Bhutan is expensive and difficult to visit unless you are from one of a few countries, such as India, Bangladesh, or the Maldives. The distinct Buddhist culture, unspoiled scenery, and fresh mountain air, however, make it well worth the trip. Every year, the number of visitors to Bhutan rises, indicating a growing interest in the country as a tourist destination. Here’s all you need to know about planning your trip.
Tours
Bhutan is becoming more accessible to independent travel, but the government does not encourage it. In general, visitors to Bhutan must be tourists or government guests. A visitor needs to have a guided tour. For an easy and hassle free travel it is essential to find connect with a Bhutan Travel agency.
Visa Obtainment
Except for passport holders from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, everyone travelling to Bhutan must get a visa in advance. Passport holders from these three countries are designated as “regional tourists” and are eligible for a free Entry Permit upon arrival; if they provide a passport with at least six months validity, you can find it in any Bhutan travel review. Voters Identity Cards are also valid for Indian citizens. The Sustainable Development Fee of $17 per day is still required of citizens in these nations. Tourists visiting 11 districts in eastern Bhutan, from Trongsa to Trashigang, are exempt from paying the entrance fee. Bhutanese officials want to boost tourism in this area.
The tour operators apply for visas using an online system, and the Tourism Council of Bhutan approves them once the full cost of the trip is paid.
Ways to Get There
Bhutan’s only international airport is at Paro, which is about an hour’s drive from Thimphu. Bhutan is served by two national airlines: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Bangkok (Thailand), Kathmandu (Nepal), New Delhi and Kolkata (India), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Yangon (Myanmar), and Singapore are among the departure points.
Bhutan may also be reached by road from India. Jaigaon-Phuentsholing is the most important border crossing. Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar are the locations of the other two.
Famous festival
Tshechu, which means “tenth day,” is an annual religious celebration celebrated in temples, monasteries, and dzongs all over Bhutan. It is a famous festival of Bhutan.
The Tshechu is a religious festival commemorating Guru Rimpoche’s birthday, which falls on the tenth day of the lunar calendar month (Guru Padmasambhava). The actual month of the Tshechu, on the other hand, varies from temple to temple and from place to place.
Thecus are large gatherings when entire villages gather to watch religious mask dances, get blessings and mingle. Tshechus feature colorful Bhutanese dances as well as other forms of entertainment in addition to mask dances.
To receive blessings and have their sins washed away, it is thought that everyone must attend a Tshechu and observe the mask dances at least once.
Costs of the Tour
The government sets the minimum price of trips (known as a “Minimum Daily Package”) to Bhutan in order to manage tourism and conserve the environment, and it cannot be negotiated. All lodging, food, transportation, guides and porters, and cultural programs are included in the price. In Bhutan, some of it goes toward free education, free healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
- March, April, May, September, October, and November are the months with the highest number of visitors.
- January, February, June, July, and August are the months with the lowest number of visitors.
CONCLUSION
Bhutan is developing rapidly, with much building taking place, mainly in Thimphu and Paro. As a result, their allure and authenticity have begun to fade. To experience traditional Bhutan, visitors are encouraged to fly from Paro to Bumthang, located in the centre of the country. It’s best to visit Bhutan sooner rather than later if you’re considering doing so. You can find one of the best travel insurance in Singapore.
