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Mytour brings you the most complete and concise travel guide to Bhutan, with information on transportation, attractions, cuisine, and hotels for visitors to the 'Land of Happiness'.
Overview of Bhutan Travel
Bhutan, a small kingdom nestled between India and China, is a unique destination known for its majestic natural beauty and rich Buddhist culture. It's the only country in the world that measures its success using the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index instead of GDP. This reflects a lifestyle that is in harmony with nature and its deeply rooted cultural traditions. Below is the travel guide to Bhutan from A to Z, to help you prepare for your adventure to the 'Land of Happiness' in 2024.
The best time to visit Bhutan
The weather in Bhutan varies depending on altitude and season.
Spring (March – May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Bhutan. With warm weather, the landscapes become lush with blooming peach, plum, and cherry blossoms filling the valleys. This is also the season for vibrant festivals, including the Paro Tsechu Festival, one of the largest and most significant events in Bhutan, attracting visitors from around the globe.
Summer (June – August)
Summer in Bhutan can be quite rainy due to the monsoon season. However, it is also when nature is at its greenest, with waterfalls and rivers in full flow, offering breathtaking views. Visitors should be prepared for sudden rain showers and may encounter some travel restrictions or limited sightseeing opportunities.
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is another ideal time to visit Bhutan. The weather is pleasant, and it offers the best opportunity to witness the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Major festivals such as the Thimphu Tsechu and Jambay Lhakhang Drup also take place during this season.
Winter (December – February)
Winter can be quite cold, especially in the higher regions. However, it remains a great time to visit Bhutan if you prefer peaceful surroundings and fewer crowds.
Transportation: How to travel to Bhutan
Getting to Bhutan
By Air
Drukair and Bhutan Airlines are the two national carriers of Bhutan, offering international flights from select locations to Paro, the only international airport in the country. Paro is about a 1.5-hour drive from the capital city, Thimphu.
Main international departure points include India (Delhi, Kolkata), Bangladesh (Dhaka), Nepal (Kathmandu), Thailand (Bangkok), and Singapore. Due to strict travel regulations and a limited number of flights, airfares to Bhutan can be quite expensive and should be booked well in advance.
Car
Besides air travel, Bhutan can also be accessed by road. There are two main international border crossings that allow entry by car: Phuentsholing and Gelephu. Phuentsholing, the most popular crossing, is located on the border with India's West Bengal state and is about a four-hour drive from Bagdogra airport. From Phuentsholing, travelers can head towards Thimphu or other tourist destinations within Bhutan. Note that traveling by road in Bhutan can be time-consuming due to the mountainous terrain.
Traveling within Bhutan
Car rental
In Bhutan, you can hire a car with a driver for your travels. Bhutan's travel agencies often arrange private cars along with a driver and a tour guide for their clients. This not only ensures safety and comfort while navigating the mountainous roads but also gives tourists the chance to explore various attractions along the way.
Walking or Cycling
For those who enjoy strolling and sightseeing, trekking or hiking could be a great option. Alternatively, you can also ride a bike to explore the valleys of Bhutan.
Public Transportation
In Bhutan, you have the option to use public transportation, such as buses, for intercity travel.
Note
Bhutan follows the 'High Value, Low Impact Tourism' policy to protect its culture and natural environment. This means that all visitors (except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must go through a licensed Bhutanese travel agency to arrange their trip, including booking flights and obtaining a visa. A mandatory daily fee (minimum daily package) covers accommodation, meals, guides, and local transportation.
Applying for a Bhutan Visa
1. Contact a Travel Agency
All visitors (except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must use an authorized travel agency to arrange their trip to Bhutan. You cannot apply for a visa by yourself; it must be processed through a travel agency. Choose a reputable and reliable agency to ensure a smooth journey.
2. Arrange Your Itinerary and Pay the Fees
After finalizing and confirming your itinerary for Bhutan, you need to pay the mandatory daily fee to the travel agency. This fee includes accommodation, meals, guides, local transportation, and a contribution to the Bhutan Tourism Development Fund. The agency will inform you of the exact amount you need to pay.
3. Provide Personal Information and Necessary Documents
You will need to provide personal information and several required documents to the travel agency. These include your passport (valid for at least 6 months from your intended arrival date), passport-sized photo, and contact details.
