How To Plan Your Family Tour To Bhutan: Bhutan Holiday Package
Set high in the Himalayas lies the beautiful and peaceful Kingdom of Bhutan, popularly known as the Land of Thunder Dragon. Pristine landscape, rich culture, and age-old traditions are characteristic of this nation. Bhutan is quite a classy place to consider if you are planning for a family holiday. The monasteries here are breathtaking, while trekking routes abound with adventure and cool hospitality.
Packing for a Bhutan holiday package requires the best time for travel, consideration of documents, and planning for the places to visit. This travel guide will help you to plan one such amazing Bhutan travel package, so you and your family remember every moment to enjoy a family trip. Book your Tour with Travel Angles
Things to Know Before Planning for a Bhutan Tour
The Kingdom of Bhutan is unique and many travels do require a certain amount of preparation prior to hopping into the country. Solo travelling, families, or group excursions require proper knowledge about the visa regulations, ideal seasons for travelling, currency policies, and cultural norms so that the travelling experience can run smoothly and become an enjoyable rendezvous. Below are a few points worth considering before you go for booking your Bhutan holiday package.
1. Entry Requirement
The one big advantage for Indian travelers visiting Bhutan is that they do not require a visa. However, entry regulations still need to be followed:
- Indian citizens must carry a valid passport (above six months to be valid) or a Voter ID card for identification. Aadhaar cards don’t work here.
- Travelers are provided with an entry permit upon their arrival at the Immigration office in Phuentsholing (in case they are traveling by land) or at Paro International Airport (in case of air travel).
- The standard entry permit allows visitors entries in two of the most popular cities in Bhutan, namely Thimphu and Paro.
- If you want to extend your trip into other areas, you will need to apply for a special permit by registering with the Bhutanese immigration office in Thimphu.
Always be prepared with a few passport-size photographs and photocopies of the important documents to hasten the process.
2. Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Bhutan’s charm, particularly during its seasons, makes choosing the proper one for travel to Bhutan essential because it would depend on what you seek:
- Spring (March to May): This is among the busiest times to set foot in Bhutan. Valleys explode into a riot of colorful flowers, the weather is mild, and trekking routes are at their best.
- Autumn (September to November): With clear blue skies and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, autumn is ever so popular for sightseeing and hiking. The season is filled with festivals, and a major event is the Thimphu Tshechu, where one can gain insight into Bhutanese culture.
- Winter (December to February): This period will materialize for you if you find yourself absorbed in winter landscapes and tranquil surroundings. Though snowfall changes the mountains into a white fabric land, high altitudes can be unbearably cold.
The other season to avoid is monsoon (from June until August); heavy rains inundate roads leading to mudslides and may interfere with travel plans.
3. Currency and Payment
Getting acquainted with the currency system in Bhutan will help you make smooth expense planning.
The currency in Bhutan is Ngultrum. Even to this day, Indian Rupees are accepted almost in every part of the country..
- While in Bhutan, it would be safer to carry sufficient cash, as ATM facilities are limited, and may not work from time to time, especially in smaller towns.
- There are few places where credit and debit cards are accepted, so make sure to withdraw cash before heading off to the rural areas.
- In case you wish to exchange some currency, do this at banks in Thimphu or Paro, as currency exchange facilities are limited in other regions.
4. Local Culture and Etiquette
Traditionally Bhutan is highly of its tradition, and, therefore, whenever you visit, it is important to respect local customs. Here are some practical tips about key etiquette to keep in mind:
- Mind your dress code when going to monasteries, temples, and government offices. Shorts, short-sleeved tops, and scanty wears are not allowed when at religious sites.
- Always insist on getting permission before taking any photographs, especially indoors in monasteries, since some sites ban photography.
- Do not touch hands statues or prayer wheels unless allowed otherwise.
- Respect the areas inside a monastery or a temple with no noise; dont disturb monks while praying.
- Never point your feet at religious objects or monks, as this is considered disrespectful.
- Smoking is banned in public areas in Bhutan; if you must, do so in designated areas.
By following Bhutan΄s traditions and culture, you will be warmly welcomed and enrich your experience when traveling.
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What to Visit in Bhutan
Bhutan is referred to as “the Land of the Thunder Dragon,” which has a lot of discovery for those who love nature and culture. From majestic monasteries and beautiful valleys, this country will always leave a memorable experience. If ever you are contemplating a travel package to Bhutan, here goes a glimpse of some prime places of visit.
1. Thimphu – The Capital City
The capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu, is a happy crossroad of the modern development and traditional Bhutanese culture. It is also a right place to start your journey.
