of cooking as
we have you on our culinary tour where
you learn to cook the Bhutanese
delicacies and dig intothem.
Archery: Archery is the National Sport of
Bhutan and is celebrated all over the Kingdom
of Bhutan. Learn the skill of archery on our
exclusive archery session where we teach you
the basics of archery.Mountains to the
southwest. It's a sleepy and pleasant town,
lined with traditional whitewashed shops
decorated with pot plants. Click here for more
6. ExperiencesinBhutan
Traditional Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath:
Regenerate your energy as you take a dip
in this magical tub of hot water with the
most special herbs. Forget your
mainstream and strenuous life as you
immerse yourself in this miraculous
experience. Click here for more.
Cultural Dance Performance: Experience the
culture of Bhutan through the dazzling Dances
performed by the locals. Watch the dancers
represent their traditions and culture through
their magnificent performance. Click here for
more.
7. The Basics
• The Location
Bhutan is Nestled between India to its South and East, Nepal to its West and China to it’s
North. The country lies in the Eastern HHimalayan Belt.
• Capital City
Situated in Central Bhutan, Thimphu is the capital of this country and boasts to be the only
capital city with no traffic lights.
• Main Airport
Paro is the main international airport with direct flights from India, Nepal and Thailand.
• Language Spoken
The official language of Bhutan Dzongkha. People also speak fluent English, Nepali too.
• Currency
The Bhutanese Ngultrum is the official currency used here. However INR are also readily
accepted.
8. The Basics
• Visas
A Tourist Visit Visa is required for all foreign nationals entering Bhutan other than India,
Bangladesh and Maldives. A tourist visa can be applied from any Online Travel agency
such as Offbeat Tracks.
• Online immigration permits can be produced for Indian Passport holders.
• Electricity
The standard voltage in Bhutan is 230V/50Hz AC using Type D sockets and three rounded
pin plugs. A plug adapter and voltage converter are necessary for US and Canadian
appliances.
• How to get there:
By air: Direct flights operating from India ( Delhi, Kolkata and Guwahati), Thailand and
Nepal into Paro.
By Road: Via Bagdogra in West Bengal, India to Phuentsholing, Bhutan.
10. FAQ’s About Bhutan
• Do you tip in Bhutan?
In Bhutan, tipping is pretty much expected but at different levels. Generally, you add a
10% gratuity to your restaurant bill, leave your hotel housekeepers Rs. 100 a day.
• What is the internet access like?
As with many Asian countries, Internet cafes are on hand all over the country for your
WiFi needs. Most hotels and cafes, as well as many restaurants, also offer WiFi access.
• Is the tap water safe todrink?
Tap water is NOT safe to drink in Bhutan. Maintain hydration, but only with bottled
mineral water.
• Can I use my credit cards?
Absolutely! Most cities in Bhutan accept Visa and MasterCard. Some establishments
even accept American Express. Do make sure you’re not being charged a surcharge or
in a foreign currency as these are illegal.
• What are the publicholidays?
Bhutan has 16 Public Holiday’s. Bhutanese holidays are rooted in the Drukpa
Lineage of Kagayu Budhism, the House of Wangchuk and the Tibetan Calendar Even
secular holidays, however, have a measure of religious overtone, as religious
choreography and blessings mark these auspicious days.[3]
11. • Is Bhutan safe for solotravellers?
As with many destinations, visitors must always use common sense and practice due
caution and vigilance when travelling in Bhutan. However, it is generally safe and
pretty amazing for solo travellers—men and women—to explore on their own.
• Is Bhutan safe for families?
Bhutan is a very child-friendly country with locals making a special effort to entertain
visiting children. Baby food and diapers are available in supermarkets.
12. Our Trips ToBhutan
A RELAXED VACATION IN
BHUTAN
CYCLING IN BHUTAN BHUTANCULINARY
TOUR
