Discover the Kingdom of Bhutan
The Buddhist Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan boasts unparalleled natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Often considered one of the last Shangri-Las of the Himalayas, Bhutan remains a living testament to Buddhism. Nestled between India, Nepal, and the Tibet region of China, the kingdom shares borders with some of the world’s most majestic mountains, making it a unique and captivating destination for travelers. The Bhutanese have preserved their ancient traditions, from stunning Dzongs and temples to distinctive architecture found nowhere else on Earth, which further enhances Bhutan’s appeal. Thimphu, the capital, and Paro, located just a two-hour drive away, are key highlights, with Paro being home to the country’s only international airport. Phuentsholing, a town on the India-Bhutan border, serves as one of the primary land entry points to the kingdom.
Seasons in Bhutan
Bhutan experiences four distinct seasons: spring, monsoon, autumn, and winter. The ideal times to visit are during spring and autumn, specifically from late February to the end of March, and from September to November. For flower enthusiasts, May, June, and July are perfect, offering an abundance of blooms. If you’re captivated by mountain views, November through February provides clear skies, sunny days, and a delightful chill in the mornings and evenings.
National Emblem
Bhutan’s national emblem, encased within a circle, features a double diamond thunderbolt resting on a lotus, topped with a jewel and flanked by two dragons. The double diamond thunderbolt symbolizes the harmony between secular and religious powers, deeply rooted in the Vajrayana form of Buddhism. The lotus signifies purity, the jewel represents sovereign authority, and the two dragons—a male and a female—symbolize the country’s name, “Druk Yul,” meaning “Land of the Thunder Dragon.”
Location: Situated in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan shares borders with China to the north and the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, and West Bengal to the east, west, and south.
Area: 38,398 square kilometers
Altitude: Ranges from 180 meters to 7,550 meters above sea level
Population: Approximately 700,000
Capital: Thimphu
Local Time: 6 hours ahead of GMT and 30 minutes ahead of IST
Religion: Predominantly Mahayana Buddhism, with a minority of Hindus
National Flag: Bhutan’s flag is rectangular, divided into two halves with a white dragon in the center. The upper yellow portion represents the secular authority of the King, while the lower saffron-orange portion symbolizes the spiritual power and religious practices of Buddhism.
Explore the Best of Bhutan with India Bhutan Tours
Bhutan, a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and spiritual richness, is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and cultural explorers. At India Bhutan Tours, we bring you the most enchanting destinations in Bhutan to make your journey truly unforgettable. Here are the highlights:
1. Thimphu – The Cultural Capital
Immerse yourself in the unique blend of traditional Bhutanese heritage and modernity in the nation’s capital.
Tashichho Dzong: A majestic fortress and monastery that serves as the seat of Bhutan’s government.
Buddha Dordenma: A towering Buddha statue offering panoramic views of the valley.
National Memorial Chorten: A revered religious site for daily prayers and meditation.
Weekend Market: Experience the vibrant local culture and shop for Bhutanese crafts and produce.
2. Paro – Gateway to Bhutan’s Spiritual Heart
Discover Paro, home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Bhutan’s international airport.
Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest): A breathtaking cliffside monastery and spiritual retreat.
Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong): A stunning fortress overlooking the Paro Valley.
Drukgyel Dzong: The historic ruins of a once-mighty fortress.
National Museum of Bhutan: Learn about Bhutan’s rich history in this converted watchtower.
3. Punakha – The Ancient Capital
Known for its serene landscapes and architectural wonders.
Punakha Dzong: A magnificent fortress at the confluence of two rivers.
Suspension Bridge: One of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan, offering stunning views.
Chimi Lhakhang: Also known as the “Fertility Temple,” dedicated to the Divine Madman.
4. Bumthang – Bhutan’s Spiritual Heartland
A region steeped in spirituality and home to ancient temples.
Jakar Dzong: Known as the “Castle of the White Bird.”
Kurjey Lhakhang: A sacred monastery associated with Guru Rinpoche.
Jambay Lhakhang: One of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples.
Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake): A sacred site for meditation and reflection.
5. Haa Valley – A Hidden Gem
A picturesque valley less frequented by tourists, offering serenity and charm.
Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo: Sacred white and black temples with rich history.
Chele La Pass: The highest motorable pass in Bhutan, offering spectacular mountain views.
6. Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey Valley)
A glacial valley that’s home to the endangered black-necked cranes.
Gangtey Monastery: A serene monastery overlooking the valley.
