jigme expeditions
dreams do come true
jigme expeditions
dreams do come true
Bhutan is a year-round destination. Offering travelers different and unique experiences throughout the year. While there is a lot to explore, not everyone will have the time to visit the length and breadth of the Peaceful Thunder Dragon Kingdom. Here are 10 things you should try when in Bhutan:
1. Hike The Tiger’s Nest Monastery
the first of the 10 things to do – Hike the Tiger’s Nest. located in the Paro Valley, this majestic monastery is built around 3,000ft above the north side of Paro. While it can be accessed through multiple directions, the popular one is from the south, as you hike up a forest trail. While it is very popular amongst tourists, it is also considered one of the important monasteries for Buddhists. This is where Guru Padmasambhava and his disciples meditated. The hike will usually take around 4-5 hours (both ways). This is a must-do on our list, because of the importance of the monastery, the spectacular view, and the unique structure of the Tiger’s Nest. Read more about it here
2. Visit Punakha Dzong
Located in Punakha, the Punakha Dzong is located in the old capital – Punakha. While many have argued that it might be the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan; let us settle this debate: it IS the most beautiful Dzong (fortress) in Bhutan! located between two rivers: Po Chhu (male river) and Mo Chhu (female river). Today, it houses some of the most important relics and also serves as an administrative center for Punakha. If you visit during spring, as the flowers bloom around the Dzong makes it even more spectacular. Read more about it here
3. Visit the Sitting Buddha Statue (Buddha Dordenma)
This statue is located in the capital of Bhutan – Thimphu. Constructed to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty the 4th King of Bhutan. The height of the Buddha is around 177ft. You should visit this not only for the majestic statue and surroundings, but it also gives a panoramic view of the Thimphu valley. Read more about it here
4. Try the Local Food
While Bhutan offers different cuisines, indulge in the Bhutanese cuisine. Be ready to try food with chilies and cheese! The Hotels offer great Bhutanese food but try to go out and eat in town at least once a day. If you’re really feeling adventurous, try the small/local restaurants (some of the best Bhutanese food).
5. Hiking/Trekking in Bhutan
Bhutan is located in the Himalayas – which has some of the most pristine natural environments, mountains, lakes, and monasteries to visit high up in the mountains. There are hikes for every level – from a few hours to multiple days. Some of the popular treks are the “Snowman Trek”, “Druk Path, “Jumolhari base camp trek.
6. Try and visit for a longer duration
Bhutan, because of its terrain, does not have long highways. The roads are mostly curvy and in some areas, mostly farm roads. This makes traveling between districts longer. With so much to explore, we highly recommend a longer duration to visit multiple districts and cultures. For western Bhutan, it can be done within 6 Days, West-Central Bhutan can be done in 6-8 Days, and 9 Days plus for West-East-Northern Bhutan. Of course, these are estimates and can be adjusted based on your requirements.
7. Visit a festival
Festivals are not the only way to discover and explore the culture of Bhutan, but it is the easiest way. Festivals in Bhutan contain a cultural showcase of Bhutan – with dances, food, and entertainment. Most of the popular festivals in Bhutan are the Paro Tshechu, Thimphu Tshechu, and the Highland Festival.
8. Try different packages
Not entirely sure if we should add this to the 10 things to do in Bhutan, but we cannot emphasize this enough – Bhutan has a lot to offer! While the “Cultural Package” is the most popular, try other packages to explore something different. Some packages and activities we recommend: Motorcycle packages – for the motorcycle enthusiast, Bhutan has some of the best adventures in Bhutan on 2 wheels! Bird Watching – Bhutan is a paradise for bird watchers. It has different species of birds such as the Himalayan monal, Rufous-necked hornbill, Black-necked Crane, Ward’s Trogon, Snow Pigeon, etc. Hiking/Trekking/Camping packages: Perfect place for all levels of hikers. Buddhist Pilgrimage: Bhutananese people are mostly Buddhist. Bhutan has some of the most important monasteries and sites in Buddhist history. Wellness/meditation: Want to get away from the city into a sanctuary of quiet, peace, and reflection – Bhutan is the perfect spot.
9. Try the Hot Stone Bath and Hot Springs
Hot Stone Bath and Hot Springs are popular amongst locals to rejuvenate and treat ailments of the soul and body. It has medical properties and according to the locals – magical properties that heal! Hot springs can be found across Bhutan. One of the popular hot springs is in Gasa. Hot Stone Baths are more readily available in most Hotels and businesses across Bhutan.
10. Take a break from your phones!
We cannot end this list of 10 things to do in Bhutan, without mentioning this. Bhutan does not boast the tallest buildings or the biggest shopping malls. Take advantage of this. This is a perfect time to take a break from all digital devices. The only time you should use one is for photography. You need a phone in case of an emergency? do not worry, every tourist in Bhutan is accompanied by a guide. Take this time to immerse yourself in a unique culture, breathe in the fresh air (Bhutan is carbon-negative), and take in the wonders of Bhutan!
There are many more to explore and try in Bhutan. It was hard to limit it to 10. I hope that you have a memorable experience in Bhutan!