4. Wait for Confirmation and Visa Approval
The travel agency will handle all visa application procedures on your behalf. They will submit your application to the Bhutan Tourism Council (TCB) for approval. Once the visa is approved, you will receive an electronic visa clearance letter, typically via email. Be sure to print this confirmation and carry it with you.
5. Arrive in Bhutan
Upon arrival in Bhutan, present your electronic visa clearance letter at the airport or border checkpoint. Your visa will be issued at the point of entry.
Important Notes
Processing Time: Start the visa application process at least one month before your planned departure to allow sufficient time for document processing.
Visa Fee: In addition to the mandatory daily fee, there is a small visa fee that must be paid upon arrival in Bhutan.
No Independent Travel: As mentioned, tourists cannot travel independently; they must follow a pre-arranged itinerary and be accompanied by a licensed Bhutanese tour guide.
Attractions in Bhutan
Paro Dzong Monastery (Rinpung Dzong)
Paro Dzong is located in the Paro Valley and is a quintessential example of Bhutanese architecture, playing a vital role in the country's history. Constructed in the 15th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, a Tibetan Lama and unifier of Bhutan, Paro Dzong stands as a remarkable representation of Bhutanese design. Featuring towering walls and a sprawling complex with courtyards, temples, offices, and residential spaces, the structure beautifully blends religious function with Bhutan's distinctive cultural traditions.
The Tamchog Lhakhang Monastery
Founded in the early 15th century by Thangtong Gyalpo, a revered Tibetan saint famous for building iron bridges across the Himalayas, the monastery is renowned for its iron bridge. One of the few remaining bridges originally constructed by Thangtong Gyalpo, it spans the Paro River and enhances the mystical atmosphere of the site.
The monastery is adorned with colorful prayer flags, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors to worship. Inside, you'll find numerous religious artworks, including murals and statues, reflecting Bhutan's profound Buddhist traditions.
Paro Taktsang Monastery
This iconic site is one of Bhutan's most important spiritual landmarks. Perched on the steep cliffs of the Himalayas, the monastery is not only renowned for its unique location but also for its deep historical and spiritual significance.
According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, brought Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. He is said to have flown here on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave for three months. A monastery was later built around this cave in 1692. The monastery features several rooms and prayer halls, perched on the mountainside, offering a majestic view.
Kyichu Lhakhang Monastery
Kyichu Lhakhang is located in the Paro Valley and is one of the first religious fortresses built in Bhutan. Inside the main shrine, Jowo Lhakhang, there is a rare statue of Jowo Jamba from the 7th century. This statue is positioned among eight Bodhisattva statues, the figure of Zhabdrung, and the renowned Guru Padmasambhava.
Outside the main shrine stands a statue of Avalokiteshvara with eleven heads and a thousand hands. Additionally, there is the Guru Lhakhang, a shrine built in 1968 by Queen Ashi Kesang Wangchuk. This shrine is renowned for its five-meter-tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava and houses the remains of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, the venerated spiritual master who passed away in 1991 and was laid to rest near the temple in 1992.
Chimi Lhakhang Monastery
Chimi Lhakhang is a Buddhist monastery in the Punakha district. Situated on a hilltop, it was established in 1499 by the 14th Drukpa leader, Ngawang Choegyel. The monastery is home to a unique wooden phallus symbol brought from Tibet by Kunley. This wooden phallus, adorned with a silver handle, is used to bless pilgrims, particularly women seeking blessings for childbirth. A traditional practice at the monastery involves tapping visitors on the head with a 25 cm wooden phallus for good luck.
The National Chorten Memorial, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, was constructed in 1974 to honor King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third king of Bhutan, who played a key role in modernizing the country. The structure's architecture reflects traditional Bhutanese design, featuring a large dome-shaped roof, a cone-shaped bell tower, and intricate paintings and sculptures.
Inside the Chorten Memorial lies a treasure trove of religious artifacts and artwork, including Buddha statues, Thangka paintings, and Buddhist scriptures.
