Surprising Bhutan is a country of friendly locals and fiery food; serene snow-capped peaks; precariously placed monasteries surrounded by colourful prayer flags; and a landscape covered with a blanket of delightful blooms. The local language in the country is Dzongkha, but English is widely spoken as well, given that it is the language of instruction in schools.
A holiday to The Kingdom should see you soaking in traditional Buddhist culture, trekking, getting an adrenaline rush dabbling in adventure sport, connecting with nature and wildlife, and sightseeing. Bhutan has a wide range when it comes to climate – from tropical plains to snowy Himalayan peaks – which means that the country can be visited at different times through the year.
Bhutan is a popular choice with tourists, especially with Indians, who are welcomed without a visa. Itineraries spanning sightseeing based on tradition and culture, to adventure sport, trekking and luxurious retreats can be planned for this little country. Bhutan charges a daily fee for tourists during certain months of the year, which includes the basics of travel like accommodation, food, transport and a guide. It may seem like an expensive affair, but with all essentials covered, it is not so bad a deal. Though you will have the independence of planning your own itinerary, budget backpacking will not be an option.
Bhutan visa
Bhutan makes it very easy for the Indian tourist to visit. An extremely liberal visa policy means that Indians do not need a visa to enter the country as long as they are carrying either a valid Indian passport or a voter identity card issued by the Election Commission of India. Stop thinking and start planning – it’s time you checked out the many dzongs, mountain sides carpeted with flowers, and the orange robed monks set against the background of majestic snow-capped peaks for yourself.
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Best time to visit Bhutan
The clear skies and sunny days between September and November is the best time to visit Bhutan. Technically high season for Bhutan tourism, this is right after the wet monsoon months and just before the bitterly cold winter sets in. March, April and May are also picked for trips to Bhutan, considering that the famous rhododendron burst into bloom at this time. It may rain during this time as well, but the weather is pleasant and the views especially rewarding.
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Places to visit in Bhutan
Bhutan is peppered with monasteries and dzongs. Start your tour with the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Tashichho Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang Monastery, Trongsa Dzong, and the Druk Wangyal Chortens and Temple at Dochula Pass – some of the popular monasteries scattered around the country. There is more – the wildlife reserve at Phobjikha Valley, the National Museum of Bhutan, Manas National Park, Thimpu and Paro, and the Buddha Dordenma.
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Things to do in Bhutan
Time your visit to coincide with the Punakha Festival, or any of the many other festivals that dot the Bhutanese calendar. Go for the Haa Planters’ Trail Walk, try your hand at rafting or kayaking or trek various routes along flower laden mountain sides. You could explore the country on motorbike or cycle and set up camp in the pretty countryside, get one with nature with wildlife safaris and bird watching, soak in a hot spring, or meditate at a yoga retreat. Add a dash of shopping with a trip to the weekend market in Thimpu.
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