Travel To Bhutan- Where Happiness Finds You

Travel to Bhutan can give you the utmost pleasure that everyone finds. It’s famous for its unique way of measuring success, called Gross National Happiness, which focuses on people’s well-being rather than just money. The landscape is beautiful, with mountains, valleys and ancient temples. It’s a small country in the Himalayas with about only 8,00,000 people. Buddhism is the main religion, shaping the culture and traditions. The king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, leads the country, balancing modern changes with keeping Bhutan’s history alive. Tourism, done in a way that protects the environment, is an important part of Bhutan’s economy. Even though it’s small and isolated, Bhutan’s commitment to happiness, culture and nature makes it stand out on the world stage.

Things To Do In Bhutan

Bhutan offers a range of activities to suit various interests, like:

• Trekking

• Explore the stunning landscapes and ancient trails of Bhutan on various trekking routes, such as the famous Snowman Trek or the shorter Druk Path Trek.

• Visit Monasteries And Temples

Bhutan is dotted with numerous monasteries and temples, including the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) and Punakha Dzong, offering spiritual experiences and insights into Bhutanese culture.

• Attend Festivals

Experience the vibrant culture of Bhutan by attending traditional festivals such as the Paro Tsechu or Thimphu Tshechu, featuring colorful masked dances, music, and rituals. There are also some things in Cambodian culture.

• Explore Nature

Bhutan’s rich biodiversity and pristine natural beauty make it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Visit national parks like Jigme Dorji National Park or Phobjikha Valley to spot unique wildlife and enjoy scenic landscapes.

• Cultural Tours: Take guided tours to explore Bhutan’s historical sites, traditional villages and museums, learning about its unique architecture, crafts, and way of life.

• Participate In Archery

Archery is Bhutan’s national sport and you can join locals in friendly matches or watch competitions during festivals.

Hot Springs

Relax and rejuvenate in Bhutan’s natural hot springs, such as Gasa Tshachu or Chubu Tshachu, known for their therapeutic properties.

• Culinary Exploration

• Bhutanese cuisine, known for its use of spicy chilies and cheese dishes like ema datshi or try traditional Bhutanese tea and snacks.
• You should Remember to respect local customs and traditions while exploring Bhutan’s attractions and engage in sustainable tourism practices to preserve its natural and cultural heritage.

Famous Restaurants In Bhutan

While Bhutan may not be as internationally renowned for its culinary scene as some other countries, it still offers some delightful dining experiences. Here are a few notable restaurants in Bhutan:

• Bukhari at Uma by COMO, Paro: This restaurant offers a blend of Bhutanese and international cuisine in a cozy setting with stunning views of the Paro Valley.

• Ambient Café, Thimphu: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu featuring Bhutanese, Indian, and continental dishes, Ambient Café is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.

• Sonam Trophel Restaurant, Thimphu: Offering authentic Bhutanese cuisine in a traditional setting, Sonam Trophel is renowned for its delicious local dishes like ema datshi (chili and cheese), phaksha paa (pork with spicy sauce), and momos (dumplings).

• Dochula Resort Restaurant, Dochula Pass: Situated at an altitude of 3,100 meters, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the Himalayas along with tasty Bhutanese dishes, making it a favorite stop for travelers en route to Punakha or Wangdue.

• Tandin Restaurant, Punakha: Located near Punakha Dzong, Tandin Restaurant serves fresh and flavorful Bhutanese and Indian cuisine, with a focus on using local ingredients.

• Zombala Restaurant, Paro: With a charming ambiance and a menu featuring Bhutanese, Tibetan, and Chinese dishes, Zombala Restaurant is popular among tourists exploring Paro’s attractions.

• Ganglakha Restaurant, Phuentsholing: This restaurant offers a diverse range of Bhutanese, Indian, and Chinese dishes, making it a convenient stop for travelers crossing the border between India and Bhutan.

These restaurants offer excellent dining experiences, part of the joy of visiting Bhutan is also experiencing local eateries and trying street food stalls for authentic flavors and a taste of everyday Bhutanese life.

Amazing Facts

Here Are Some Amazing Facts:

• Bhutan, often referred to as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is a fascinating country with many amazing facts:
• Gross National Happiness: Bhutan famously prioritizes the well-being of its citizens over economic growth, measuring progress through Gross National Happiness (GNH) rather than Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
• Environmental Conservation: Bhutan is one of the world’s only carbon-negative countries, meaning it absorbs more carbon dioxide than it emits. Over 70% of its land is forested, and the government is committed to maintaining at least 60% forest cover.

How To Reach

By Air (Domestic Flights):

You should use Paro International Airport, that is 54 km from the capital city Thimphu. Arrange transportation from Thimphu to Paro by hiring a taxi or using a tour operator’s transportation services. You can also book domestic flights with Drukair or Bhutan Airlines to destinations like Bumthang or Trashigang.

Travel Tips:

Expect longer road travel due to terrain and conditions.

Book International Flights In Advance, Especially During Peak Seasons.

For domestic travel, use a licensed Bhutanese tour operator for transportation and accommodation arrangements.

This simple guide outlines the options for reaching destinations within Bhutan or traveling internationally from Thimphu.

Where To Stay In Bhutan

In Bhutan, there are various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s where you can stay in Bhutan:

Hotels and Resorts: Bhutan offers a range of hotels and resorts, from luxury accommodations to more budget-friendly options. In cities like Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha, you’ll find internationally recognized hotel chains as well as boutique hotels offering modern amenities and comforts.

Guesthouses and Homestays: For a more authentic experience, consider staying in guesthouses or homestays, especially in rural areas and smaller towns. This option allows you to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture, interact with locals, and enjoy home-cooked meals.

Farmstays: Some farms in Bhutan offer accommodations to visitors, providing an opportunity to experience rural life firsthand. You can participate in farm activities, learn about traditional farming practices, and enjoy organic meals made from fresh produce.

Traditional Bhutanese Inns (Lodges): Traditional Bhutanese inns, called “lukshos” or “lodges,” are found all over Bhutan, especially in remote places and along with Trekking paths. They offer simple rooms with shared facilities but give a warm and authentic feel.

Camping: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, camping is another option for accommodation, especially if you’re trekking or exploring Bhutan’s national parks and wilderness areas. You can bring your own camping gear or rent equipment from tour operators.

Monastery Stays: Some Bhutanese monasteries host travelers, letting them experience monastic life and join meditation sessions or ceremonies. However, these stays need booking beforehand and might have rules or limits.

When choosing where to stay in Bhutan, consider location, amenities, budget and the experience you want when picking where to stay in Bhutan. Whether you like hotel comforts or homestay authenticity, Bhutan has options for all travelers.

Preparation Tips For Your Trip To Bhutan:

• Documents: Get a valid passport with six months left and a Bhutanese visa through a licensed tour operator.
• Booking: Book with a licensed tour operator who can arrange your trip details.
• Planning: Plan early, especially for peak seasons.
• Packing: Pack clothes for Bhutan’s varied climate and trekking gear if needed.
• Respecting Customs: Learn local customs, dress modestly, and ask before taking photos.
• Health: See your doctor for necessary vaccinations and prepare for altitude sickness if trekking.
• Money: Carry Bhutanese Ngultrum or Indian Rupees and cash for smaller purchases.

In conclusion, This eastern Himalayas country, amazed to travellers with its commitment to Gross National Happiness, sustainable development and cultural preservation. Embracing environmental conservation and social well-being, Bhutan stands as a unique model for harmonizing progress with traditional values. Its amazing natural landscapes and impressive lifestyle shows dedication of nation to fostering happiness and balance in an ever-changing world.