The 8 Best Things To Do In Bhutan
Bhutan is a unique and mysterious Kingdom tucked away in the Himalayas, perfect for those looking for peace, views and untouched surroundings. As the only country that measures its GDP in happiness rather than profit, a trip to Bhutan is both a memorable and rare experience. A shining example of sustainable travel and low-impact tourism, Bhutan has famously applied high daily tourism levies to ensure this pristine Kingdom isn’t eroded by the demands of mass-tourism. It is not a cheap destination to visit, nor should it be. If Bhutan is on your travel wish-list, now is the time to visit and here we explain why.
1. Hiking
From scenic ambles with incredible Himalayan, to steep walks through pine forests and multi-day camping treks, Bhutan has something for everyone. Unlike in Nepal where hiking routes can be very congested, trekking in Bhutan is still relatively new. Coupled with Bhutan being a high- value low- volume destination, the result is quieter trek routes, less visitors, and a sense of peace, discovering somewhere untouched.
Our Bhutan holidays are fully private and tailor-made, so your expert guide will be on hand throughout to accompany you on any of the hikes you’d like to have a go at. You typically spend 2-3 days in each Valley on a Bhutan holiday, which gives a perfect amount of time to incorporate the best day-hikes in each region. The Lungchutse hike from the Dochu La Pass en route to Punakha Valley is one of our favourites, offering stunning views from a picturesque temple high above the pass. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is another classic hike in Punakha, taking you high up onto the stupa with valley views and ending on the suspension bridge above the iconic river. Gangtey Valley is renowned for sweeping atmospheric hikes, the Longtey Valley hike being our tip pick here. Day hikes rewards you with scenic views and a huge sense of achievement.
If you’re looking to include a multi-day trek as part of your Bhutan holiday, there are several varied options. Consider the well-established Druk Path trek, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and popular multi-day hikes, perfect for a novice trekker and those looking for an easy going hike with epic views. For those looking for more of a challenge, speak to us about the Jomolhari or Yaksa treks, including an incredible stay at base camp, longer trek days and sublime peaceful views. For hardcore trekkers, there are amazing options such as the Laya Gasa Trek, away from anyone and everything and a way to really test your trek legs.
From easy going walks, to temples hikes, to epic multi-day challenges, Bhutan has something for everyone.
2. Festivals
Bhutan has a rich yearly calendar of festivals held in valleys across the country. These extraordinary festivals offer a colourful carnival- like atmosphere with dancing, music, costumes and different themes. Festivals originated to mark the arrival of Buddhism in Bhutan, with each of the districts holding their own unique festival bringing together neighbouring valleys inviting people to join in the colourful celebrations.
The festivals (Tshechus) can last from 1-4 days, and locals are encouraged to come along, meet up with friends and family and enjoy this hugely positive event marking togetherness. The black-necked Crane Festival is one of the most famous in Bhutan, held in November inside the courtyard of the Gangtey monastery. It combines all the colour and celebrations of a Bhutan festival, with the added element of raising awareness of the unique Black-neck Crane bird. These magnificent birds are protected and revered in Bhutan, and the festival encourages ongoing conservation.
Bumthang, one of the more remote and harder to reach valleys in Bhutan is home to extraordinary festivals (Tamzhing Phala Choepa and Thangbi Mani amongst others) and we well worth the longer drive days to experience such culturally rich and unique celebrations.
Want to include a festival in your Bhutan holiday? Unsurprisingly festivals are incredible popular with both locals and tourists, so we advise booking your Bhutan holiday at least a year in advance over festival dates to secure precious accommodation in the particular valleys.
3. Tigers Nest
Iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery is perhaps the main reason people dream of travelling to Bhutan. Experiencing this monument etched into the steep cliff, surrounded by misty mountain air and rich green vegetation is a true once in a lifetime travel moment. A visit to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Palphug) will excite those who love culture and climbing, with the (at times) challenging 4 hour round trip hike to the monastery forming part of the overall experience itself.
The trail covers well-trodden steep paths, prayer- wheels and green woodland. Around half-way up there is a well-placed small café for a pit stop and to enjoy the midpoint views. As the walk progresses the views are almost dream-like. Once you reach the summit, your guide will talk you though the history of this incredible monastery, explaining the art, spiritual meaning and how the build occurred.
Bhutan is a relatively quiet country that avoids the tourist masses, that said Tiger’s Nest is the countries most popular highlight, so busy paths in places are unavoidable. We always include the visit to Tiger’s Nest Monastery at the end of your Bhutan holiday, so you have acclimatised to the altitude and to save the best until last.
4. Active Adventures
While Bhutan is paradise for those seeking a peaceful, spiritual and serene holiday its also a dream for those who love outdoor adventures and building up a sweat. Jumping on a bike with your expert guide offers the freedom to explore at your own pace as well as experiencing cultures and landscapes you may otherwise miss in a vehicle.
Our Bhutan cycling holiday takes you through traditional villages, though lush green valleys, past traditional farmhouses stopping off for some lunch with friendly locals, all the while surrounded by the mighty Himalayans. This is the way to travel slower and travel better, on a bike, taking in what this marvelous Kingdom has to offer. Your support team will go ahead with your luggage in a private vehicle, and meet at points on the route which suit your abilities. Meaning you can enjoy as much or as little daily cycling as you’d prefer, with a cosy lodge or luxury hotel and cold drink waiting for you at the end of the day.
