{"id":87690,"date":"2019-06-15T18:08:06","date_gmt":"2019-06-15T12:38:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/?p=87690"},"modified":"2019-06-19T16:51:37","modified_gmt":"2019-06-19T11:21:37","slug":"best-places-to-visit-in-bhutan-for-indians","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/travel\/best-places-to-visit-in-bhutan-for-indians","title":{"rendered":"Best Places to Visit in Bhutan for Indians"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Bhutan<\/a>
Visit Bhutan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Situated in South Asia’s Eastern Himalayas, there’s an endlessly fascinating place on earth known as The kingdom of Bhutan, or Dzongkha. Bhutan has remained a country where age old customs and traditions are still part of everyday lives of the people, even while modernization, development and the strains of global influence are felt more and more. The small parliamentary democracy with constitutional monarchy shares its borders with China, India, Bangladesh,Nepal and is the second least populous nation after Maldives. It is the world\u2019s last remaining Buddhist Kingdom. The country offers a staggering variety of dramatic landscapes that range from subtropical plains, steep mountains, panoramic valleys, as well as an incredible abundant array of fauna and flora. Set within one of the world\u2019s most breathtaking majestic Himalayan mountain chains, it is famed for its high mountain peaks and range of trekking, snow opportunities, Buddhist relics, Monasteries and Fortresses (Dzongs). The country does not have traffic lights; instead, officials wave cars with white-gloved hands. Tobacco, fishing and hunting are illegal. Thimphu, the\u00a04th highest capital in the world by altitude, does not have its own airport, but relies on the Paro airport\u00a0connected by road some 54 kilometers (34 miles) away. This is a country where the rice is red and where chillies aren’t just a seasoning but the main dish!<\/p>\n

How to get there:<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\n

By Air:<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\n

By Railways:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0<\/b><\/strong>Bhutan has no railways. The nearest stations are in Kolkata, Silliguri and Jaigaon in India.<\/p>\n

By Car:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0There are three land border crossings located along southern border to India\u00a0only. Phuntsholing in the west, Gelephu in the central region and Samdrup Jongkhar in the east.Road permits are also required. However, these are processed by local tour operators.<\/p>\n

By Bus:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0From Phuentsholing in Bhutan, Kolkata, and Siliguri in India.<\/p>\n

All tourists, except for the citizens of Bangladesh, India and the Maldives, must obtain a visa before arriving in Bhutan.<\/p>\n

Popular months to visit:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0March to April peak period for blossoming rhododendrons, and October to November for mild weather, trekking, and clear views. A good time for viewing the Black-necked cranes, celebrations for their arrival and migratory birds is October to February. The rainy months are June-September.<\/p>\n

Special information for Indian travellers<\/b><\/strong>:<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Travel time from Bagdogra Airport to Jaigaon\/Phuentsholing by road is around 5-6 hours depending on traffic jams.<\/li>\n
  2. No permit is required for entering Phuentsholing. However, the entry gate from India closes at 20:30 (IST). Bhutan time is half hour ahead of Indian time. You can stay in hotels in Phuentsholing without permit. The permit is made at Phuentsholing for onward visit to Thimphu and Paro only. For visiting other places in Bhutan like Punakha or Bumthang, the permit is made at Thimphu.\u00a0Regional tourists entering Bhutan via Air can get the Entry Permit at the Paro International Airport.<\/li>\n
  3. Staying in Jaigaon is cheaper, and availability is not an issue during offseason.<\/li>\n
  4. Indians do not require a visa to travel to Bhutan but need a permit. Obtaining the permit may take as long as half a day. Permits are issued at Phuentsholing. Identification proof like Voter ID Card or Passport is needed. However, you can also get them at Kolkata<\/li>\n
  5. Indians can withdraw Bhutanese currency using their Indian debit card at a charge of INR20 per transaction.<\/li>\n
  6. Indian currency is widely accepted.<\/li>\n
  7. Travel time from Phuentsholing to Thimpu is around 7 hours by road.<\/li>\n
  8. The road is mostly mountainous and must be avoided by those with fear of heights.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

