Bhutan

The adorable beauty of Bhutan calls every travel enthusiast around the universe to explore its unravelled beauty. Secluded from the rest of the universe till 1974, this country grants you the best exploration of the most preserved natural and cultural heritage.

Bhutan tours and treks packages are organized in such a way that almost all of them demand a minimum of around 4 to 5 days from your itinerary plan.

For travellers with long days vacations, there are several other multiple days tours and treks scattered all over Bhutan.

Every second of your walk inside this country startles you with the fantastic encounter of the dzongs, monasteries, and bountiful trekking routes.

Bordering the northern part of China and the southern part of India, Bhutan is located in the eastern Himalayan range. It covers an area of 38394 square kilometres.

Though Bhutan does not share a border with Nepal and Bangladesh, it does lie in close proximity. It also holds several key passes to the Himalayan Elevation.

With most of the population following Buddhism, Bhutan is the last Buddhist Kingdom in World. To be precise, about 75% of the people in Bhutan are Mahayana Buddhists.

When it comes to the ethnic group, a total of 3 ethnic groups live in Bhutan among which Sharchop is one of the indigenous people of the eastern part of Bhutan. The dialect of those tribes is Tshangla.

The other two ethnic groups are Nyalops and Lhotshampas. Those people who migrated to Bhutan from Tibet are Nyalops and Lhotshampas are Nepali-speaking Bhutanese.

Dzongkha is the main language spoken by the Bhutanese people which is similar to Nepali and Tibetian languages. For spice lovers, the country serves savoury spicy dishes on the table. For those who want to experience a new taste of the culture, Bhutan greets them with various colourful festivals.

What compels the travellers to join the Bhutan Tours and Treks?

Covered with more mountains in the great Himalayas, the lesser Himalayas of this country consists of water and dense forest whereas the Daurs plains are filled with green vegetation and parks, forest and fertile valley.

Within the border of this country, you can observe the world’s largest water reservoir for hydropower. Just the imagination of being in the mystical land of Bhutan kindles an ecstatic feeling inside you. And when you explore this country by yourself, your eyes will definitely adore its beauty without a single blink.

Be it the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Ringpung Dzongs of Paro or the Tashichho Dzong and Buddha Dordenma of Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu each of these top attractions of Bhutan falls in your Bhutan tour itinerary.

Further, the previous capital of Bhutan namely Punakha houses several more sites for your exploration. For adventure seekers, the trails of Druk Path Trek and Snowman Trek are the best choice. Similarly, other various valleys of Bhutan have something to astonish you during the tour.

Can you go to Bhutan alone and is it safe?

Traveling to Bhutan alone is certainly possible, and the country is generally considered safe for tourists. Bhutan places a strong emphasis on Gross National Happiness (GNH) and prioritizes the well-being and safety of its visitors.

As with any travel destination, it’s essential to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips for solo travelers in Bhutan:

1. Plan Ahead: Research your trip thoroughly and make all necessary arrangements in advance, including booking accommodation, obtaining the required visa, and arranging transportation within the country. Bhutan has a regulated tourism policy that requires visitors to book their trips through authorized tour operators.
2. Respect Local Customs and Culture: Bhutan has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of local etiquette and sensitivities.
3. Stay Informed: Stay updated on current events and travel advisories related to Bhutan. While the country is generally safe for tourists, it’s always a good idea to be aware of any potential risks or safety concerns.
4. Be Prepared for Altitude: Bhutan’s terrain is mountainous, with many areas situated at high altitudes. If you plan to engage in trekking or other outdoor activities, be prepared for the effects of altitude, such as altitude sickness. It’s advisable to acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated.
5. Stay Connected: Inform someone you trust about your travel plans and keep them updated on your whereabouts. Stay connected with friends and family back home and consider purchasing a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device for internet access during your stay.
6. Exercise Caution at Night: While Bhutan is generally safe, it’s advisable to exercise caution, especially when traveling alone at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in secluded or unfamiliar areas after dark.

By taking these precautions and exercising common sense, solo travelers can enjoy a safe and rewarding experience in Bhutan, immersing themselves in the country’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unique way of life.

Sustainable Tourism in Bhutan: A Model for the World

Pioneering the Concept of Gross National Happiness:

Bhutan is globally renowned for its unique philosophy of prioritizing Gross National Happiness (GNH) over Gross National Product. This approach extends deeply into its tourism sector, where sustainable travel practices are not just encouraged but are ingrained in the regulatory framework. Bhutan’s controlled tourism model, which includes a daily tariff for all tourists, funds sustainable development activities, healthcare, and education, thus directly benefiting the local communities and environmental conservation efforts.

Eco-Friendly Tours and Treks:

With a commitment to maintaining its status as a carbon-negative country, Bhutan offers numerous eco-friendly tours and treks that allow visitors to enjoy its natural beauty without causing harm. These include guided nature walks in the pristine forests, bird-watching tours that emphasize conservation, and trekking routes that follow strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact.

Cultural Immersion Experiences

Traditional Bhutanese Lifestyle Tours:

For those intrigued by the Bhutanese way of life, there are tours dedicated to immersing visitors in local customs and daily activities. These can include spending a day with a Bhutanese family, participating in traditional farming practices, or learning about the national sport of archery. Such experiences provide a deeper understanding of the cultural fabric that defines Bhutan.

Festival Tours:

Bhutan’s vibrant festivals, or Tshechus, are not just tourist attractions but are living celebrations of its Buddhist culture. Tours that coincide with these festivals offer a spectacular insight into the spiritual and artistic traditions of the country. Visitors can witness the colorful mask dances, listen to ancient Buddhist chants, and enjoy the communal atmosphere that these festivals foster.

Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Bhutan

Exploring the Haa Valley:

Less trodden by the typical tourist path, Haa Valley offers serene landscapes and a closer look at the rural lifestyle of Bhutan. The valley is known for its scenic hikes, tranquil villages, and the Haa Summer Festival, which celebrates local traditions, cuisine, and sports.

Visiting the Phobjikha Valley:

A beautiful glacial valley on the periphery of the Black Mountains, Phobjikha is a must-visit for nature lovers. This valley is also a conservation area and the winter home of the rare black-necked cranes. Visitors can explore the Crane Information Center to learn about these majestic birds and the efforts to protect them.

Experiential Learning and Adventure

Bhutanese Culinary Classes:

Beyond tasting the unique flavors of Bhutanese cuisine, tourists can engage in cooking classes that teach the preparation of dishes like Ema Datshi and Red Rice. These classes often include visits to local markets to source fresh ingredients, providing a comprehensive culinary experience.

Spiritual Retreats and Meditation:

Reflecting Bhutan’s deep Buddhist roots, several monasteries and retreat centers offer meditation sessions led by monks who are knowledgeable in ancient Buddhist practices. These retreats are designed to provide spiritual rejuvenation and a deeper connection with one’s self, set against the backdrop of Bhutan’s peaceful environment.

Spiritual Awakening Journeys:

Embark on spiritual journeys to some of Bhutan’s most sacred sites, which are often located in areas of extraordinary natural beauty. These tours are not only pilgrimages but also opportunities for personal reflection and spiritual growth. They include guided meditation, sessions with Buddhist monks, and teachings on the principles of Buddhist philosophy, providing a profound understanding of the local culture and spiritual practices.

Nature Therapy Escapes:

Leverage Bhutan’s untouched natural landscapes as a backdrop for therapy and relaxation. Nature therapy tours involve guided hikes through serene trails, forest bathing experiences, and mindfulness practices in the wilderness, all designed to reduce stress and enhance well-being. These experiences are complemented by the natural calmness of Bhutan’s scenic beauty, providing a perfect escape to recharge and reconnect with nature.

Welcoming people of Bhutan, impressive travel destinations, special culinary dishes, and exotic festivals are waiting for your appreciation.