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Bhutan Tour Packages

Bhutan : The Land of Thunder Dragons

Starting Price :  Rs. 32999/-

About Bhutan Tour Packages

Bhutan is a country that goes by many names, such as ‘the Land of Thunder Dragons’, ‘Druk Yul’, and' the Last Shangri-La’. It is the only country in the world that measures its development using the Gross Happiness Index. This Himalayan kingdom is shrouded in mystery, mystique and magnificence. It is considered to be one of the oldest countries where the traditional Himalayan Buddhist culture is still alive, surrounded by unspoilt natural beauty. Due to its geographical position, government policies and protection, this Himalayan kingdom has been saved from the modern-day atrocities of nature, making it a hub of peace and tranquillity. Hence, the name, ‘the last Shangri-La’. The dragon in the flag of Bhutan represents protection and wisdom, reflecting the deep Buddhist traditions of the country tucked in the Himalayas. The country opened its door to tourism only in 1974, therefore perfectly preserving its rich cultural heritage. Bhutan is the only country in the world that emits zero carbon dioxide. The government of Bhutan levies a daily fee to avoid tourism overwhelming the local economy, environment and culture. The dramatic diversity of Bhutan, from the rolling plains of the subtropics to the high-altitude Himalayan peaks along with the peace and serenity that it offers makes the country untouched and unexplored. The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, which is written in the Tibetan script. The kingdom is a constitutional monarchy, and the king is to date, the head of the state. The Prime Minister of the country acts as the head of the government. Here, the people are kind and helpful, the culture is vibrant, the festivals are colourful and legendary and the practices are sustainable and meaningful. If you are looking for a Zen experience to add to your life, Bhutan is the place to be. Places to visit in Bhutan that you should not miss 1. Thimphu: Thimphu was established as the capital city as well as the administrative capital of Bhutan in 1961. The city is unlike any other capital in the world. Here, the mountains sing tales of peace with nature. Thimphu has a lot to explore, starting from the Trashi Chhoe Dzong, beside the tranquil Wang Chu to the National Memorial Chorten devoted to World Peace. The Trashi Chhoe Dzong is also known as the ‘Fortress of the Glorious Religion’, depicting the distinctive way of life of the Bhutanese people. But a trip to Thimphu remains incomplete without a visit to the Buddha Dordenma statue which is plated in gold and is over 51 meters tall. The other notable places to visit include the Gangtey Monastery, the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Bhutan Library, all of which are parts of the cultural and national heritage. 2. Paro Located in the Paro Valley of Bhutan, Paro is a quaint little town of immense historical importance in the kingdom. Nestled within Paro are 155 temples and monasteries dating back to as late as the 7th century. With the stunning architecture of the Bhutanese traditional houses, undulating, vast greeneries and sparkling waters of the Paro Chhu and Wang Chhu, Paro seems like a town out of a postcard. But the best part? The Takshang Monastery or the Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor is a sacred pilgrimage site for the Buddhists. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism flew to this location on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave. Paro and its surroundings are dotted with prayer flags, stupas, and mani walls, reflecting the deep spiritual beliefs of the local population. But hold on, Bhutan is of course the best place to find your inner peace but don’t be fooled. Did you know that Bhutan is one of the best places in the world to find the most reputed brews? One can go for a beer-tasting tour too in the Namgay Artisanal Brewery over Red Rice Lager, Indian Pale Ale, Wheat, Apple Cider, Dark Ale etc. 3.Punakha Punakha, the former capital of the Wangchuk kings in the kingdom of Bhutan, between Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. The charm of Punakha still captivates anyone who visits this picturesque toy town. Now, it is a hub of culture and religion with temples, viewpoints, valleys, courtyards and towers to explore around. Moreover, Punakha is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself, if you are looking for some soul searching. There aren’t a lot of tourist places, but it is the perfect place to connect with nature, gorge on Bhutanese food, take a stroll through the villages, get inspired by the monks and have a riverside getaway. Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 is one of the largest dzongs of Bhutan and holds a very important value in the life of the royal family. The dzong is called the Palace of Great Happiness and is the most picturesque dzong in Bhutan. Other than that, the Chimi Lhakhang temple, nicknamed the “Fertility Temple,” draws pilgrims, especially women to seek blessings to conceive. Quite fascinating, isn’t it? 4.Haa Valley Haa Valley is a heaven for hikers and trekkers, located to the south-west of Paro. The valley, with its breathtaking peaks, vibrant and winding roads, and serene beauty is a hub of cultural richness. It is a secluded paradise which was essentially closed to tourists until 2022, allowing the government to preserve its charming landscapes. Did you also know that Haa Valley is the only place in the world where the rare blue poppy flower blooms? Apart from that, the valley has the most surreal views of the country and is known as ‘Hidden-Land Rice Valley’ due to the cultivation of barley and wheat in the majority. Engage your taste buds in Bhutanese delicacies Bhutan is a country with deep-rooted cultural heritage and panoramic views, being one of the most sacred places one can visit. But the food of Bhutan is delectable too. With Bhutan’s culture and traditions, along with the Himalayan kingdom’s stunning landscapes, you may not pay as much attention to the food but that would be a mistake! Bhutanese food is influenced by its neighbouring countries such as Tibet, China, India and Nepal. Bhutanese food is cooked in a healthy, indigenous style and can be quite spicy too. Typically, the most common dish includes red rice, maize or buckwheat. Other common dishes include yak meat, chicken, dried beef, pork and lamb. Soups and stews prepared with lentils and dried vegetables are quite common too. 1. Ema Datshi In Dzongkha, the Bhutanese language, ‘datshi’ refers to cheese. The cheese is made from the curd of cow milk or yak milk. Ema Datshi is a stew made with hot chilli peppers and cheese wherein, ‘ema’ means chilli. It has been recognized as the national dish of the country. The dish is served along with almost every meal. Dry red or fresh green chillies are sliced, lengthwise and cooked with the local cheese and a thick layer of butter. Sometimes, a dash of garlic, tomatoes and onions are added too. At other times, yak cheese may be a key ingredient as well. However, even if you have ema datshi every day while in Bhutan, no two ema datshi dishes will ever be the same. 2. Phaksha Paa Paksha paa is another favourite of the Bhutanese people since it is made of pork. Paa is a gravy or a curry with meaty stew and the dish is made of pork and red chillies, stir-fried. Often, vegetables such as spinach and radishes are added to the curry. This dish is generally eaten with Datshi dishes along with rice. Often, another ingredient called Bok Choy is added to the curry. Also known as White Mustard Cabbage. The other variations of this dish include shakam paa, yaksha shakam and sikam paa. 3.Red Rice The red rice is grown in the Eastern Himalayas and is a staple of Bhutan. It is extremely nutritious, being wheat and gluten-free and packed with minerals. Moreover, the rice cooks quicker than most other varieties. The taste is on an earthier and nuttier side and goes well with dishes such as ema datshi, khewa datshi, shamu datshi and other cheese or meat-based dishes with bold taste. Mostly, people in the Bumthang region prefer buckwheat food items while the rest of the country enjoys red rice due to its popularity. The red rice is grown in the Paro Valley in abundance due to being a recipient of the mineral-rich glacial water. 4. Jasha Maroo or Maru Another boon to your taste buds would be the Jasha Maroo or Maru which is a spicy stew made with onion, garlic, diced onions, chilli, tomato, ginger and coriander leaves. As in the case of most Bhutanese dishes, this too is served with a plate of red rice. Simply put, it is a chicken curry or a chicken stew with a mild flavour. 5. Suja (Bhutanese Butter Tea) All the chai lovers here: gather up! Up until now, you probably have had chai with your regular milk. But have ever had chai made with butter? Suja is the traditional butter tea of Bhutan. On a cold, misty morning, Suja, churned with either cow or yak butter along with salt and regular tea leaves or even mountain herbs brings a sense of calm to the soul. This flavourful tea is also consumed in large parts of Nepal and Tibet. The butter in the tea gives it a rich, creamy and salty taste which may take a while to get used to. 6. Ara Ara or arag is one of the beverages you must not miss if you are in Bhutan! This is an alcoholic beverage made from native maize, barley, buckwheat, rice or wheat and forms an important part of the Bhutanese culture. The smell and taste can be quite strong, too. Ara is creamy and white and is usually fermented or distilled. While most alcoholic beverages are served cold, Ara is served hot and usually neat but can also be heated with eggs or butter for a more wholesome beverage along with rice. Although the beverage is illegal to serve in the country, it is prepared at private homes and often for religious occasions on auspicious days. Best Time to Visit Bhutan The best time to visit Bhutan depends on what you want to try out in Bhutan. If you want to explore Bhutan and all its enchanting places, the best time to visit would be from November to February. Many festivals of Bhutan take place during this time and it is ideal for a cultural trip. On the other hand, if you are looking for trekking opportunities, you should plan your trip between March to May. During this time, the days are longer and therefore, perfect time to trek. Also, spring is a welcoming season in the Himalayan kingdom with rare flowers blooming all over the country. However, this is not a great time for photographers as the weather is often foggy.
