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Bhutan travel guide

22/10/2018 1.422 5/5 trong 37 rates

Bhutan, Land of the Thunder Dragon is still one of the least heard or traveled destinations, even by the young travel enthusiasts of its neighboring country – India.

Is Bhutan worth it?

Bhutan is an expensive destination. For travelers on a budget, this destination is hard to swallow. However, Bhutan is one of the most unique places to visit on the planet. So, Bhutan is worth it.

What you need to know
Language
The official language is Dzongkha. Nepali is spoken throughout southern Bhutan and many people will speak and understand English and Hindi.

Power
220V 50Hz. Adaptors D, F, & G.

Currency
Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN). $1 USD is roughly 65 BTN.

Visas
All visitors to Bhutan (except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) are required to have a visa. All visitors must also book their travel through a local tour operator. This tour operator will obtain the visa once your trip expenses are paid in full.
The best time to visit
September through November are the best months to visit Bhutan, with clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and the greatest number of festivals.
Springtime, from March through May, are also good, with comfortable temperatures but a small chance of rain.

Below is a list of the must-see places for any tour of the last great Himalayan kingdom, Bhutan.
Rinpung Dzong, Paro
Rinpung Dzong is known as the Fortress on a Heap of Jewels. It is among the best tourist places to visit in Bhutan and a classic example of Bhutanese architecture and deeply rooted traditions.
Chele La Pass, Paro
Located at an altitude of about 3,989 meters, Chele La pass is among the popular places to see in Bhutan. The magnificent pass is en-route the Haa Valley in Paro.
Buddha Dordenma Statue, Thimphu
The Buddha Dordenma Statue is a 169 feet tall statue of Buddha, built at the foot of the hills in Thimphu. This iconic gold and bronze statue are visible from almost anywhere in Thimphu and is among the popular Bhutan tourist places.
Tiger’s Nest, Paro
Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang Monastery is one of the most popular Bhutan tourist places in Paro, known for the beautiful and the sacred monastery of guru Rinpoche. It is considered as a place of pilgrimage and is an easy half trek, which gives you the panoramic views of the Paro valleys.
Main Street, Paro
The main street of Paro, stretching across two lanes, is known for its antique Buddhist souvenirs and prayer related materials. Some of the unique souvenirs can be shopped here.
What to eat
Ema Datshi: Ema Datshi – where ’ema’ stands for chillies and ‘datshi’ means cheese – is the perfect example of what Bhutanese cuisine can offer.

Shakam Paa: is a Bhutanese dish made of dried beef which is cooked with dried chillies. You might also find some radish in your Shakam Paa.

Goen Nogay: Goen Nogay is one such side dish – a cucumber salad – that is served with your main course. Sliced cucumber is mixed with chilli flakes, onions, tomatoes, Sichuan pepper, and some cheese.

Momos: Momos are dumplings that are popularly eaten from India to Nepal to Bhutan and known as a Tibetan food.
Tips:
Bhutan is the only country in the world that has banned the consumption and sale of tobacco, resulting in smoking being largely disallowed in public places. Having said that, consumption is not completely prohibited in Bhutan so if you want to smoke, bring your own cigarettes and ask your guide where you can light up.

Most hotels have WiFi, but if you need more connectivity you can get a local SIM card from Tashi Cell or B-Mobile and top up with prepaid cards.

When taking photos or filming inside Dzongs, monasteries, temples, or any religious institutions, check with your guide whether it is permitted as some areas do not allow it.