Bhutan. The name itself conjures images of mystical monasteries clinging to cliffs, vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. For years, I dreamt of embarking on a journey to this secluded kingdom, and this year, that dream became a reality. Choosing between Bhutan, Uzbekistan, and Morocco for my autumn solo adventure, I heeded a reader’s advice to tackle the most physically demanding destination first. Bhutan, with its high-altitude treks, was the clear winner.
And let me tell you, Bhutan utterly captivated me.
This Land of the Thunder Dragon, nestled high in the Himalayas, is unlike anywhere I’ve ever traveled. It’s a nation that prioritizes Gross National Happiness over GDP, a sanctuary of unspoiled natural beauty, and a place where time seems to slow down, offering a unique glimpse into a world less touched by modernity.
Let’s delve into the enchanting realm of Bhutan Travel, sharing my personal experiences and providing essential insights for planning your own unforgettable trip.
Bhutan: An Isolated Himalayan Kingdom Awaiting Discovery
It’s surprising how many people are still unfamiliar with Bhutan. This hidden gem is strategically located in the Himalayas, cradled between India and China. Kathmandu, Nepal, the closest major city, is just an hour’s flight away. While land entry is possible from Northeast India, it’s a less common route for tourists. Importantly, there are no border crossings into China (Tibet region).
So, what draws travelers to Bhutan?
Majestic Mountains: The Bhutanese Himalayas are simply awe-inspiring. The trekking opportunities are abundant and range from leisurely day hikes to challenging multi-day expeditions. A highlight for most visitors is the iconic trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. For avid hikers, the possibilities for exploration are endless.
Rich Cultural Tapestry: Bhutan boasts some of the most exquisite temples I’ve ever encountered. The vibrant traditional clothing worn by locals, the distinctive architecture, the captivating festivals, and the mesmerizing dances all contribute to a rich cultural experience. Bhutan is also a significant destination for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Buddhism.
A Haven for Discerning Travelers: For seasoned travelers seeking truly unique and impactful experiences, Bhutan is a revelation. As my 87th country, Bhutan profoundly impressed me, offering a sense of wonder that is increasingly rare to find.
Unparalleled Tranquility: Bhutan is remarkably safe and exudes an atmosphere of peace that is truly exceptional. It shares similarities with Japan in its safety and serenity, yet it’s less bustling. It evokes Iceland’s tranquility but with fewer crowds and greater affordability than Switzerland.
Bhutan’s isolation has been a blessing in disguise. Opening to tourism only in 1974 and maintaining a policy of controlled tourism ever since, the country has preserved its unique identity and environment.
A serene river bridge adorned with vibrant purple flowers in the foreground, set against a backdrop of towering mountains in Gangtey, Bhutan.
The picturesque bridge near the Gangtey Black-Necked Crane Center showcases Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty.
Sustainable Bhutan Travel: Valuing Nature and Culture
Bhutan’s commitment to sustainability and its unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness are defining characteristics. GNH, as it’s known, prioritizes sustainable development, environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and good governance, placing them on par with, or even above, Gross Domestic Product.
Bhutan is a true champion of sustainability.
The nation has enshrined in law that at least 60% of its land must remain forested; currently, a remarkable 70% is covered in lush forests. Bhutan harnesses hydroelectric power, minimizing reliance on fossil fuels, and is committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Remarkably, Bhutan is already carbon negative, absorbing more carbon dioxide than it emits.
To protect its pristine environment and unique culture, Bhutan adopts a “high value, low impact” tourism approach. This is implemented through a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100 per day for all travelers, payable through your tour operator. This fee, currently reduced from $200 and scheduled to potentially return to $200 in 2027, ensures that tourism contributes positively to the nation’s sustainable development.
Without the SDF, Bhutan’s towns like Paro could risk becoming overrun with budget tourism, potentially compromising its unique character and environment. Bhutan prioritizes attracting fewer tourists who contribute more to its economy and sustainability efforts.
Travel insurance is mandatory for Bhutan travel. Given the mountainous terrain and remote locations, medical evacuation to countries with advanced facilities might be necessary, making comprehensive travel insurance essential. For travelers from North America, World Nomads is a reputable provider, offering policies suitable for adventurous journeys.
Adventurous Kate with her guide Sonam and driver Kencho at the "baby Tiger's Nest" viewpoint in Paro, Bhutan, showcasing the personalized guided tour experience.
