Destination: Bhutan
What can I expect from Bhutan?
Bhutan is a Buddhist kingdom located in the eastern Himalaya region, between the Tibet Autonomous Region of China and India. Lonely Planet has also recently named Bhutan top travel destination 2020 praising the country’s environmental awareness and preserving its natural beauty. Bhutan has become the world’s first carbon negative country by absorbing more than 6 million tonnes of carbon per year.
Dzongkha is the official language of Bhutan, a Sino-Tibetan language that also uses the Tibetan alphabet. Bhutan is the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the world, and the profound Buddhist teachings remain well preserved and play a strong role in all aspects of life for the Bhutanese people. The Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan has been called “The Last Shangrila.” because of its pristine environment and harmonious society.”
COVID-19 Travel Information for Bhutan
Bhutan officially opened their borders to all travelers on 23rd September 2022. Visitors may be subjected to random RT-PCR testing at the points of entry to maintain covid-19 surveillance for new variants. These tests are free of charge.
Things to See and Do in Bhutan
RECOMMENDED TOUR COMPANIES
I visited Bhutan with Druk Asia Tours & Treks, the largest tour company in Bhutan. Since 2012, Druk Asia has also been Royal Bhutan Airlines (Drukair) officially appointed General Sales Agent.
Druk Asia has served more than 15,000 visitors coming to Bhutan, ranging from large groups to solo travelers. In fact, nearly 2,000 solo travelers and 6,500 double pax groups visited Bhutan with Druk Asia.
BHUTAN TOURS AT A GLANCE
What can I expect from Bhutan?
Bhutan is a place unlike any other I’ve ever visited. I did not know much about the country before traveling to Bhutan but I left wanting to return to see even more. The best time to visit Bhutan is between October and December when the air is clear and fresh with sunny skies. March and April are also a great time to visit as the climate remains dry and pleasant; plus the famous rhododendrons bloom spectacularly in late spring flooding the valleys with stunning colors.
Bhutan is often referred to as the last Buddhist kingdom and Buddhism plays a vital role in the country. The official religion in Bhutan is Vajrayana Buddhism, a form of Buddhism that spread from medieval India to to Tibet, Bhutan, and other parts of East Asia. Taking pictures inside temples is strictly prohibited. Tour guides are heavily fined when tourists in their group take secret photos inside temples!
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR BHUTAN
I’m always surprised how many people travel without travel insurance. For me, it’s as essential to travel as buying a plane ticket, backpack or accommodation, and I never go without it.
Although Bhutan is very safe, unexpected disasters, accidents or other kinds of damage can always happen.
Adequate insurance not only provides you with medical coverage (if you get sick or break your leg), but also covers things like your camera full of epic shots getting damaged or stolen, your flights getting cancelled, or you getting caught up in a natural disaster.
In short, it’s an insurance against potential issues that arise when you’re traveling and can save your life (or at the very least, a lifetime of debt).
BOOK | I recommend booking World Nomads travel insurance
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Recommended Bhutan Travel Guides
If you want to learn more about Bhutan and have a handy travel guide in your pocket, check out these three options below:
Bhutan Travelog: Bhutan Travel Guide
Bhutan Travelog aims to provide readers with information about Bhutan's history, values, and customs, as well as travel tips and recommendations. This book also includes 9 exclusive first-hand accounts from different travelers who have visited Bhutan to give readers a glimpse into this idyllic country. Buy this book.
Lonely Planet Bhutan
Lonely Planet Bhutan is your passport to the most up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, as well as what hidden discoveries await you. Join the pilgrims at the colorful Changangkha Lhakhang, hike to the dramatic cliff-hanging Taktshang Goemba, and stroll through Thimpu's bustling weekend market with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Bhutan and start your journey right away! Buy this book.
Bhutan - Culture Smart: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture
Culture Wise! Bhutan will provide you with a more in-depth understanding of the country's history, values, customs, and age-old traditions. It highlights changes in people's attitudes and behavior as the country modernizes, and it offers practical advice on how to meet Bhutanese people on their own terms, paving the way for a more meaningful experience of this fascinating and beautiful country. Buy this book.