Visitors to Bhutan will be in awe of the colossal Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. Its sheer size and strategic location make it especially impressive. Located in the capital city of Thimphu, the statue was built to commemorate the 60th birthday of Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth king of Bhutan. Completed in 2015, it stands at approximately 51 meters tall and is made of gilded bronze. Inside, there are around 125,000 smaller Buddha statues, also made of gilded bronze, symbolizing peace and prosperity.
Ta Dzong Watchtower
Originally built in 1649, Ta Dzong served as a watchtower to protect Paro Dzong during wartime. It became an integral part of Bhutan's rich historical and cultural heritage. The tower's round shape makes it distinct from the square or rectangular dzongs found throughout Bhutan.
In 1968, Ta Dzong was converted into the National Museum of Bhutan, marking its shift from a defensive structure to a repository of cultural heritage. The museum houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts, including traditional clothing, textiles, Thangka paintings, weapons, and household items.
Thimphu's central post office
The Thimphu General Post Office building showcases a collection of unique stamps that have marked Bhutan's history. With five exhibition rooms, visitors can explore the stamps from different periods, each representing a distinct era in the nation's postal evolution.
Not only can you admire these stamps, but you also have the opportunity to create a personalized stamp featuring your own image, which can be used like any regular postage stamp. The postal museum is open Monday through Friday, with summer hours from 9 AM to 5 PM and winter hours from 9 AM to 4 PM. On Saturdays, it is open from 9 AM to 1 PM.
Simply Bhutan Museum
This museum was founded by a group of young people with the goal of preserving Bhutan's unique cultural values. It is often referred to as a 'living museum' due to its interactive nature and authentic representation of Bhutanese traditions.
Bhutanese cuisine is not only a reflection of the country's cultural identity but also a portrayal of the local lifestyle. Renowned for its distinctive use of spices, Bhutan's dishes are particularly famous for their liberal use of chili peppers.
Ema Datshi
Đây là món “quốc hồn quốc túy” của Bhutan, làm từ ớt và phô mai địa phương (Datshi). Ema Datshi có nhiều biến thể tùy vào loại ớt và thêm vào các nguyên liệu khác như cà chua, khoai tây, hoặc nấm. Món này thường được thưởng thức cùng với cơm hoặc bánh mì ngô.
Phaksha Paa
Món này được chế biến từ thịt lợn, ớt khô, và một số loại rau củ khác như cải bắp và mooli (loại củ cải trắng). Thịt lợn được nấu cho đến khi mềm và thấm gia vị, tạo nên một hương vị đặc trưng khó quên.
Jasha Maroo hay còn gọi là gà hầm Bhutan, là một món hầm thơm ngon với thịt gà, hành, tỏi, ớt, và gia vị địa phương. Món ăn này cung cấp hương vị cay nồng đầy sức hấp dẫn.
Momo
Momo là loại bánh bao nhỏ được nhồi thịt hoặc rau, là một trong những món ăn phổ biến ở Bhutan. Chúng có thể được hấp hoặc chiên, và thường được phục vụ với một loại xốt ớt cay nồng.
Red Rice
Cơm – gạo đỏ là loại gạo đặc trưng của Bhutan, được trồng trên những thung lũng cao của Himalaya. Gạo có màu đỏ tự nhiên, hạt dài và mềm khi nấu, thường được dùng làm phụ kiện cho các món ăn chính.
Suja
Suja, hay trà bơ, là một loại đồ uống truyền thống của Bhutan. Trà được pha chế từ lá trà, bơ, và muối, mang lại hương vị độc đáo và cung cấp năng lượng, đặc biệt là trong thời tiết lạnh giá của Himalaya.
Ara
Ara is a traditional rice wine made from rice or maize. This natural beverage is typically enjoyed during festive celebrations and family gatherings.
'Kewa' means potato, and Kewa Datshi is a dish made from potatoes and cheese. The potatoes are usually thinly sliced and simmered with cheese and butter. Sometimes, chili peppers and tomatoes are added to enhance the flavor.
Shamu Datshi
This dish consists of mushrooms and cheese. Like other Bhutanese Datshi dishes, Shamu Datshi is served with rice.
Yaksha Shakam
This dish is made from dried yak meat. Yak, similar in flavor to beef but with a stronger aroma, is considered to be more nutritious. In Yaksha Shakam, the yak meat is air-dried and can be prepared in various ways. One of the most delicious preparations involves cooking it with fermented cheese made from yak milk.