Kate with her guide Sonam, demonstrating the personalized Bhutan travel experience with local experts.
Guided Bhutan Tours: Your Gateway to the Kingdom
To experience Bhutan, engaging with a licensed tour guide or tour operator is essential. This is the only way to obtain a visa and explore the country beyond limited areas.
Independent travel in Bhutan is highly restricted. While technically permitted between Paro and Thimphu, venturing beyond these cities or visiting attractions anywhere requires a guide. Tourist visas mandate guided access to all points of interest.
Therefore, you must choose between joining a group Bhutan tour or opting for a private, customized itinerary with your own guide and driver.
Bhutan Travel Center, a reputable local operator, facilitated my week-long Bhutan adventure in October. They sponsored the trip, while I covered the SDF. This arrangement provided a fantastic opportunity to experience Bhutan firsthand.
I was fortunate to have Sonam as my guide, a Bhutanese native with deep knowledge of his country and a warm personality. In an amazing coincidence, we discovered we both lived in New York City at the same time! Sonam pursued tourism studies in the US, bringing a unique global perspective to his guiding. My driver, Kencho, was exceptional navigating the winding mountain roads.
For a truly enriching Bhutan travel experience, consider requesting Sonam Namgay as your guide when booking with Bhutan Travel Center. Due to his popularity, it’s advisable to book in advance.
A panoramic aerial view of the Paro valley in Bhutan, revealing traditional architecture nestled amidst lush greenery and mountains, marking the start and end point for many Bhutan travel itineraries.
Paro, Bhutan, the arrival point and departure hub, sets the stage for your Bhutan travel adventure.
Must-See Destinations for Your Bhutan Itinerary
Your tour operator will tailor an itinerary to your interests, allowing you to explore various regions of Bhutan. However, for a week-long trip, most travelers focus on the western highlights:
Paro
Paro, home to Bhutan’s only international airport and the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is typically your entry and exit point.
This charming riverside town offers a pleasant downtown area with souvenir shops, perfect for finding Bhutanese crafts. Beyond Tiger’s Nest, Paro boasts numerous trekking trails. Don’t miss the spectacle of planes landing at Paro airport, known for its challenging approach.
Thimphu
Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital and largest city (population 114,000), offers a blend of cultural and urban experiences.
Here, you can explore significant temples, visit the Royal Takin Preserve (home to Bhutan’s unique national animal), discover traditional arts at a local art school, and enjoy the most diverse culinary and nightlife options in Bhutan.
The majestic Punakha Dzong, a white fortress with red and gold accents, situated at the confluence of two rivers and connected by a traditional bridge, symbolizing Bhutanese architecture and heritage.
Punakha Dzong, an iconic Bhutanese landmark, embodies the architectural grandeur and cultural significance of the country.
Punakha
Punakha, a more rural region, is famed for Punakha Dzong, considered by many Bhutanese to be the most stunning dzong in the country.
This dzong is historically significant as the wedding location of the King and Queen. Punakha also features Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge, adding to its appeal as a place to immerse yourself in rural Bhutanese life.
Gangtey
Gangtey Valley, a serene rural expanse, is characterized by farmhouses and is the winter home of the black-necked crane, a revered bird in Bhutan.
The Black-Necked Crane Visitor Center and Gangtey Monastery are key attractions. Farmhouse stays are popular in this region, offering an authentic glimpse into rural life.
Gangtey Valley bathed in sunlight, showcasing its beauty after the clouds cleared, with traditional Bhutanese architecture in the foreground and rolling hills in the distance.
Gangtey Valley, a picturesque landscape, highlights the natural beauty and rural charm of Bhutan.
Other Bhutan Highlights
Beyond these main destinations, your itinerary might include stops at places like Dochula Pass, a high mountain pass with stunning monuments and panoramic views. Lobesa, near Punakha, is home to Chimi Lhakhang, a famous fertility temple.
For those seeking deeper exploration, Central and Eastern Bhutan offer more remote and less-visited regions.
I met a solo traveler passionate about trekking and Buddhism who had a customized two-week itinerary, including an adventurous hike down into Tiger’s Nest – a testament to the flexibility of Bhutan travel.
Dochula Pass in Bhutan shrouded in mist, showcasing the 108 memorial chortens against a backdrop of pine trees and fog, a poignant stop during Bhutan travel.
Dochula Pass, with its serene atmosphere and memorial chortens, offers a moment of reflection during your Bhutan journey.
