Bhutan – Vexplore Tours

LAND JOURNEYS

Overview

Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom in the eastern Himalayas, is famous for its monasteries, dzongs, and stunning landscapes, including subtropical plains, steep mountains, and valleys. Peaks like Jomolhari, at 7,326 meters, are popular trekking spots in the High Himalayas. Bhutan stands out for its unique culture, breathtaking scenery, and commitment to Gross National Happiness. The blend of culture, spirituality, and natural beauty makes Bhutan a desirable destination for travelers seeking immersive experiences. Whether exploring ancient monasteries, trekking through pristine terrain, or enjoying vibrant festivals, Bhutan offers a uniquely enriching adventure journey.

Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck holds a revered position, and the country transitioned to a constitutional democracy in 2008.

Travel requirement

Visa is required for all tourists except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals. Visas must be arranged through licensed Bhutanese tour operators or Travel Agencies.
Valid passport
Bhutan follows a high-value, low-impact tourism policy. Travelers must pay a minimum daily fee for accommodation, meals, transport, and guide services.

Culture & Festival

Bhutan emphasizes the preservation of its rich culture and traditions. Visitors can witness traditional architecture, intricate woodwork, vibrant festivals, and daily life influenced by Buddhism, which is deeply ingrained in Bhutanese society. They can also experience vibrant festivals like Tshechu, traditional dress, and ancient Buddhist sites.

Public Holiday

Bhutan’s public holidays are rooted in its Buddhist traditions and national celebrations.

Losar (New Year): Celebrated in February/March.
Buddha Jayanti: Celebrates Buddha’s birth, death, and enlightenment in April/May.
National Day: On December 17, marking Bhutan’s independence.
Tshechu Festivals: Religious festivals throughout the year, with the Paro Tshechu being
the most famous (March/April).

These holidays offer a chance to experience Bhutanese culture and festivals, but services may be limited during these times.

Religion

Vajrayana Buddhism is Bhutan’s predominant religion and is central to daily life. The country is adorned with monasteries, stupas, and sacred sites, each with its own unique significance. The iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched precariously on a cliff, symbolizes Bhutanese identity spirituality.

Language

Dzongkha is Bhutan’s official language, but English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas. The Hindu population speaks Nepali in the southern regions, and several other local languages and dialects exist throughout the country.

Climate

Bhutan’s climate varies with elevation. The Duars Plain is hot and humid, the Lesser Himalayas are cooler, and the Greater Himalayas resemble alpine tundra. Autumn (Sep-Nov) is ideal for visits due to milder weather and clearer skies, making it perfect for hiking. Spring (Mar-May) is cloudier with more rain but showcases vibrant wildlife and blooming flowers, including rhododendrons, magnolias, and large festivals. Winter (Dec-Feb) can be cold but offers clear skies for photography and fewer tourists, though snow may block some mountain passes in January and February. During the summer monsoon season (mid-June to mid-August), a few showers of light rainfall can be expected. The best overall time to visit is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September – November) for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

Environment

Bhutan has a strong commitment to environmental conservation. It maintains a carbon-neutral status and protects over 70% of its land with lush forests, making it a biodiversity hotspot. Bhutan’s economy is predominantly agrarian, with agriculture as the primary sector. Hydropower generation is a growing industry and a significant source of revenue. The country’s focus on sustainability aligns with its philosophy of Gross National Happiness. GNH considers psychological well-being, health, education, and cultural diversity to ensure a holistic approach to development.

Currency

Bhutan’s currency is the Ngultrum (BTN). It is legal tender in Bhutan and has the same value as the Indian Rupee (INR). One US dollar equals roughly 67 Nu.

Tourists can exchange travelers’ cheques or cash at the foreign exchange desk at Paro Airport and Bank of Bhutan branches in major towns such as Paro and Thimphu. However, as you travel into the interior, ATM and banking facilities are almost non-existent. We suggest you do your banking while in Paro or Thimphu and take local currency to the countryside.

Tourism

Bhutan’s tourism policy is distinctive. Visitors must pay a daily tariff that covers accommodation, meals, and guides. This approach promotes sustainable tourism and ensures a high-quality experience while limiting the impact on Bhutan’s culture and environment.