Something to perk your adrenaline: things to do in Bhutan
Trek to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery
A trip to Bhutan cannot be considered as complete if one does not trek to the Paro Taktsang or the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It is believed that this is the most revered of the 13 Taktsang monasteries there are. The reason why the monastery is called so is because according to legends, Guru Rinpoche or Guru Padmasambhava flew to this site on the back of a tigress. It was here that he meditated first, before introducing Buddhism to Bhutan.The hike is not very difficult and takes about 3-5 hours, depending on the pace. Perched on top of a cliff, 900 meters above sea level, this sacred monastery is known for its extraordinary views. They say that after every dark cloud comes the sunshine. This short hike up to the monastery is every bit worth the view and peace of mind it offers.
Go for bird-watching
Bhutan is without a doubt, a birdwatcher’s paradise. Being abundant in flora and fauna, the landlocked Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, with its pristine forests and diverse landscapes, provides ample opportunities to bird enthusiasts. 72% of the land in Bhutan is covered by forests and rich vegetation, making it a habitat for more than 770 species of birds. The best seasons for bird watching are mid-spring to late spring and during mid-fall. There are several local communities which offer about a week of camping to photograph exotic birds. If you are travelling to Bhutan for a longer duration, this is one of the activities you can try out.
Explore the local markets of Bhutan
Shopping in Bhutan is an experience woven with cultural richness and unique offerings that reflect the country's heritage and artisanal craftsmanship. In the vibrant markets and quaint shops, you can find a myriad of traditional handicrafts, from intricate woven textiles known as *thagzo* to exquisite handmade paper products. The capital city, Thimphu, boasts the bustling Craft Bazaar and weekend market, where local vendors display their wares, including beautifully painted masks, silver jewellery, and wooden carvings. Each purchase here not only supports local artisans but also carries the essence of Bhutanese tradition and the serene landscapes that inspire their creations. The charm of shopping in Bhutan lies in its authenticity, with every item telling a story of the land and its people.
Changlimithang Archery Ground
Changlimithang Archery Ground, located in the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan, is not just a sports venue but a cultural epicentre where the spirit of Bhutanese tradition thrives. This iconic ground is where the national sport of archery comes to life, with skilled archers displaying their prowess and precision. The air buzzes with excitement as competitors aim at distant targets, often engaging in friendly banter and celebratory dances that punctuate each successful shot. The lush, green surroundings and the majestic backdrop of the Himalayan peaks add to the enchanting ambience. If you get a chance to visit the Changlimithang while an event is ongoing, you will get to witness the communal joy and deep-rooted cultural significance rooted in Bhutanese society.
River Rafting in Bhutan
Being a Himalayan kingdom, Bhutan has been blessed with perennial rivers which flow throughout the year. Moreover, since they flow from steeper slopes, and are glacial, they make for the perfect sites for white water river rafting. White water river rafting is considered to be more adventurous and thrilling, with the water forming bubbly and having unstable currents, therefore, appearing white. If you are looking to immerse in a bit of an adrenaline rush, there are many rivers in Bhutan where you can go for white water river rafting such as Mo Chhu, Paro Chhu, Sankosh River, Mangde Chhu, Dangme Chhu etc.