     <\/p>\n

    To make your travel a little easy, we\u2019ve curated the top five best spots which are a must visit when you are in Bhutan:<\/p>\n

    Here is the list of top 5 places to visit in BHUTAN: <\/b><\/strong><\/p>\n

      \n
    1. <\/b>PARO TAKSTANG OR TIGER’S NEST:<\/b><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
      \"Travel<\/a>
      Paro Taktsang<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

      The Tiger’s Nest Monastery hangs on a cliff and stands above an enchanting forest of blue pines and rhododendrons. The peaceful serene beauty and clean air, surrounded by unlevelled mountains, lush green fields and historical buildings make Paro the foremost popular destination in Bhutan. Paro receives maximum number of tourists year round. Paro is a historic town with peaceful atmosphere and it is best explored on foot. The construction of the temple complex dates back to 1692. Located 3120 meters above the sea level in Paro Valley, this monastery is the cultural icon of Bhutan. The complex hangs to a cliff which makes it all the more unique and fascinating Though reaching this wonderful monastery may be challenging (900 metres climb), it is definitely worth a visit . A horse \u00a0can be arranged for the ride up, but only until the cafeteria. From then on, it is another steep walk and some narrow stairs towards the monastery itself. This certainly will be a major highlight of any journey to Bhutan. \u00a0The trail crosses a chapel of butter lamps and descends to a waterfall by the Snow Lion Cave. The view of the Paro valley from here on is breathtaking, and the atmosphere very holy, a place where Guru Rinpoche or Padmasambhava meditated for three years, three months, three weeks, three days and three hours back in the 8th century, says the legend related to Paro Taktsang history. He brought Buddhism into Bhutan, arriving on the back of a tigress.<\/p>\n

      Best time\/season:<\/strong> March to May and September to November. It is 10 miles{20 minutes car ride} to the home base.<\/p>\n

      What to bring:<\/strong> Hiking shoes, lots of water, a few snacks, camera<\/p>\n

      Not Allowed inside the monastry:<\/strong> Backpacks, photography equipment, shoes. Need to be left with the security outside the monastry walls.<\/p>\n

      Children:<\/strong> Trail above is slow, steady and steep that most kids above seven years only are able to handle.<\/p>\n

      <\/p>\n

      2. Punakha Dzong:<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\n

      \"Places<\/a>
      Bhutan Travel<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

      Punakha Dzong or Palace of Great Happiness is also the country’s most gorgeous and majestic dzong built in the 17th century. It looks like something out of a fairytale. It is the second largest Dzong in Bhutan and is known for its brilliant structure. Punakha is the winter capital of this country and the head clergy of Bhutan spends the winter in this popular Dzong. The Punakha Dzong is situated at 1,200 metres and the very first national assembly was held here in 1953. \u00a0To finish the building of this dzong took a year and the most interesting fact is that this building has no usage of nails. Almost every national treasure of the country is kept here, and in here the king of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck got married to the Queen Jetsun Pema in 2011. \u00a0It is placed strategically and majestically in between two rivers, Pho Chu (male) and Mo Chu (females) that have noticeable color differences between the waters, which makes it more picturesque. Punakha Dzong joined to the mainland by an arched wooden bridge and contains many precious relics from the days when successive kings reigned the kingdom over this valley. Furthermore, it is blessed with a temperate climate, and lovely lilac colored jacaranda trees grow around the Dzong during the spring season.<\/p>\n

      Best time\/season:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0The best time to visit the Punakha Dzong is mid-May when lavender coloured jacaranda trees blossom.<\/p>\n

      Key attractions:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0The intricate paintings and the architecture of the fort, sacred relics of the southern Drukpa Lineage of Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, and the sacred remains of Ngawang Namgyal and the tert\u00f6n Pema Lingpa.<\/p>\n