Traditional Bhutanese Dress: A Cultural Spectacle
One of the most captivating aspects of Bhutan travel is witnessing the widespread wearing of traditional clothing.
Bhutanese citizens are required to wear formal attire, which means their traditional dress, when visiting government offices, religious sites, and in many workplaces.
Kate, wearing a Bhutanese Kira and Toego, stands amidst temples in a misty Dochula Pass, embracing Bhutanese culture and adding to the photographic experience.
Kate in traditional Bhutanese dress, showcasing the vibrant colors and patterns of the Kira and Toego.
Men wear the gho, a knee-length robe, often with black socks and shoes, complemented by a kabney, a ceremonial scarf. Kabney colors denote social rank: white for ordinary citizens, orange for government officials, red for judicial officials, and yellow for the King.
Women wear the kira, an ankle-length skirt, paired with a wonju blouse and a toego jacket. The rachu, a colorful embroidered scarf, completes the ensemble.
The women’s kira is particularly striking, adding visual richness to photographs and daily life. It’s another beautiful example of Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
Bhutan Travel Center arranged for me to have my own kira and toego, encouraging me to wear it. It was a delightful experience and enhanced my photos.
While spending time with expats in Thimphu, I learned that many Bhutanese switch to Western clothing after work hours. Formal dress, while mandatory for many professions, isn’t always worn throughout the day outside of official settings.
Bhutan's King and Queen, a beloved royal family, exemplifying the nation's monarchy and cultural leadership. Image courtesy of Phuong D. Nguyen via Shutterstock.
Bhutan’s King and Queen, symbols of Bhutan’s monarchy and cultural identity.
Bhutan: A Kingdom Rooted in Tradition
Learning about the Bhutanese royal family was fascinating. The Bhutanese deeply revere their young King, who ascended the throne in 2006 after his father abdicated.
The King is widely admired, reminiscent of the former Thai King in terms of public affection.
Interestingly, the King has strong ties to Massachusetts, USA, having attended Phillips Academy in Andover, Cushing Academy in Ashburnham, and Wheaton College in Norton before studying at Oxford University.
The intricate wooden architecture inside Paro Dzong, showcasing Bhutanese artistry and design, though photography is restricted inside temples.
The detailed interior of Paro Dzong, highlighting Bhutanese craftsmanship, where photography inside temples is respectfully prohibited.
Sacred Temples: A Feast for the Eyes, Respectfully Unphotographed
As a photographer, I understand and respect photography restrictions in certain places. However, I was surprised to learn that photography is prohibited in all Bhutanese temples. Even the thought of discreetly taking a photo is considered highly disrespectful.
Yet, Bhutan’s temples are among the most breathtaking and intricate I’ve ever witnessed. The murals, vibrant lanterns, and gold statues create an overwhelming visual spectacle.
In the absence of photography, I focused on creating mental images, diligently memorizing the intricate details of each temple.
The Buddha Dordenma statue, a towering figure of serenity, overlooking Thimphu, Bhutan.
Bhutan is deeply Buddhist. Having traveled in other Buddhist countries, I was familiar with basic etiquette. For those new to Buddhist practices, remember to remove shoes before entering temples, dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees – easily done with hiking attire), avoid pointing feet at the Buddha or anyone, refrain from touching heads, and sit respectfully with legs tucked away.
While some Buddhist countries like Thailand have relaxed temple photography rules, Bhutan maintains a strict no-photography policy inside temples. However, Sonam mentioned that photos are permitted in front of the giant golden Buddha in Thimphu, though I personally chose to refrain.
A key tip for temple visits: if you pray, keep your prayer intentions private. I made the mistake of mentioning a prayer for a friend and was gently advised that prayers should remain secret.
Wearing lace-up hiking shoes to temples proved slightly inconvenient due to frequent removal. Slip-on shoes or sandals are more practical for temple visits in Buddhist countries.
Tiger's Nest Monastery perched dramatically on a cliffside in Paro, Bhutan, an iconic symbol of Bhutan and a pinnacle of the Bhutan travel experience.
Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the ultimate highlight of Bhutan travel, offering breathtaking views and spiritual significance.
Tiger’s Nest Monastery: The Pinnacle of Bhutan Travel
Tiger’s Nest Monastery, or Paro Taktsang, is THE quintessential Bhutan experience. This iconic monastery, dramatically perched on a cliffside, is a must-see and often reserved for the final day of a Bhutan trip.