Hot Spring Therapy
Hot springs are locally known as Tshachu in Bhutan. Along with mineral water known as Drubchu and medicinal water called Smenchu, Bhutanese consider hot springs as blessings of Buddha. Often, hot springs can be found in many sacred sites in Bhutan. A dip or a bath in a hot spring can be very therapeutic and is considered to cure various illnesses such as arthritis, skin diseases, tuberculosis, indigestion and other ailments. If you are tired after a day of trekking, a hot spring therapy can be miraculous to relax your muscles.
Celebrating the Bhutanese way of life: Bhutanese Festivals
Thimphu Tsechu Festival
When: 8th month of Lunar calendar
National festival of Bhutan, to celebrate colours, music and dance
Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu Festival
When: October to November
To celebrate life and joy within us, famous for the Dance of Ox
Punakha Drubchen and Tshechu Festival
When: February- March
To pay tribute to the villagers who fought against the Tibetan army. Known for its colourful dance performances and happy environment.
Paro Tshechu Festival
When: March or April
To honour the 350 years of Thangkha and relive the historical tales of deities by monks
Haa Summer Festival
When: July every year
To celebrate the nomads of Haa Valley including their culture, religion, and sports
Jomolhari Mountain Festival
When: October at the foothills of Mt. Jomolhari
To honour the culture and scenic beauty of nature and create awareness about the endangered Snow Leopard.
Serve your gastronomical cravings here
Bukhari at Uma
It is a popular dining spot located in Paro providing cuisines from local Bhutanese to international cuisines. From the tasty food to the great ambience with a view of the valley, this is a must-visit restaurant in Bhutan.
Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant
This museum-locked restaurant was initially opened to promote the culinary richness of Bhutan. It offers an authentic Bhutanese four-course meal and also 60 veg options and 100 non-veg dishes.
Bebesa Village Restaurant
This heritage restaurant which is located near Thimphu, traditionally serves authentic Bhutanese cuisine. It is a treat to experience having a meal in a heritage home converted into a restaurant.
Champaca Cafe
This cute cafe is located near the main street opposite the Yeshi Dorji shopping mall in Paro. It offers international and contemporary cuisines, popular for its coffee and tea.
Taktsang Cafeteria
Taktsang Cafe is a great spot to have lunch or snacks if you’re travelling to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It comes halfway to the climb to the monastery. It offers Asian cuisine and gives an enchanting view of the mountains.
Bhutan Kitchen
Bhutan Kitchen is a pretty place to enjoy traditional Bhutanese food if you visit the country. It is located near the Clock Tower and is frequently visited by tourists and locals.
Places to shop in Bhutan: A guide to the authentic, local products
Norzin Lam Street
Norzin Lam Street is the ultimate shopping centre in Bhutan. From local handicrafts to items made of wood, woven shawls, clothing, bamboo products and carpets, the street will give you a satisfying shopping experience.
Thimphu
Punakha Craft Market
It is one of the most loved markets in Punakha for craft enthusiasts. This market is filled with traditional Bhutanese crafts reflecting the true artistic skills of the Bhutanese craftsmen.
Punakha
Paro Market
It is one of the most loved markets in Punakha for craft enthusiasts. This market is filled with traditional Bhutanese crafts reflecting the true artistic skills of the Bhutanese craftsmen.
Punakha
Handicrafts Emporium
This is the best spot for finding Bhutanese handicraft items like the famous hand-woven items by the Thimphu women.
Thimphu
Thimphu Craft Bazaar
This much-loved bazaar located in Thimphu is famous for its traditional Thangka paintings, wooden bowls and utensils, brass or bronze statues and many religious items
Thimphu
Yarkay Central Mall
This is one of the most luxurious malls in Bhutan. It is located in Thimphu and offers various items and great products from China, Nepal, Bangkok and Bangladesh.
Thimphu

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We at Tripper Trails are a backpacking travel community providing end-to-end travel and tour packages in India and abroad. We host corporate trips, backpacking trips, and long or weekend getaways to explore the beauty of unearthed destinations. With a focus on community travel, we encourage all kinds of travellers including solo, groups or couples wherein the travel itineraries are catered to your preferences and needs. Our trips are led by our travel experts and pocket friendly to ensure that you can see this beautiful world around you as much as you want!

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Tripper Trails (A unit of AU Trips OPC Private Limited)