Welcome to the Bhutan travel guide, your trusted resource for planning a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the Kingdom of Bhutan. Known for its Gross National Happiness philosophy, untouched Himalayan beauty, and deeply spiritual culture, Bhutan is unlike any other destination.
This travel guide for Bhutan offers all the essential tips and insights to help you make the most of your trip—from when to visit and how to get a visa, to what to pack and the top places to explore.
The view of Wangdue Phodrang Dzong.
Bhutan remains one of the few countries in the world that has preserved its cultural heritage, traditional lifestyle, and environmental integrity. Here’s why travelers are drawn to Bhutan:
Breathtaking mountain scenery.
Rich Buddhist culture and monasteries.
Colorful festivals like Paro tsechu and Thimphu tshechu.
Iconic hikes such as the Tiger’s nest (Taktsang monastery).
Sustainable tourism policies for responsible travel.
The best time to visit Bhutan depends on your travel preferences:
Spring (March to May): Ideal for trekking and blooming rhododendrons.
Autumn (September to November): Perfect for clear skies and festivals.
Winter (December to February): Great for fewer tourists and photography.
Summer (June to August): Rainy season, but lush greenery and quieter trails.
This Bhutan travel guide recommends booking 3–6 months in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Currently, all travelers must book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Here’s what you need:
✈ By Air: Fly into Paro International Airport from cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Dhaka, Gaya, Guwahati and Singapore.
🚗 By Land: Enter via Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar from India.
A visa is required for most nationalities, except for visitors from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives. Your tour operator will process the Bhutan visa for you.
To ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, this travel guide for Bhutan recommends:
Layered clothing (weather varies with altitude).
Hiking boots for treks or monastery visits.
Rain jacket (especially in summer).
Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and basic medication.
Respectful attire for temples and dzongs.
SIM cards are available for purchase upon arrival.
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes in cities.
The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is the official currency.
Indian Rupees are also accepted in most places.
Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and souvenir shops.
Here are the top destinations featured in this Bhutan travel guide:
Paro: Home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery.
Thimphu: The capital city with a blend of tradition and modernity.
Punakha: Known for its beautiful dzong and river valley.
Phobjikha valley: A glacial valley famous for black-necked cranes.
Bumthang: The cultural heartland of Bhutan with ancient temples and festivals.
The Memorial stupa in Thimphu.
As Bhutan is committed to sustainability and preserving its traditions, this Bhutan travel guide encourages:
Respect local customs and dress codes.
Do not litter and avoid single-use plastics.
Support local crafts and businesses.
Always travel with a licensed guide.
With this Bhutan travel guide, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to plan a safe, respectful, and enriching journey to the Himalayan kingdom. For the best experience, work with a reputable Bhutanese tour operator who can handle permits, accommodations, and personalized itineraries.
Ready to start your journey? Contact us today to plan your Bhutan adventure with confidence.