The reason for this timing is altitude acclimatization. The Tiger’s Nest hike ranges from 2590-3085 meters (8497-10121 feet). The higher altitude requires acclimatization to avoid exhaustion.
As someone sensitive to altitude, I prioritized Bhutan travel before getting older.
Spending the first two days at The Terraces Resort & Spa near Kathmandu, at 1990 meters (6528 feet), aided my acclimatization. Gentle hikes there, though challenging, prepared me for Tiger’s Nest.
The Tiger’s Nest hike is moderately challenging, primarily due to altitude. It’s not technically difficult.
My goal was to reach the viewpoint in two hours, which I achieved in 1 hour 36 minutes. The final stretch to the monastery itself took another 34 minutes. Fitness levels will affect hiking times.
A dedicated post on hiking Tiger’s Nest is warranted. Key advice includes starting early, renting a walking stick (100 BTN or $1), and skipping the café on the ascent to maintain momentum (reward yourself on the way down!).
The Tiger’s Nest hike is undeniably worth the effort, offering an unforgettable experience.
A furry Takin, Bhutan's national animal, resembling a cross between a cow and a goat, at the Royal Takin Preserve in Thimphu.
The Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, a unique and intriguing creature found at the Royal Takin Preserve.
Quirks and Charms of Bhutan
Bhutan is full of fascinating and unique aspects:
Archery is the national sport. Bhutan’s Olympic athletes are primarily archers. I witnessed locals practicing archery in Paro, a unique and engaging cultural experience.
The Takin is the national animal. Visit the Royal Takin Preserve in Thimphu to see these unusual creatures, said to be created by a Buddhist monk from a goat’s head and cow’s body.
Wasps’ nests on Dzongs are considered lucky. These nests are often left undisturbed on fortresses as they are believed to bring good fortune.
No traffic lights exist in Bhutan. Thimphu once had one, but locals preferred human traffic directors, who now manage traffic from booths.
Traditional architecture is uniform and nail-free. All buildings adhere to traditional Bhutanese design, without using nails.
Phalluses are ubiquitous fertility symbols. Painted on walls and sold as souvenirs, phalluses are fertility symbols believed to bring good luck. Chimi Lhakhang temple offers a fertility ritual involving carrying a large phallus.
Bhutan was late to adopt internet and television (1999). Before this, owning TVs was illegal.
Farmhouse experiences in Bhutan include witnessing daily life, like cow milking, offering cultural immersion.
Farmhouse Homestays: Immersing in Rural Bhutanese Life
For an authentic rural Bhutanese experience, consider a farmhouse homestay. You’ll stay with a local family and share meals. English might be limited, but your guide will translate.
From playful greetings by children to sharing floor-seated meals and witnessing morning cow-milking, it’s a world away from typical travel.
However, manage expectations. Farmhouse accommodations can be basic.
My stay, while with a lovely family, was very rustic. It was cold with no heating (though blankets were provided), no shower or washbasin (tooth brushing was done at the kitchen sink), a hard bed, and nighttime bathroom trips involved navigating through the hosts’ sleeping area, which felt intrusive.
A traditional Bhutanese meal shared on the floor in a farmhouse, showcasing local cuisine and dining customs.
Traditional Bhutanese farmhouse dinner, emphasizing communal dining and local food.
Also, be prepared for floor seating. Rural Bhutanese often sit on the floor. If you’re unaccustomed to this, it can be uncomfortable for extended periods.
For a more comfortable rural experience, consider guesthouses or agriturismos like Dhumra Farm Resort in Punakha or The Happiness Farm in Paro. These offer rural settings with private rooms and bathrooms.
Discuss farmhouse stays thoroughly with your tour operator. Inquire about amenities like showers, heating, room privacy, and bathroom facilities (squat or Western toilet).
Avoid back-to-back farmstays. My initial plan for two consecutive nights was changed to a hotel due to food poisoning, which was a welcome change in terms of comfort.
I suggested to Bhutan Travel Center that they provide detailed farmhouse descriptions in advance, especially regarding washing facilities, and avoid booking consecutive nights. They agreed to improve communication on this.
A covered bridge in Paro near a Dzong, reflecting Bhutanese architecture and the serene landscape.
A traditional covered bridge in Paro, a common architectural feature in Bhutan’s landscape.
Bhutan Travel Costs: Balancing Value and Experience
Bhutan isn’t a budget destination, but private guided tours are surprisingly affordable.
