Why travel to
Bhutan is a pristine country full of beautiful natural scenery, and is home to the kind and welcoming people of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Travelers to Bhutan can experience breathtaking landscapes, trek in the Himalayas, visit iconic landmarks such as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, or take part in local culture through festivals or visiting temples. Additionally, Bhutan is home to sustainable living practices such as Gross National Happiness, which makes it an optimal destination for those seeking to explore ecotourism.
Cost of living
The cost of living in Bhutan largely depends on the individual lifestyle and preferences; however, basic costs such as groceries, public transportation, and utilities are generally lower than in developed countries. Other costs such as dining out, international flights, and accommodation prices vary depending on the location and standard.
Safety
Yes, it is usually safe to travel to Bhutan and tourists are welcomed throughout the year. Bhutan is a peaceful and relatively isolated country, so visito
Places to visit
- Punakha Dzong - Punakha Dzong is a fortress-monastery that is located in Punakha in Bhutan. It is one of the most ancient and impressive of all the dzongs in Bhutan, having survived numerous fires and earthquakes over the centuries.
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery - Perched atop a sheer cliff in the upper Paro Valley, the spectacular Tiger’s Nest Monastery is one of Bhutan’s most iconic sights. The structure is believed to have been built in 1692, although some sources claim that it may have existed since the 8th century.
- Paro Taktsang - Paro Taktsang, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is a sacred site situated in the upper Paro Valley in Bhutan. The monastery is perched atop a cliff 3,120m above sea level and is considered one of the most important religious sites in the Himalayan country.
- Dochula Pass - Situated at an altitude of 3,100m, the Dochula Pass is one of the most scenic spots in Bhutan. From the pass, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas and the 108 chortens that line the ridge of the mountain pass.
- Taktsang Monastery - The Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is an iconic Buddhist temple located on a cliff in the upper Paro Valley in Bhutan. The monastery is perched atop a 3,120m high cliff and is considered an important pilgrimage site for Buddhist devotees.
Food to try
- Ema Datshi: Also known as the national dish of Bhutan, Ema Datshi is a dish made of chilli peppers and cheese.
- Kewa Datshi: Kewa Datshi is a dish made with potatoes, cheese, and chilli peppers.
- Momos: Momos are steamed dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients such as meats, cheese, or vegetables.
- Phaksha paa: Phaksha paa is a dish made with strips of pork cooked in red chilli sauce with radish, potatoes, and cheese.
- Datse juma: Datse juma is a popular Bhutanese cheese made from cow or yak's milk curd. It is served with many dishes such as Ema Datshi, and is also eaten as a snack with tea.
- Hoentay: Hoentay is a popular Bhutanese dish made with buckwheat noodles, spinach, tomato and cheese.
- Goep: Goep is a spicy tripe soup dish typically flavoured with chillis and coriander.
- Puta: Puta is a Bhutanese dish made from buckwheat and vegetable fritters.
- Jasha Maru: Jasha Maru is a spicy chicken dish with potatoes and chilli peppers.
- Jaju: Jaju is a popular Bhutanese dish made of boiled vegetables served with spicy sauce.
Souvenirs
- Thangka Paintings (traditional Bhutanese Buddhist paintings created on cotton or silk canvas)
- Handwoven Textiles (beautiful traditional handwoven items like shawls, textile skirts and scarves)
- Wooden Masks (hand-carved wooden masks used in Bhutanese ritual prayer events)
- Dzi Beads (beads made of natural gems believed to bring good fortune)
- Jewellery (silver and gold jewellery items with Bhutanese art motifs)
- Handcrafted Statues (miniature statues of supernatural figures from Bhutanese folklore)
- Prayer Wheels (cylindrical wheels with prayers inscribed on them, meant to be spun while praying)
- Hand-painted Postcards (postcards featuring Bhutanese artwork to send back home)
- Lanterns (traditional metal and glass lanterns to brighten up your home)
- Incense (traditional Bhutanese incense used for spiritual offerings)