Things to Do in Bhutan

Most Popular Things to do in Bhutan

Regardless of when you visit, Bhutan provides numerous opportunities to experience its captivating scenery, cultural landmarks, and spiritual heritage. 

From trekking through unspoiled valleys to participating in vibrant festivals, here is a selection of popular activities for those journeying through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

• Cultural Things to See in Bhutan

  Bhutan's cultural heritage shines through landmarks like Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, and Dochula Pass, each reflecting the nation's spiritual and architectural traditions.

  Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)

  This iconic monastery is set high on a cliffside, symbolising Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. The trek to the top offers panoramic views. Entry is free for Bhutanese nationals wearing traditional dress, while foreign residents and Indian tourists pay an entry fee of approximately INR 500.

  Punakha Dzong

  Known as the "Palace of Great Happiness," this majestic fortress between two rivers offers insight into Bhutan’s history and architecture. Entry is free, making it accessible to all visitors.

  Buddha Dordenma (Thimphu)

  A towering 51-metre golden Buddha statue overlooks Thimphu, offering a serene spot to appreciate the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore this monumental site without any entry fee.

  Dochula Pass

  Famous for its 108 stupas, this scenic mountain pass provides stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas. It is a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and requires no entry fee.

• Festivals Not to Miss in Bhutan

  Bhutan's festivals, such as Paro Tsechu, Black-Necked Crane Festival, Punakha Drubchen, and Haa Summer Festival, highlight the nation's deep spiritual roots and unique customs.

  Paro Tsechu

  Held in March or April, Paro Tsechu is one of Bhutan’s most celebrated festivals. Experience vibrant masked dances and traditional music, offering a glimpse into the country's deep spiritual traditions.

  Black-Necked Crane Festival

  Every November in Phobjikha Valley, this festival celebrates the arrival of endangered cranes. It combines conservation awareness with local cultural performances, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

  Punakha Drubchen

  In February or March, Punakha Drubchen reenacts historical battles with Tibetan invaders. Locals dress as ancient warriors, providing a thrilling journey through Bhutan’s rich history.

  Haa Summer Festival

  Held in July, the Haa Summer Festival showcases the lifestyle of Bhutan’s highlanders. Enjoy yak riding, traditional sports, and Bhutanese cuisine amidst the beauty of the Haa Valley.

Best Things to Do in Bhutan for Foodies

Bhutan provides a unique culinary journey with its distinct flavours and ingredients, making it an excellent destination for food enthusiasts. From traditional dishes to international cuisine, the country offers a variety of dining experiences. 

Here are some must-do activities and places for food lovers visiting Bhutan to savour during their stay.

• Experience Traditional Bhutanese Cuisine

  • Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant, Thimphu: Located in Thimphu, this restaurant serves authentic Bhutanese dishes in a traditional setting. Try the famous Ema Datshi and other local specialities prepared using age-old recipes.
  • Cafe Perk, Bumthang: This café offers traditional meals using locally sourced produce. It's an excellent place to experience the genuine taste of Bhutanese cooking.

• Savour Indian Flavours in Bhutan

  • Taste of India, Thimphu: This restaurant, situated in Thimphu, serves various Indian dishes, from spicy curries to tandoori specialities, catering to those who appreciate Indian cuisine.
  • Hotel Druk Punjab Restaurant, Phuentsholing: Located near the border, this eatery offers Indian cuisine alongside Bhutanese options, giving a familiar taste to visitors from India.

• Enjoy International Dining Options

  • Ambient Café, Thimphu: This café offers international dishes, coffee, and pastries. It's a great place to unwind and enjoy Western-style meals in a cosy atmosphere.
  • Seasons Restaurant, Thimphu: Offering Italian cuisines like pizzas and pasta, this restaurant caters to visitors craving international flavours.

• Explore Local Street Food

  • Momo Stalls at Thimphu Weekend Market, Thimphu: Try delicious momos—dumplings filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables—served with spicy chilli sauce, a favourite among locals.
  • Paro Street Vendors, Paro: Try local snacks such as fried rice, noodles, and savoury pancakes from various street stalls, providing insight into everyday Bhutanese food culture.