My seven-night Bhutan Travel Center trip, with mid-range hotels (except for one basic homestay night), meals, private guide, and driver, cost $3200, including the $700 SDF. For two people sharing a room, it would be $2600 per person.
Luxury Bhutan travel, staying at Aman, Six Senses, or &Beyond properties, can be very expensive, exceeding $2000 per night. A 13-day luxury itinerary can reach $7825 per person.
Additional costs include the $40 visa, site entry fees (under $100 total), and tips for guides and drivers. While guidelines were vague, Bhutan Travel Center suggested at least $50. I tipped my guide and driver $150 each.
Flights from Kathmandu on Druk Air cost $492 round-trip. Flights to Kathmandu are extra. I used British Airways Avios miles for Prague-Doha-Kathmandu flights, totaling 71,500 Avios and $322.20.
ATMs in Bhutan are unreliable, so bring USD, EUR, or INR to exchange. I exchanged $100, sufficient for the week. Tips were given in USD.
Credit cards are accepted in shops (with a 3% fee). Incidentals were minimal as meals were included. I spent extra on coffee and a few beers.
My total Bhutan trip cost, including flights and the Bhutan portion, was $4,454.20. After sponsorship, my personal cost was $1,914.20.
Bhutanese Cuisine: A Unique Culinary Journey
Bhutanese food, while not the primary draw, offers interesting flavors.
Dairy is prominent in Bhutanese cuisine, unlike many Asian cuisines.
Butter tea, a salty, savory drink, is a common offering in homes, served with cereal or puffed rice. Mix cereal into the tea for a unique snack.
Ema datshi, chilies and cheese stir-fry, is the national dish and accompanies most meals, along with red (actually pink) rice.
A plate of Bhutanese food featuring pinkish red rice, fried eggplant, fried potatoes, and broccoli, showcasing local vegetarian dishes.
Bhutanese cuisine featuring red rice and vegetable dishes, highlighting local staples.
Restaurant meals on tours are usually buffets, offering rice, ema datshi, vegetables, a meat option, and sometimes chow mein, often followed by a simple dessert.
I experienced food poisoning on my second day. Sonam took me to the hospital in Paro, where I received free treatment (covered by the SDF) and medication.
I ate only bananas and rice for a day and a half, then mostly vegan for the rest of the trip, except at the homestay.
My food advice: be cautious and stop eating anything that seems off. I ignored slightly off milk and chicken and should have been more discerning.
An airplane ascending over lush green rice paddies and mountains in Bhutan, illustrating the scenic flight into the country.
Scenic views from the plane during Bhutan travel, showcasing the country’s dramatic landscapes.
Getting to Bhutan: Flying into the Himalayas
Flying is the only way to reach Bhutan, via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines, Bhutan’s national carriers. Direct flights operate from Kathmandu, Delhi, Kolkata, Bangkok, and Singapore.
I flew via Kathmandu, combining Bhutan with Nepal. However, Kathmandu Airport is extremely challenging and unpleasant.
Next time, I might fly via Bangkok or Singapore to avoid Kathmandu Airport.
Flights to/from Bhutan were rescheduled a few hours later, so avoid tight onward connections. Allow buffer time on both ends of your Bhutan trip.
Mount Everest as seen from the plane during a Bhutan flight, an awe-inspiring bonus for travelers.
Spectacular Flights: Everest Views and Paro Landing
Request window seats for Bhutan flights. The views are incredible!
Paro airport landings are complex, with only about 50 pilots worldwide certified to fly there.
For Kathmandu-Paro flights, sit on the left for Everest views. For Paro-Kathmandu, sit on the right.
Pilots announce when passing Mount Everest. I missed it on arrival due to clouds but saw it on departure – breathtaking!
Scenic Everest flights from Kathmandu cost hundreds of dollars. Flying Kathmandu-Paro offers a free Everest view!
Check in early (Druk Air opens 3 days prior) to secure window seats on the correct side. They are highly sought after.
Gangtey Valley bathed in sunlight, showcasing its beauty after the clouds cleared, with traditional Bhutanese architecture in the foreground and rolling hills in the distance.
Gangtey Black-Necked Crane Center in bloom, indicating spring or fall as ideal seasons for Bhutan travel.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan: Spring or Fall
Spring and fall are ideal for Bhutan travel. These seasons offer the best weather and coincide with festivals (high season).
Winter is cold and snowy. Summer brings monsoon rains (June-September).