      Opening hours: 8 am \u2013 5 pm<\/p>\n

      <\/p>\n

        \n
      1. <\/b>Tashichho Dzong:<\/b><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
        \"Best<\/a>
        Visit Tashichho Dzong<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

        Located at the northern end of the city, it is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Bhutan with a remarkable architectural structure. This is one of the famous Dzongs in the country and regarded as the largest landmark of Thimphu. Thimphu is culturally a must visit place graced with old world charms and modernity. A popular fortress set on the edge of the city\u2019s border, this monastery is a delight to watch as it is set on the western banks of River Wang Chu. More commonly known as the Thimphu Dzong, it is also called the ‘fortress of glorious religion’. The impressive structure with white washed walls, golden, red and black wood and lush gardens in a backdrop of blue sky and flourishing green valleys, emanates a look of splendour. The Dzong is situated two kilometers away from the actual town and holds huge importance as it is the main secretariat and its houses are the office of the throne room , the government, and the king as well. Some of the central monastic bodies and some people from the ministry live here and this is the summer residence of the monks too. Try not to miss the 5 pm changing of the flag, as it begins in the courtyard and ends outside in the front. Other top sightseeing places that are popularly explored in Thimphu are Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Dechencholing Palace, Clock Tower Square, and Motithang Takin Preserve. Travellers arriving in Thimphu are sure to be pleasantly surprised by the spectacular views over the surrounding region\u2019s natural beauty as well as by the range of amenities available as its the capital of the small country.<\/p>\n

        Best time\/season:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0March to May and September to November<\/p>\n

        Timings:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0Monday to Friday \u2013 9 am to 5 pm, and 5:30 to 6 pm; Saturday & Sunday \u2013 9 am to 5 pm<\/p>\n

        <\/p>\n

          \n
        1. <\/b>PHOBJIKHA VALLEY (WANGDUE):<\/b><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
          \"Best<\/a>
          Visit PHOBJIKHA VALLEY (WANGDUE) Bhutan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

          Phobjikha is a small town in the central part of Bhutan.This glacial valley in Phobjikha, elevation 2900m (9500 feet), lies about 140 kilometres east of Thimphu. Phobjikha is bestowed with valleys and is surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, making it one of the top Bhutan attractions. The place is known also known as Gangteng Valley, for its beautiful landscapes and passes and a day\u2019s hike will take you through the town and the woods. This place is at the border of the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park. This ever enchanting land is where \u00a0to experience the big flock of black-necked cranes at the winter time from their summer home in Tibet. As the cranes arrive in the last week of October, they circle around the Gangteng Monastery roof three times before landing in the valley\u2019s wetlands, and repeat this unique process as they leave for Tibet again in March. The reason the cranes do this is unknown, and Buddhists see it as an auspicious sign or good omen, and the whole area of the valley where the cranes roost for winter is protected. As it is at the side of the crucial wildlife sanctuary in the country, you might also see some barking deer nearby as well or hear their sounds. In addition to the cranes, you can sight muntjacs (barking deer), wild boars, sambars, serows, Himalayan black bears, leopards and red foxes in the surrounding hills. Apart from the wildlife in Bhutan, other attractions in Phobjikha are Gangte Goemba, Nyelung Dechenling, Khewang Lhakhang, Kumbhu Lhakhang, Damchen Lhakhang, White Chorten and Wangmo Hand-Woven Carpet Factory. Not just that, as picturesque and quiet this place maybe, Phobjikha witnesses thrilling festivals as well. Held every year in the confines of the Phobjikha Valley, Tsechu Festival and the Crane Festival that welcomes the black-necked cranes are vigorously celebrated in the Gangten Monastery courtyard. It is an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts who like activities like hiking and trekking. On your trip to Bhutan, do not forget to take a scenic drive to Phobjikha Valley. There are numerous hiking trails throughout the Pobjikha Valley that go through villages, forests and alpine meadows. The Gangtey Nature Trail is the most popular hike and takes about 90 minutes to complete. The three day trek through the valley is popular, and hundreds of birdwatchers come to the area in October and March to witness the amazing spectacle of the cranes.<\/p>\n