Juma
Juma is a popular type of sausage in Bhutan. Made from minced meat, rice, and a few light spices, it is stuffed into a pig's intestine. Unlike in Western countries, Juma is not served with bread (like a hotdog) but is eaten on its own.
Hotels in Bhutan
When traveling in Bhutan, you can check out resorts and hotels at Mytour for more information about pricing and accommodation options!
Six Senses Resorts in Bhutan
The five Six Senses resorts in Bhutan are: Six Senses Paro Bhutan, Six Senses Thimphu, Six Senses Punakha, Six Senses Gangtey, and Six Senses Bumthang. Each resort is designed to allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and culture of Bhutan. Combining modern architecture with Bhutan’s traditional forms, the resorts vary in style from valley to valley, showcasing the unique characteristics of each location.
Six Senses Bhutan offers a wide range of experiences for every interest. Whether you want to try Bhutan's national sport of archery, hike through pristine forests, or forage for mushrooms with a local chef, Six Senses Bhutan provides countless options for travelers.
Taj Tashi Bhutan Hotel
All rooms and suites at Taj Tashi Bhutan offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, with hand-painted murals in traditional Bhutanese style. The rooms at Taj Tashi expertly blend traditional designs and artistic motifs with modern amenities and the legendary hospitality of Taj, providing you with a truly exceptional experience.
Indulge in a variety of delectable dishes at Taj Tashi's restaurant, featuring local Bhutanese cuisine. Salted butter tea and spicy dishes will awaken your senses. The restaurant also offers popular Indian and international dishes, making it one of the best dining spots in Thimphu.
Le Méridien Thimphu Hotel
Le Méridien is located in Thimphu, 2.3 km from the National Library and Archives of Bhutan. The hotel offers 78 rooms equipped with safes, minibars, and wardrobes, as well as coffee/tea makers and glass dinnerware. All rooms provide plush feather pillows and full-down comforters, ensuring a luxurious stay.
1. The 'High Value, Low Impact Tourism' Policy
Bhutan follows the 'High Value, Low Impact' tourism policy to protect its environment and local culture. As part of this policy, all visitors (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) are required to go through an approved tour company and pay a mandatory daily fee, which covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and a guide.
2. Visa and Entry Procedures
Visitors must apply for a visa before entering Bhutan, unless they are citizens of certain countries that are exempt. Bhutan visas are processed through a licensed Bhutanese travel company.
3. Currency and Costs
The official currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN), although USD is widely accepted at tourist destinations. ATMs may not be readily available everywhere, so it's advisable to carry a reasonable amount of cash.
4. Ẩm thực
Ẩm thực Bhutan chứa đựng nhiều món ăn cay nồng. Nếu bạn không quen với thức ăn cay, hãy báo trước cho nhà hàng hoặc hướng dẫn viên du lịch của bạn.
5. Giao thông và di chuyển
Di chuyển trong Bhutan chủ yếu thông qua xe hơi hoặc xe buýt. Các con đường có thể khá hiểm trở, đặc biệt là trong mùa mưa.
6. Trang phục
Khi tham quan các tu viện, dzong và những nơi tôn nghiêm khác. Hãy mặc trang phục kín đáo và tôn trọng phong tục địa phương. Mũ và giày cần được tháo ra khi bước vào các khu vực thờ tự.
7. Sức khỏe và an toàn
Bhutan có địa hình núi cao, vì vậy hãy chú ý đến nguy cơ bị say độ cao. Mặc dù Bhutan được coi là một trong những quốc gia an toàn nhất để du lịch, bạn vẫn cần thực hiện các biện pháp an toàn cơ bản như không mang theo nhiều tiền mặt hay vật giá trị khi đi tham quan.
8. Tôn trọng môi trường và văn hóa
Bhutan rất coi trọng việc bảo vệ môi trường và duy trì văn hóa địa phương. Hãy tôn trọng các quy định này bằng cách không làm hại đến môi trường và tôn trọng văn hóa, phong tục của người dân nơi đây.
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Source: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnApril 3, 2024