- The Buddha Dordenma Statue: This is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world and is about 169 feet tall, overlooking the capital city.
- Tashichho Dzong: A beautiful monastery and government building, this is also the centre of Bhutanese political and religious affairs.
- Centenary Farmers’ Market: A good spot to try local Bhutanese food, fresh fruits, and traditional crafts.
2. Paro – The Heart of Bhutanese Culture
Paro is notable for its rich heritage and beauty. It contains some of the most iconic landmarks of Bhutan.
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery): A must-see, this monastery clings precariously to the side of a cliff at 3,000 feet above Paro Valley. Each step leading to the monastery offers pictures of unparalleled beauty.
- National Museum of Bhutan: An ideal place to be informed about the history, culture, and traditions of Bhutan.
- Rinpung Dzong: A beautiful monastery with breath-taking views of Paro Valley, well known for its typical Bhutanese architecture.
Also Read About : Kaziranga National Park in Assam
3. Punakha – The Ancient Capital
Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital, is known for its historical importance and natural beauty.
- Punakha Dzong: An enchanting monastery that lies between the rivers of Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu; this monastery is famous for its colossally beautiful architecture.
- Suspension Bridge: Probably one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan, it allows one to enjoy the spectacular view of the Punakha Valley.
- Riverside Scenery: The beauty of Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers is best enjoyed by nature enthusiasts.
4. Phuentsholing – The Gateway to Bhutan
Phuentsholing is the major entrance to Bhutan from India and a city left for tourists to be explored.
- Zangto Pelri Lhakhang: A small but quite beautiful temple depicting the legendary paradise of Guru Rinpoche.
- Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre: A unique spot to observe the rare crocodile species and learn more about conservation issues.
5. Bumthang – The Valley of the Spirit
Known as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, filled with ancient monasteries and religious sites, among which are Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang.
- Jambay Lhakhang: Believed to be one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, constructed in the 7th century.
- Kurje Lhakhang: A very sacred monastery associated with Guru Rinpoche, an important figure in Buddhism.
- Local Cuisine: Bhutanese red rice and local cheese, two specialties of this region, are not to be missed.
Required Documents
The following documents must be with Indian nationals wishing to enter Bhutan:
- A valid passport (with at least six months of validity) or a Voter ID card.
- Passport-sized photos for permits and identification.
- Entry permit, issued at the time of entry at Phuentsholing or Paro Airport.
- Special permits required to visit restricted areas such as Bumthang and Haa Valley.
Traveling to Bhutan
1. By Air
• The only international airport in Bhutan is Paro International Airport
• Direct flights to Paro are available from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Guwahati.
2. By Road
• Enter from Phuentsholing—the southernmost border town of Bhutan.
• The nearest airport to Phuentsholing is Bagdogra Airport (West Bengal, India).
• From Phuentsholing, one can take a taxi or bus to Thimphu or Paro.
Don’ts in Bhutan
To respect local customs during a visit to Bhutan, follow these general rules:
• Do not touch other people’s religious objects without permission.
• Speak quietly in monasteries and sacred places.
• Do not smoke in public places; Bhutan has really stringent laws regarding smoking.
• Don’t litter; Bhutan is a green country.
• Don’t wear revealing clothes to temples or monasteries.
Bhutan Tour Itinerary – 7 Days, 6 Nights
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
- Arrive at Paro International Airport.
- Drive on to Thimphu, visiting Buddha Dordenma statue on your way.
Day 2: Explore Thimphu
- Visit Memorial Chorten and Tashichho Dzong.
- Shopping for souvenirs can be done at Centenary Farmers’ Market.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
- Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass.
- Visit Punakha Dzong and the Suspension Bridge.
Day 4: Punakha to Paro
- Return to Paro and explore Rinpung Dzong.
Day 5: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
- Morning hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Day 6: Excursion to Chele La Pass
- Visit Chele La Pass. It is the highest motorable road in Bhutan.
Day 7: Departure from Bhutan
- Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
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With Northeast vibes, enjoy a Bhutan holiday package with relief sure to leave you and your loved ones with a breathtaking memory.
Sum Up
Bhutan is a magical destination blessed with picturesque landscapes and rich culture. There is something for everyone depending on whether you are into adventure, nature, or history. Planning a Bhutan travel package enables everyone’s involvement in processes that you want to incorporate into the trip and create lasting memories with your family.
Let Northeast vibes plan your Bhutan holiday package today and take care of all your travel needs!
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