Planning Your Bhutan Itinerary

Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a culture lover, or seeking serenity in the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan caters to all. Here is a step-by-step guide to planning your perfect trip to Bhutan:

• Step 1: Plan Your Journey to Bhutan

  Start planning your journey to Bhutan by selecting your travel route, either by air or by land:

  • By Air: The primary international gateway is Paro International Airport. Direct flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore are available. Bhutan's national carriers, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, operate flights connecting several international hubs.
  • By Land: Travellers from India can enter Bhutan by road through border towns such as Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar. Buses and taxis are available from cities like Siliguri in West Bengal.

• Step 2: Obtain the Necessary Travel Permits

  To travel to Bhutan, you must secure the necessary permits to help preserve Bhutan’s environment and culture.

  • Tourist Permit: Indian citizens require an entry permit, which can be obtained at the border with valid identification, like a passport or voter ID card.
  • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): Bhutan charges an SDF to tourists, contributing to preserving the country’s environment and culture.

• Step 3: Buy Travel Insurance

  Before travelling to Bhutan, it is wise to buy travel insurance. This insurance helps protect you if unexpected things happen during your trip. Here is why you should consider it:

  • Medical Emergencies: If you become ill or have an accident, insurance can cover the costs of medical treatment, which might be high or require evacuation to another country.
  • Trip Cancellations or Delays: Travel insurance can help you recover your expenses or pay for additional accommodation if your flights are cancelled or delayed.
  • Lost or Stolen Belongings: If your luggage goes missing or your valuables are stolen, insurance can help you replace them.

• Step 4: Prepare for Your Trip

  For your Bhutan trip, carry small-denomination currency, pack suitable clothing for the weather, follow the dress code at religious sites, and get a local SIM for connectivity.

  • Currency: Indian Rupees are commonly accepted, but smaller denominations are better since more big notes might not be accepted everywhere. ATMs are few in remote areas, so having enough cash in Ngultrum (BTN) is a good idea.
  • Clothing: Bhutan experiences diverse weather conditions depending on the region and time of year. Pack warm layers, especially for higher altitudes or cooler seasons. Comfortable footwear is essential for trekking and exploring.
  • Dress Code: Respect local customs by dressing modestly, particularly when visiting monasteries, temples, and dzongs. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove hats inside religious sites.
  • Connectivity: Upon arrival, tourists can purchase prepaid SIM cards from Bhutan Telecom or TashiCell for local communication and internet access. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and some cafés in urban areas.

  Bhutan offers visitors a fantastic experience with its impressive monasteries, valleys, and calm mountains. By carefully planning your journey, obtaining the necessary permits, and securing travel insurance, you’ll set the foundation for a smooth trip.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I go trekking in Bhutan, and what are some popular routes?

  Ans: Trekking is a popular activity in Bhutan, with routes ranging from easy to challenging. Some well-known treks include the Jomolhari Trek, the Druk Path Trek, and the Snowman Trek. These treks offer stunning views of the Himalayas and opportunities to experience remote villages and diverse landscapes.

• Q2: Can I explore Bhutan by bicycle?

  Ans: Cycling is a great way to explore Bhutan's landscapes and rural areas. There are organised cycling tours and routes suitable for different skill levels, including challenging mountain paths and more relaxed valley rides.

• Q3: Is bird watching popular in Bhutan?

  Ans: Bhutan is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 670 bird species recorded. The country's diverse ecosystems support species like the black-necked crane, white-bellied heron, and various pheasants. Birdwatching tours are available in the Phobjikha Valley and the southern tropical regions.

• Q4: Can tourists participate in traditional Bhutanese archery?

  Ans: Archery is Bhutan's national sport, and tourists are welcome to observe competitions and even try their hand at it. Some local clubs and hotels offer archery experiences where visitors can learn about the sport and practice shooting with traditional equipment.

• Q5: What is Bhutan famous for?

  Ans: Bhutan is famous for its beautiful textiles, especially hand-woven shawls and scarves made from cotton and silk. These traditional textiles come from different regions in Bhutan and are known for their unique designs.

• Q6: Is Bhutan expensive for Indians?

  Ans: While Bhutan can be costly for most tourists, Indians benefit from lower fees. Unlike the INR 16,724 per night fee for others, Indian visitors only pay a Sustainable Development Fee of about INR 1,337 per day. This makes Bhutan more affordable for travellers from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives.