Bhutan Tourism

A beautiful melange of Buddhist art and cultures, Bhutan puzzles visitors with its simplicity. The nation has a special charm which keeps travellers hooked to it forever. With a spectacular backdrop of mighty Himalayas, it looks charismatic from every corner. Bhutan is renowned for being the world’s only remaining Buddhist Kingdom.

Culture in Bhutan The cultural heritage of Bhutan is diverse. People of this nation take pride in their age old traditions but have beautifully adopted modernism as well. Dzongkha and Sharchop are two main Bhutanese languages. Majority of the population practice Buddhism here.

Cities of Bhutan Thimphu is the largest as well as capital city of Bhutan. Here rests the rich history of the nation. Phuntsholing is the second largest city and also the administrative seat of Chukha District. Other significant cities of Bhutan include Paro, Punakha, Samdrup Jongkhar, Geylegphug, etc.

Attractions of Bhutan Bhutan treats you with some of the most gorgeous sites of nature, religion, cultures as well as history. If you are visiting Paro, explore the Rinpung Dzong, an amazing dzong (fort) with towering walls. It belongs to 16th century and is known for being the finest exemplar of Bhutanese architecture. Chele La Pass, at a height of 3,989 meters, is an impressive charm for those seeking serenity.

Punakha Dzong is the most stunning dzong in Bhutan. It is also the second oldest dzong with mountainous background. It is the administrative centre of Punakha District in Punakha. It was raised between 1637 38, and today it remains the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. Also, visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a landmark place of Bhutan. The temple stands at a height of 900 hundred meters atop the Paro Valley. It has extensive nature sprawling around it which adds to its beauty.

Great Buddha Dordenma must also remain in your travel itinerary. This life size Shakyamuni Buddha statue marks the 60th anniversary of fourth king Jigme Singye Wangchuck. It is the biggest Buddha rupas on the planet with a height of 169 feet (52 m).
For some exciting adventure, visit the Dochula Pass. This charming mountain pass is covered with snow Himalayas and stretches from Thimpu to Punakha. From here you can relish 360 degree panoramic views of the regal Himalayan mountain range. Other major places to visit in Bhutan include Phobjikha Valley, Chomolhari, Norzin Lam Street, Kyichu Lhakhang, Changangkha Lhakhang, National Museum, etc.

Festivals of Bhutan Bhutan is a culturally rich nation which celebrates its festivals with great fervour. Here you can relish Buddhist cultures which show in all its festivals.

Thimphu Tshechu Festival is a major festival attended by thousands of locals who perform mask dances. These mask dances narrate numerous stories about the nation’s history. Monks play a major role in this three days long festival. Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival is another impressive celebration marked by naked dancing, fire dancing and mask dancing. The festival celebrates the establishment of Jambay Lhakhang Monastery. Locals also celebrate the Jomolhari Mountain Festival in the most picturesque trekking routes of Bhutan. Here you can relish views of snow leopard folk songs and dances, traditional sports and guided hike tours. During summer months, the festivities of Haa Summer Festival are great to enjoy tribal music and mingle with locals. Other major festivals of Bhutan are Punakha Drubchen and Tsechu, Jambay Lhakhang Drup, Monggar Tshechu, Nomad Festival, Pema Gatshel Tshechu, etc.

Food of Bhutan Bhutanese cuisine is usually spicy. All dishes here have chillies as a major ingredient. Rice is the staple food of the nation served with meat and vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken dishes are loved by the locals. Ema Datshi can be rightly called the national dish of Bhutan. Do taste tummy Tibetan-style dumplings (momos) filled with pork, beef or cabbages and cheese. Non vegetarians can savour the taste of Phaksha Paa, a pork dish prepared with spicy red chillis. Red Rice is highly consumed by locals in all regions.

Shopping in Bhutan Shopping in Bhutan is all about buying local art and traditional items. People here are skilled and craft superb items like Wooden Bowls and Cups, Cane and Bamboo Products, Bags, Blankets, Wooden Masks, etc. Bhutanese textiles are also bought by locals due to their rich fabric like cotton, raw cotton and silk. Adang village in Wangdue Phodrang is known for textiles.

Bhutanese women can be seen wearing beautiful jewellery, and thus, travellers can buy jewellery from here made using precious stones, silver, bronze and gold. Cane & Bamboo Items are also sold in all local markets. Buddhist Paintings & Sculptures also make great souvenirs.

Best time to Visit Bhutan The months from October to December are ideal to visit Bhutan due to clear and pleasant climate. January and February are cold whereas months of March and April are relatively dry months.

How to Reach Bhutan Paro International Airport is the only airport in Bhutan having connectivity with Bangkok in Thailand; Delhi, Kolkata, Bodhgaya/ Gaya, Bagdogra, Guwahati in India; Kathmandu in Nepal; and Dhaka in Bangladesh. One needs road permits to visit here by road. Bus services are easily available from Kolkata, Siliguri and Phuentsholing.