          Best time\/ season: <\/b><\/strong>October to March<\/p>\n

          <\/p>\n

            \n
          1. <\/b>Chele La Pass:<\/b><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
            \"Best<\/a>
            Visit Chele Le Pass Bhutan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

            If you are enthusiastic about high altitude mountain passes, Chele La will definitely flatter your senses. It is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, situated at a height of almost 3988 metres above the sea level. This picturesque spot is a 36 km drive away from Paro Town. Chele La makes for an excellent road for an interesting road excursion. The scenic beauty of this place is beyond description. Lying above the virgin forests of the Haa Valley in Paro District, the pass offers some stunning views of the waterfalls, forests, and alpine valleys surrounding it. This pass separates Paro Valley from Haa Valley. The panoramic views of the snow-capped mountain peaks from here can entice any photographer in the world. Alongside the road heading up to the pass are hundreds of poles adorned with prayer flags that have been erected by the locals to scare off demons and evil spirits.<\/p>\n

            Best time\/ season:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0October to November when the skies are clear.<\/p>\n

            <\/p>\n

             <\/p>\n

            While in Bhutan, you may want to buy these souvenirs:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0Yathra. A brightly coloured woven material made from wool and dyed with natural colours. It is sold in pieces or sewn into jackets, bags, rugs and wall hangings. Yathra is available in Thimphu and other cold areas, but is a specialty of the Jakar area. Dappa. Hand made wooden bowls. The halves of the bowl fit tightly together so they can be used to carry cooked food, which is their function in Bhutan. However, they also make excellent salad or cookie bowls. Dappa are a specialty of the Trashi Yangste region, but can be purchased throughout the country. Bangchung. Small bamboo woven baskets with two tightly fitting halves. They are a specialty of southern Bhutan, but available throughout the country. Woven cloth. Bhutanese handwoven fabric is prized around the world, and is available stitched into clothing, wall hangings, table mats and rugs. Colourful Masks, Handmade Paper or Daystro,Postal Stamps, Himalayan Beads or Dzi Beads, Thangkas or Buddhist paintings drawn on cotton or silk and many more .<\/p>\n

            Places to visit other than the ones written above: <\/b><\/strong>Chomolhari,\u00a0<\/b><\/strong>Zuri Dzong Hike, Gangtey Valley in winter,Rinpung Dzong, Manas National Park, Gasa,Bumthang,Trongsa,Paro,Motithas Takin Preserve,Jigme Dori National Park,Buddha Dordemma statue,Paro Suspension Bridge,Simply Bhutan,National Museum Of Bhutan,Drukgyel Dzong,Dolucha Pass,Jakas,Main street Paro,Simtokha Dzong,Tago Buddhist Monastry, Haa Valley, Phuentsholing, Folk Heritage Museum, and Philatelic museum, Make sure to include all the above places and many more in your itinerary to enrich your experience of Bhutan even more.<\/p>\n

            Activities to do in Bhutan:<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0Rafting, Trekking, Kayaking,bMountain Biking,Rock Climbing, Archery,Wildlife Safari, Bhutanese Festivals, Bird Watching, Hot Spring Therapy etc.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

            Situated in South Asia’s Eastern Himalayas, there’s an endlessly fascinating place on earth known as The kingdom of Bhutan, or Dzongkha. Bhutan has remained a country where age old customs and traditions are still part of everyday lives of the people, even while modernization, development and the strains of global influence are felt more and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19961,"featured_media":87697,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[11193,11190,8391],"class_list":{"0":"post-87690","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-travel","8":"tag-international-destinations","9":"tag-top-5","10":"tag-tourism"},"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/87690","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19961"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=87690"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/87690\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":87728,"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/87690\/revisions\/87728"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/87697"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=87690"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=87690"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mapsofindia.com\/my-india\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=87690"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}