Rafting is also a brilliant activity to incorporate into your Bhutan holiday. In the Punakha Valley, depending on water levels at the time, choose from the male or female river to enjoy some exhilarating rafting with an expert team. Cover around 6-9 miles of exciting rapids, past secluded stretches of glistening river and through breathtaking scenery. A heart lunch awaits you after your adventure, and views that rival anything you’ve seen before.
Want to give the national sport of archery a go? Be it watching a local competition or having a go yourself, archery is an integral part of Bhutanese life and a fun activity to have a go at.
Go cycling, hiking and rafting on our best Active Adventure Holiday in Bhutan (14 days from £6,989pp)
5. Meet the people
One of the first things you will notice on your Bhutan holiday, is locals wearing traditional Bhutanese dress. A distinct outfit which reflects the Kingdoms’ rich culture and history, the Gho (worn by men) and the Kira (worn by women) showcase skilled craftmanship and beauty, giving you a glimpse into the traditions and values of Bhutan. The people you meet will undoubtedly form a major part of your Bhutan holiday, from your friendly knowledgable guide and driver who are from the local area, to hotel owners and market traders.
We can include a farmhouse visit with traditional home-cooked dinner where you can meet community members, learn about traditional ways of life and try some delicacies like butter tea. Local markets are a wonderful way to experience real Bhutanese life, where you can chat to locals, take a look at what’s offered and buy some locally made gifts. Try and catch a local archery competition to experience this national sport up close, see the skills on display and speak to some of the local players.
Bhutanese people are rightly proud of their beautiful and unique country, and encourage visitors to learn more about preserving nature and local environments. In our experience the people we met were warm, friendly and welcoming and became an integral part of our holiday.
6. Unique hotels
A holiday to Bhutan offers two main choices when it comes to accommodation, homely and comfortable 3* stays, to world-class 5* hotels that come with the wow factor you’d imagine. What we tend to advise, is go with the simple charming authentic 3* options for the most part then if possible, upgrade to a couple of the 5* properties where its worth it.
The 3* properties in Bhutan are charming, traditional in their design and style, and often run by families who have worked in the hotel for generations. Staying in these cost- effective hotels gives you a chance to experience the real Bhutan, with no bells and whistles. They are always clean and comfortable, often painted in quirky colours mostly with wooden interiors, and offer hearty healthy meals. Almost all of the 3* options in Bhutan have wonderful views and a sense of connection to this unique Kingdom. Some of the newer 3* hotels for example in Thimpu, are more modern and spacious, and brilliantly located for evening strolls, offering exceptional value.
There are a handful of hotels that fit in the elusive 4* category, such as the stylish and boutique Dhensa and the charming and sustainable Dhumra Farm Resort, both in Punakha. As well as the newest edition to Paro, the impressive Amba Paro offering unique views of Tigers Nest Monastery itself!
Then of course there are the 5* lodges and hotels in Bhutan which are really special. You may have seen BBC’s ‘Amazing Hotels’ featuring the incredible Gangte Lodge. This is without doubt one of the worlds best hotels, and well worth considering upgrading to. COMO Uma Punakha and COMO Uma Paro were some of the first the luxury hotels to be built in Bhutan, and are still firm favourites today. Exceptional food, homely 5* service, quality touches and breathtaking views make these a top choice in the two valleys. The Aman and Six Senses hotel chains offer a wonderful ‘loop’ of hotels in each valley, for those who prefer peace, solitude and the finer things in life. In Thimpu the newly branded Pemako gives you chance to be in the center of the capital while enjoying top service and luxury, and Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary Paro is the first of its kind to offer fully inclusive spa packages as part of a stay. Perfect for relaxing after long days trekking, guests can enjoy massages and spa treatments included in the cost.
7. Dzongs, monasteries and nunneries
A trip to Bhutan will be filled with visits to incredible monasteries, Dzongs and nunneries in each valley you visit. Your guide will talk you through what you’d like to see and experience, from the classic must-sees such as Tigers Nest Monastery and Punakha Dzong, to the quieter temples in more remote locations. Often visiting a temple or place of spiritual importance will be included as part of a day hike, for example on the beautiful Gangte Nature Trail you will visit Gangte Goempa en route. We try and do things differently, so you might like to give rafting a go in Punakha, and witness the imposing Dzong as you paddle past. Or if you’re trip includes heading to the remote valleys of Bumthang, you will go via Trongsa and experience the incredible Dzong here that many visitors may miss.
They are also chances to enjoy first-hand experiences, such as witnessing a prayer ceremony, or visiting a nunnery for a blessing and butter lamp lighting ceremony.
Seek out more remote temples on our Slow Travel Bhutan Holiday Beyond The Highlights (18 days from £6,300pp)
8. Peace and stillness
A holiday to Bhutan offers a totally unique experience, unlike any other destination you will have visited before. The Kingdom has been described as the last Shangri-La, and is shrouded in mystery and spirituality.
Have you always dreamt of seeing vast mountain peaks without hordes of other guests, or longed to experience a morning hike in complete peace with just bird-song and the sunrise to accompany you? Bhutan is this place.
There has never been a better time to visit Bhutan, as daily tourist fees are currently at their lowest ever cost, but mass-tourism is still discouraged. In a world where it can seem everyone has been everywhere and seen everything with the Instagram photos to prove it, Bhutan offers peace, stillness and untouched scenery like nowhere else.
In Summary
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