Bhutan can be the destination to make your coming vacation more exciting and desirable. Choosing Bhutan for your vacation is indeed a good idea because this unique and amazingly beautiful country offers some of the extraordinary experiences by combining the culture and futuristic approaches towards the development of the nation as well as towards the betterment of our planet.
Bhutan is the first carbon negative country in this world and planted indigenous tree species by attempting Guinness World Records title. This is the country where Gross National Happiness is highlighted rather than projecting GDP. Bhutan is a small and beautiful nation nestles between China and India. Visiting this country will help you to discover a few more interesting facts by getting a chance to redefine the essence of human life and their relation to nature.
How to Plan a Trip to Bhutan?
Look for the Connectivity
Bhutan shares its borders with India from three sides but the only way to enter Bhutan for foreign national is Jaigaon. Jaigaon is a town in Alipurduar district in the Indian state of West Bengal and can be reached by road and railways. Hasimara and New Jalpaiguri are the two nearest railway stations from where you can reach Jaigaon by sharing or renting a car. You can also take a direct flight to Paro which have the only international airport in the entire country. There are two direct airlines, namely, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines that operate flights from Delhi, Gaya, Bagdogra, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Guwahati to Paro. One of the easiest ways to reach Bhutan is by renting a car from New Jalpaiguri which gives a chance of enjoying the picturesque locations during the journey.
Know About the Restrictions
Before entering the Kingdom of Thunder Dragon you must know about the restrictions which are made to keep the country away from pollution and other consequences. Tobacco is fully banned in this country and smoking cigarette in public places and restricted areas can be a punishable offense in Bhutan. But all foreigners are allowed to bring one litre alcoholic spirit and up to 200 sticks of cigarettes or 30 pieces of cigars with them while entering Bhutan. It is better to hire a travel agent or a guide who will help you by providing information regarding those restrictions more clearly by telling you where to smoke and where not to smoke.
To enter Bhutan all foreigners must issue a permit for 7 or 14 days which is called 'Entry Permit'. This permit is valid for Thimphu and Paro only. For the rest of the places you need to issue 'Restricted-Area Permit'. This permit is issued at the Immigration Office in Phuentsholing.
To issue the permit you need to carry the following documents:
- A duly filled form
- Copy of Voter’s ID or Passport
- An Itinerary on an A4 Sheet
- Booked Hotel’s Voucher (It is mandatory to show hotel booking confirmation of at least one hotel in Thimphu/Paro)
- Passport Size Photo
- An Undertaking Letter (In case you are traveling solo)
The Currency
The Bhutanese currency is called Ngultrum and is equivalent to the value of Indian currency i.e. INR 1 = Ng 1. You can use notes of 5,10,20,50, and 100 of Indian denomination but notes of 500 and 2000 are not valid in the country. You will find the pictures of earlier Kings along with the present King in the currencies of Bhutan.
Plan Your Activities and Plan of Action
Bhutan offers you so many things to enjoy and discover so you need to be sure about your plan of action if you are looking for a short trip. To plan your action you need to be sure about the intention of your trip whether you are going for an adventure tour, honeymoon trip, family trip or spiritual tour. To find the pleasure you need to come out with the answer. The feeling of spirituality is spread all over the country and monasteries in Punakha, Thimphu, Paro and other places will make you understand about the rich cultural influence of the country.
Along with the spiritual vibes, you can also experience some adventure by doing river whitewater rafting, rock climbing, kayaking, fishing, trekking, practicing archery, hot spring bath, crossing the suspension bridges and so on. On the other hand, the beautiful landscape and lush green valleys of Paro, Thimphu, Bumthang, Trongsa, Punakha, and Phobjikha will make you romantic in a true sense. These places are also perfect for family trip and excursion.
Choose the Right Time
To make your Bhutan trip more memorable and enjoyable you must choose the right time. Again it depends on your choice of preferences because few people like to enjoy the monsoon by sitting in the hotel balcony. We suggest you pick the ideal season to explore the country in a better sense. Dry spring in Bhutan starts from early March and lasts until mid-April which is ideal to visit Paro and Bumthang. Flower blooms in the valleys and makes you feel so special and delighted.
Being a part of their festivals is also a great idea to know more about the country and their culture. Musk dance, singing folk songs and unlimited fun with local cuisine and wine are the main centre of attractions in the festivals of Bhutan. September, October, and November are ideal for doing adventure and attending festivals in the country.
Planning your trip to Bhutan will help you in sorting out the things perfectly instead of getting confused about what to do and what not to do in a short period. Planning a trip is beneficial for travelers in many ways as it makes things clear and organized.