Starting September 23, 2022, visitors will be able to experience one of the world’s most beautiful descents, flying down to Paro airport in the Himalayan mountain kingdom of Bhutan. Are you planning your first trip to Bhutan? Read on to find all the interesting travel activities and places to see in Bhutan.
Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, peaceful society, and diverse natural scenery range from the Himalayan mountains in the north to lush jungles in the south.
The wonders include remarkable biodiversity and landscapes, life-altering hikes, treks, rafting routes, cultural activities, and a welcoming population offering butter tea and spicy food upon your trip to Bhutan.
Dive into the Ultimate Guide to Bhutan Trip for First-Time Visitor only with Norbu Bhutan Travels to learn about Bhutan’s culture, nature, best adventure spots, and other helpful travel information to inspire your trip to this mystical Himalayan Kingdom.
1. Bhutan Visa & Entry Permits
Overseas tourists must hire a tour operator to obtain a Bhutan visa, who will handle the application and follow-up, while regional visitors must obtain Entry Permits.
Bhutan’s “high value, low impact” tourist policy mandates regulations to protect its culture and environment, which includes revised tourism fees.
Previously costing $65 per night per person, Bhutan’s daily SDF for visitors has increased to $200 for oversea tourists and BTN1200 for regional tourists.
VISA Requirements
- All visitors, except visitors from India, will require a visa on their trip to Bhutan.
- Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals will be eligible for a visa on arrival at the port of entry.
- A copy of your passport is required. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of intentional departure from the Kingdom.
- Travel insurance covers you for the duration of your trip.
- A recent passport-sized photo.
- Children under the age of five are exempt from the SDF.
2. Covid-19 Update
Despite the Bhutanese government’s recommendation that tourists get the covid vaccine, there are no vaccination requirements or mandatory quarantine periods for COVID-19.
All individuals entering Bhutan (12 years and older) may be subjected to sample RT-PCR testing at entry points.
But those who test positive for COVID-19 must stay in quarantine at the hotel until their test results are negative at their own expense.
The traveler will also be liable for the cost of the additional PCR tests. The SDF, however, will be waived during the quarantine period.
3. Places To See In Bhutan
- Paro Rinpung Dzong
Rinpung Dzong which translates to “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels”, located in Paro is the place to be if you want to see Bhutan’s top-notch architecture on your trip to Bhutan.
It is home to 14 shrines and chapels, making it one of Bhutan’s most important religious sites. A major attraction is the Nyamai Zam bridge, which spans the Paro Chhu River and is ideal for photographers.
- Paro National Museum
There is no better way to learn about a place’s culture and history than visiting its most well-known museum, the National Museum of Bhutan.
The National Museum of Bhutan is located in the Paro district, above the Paro Dzong.
The structure of the building is distinct from other historical monuments in Bhutan. It has six floors, each dedicated to a different collection category.
The museum’s main attraction is a mule’s egg that is kept here. There are also interesting collections of arms, ritual objects, clothing, jewelry, and other items dating back decades.s
- Simtokha Dzong, Thimphu
Simtokha Dzong and Thimphu Dzong are two of Bhutan’s most well-known and prominent tourist attractions. The historical significance of this location can be appraised by the fact that it was the first of its kind when it was built in 1629.
Simtokha Dzong is now a museum and a leading Dzongkha language learning center.
4. Experience Bhutan Like A Local
- Aum Om’s Homestay in Paro
Aum Om’s homestay is one of the most popular homestays in Paro, located at Satsam Chorten. The home is well-known for providing its guests with mouth-watering local dishes for meals.
Its cozy rooms and low prices make it one of the valley’s most popular homestays on your trip to Bhutan. Aum Om’s homestay, like the hotels, offers free Wi-Fi. Hot stone bathing is also available at the homestay.
- Wangchuk Group of Hotels and Resort
Discover the new locations of Wangchuk Group of Hotels and Resort at Phobjikha & Bumthang with accommodation and warm hospitality for tourists who prefer luxury.
During their leisure trip to Bhutan, guests can experience and enjoy various landscapes and cultures.
- Bhutan Farmstay
Bhutan is well-known for its farm stays, which is a must for travelers who want to experience Bhutan like a local. These farm stays provide insight into the farmer’s lifestyle and daily chores.
It is an experience of staying on farms and seeing Bhutanese farming.
Not to mention the delicious homemade food and unrivaled hospitality from the locals. Bundling Wildlife Sanctuary in Trashigang, Gubjithang in Punakha, and Dungtse Lhakhang are some farm stay options in Bhutan.
5. Travel Activities in Bhutan
- Trekking and Hiking
You can get your adrenaline pumping with hikes and treks in the national parks and winding valleys that cover more than half of the country.
Some of the best hikes include the Phajoding Monastery, which provides insight into the rural lifestyle in the mountains, and the challenging Talakha Hike for an unforgettable journey through the Himalayas,
- Motorcycling Thrill-Seekers
Mountain biking excursions around Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha Valley are some of the top travel activities in Bhutan for tourists.
You’ll be stunned by the epic views around every corner as you speed through the mountains on treacherous roads on your trip to Bhutan.
Motorcycle riding in Bhutan is not for the faint of heart. But with a valid motorcycle license from your home country, bike riding across Bhutan is sure to keep your adrenaline pumping.
- Tshachu Dhur(Hotsprings)
Dhur Tshachu is a hiker’s paradise and one of Bhutan’s most beautiful hot springs. Reaching Dhur Tshachu, like Denman Tshachu, is challenging.
It takes three days of hiking to get here, but consider the refreshing bath at the end of those three days! With healing properties, hot springs are a must-experience for visitors visiting Bhutan.
- Kayaking and Rafting
Bhutan has everything from thrilling bike rides to kayaking and rafting activities for tourists. You can enjoy exhilarating water adventures by kayaking and rafting across the popular Mo and Pho Chhu as you take the scenic view of Punakha dzong.
Bhutan has a section of the river for everyone, from beginners to experts.
6. Organic Cuisine
The famous saying goes that if you haven’t tried Bhutanese food and drinks like Ema Datsi (chilies and cheese) and suja, you haven’t been to Bhutan. Throughout the country, the food, while simple, tastes delicious!
Bhutanese adore chilies, which are not only used as a seasoning but also as a main ingredient in food, and in some cases, the only ingredient!
Wander the streets of Thimphu’s Norzin Lam, Phendey Lam, and Chang Lam, teeming with people, shops, and eateries on your trip to Bhutan.
Bhutanese cuisine typically includes proteins such as chicken, pork, and beef, as well as red rice, kewa datshi (potatoes with cheese), vegetables with cheese, and ema datshi.
If you enjoy traveling to new places and learning about different cultures, Bhutan is the best place to visit in 2022. Bhutan consistently features as a top hotspot destination for travelers from all over the world for many reasons.
Stay up-to-date on our most recent travel information before planning your Bhutan trip. Take the less-traveled path and embark on a tour filled with spiritual benchmarks as you plan your trip to Bhutan.
What’s holding you back? Contact Norbu Bhutan Travels for one-stop-shop tourism in Bhutan!
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