Bhutan, a land-locked country covering approximately 4,700 sq km, is a beloved and popular travel destination for many. While it was only opened to outsiders in the 1970s, it has quickly become a top choice for travelers from all over the world. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique way of life, Bhutan is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure and new experiences.
How to Reach Bhutan
If you're planning a trip to Bhutan, you have two options for getting there. The first is to travel overland from Phuentsholing (Bhutan-India border), but if you're looking for a quicker and more convenient option, flying is the way to go. At Outfitter Himalaya Holidays, we offer flight packages to help you reach Bhutan with ease.
The easiest and most common way is by air, with flights available from Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore. Once you arrive in Bhutan, your tour will begin and end there. If you're coming from Nepal, there is a regular flight between the two countries that you can take advantage of. No matter how you get there, Bhutan is sure to be a unique and unforgettable destination.
The Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Bhutan is a country that can be visited at any time of the year, as each season has its own unique appeal. Whether you prefer the lush greenery of summer, the colorful foliage of autumn, the snow-capped mountains of winter, or the blooming flowers of spring, Bhutan has something to offer. So, it's entirely up to you to choose the best time to visit based on your preferences. Here's some information about the different seasons and what they have to offer.
Spring Season (March, April and May)
March, April, and May mark the Spring season in Bhutan, a time when the country's landscape bursts into a colorful display of blooming flowers and budding plants. Botanists and nature enthusiasts flock to Bhutan during this time to witness the beauty of rhododendrons, wild azaleas, and edelweiss covering the meadows like a vibrant carpet. If you're planning a trip to Bhutan, Spring is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit and experience the country's natural wonders.
Summer Season (June, July and August)
The months of June, July, and August mark the Summer Season, a time of vibrant colors and lush greenery. Flowers are in full bloom, and the banks of rivers are adorned with weeping willows. Even pine cones seem to sparkle in the sunlight. However, it's worth noting that the Summer Season also brings rain, which can deter some visitors from traveling to Bhutan during this time.
Autumn Season (September, October and November)
As the summer heat fades away, the autumn season brings a stunning transformation to the landscape. The fields turn a golden hue as farmers harvest their crops, creating a picturesque scene under the clear blue skies. In Bhutan, this season offers a breathtaking view of the country's natural beauty, making it an ideal time to visit. Whether you're exploring the countryside or taking in the local culture, autumn in Bhutan is a truly unforgettable experience.
Winter Season (December, January and February)
During the winter season, which spans from December to February, Bhutan offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered Himalayan Mountain ranges. While the days are sunny, the evenings can be chilly, and soft clouds often hang over the mountain tops. Despite the cold weather, it is still possible to visit Bhutan during this time and experience the beauty of the winter landscape. However, it is important to be prepared for the chilly conditions.
Bhutan Visa Information
If you're planning a trip to Bhutan, it's important to know that you cannot obtain a visa upon arrival. However, the process of obtaining a visa is relatively straightforward. To get a Bhutan visa, you must apply through a licensed travel agency like Outfitter Himalaya. Once you book a tour with us, we will handle the visa application process on your behalf, ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation to enter the country.
Bhutan Tour Cost
If you're planning a trip to Bhutan, it's important to know that the government sets the tour cost. This means that the tariff is the same for all tours, and it's important to note that the cost for trekking in Bhutan is higher. Currently, the set tour tariff is the US $450 per night per person.
When planning a tour of Bhutan, it's important to consider the costs involved. The tour cost typically covers a range of expenses, including meals, government taxes, entrance fees, and accommodations at 3-star hotels. You'll also have a tour guide and driver, as well as land transport within the tour. However, it's important to note that expenses such as drinks, bottled water, phone calls, laundry, tips, and insurance are not included in the tour cost and should be budgeted for separately.
For those interested in trekking or upgrading to a higher star hotel, there may be an additional surcharge applied to the overall cost.
Bhutan Tourism Policy
Bhutan's tourism policy is unique in that it prioritizes sustainability and cultural preservation over mass tourism. The country limits the number of tourists allowed to visit each year and requires visitors to pay a daily fee that goes towards supporting the country's infrastructure and conservation efforts. This approach has helped to maintain Bhutan's reputation as an exclusive and authentic travel destination, known for its remote and pristine natural environment and rich cultural heritage.
Bhutan's tourism industry has great potential for growth and development, but the government has implemented a unique approach to ensure sustainable and responsible tourism. Known as the "High Value, Low Impact" policy, Bhutan aims to create an exclusive and high-yield image for the country while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and local culture. This approach has helped to maintain Bhutan's pristine natural beauty and preserve its unique cultural heritage for future generations to enjoy.
Bhutan Tourism vision
Bhutan's vision for tourism is to showcase the country as a unique and exclusive travel destination that embodies the values of Gross National Happiness (GNH). This means that the tourism industry in Bhutan is committed to promoting sustainability by ensuring that tourism activities are environmentally friendly, socially and culturally acceptable, and economically viable. By prioritizing these principles, Bhutan aims to offer visitors a truly authentic and meaningful travel experience.
The government of Bhutan has acknowledged the significance of tourism as a global trend and a crucial tool for achieving socioeconomic progress, especially for a developing nation like Bhutan. As such, they have prioritized the development of tourism in their vision for the country's growth and development.