Crane Observation Center: Learn about the conservation of black-necked cranes.
7. Trongsa – The Historical Center
A town with immense historical significance and scenic beauty.
Trongsa Dzong: The largest dzong in Bhutan, central to its history.
Ta Dzong: A watchtower housing a fascinating museum.
8. Lhuentse – A Land of Tradition
A remote region known for its dramatic landscapes and traditional textiles.
Lhuentse Dzong: A hilltop fortress with breathtaking views.
Khoma Village: Famous for weaving intricate Kushuthara textiles.
9. Mongar and Trashigang – Eastern Bhutan’s Treasures
Gateway to Bhutan’s unexplored eastern regions.
Trashigang Dzong: A fortress with stunning vistas.
Mongar Dzong: A modern dzong built in traditional Bhutanese style.
Merak and Sakteng: Villages showcasing the unique culture of the Brokpa people.
10. Samdrup Jongkhar – The Eastern Gateway
The easternmost district bordering India, offering a unique blend of trade and culture.
11. Gasa – Nature and Relaxation
Famous for its pristine nature and hot springs.
Gasa Dzong: A historic fortress with stunning views.
Hot Springs (Tshachu): Popular for their therapeutic properties.
Laya Village: Discover the unique culture of the Layap people.
12. Dagana and Tsirang – Lush and Tranquil
Known for their untouched greenery and traditional villages.
Bhutan is a land of unparalleled beauty and tranquility, promising experiences that touch the heart and soul. With India Bhutan Tours, explore the best of Bhutan and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let us guide you on this magical journey!
National Symbols
National Day
Bhutan’s National Day is celebrated annually on December 17th to commemorate the coronation of Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck, the country’s first king, in 1907 at Punakha Dzong.
People
Bhutanese people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. The population is largely homogenous but can be linguistically divided into three main sub-groups: Sharchops, Ngalong, and Lhotshampa.
Architecture
Bhutanese architecture is exemplified by the iconic Dzongs—castle-like structures with gently tapering walls, elegant lines, expansive courtyards, and intricately designed galleries. These structures are a testament to Bhutan’s rich architectural heritage.
Living Culture
Bhutan’s vibrant culture is deeply rooted in tradition, with annual festivals called Tshechus held at nearly every Dzong. These festivals, lasting 3–4 days, feature elaborate and colorful mask dances performed with precision and grace. Tshechu dates vary each year as they are determined by the lunar calendar.
National Symbols of Bhutan
- National Tree: Cypress (Cypresses corneyana).
- National Flower: Blue Poppy (Meconopsis grandis).
- National Animal: Takin (Budorcas taxicolor).
- National Bird: Raven (Corvus corax tibetanus).
Currency
Bhutan’s currency, the Ngultrum, is pegged to the Indian rupee, which is also accepted as legal tender in the country.
Cuisine
Bhutan’s staple foods include red rice, buckwheat, wheat, maize, and a variety of meats such as pork, beef, chicken, and yak. Cheese and chilies are also essential, with chilies being used as a vegetable rather than a spice.
Arts and Crafts
Bhutan is renowned for its intricate handicrafts, especially items made of bronze, silver, and other metals. The sculpting of religious figures is a prominent tradition, and temples and homes are adorned with brightly painted and gilded statues of the Buddha and other saints.
Traditional Attire
Bhutanese men wear a traditional robe called the Gho, secured at the waist with a belt. Women wear the Kira, an ankle-length dress made from brightly colored, finely woven fabric featuring traditional patterns.
Sports
Archery is Bhutan’s national sport, widely practiced and celebrated. Other traditional sports include Digor (similar to shot put), darts, and wrestling.
Getting to Bhutan
By Air:
Druk Air, the National Air Carrier of the Kingdom of Bhutan, operates flights from Paro, the only Airport in Bhutan, to Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, and Guwahati. Bagdogra is well-connected to the major cities of India by various airlines like Jet airways, Kingfisher Airlines, Spice jet, Go Air, and Indian Airlines. One can take the connecting flight to Paro from Bagdogra.
By Road:
Travel overland from Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar to the nearest Bhutan border town to enter Bhutan.
By Rail:
NJP (New Jalpaiguri) is the nearest major railway station in the Indian State of West Bengal. The other smaller stations are Alipurduar, New Cooch Bihar, and Hasimara, though we recommend NJP as the convenient station for pick-up/drop facilities and 05 hour’s drive to the nearest Bhutan border town of Phuentsholing.