Bhutan- Explore The Kingdom Of Happiness

Bhutan is a Buddhist Kingdom in the Eastern Himalayas. It was mostly hidden from the world until recently when it opened for external world some 25-30 years back. China borders in north and India in the south and can only be approached  from Indian side. 

Though Bhutan is a Kingdom with a King there is a full fledged democratic  constitutional system. Mahayana Buddhism is the state religion with about 20% Hindu population.

Bhutan has 60 percent of its land under forest cover and 51% of the Kingdom is protected land, highest percentage for any country in Asia. It is mostly a mountainous country with Subalpine vegetation on the higher elevations and lush subtropical in southern plains. Bhutan's highest peak is Gangkhar Puensum which stands at 7570 meters or 24840 ft is claimed to be unclimbed till date.

Historically speaking during the 17th century Bhutan as a kingdom was spread across large parts of north east India and Nepal. During the British India Bhutan ceded large parts during the Bhutan War November 1864. Bhutan had no regular army, and security forces existed were of dzong guards armed with matchlocks, bows and arrows, swords, knives, and catapults. After British left the subcontinent India and Bhutan recognized each others sovereignty and shares a very cordial mutual relations. 

Bhutan opened to tourists in the year 1974 in effort to earn foreign exchange and promote their very unique culture and traditions to the outside world. Bhutan promotes  "high value, low impact" tourism and charges daily fee of US$ 250 for tourists from countries other than SAARC nations.  All tourists (groups or individual) has to travel on a  guided tour package. Foreigners cannot travel independently in the kingdom and required to be accompanied by a guide. Indians however are free from such restrictions as of now and can travel freely.

Thimpu is the capital of the country with most tourists activity centered here. Paro and Taktshang Monastery(Tiger's Nest) overlooking the Paro Valley is also one of the most visited destination. Bhutan is mainly a nature, cultural and spiritual holiday destination and is in stark contradiction with other popular holiday destinations like India, Thailand, etc. Destinations other than Thimpu and Paro include Punakha, Bumthang, Phobjikha and Haa Valley offers vast expanses of scenic beauty. Trekking and camping is       

a also a way to absorb the essence of the beautiful  carbon negative countryside.

Bhutan - Things to Know 2023 

Is Bhutan worth the money? 

Bhutan is good and cool place to visit. Bhutan is very different from any other country and well worth the money - the culture is different as it has been shut off from the rest of the world for so long with the focus today on high value tourism that doesn't impact on its environment.

What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

Other than 3 monsoon months, Bhutan tour is enjoyable. October to December is the ideal time to visit Bhutan as the air is clear and fresh with sunny skies. January and February even though is bit chilly and experiences snowfall, but after that until June the climate remains dry and pleasant. In spring the rhododendrons bloom, flooding the road side & valleys with color.

Is Passport required to go to Bhutan for Indians? 

Indian nationals intending to visit Bhutan are required to carry any of the two valid Travel Documents Valid Indian Passport having validity of minimum 6 months; and/or Voter Identity Card, issued by the Election Commission of India. No Visa is required to visit Bhutan for Indians.

Why Bhutan is a Great Honeymoon Destination?

Bhutan tour packages is one of the most famous destinations for honeymooners which offer hill station atmosphere, the last Shangri-la, amazing sunset & sunrise, cool and comfortable atmosphere, ancient temples and forts, and much more. It is a perfect getaway for romantic destination and honeymoon.

How many days Indian can stay in Bhutan?

15 days, With the entry permits, Indian tourists can stay up to 15 days for Bhutan tour packages with possibility of extension subject to approval by the Immigration.

Is Bhutan a safe place to visit?

Bhutan is one of the safest destination for tourists even for solo female travelers. Some treks take you to great elevations where breathing difficulties may arise so take time to acclimatize. Street dogs make a lot of noise at night and rabies is a risk; always be cautious around guard dogs in the hills.

Is alcohol banned in Bhutan?

No, you can carry alcohol in Bhutan. It's not prohibited and you get any kind of alcohol cheaper than India. Indians choose to purchase alcohol, including the expensive brands, from shops in Bhutan.

Is smoking allowed in Bhutan?

Bhutan is the only country in the world that completely bans the sale and production of tobacco and smoking is banned in public places. Tourists can bring in 200 cigarettes, but ask your guide to find a place where smoking is allowed.