I visited in October for optimal weather, peak tourism season. Only Punakha Dzong felt slightly crowded; elsewhere was peaceful.
I was meant to attend the Jomolhari Mountain Festival, but dates changed last minute, a disappointment. Bhutan Travel Center organized a cultural night with dance performances as a substitute.
Bhutanese dances, a captivating display of cultural artistry and tradition, often part of cultural events and festivals.
Internet Connectivity in Bhutan: Manage Expectations
Don’t expect great internet in Bhutan, even with local SIMs. eSIM options are limited. I used RedTeaGo, which was functional mainly in city centers. Outside cities, connectivity was sporadic, with limited app functionality. Instagram was oddly inaccessible.
Working remotely in Bhutan is challenging. Hotels offer decent internet for basic communication.
A covered bridge in Paro near a Dzong, reflecting Bhutanese architecture and the serene landscape.
Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge, inviting exploration and offering scenic views in the Bhutanese countryside.
Communication Nuances: Cultural Differences
English is spoken by tourism professionals in Bhutan. Learning basic Bhutanese phrases is appreciated. However, cultural communication differences can arise.
For example, inquiring about laundry days resulted in indirect assurances rather than specific dates. Direct questioning clarified the Thimphu hotel laundry option.
Be prepared for indirect communication styles. Be more detailed in your questions to ensure clear understanding.
The Bodhi tree in Punakha, with historical and spiritual significance, linking Bhutan to Buddhist traditions.
Bhutan’s Challenges: Beyond the Utopian Image
Bhutan, while seemingly utopian, faces real challenges.
Migration: Bhutan’s population is declining due to youth emigration seeking economic opportunities, often to Australia, which has a large Bhutanese community. Limited opportunities and low fertility rates contribute to this issue.
Substance Abuse: Drug and alcohol addiction are significant concerns in Bhutan, impacting the nation’s social fabric.
Colorful canoes on Phewa Lake in Pokhara, Nepal, contrasting with the serene landscapes of Bhutan and highlighting the post-Bhutan travel experience.
Phewa Lake in Pokhara, Nepal, representing a contrasting travel experience after the tranquility of Bhutan.
Nepal After Bhutan: A Stark Contrast
Traveling to Nepal immediately after Bhutan was jarring due to the stark differences. Nepal felt crowded, chaotic, and sadly, much poorer with noticeable corruption. Kathmandu’s air quality was also very poor.
While I appreciate developing countries and bustling cities, Nepal and I didn’t connect. I explored different areas to gain a broader perspective.
Be mindful of post-Bhutan destinations. If you deeply appreciate Bhutan’s tranquility, subsequent destinations might pale in comparison.
Hiking gear, the recommended attire for Bhutan travel, ensuring comfort and practicality for exploration.
Bhutan Packing Essentials
Packing for Bhutan is straightforward: prioritize practical hiking clothes. Hiking attire is suitable for most of your trip. Jeans are also acceptable for non-hiking days.
Essential Packing List:
- Hiking Clothes: Hiking pants, base layer tops, merino wool socks are ideal. Layer with a puffer jacket and waterproof rain jacket depending on temperature.
- Hiking Boots: Trail runners are suitable for most hikes, but waterproof hiking boots offer better ankle support, especially for Tiger’s Nest.
- Sandals: Easy slip-on sandals like Birkenstocks are convenient for temple visits and non-hiking days.
- Sunscreen: High altitude sun is intense. Use sunscreen daily, especially Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen, which is clear and non-irritating.
- Wide-brimmed Hat: Essential for sun protection during hikes.
- Water Bottle: Bring a reusable water bottle. A Lifestraw water bottle is optional as filtered water is readily available.
- Motion Sickness Tablets/Bands: Mountain roads are winding. Pack motion sickness remedies if needed.
- Lip Balm: Altitude causes dehydration. Medicated lip balm is essential for dry lips.
Kate taking a selfie on a covered bridge in Punakha, with a Dzong and river in the background, capturing a joyful moment during Bhutan travel.
Kate enjoying her Bhutan travel experience, capturing a happy moment in Punakha.
Bhutan Travel: Is It Worth It? Absolutely!
Bhutan is undeniably one of the most rewarding countries I’ve ever visited. Despite the higher cost, experiencing this unique and special destination is absolutely worth it.
If Bhutan resonates with you, I wholeheartedly recommend planning a trip. It’s a truly exceptional place unlike any other.
Explore more “What’s it like to travel here?” posts for further destination inspiration.
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