How to Travel to Bhutan

I first heard of Bhutan 11 years ago while researching the happiest countries on Earth. Bhutan intrigued me—a small kingdom in the middle of the Himalayas with limited diplomatic relations with the outside world. Even more impressive is Bhutan’s commitment to sustainability; it is the only carbon-negative country in the world and the only country to reject the notion of Gross Domestic Product as a measure of success, opting instead for Gross National Happiness. I knew I had to visit Bhutan, and finally, 11 years later, I did.

How to Visit Bhutan

Bhutan is a unique country; up until 2022, foreigners (except Indian nationals) could not travel independently without a certified tour guide and driver. Foreigners can now travel without a guide; however, this is limited to the two western valleys of Paro and Thimphu. Since almost everyone traveling in Bhutan goes beyond these two places, they typically book their travel through a travel company.

There are several travel companies in Bhutan. I went with Druk Asia, which is regarded as one of the best, if not the best, in the country. They offer tours ranging from 3 to 28 days, but you can customize your trip as you see fit. I wanted to focus on the culture, so I chose the “7 Day Essential Bhutan Travel Itinerary.”

Once you decide on the type of tour, simply send them a message and they’ll get back to you (usually within 1 business day). 

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Bhutan

For my 7 day, 6 night adventure, it cost exactly $3370. The cost was actually a bit lower, but I paid for the trip with my credit card, which meant a 5% transaction cost. You can pay by wire transfer too, a much cheaper option (I’m lazy and didn’t feel like doing all that work). The $3370 included the following:

• Private guided tour
• Flight in and out of Bhutan
• Visas for Bhutan
• Airport transfers
• Daily 3 meals (B/L/D) at designated restaurants or hotels
• Accommodation at a 3-star hotel
• A qualified & licensed English-speaking guide
• An experienced driver
• A tour vehicle
• Entry fees & road permits
• Government fee, royalty, taxes & surcharges
• Mineral bottled water
• Set of traditional clothing (to be return at the end of your stay)
• Full service & assistance before, during and after your Bhutan trip

Unfortunately, you can only enter Bhutan from a few select cities, such as Bangkok, Kathmandu, Singapore, New Delhi, and Dubai. Consequently, you’ll need to book a round-trip ticket from your home base to one of the aforementioned cities, and this cost is not included. I live in Beijing, China, so I chose Bangkok since it was the easiest to get to and doesn’t require a visa for Americans.

Tipping is not necessary but greatly appreciated. For my 7 day tour, I tipped the driver and guide, $50 and $70, respectively. 

I also paid $25 to experience a traditional Bhutanese bath.

$4115 total

• $3370 for the tour, visa, hotel, food, transport in and out of Bhutan, etc
• $600 round trip from Beijing to Bangkok
• $120 in for tips for the driver and guide 
• $25 for the traditional hot stone bath 

Bhutan’s high fees are a result of the country’s “high reward, low impact” approach. This is done to ensure high quality tourism, limit massive tourism, and preserve their ecological balance. Some criticize this policy as one that only allows wealthy tourists to visit. In a sense, I can agree with this; however, I understand Bhutan’s need to preserve its culture and land. 

7-Day Bhutan Itinerary 

Day 1: Arrive in Paro

You’ll likely arrive in the early morning and immediately make your way to the capital of Thimphu, which is roughly an hour’s drive from Paro Airport. The first stop after checking in to your hotel will be a traditional lunch.

Following this, you’ll visit the National Memorial Chorten.

The final stop for the day is a drive up to Buddha Point in the Kuenselphodrang Nature Park to see the 169-foot-tall bronze statue of the seated Buddha Dordenma.

Day 2: Thimphu

You’ll start off with a morning hike up to Choekhortse Goemba, a private temple where monks meditate. This is a scenic hike and a great way to see the entire city.

After the hike is the Royal Takin Preserve. The takin is Bhutan’s national animal, and a very unique looking one. It looks like a combination of a buffalo and cow. 

Following this preserve and lunch is Simply Bhutan—an interactive living museum that provides an introduction to Bhutanese traditions. One thing you’ll learn here is the worship of penises. Yes, you heard that correctly. Penises are important, so expect to see penis paraphernalia everywhere.

The last stop is Thimphu Dzong, a fortress which dates back to 1641. 

Day 3: Punakha 

Prepare for a bit of drive as you make your way to Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital until 1955. The first stop is at Dochula Pass. Weather permitting, you’ll see 360-degree views of the Himalayas. 

The highlight of the day is Punakha Dzong. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built this in 1637 to serve as the religious and administrative seat of the region. This place is spectacular; the attention to detail and artistic patterns make it so unique to anything you’ve ever seen. I highly recommend you wear traditional Bhutanese clothing on this day; it goes well with the background and makes for a nice photo. 

Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge is the final stop for the day. This 160 metre bridge is the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, which gives you spectacular views of Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.

Day 4: Punakha to Gangtey

This is mainly a hiking day, so wear comfortable clothing. These are some of the most beautiful views in Bhutan – vibrant, green, and free. After the hike, you’ll enter a small village with a beautiful temple.

Day 5 : Back to Paro

You and your guide will make the four-hour journey back to Paro, stopping for lunch along the way. Once you’re back in Paro, you’ll stop on the main strip of the town, where you’ll have the rest of the day to yourself. This is a perfect opportunity to buy souvenirs. I’m not much of a gift guy, but Bhutan has a lot of neat things. You can purchase anything ranging from herbal teas native to Bhutan to Buddhist artifacts, clothing, incense, and more.

Day 6: Paro – Tiger’s Nest

The moment you’ve been waiting for—the hike to Tiger’s Nest, also known as Taktsang Monastery. This is the most iconic site in the country and the heart and soul of Bhutan. The hike should take about four to five hours altogether, including a coffee break midway, visiting the monastery, photography, and more. Pictures don’t do it justice; Tiger’s Nest is beyond incredible! Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside, so I cannot show you the interior beauty of the monastery, but trust me when I say this place is worth the hype.

After a long hike, I stopped for lunch and went back to my hotel to rest for an hour. Afterwards, my guide arranged for a special Bhutanese traditional hot stone bath. The process of a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath is unique. It uses Menchu (medicinal water), which is nothing but fresh river water mixed with Artemisia leaves. The water is heated using river stones that are roasted on fire till they are glowing red. It is said that these leaves relax the muscles and promote healing. 

Day 7: Depart Bhutan

Your guide and driver will drop you off at Paro airport in the morning. This airport is small, so expect to get through immigration and security rather quickly. There are some gift shops near the boarding gates if you need to do some last minute gift shopping. 

Is Bhutan Worth It?

Absolutely! Bhutan is truly one of a kind, and I understand why it’s considered one of the world’s hidden gems. While it may be pricey to visit, the exceptional service and breathtaking views more than compensate for the cost. If Bhutan is on your bucket list, make it happen! 🙂