Bhutan Holiday Packages

Riven with folktales of its monasteries, fortresses and dramatic landscapes ranging from steep mountains to subtropical valleys, the Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan sits amidst the eastern Himalayas. It is deemed 'the Happiest Country in the World ". Bhutan's vibrant culture, festivals and enigmatic peaks attract over 200 thousand visitors annually. Put Bhutan on your list of leisure and ecotourism destinations with Holidify's Bhutan tour packages.

Bhutan stands out as an excellent choice for Indians. One of the most appealing aspects is the visa-free access for Indian citizens. You can explore the beauty of Bhutan without the hassle of a visa, making it an accessible and hassle-free destination. Moreover, it's fascinating that you can visit Bhutan without a passport – a unique convenience for Indian travelers.nAnother advantage is the ease of reaching Bhutan via road from India. 

Places to Visit in Bhutan 

Thimphu: Bhutan's capital city, Thimphu, offers a blend of tradition and modernity. Visit the magnificent Tashichho Dzong, which houses the king's offices and the National Assembly. Explore the bustling streets, try Bhutanese cuisine at local restaurants, and shop for traditional crafts at the weekend market.

Paro: Paro is known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural sites. Don't miss a visit to Paro Taktsang, the iconic "Tiger's Nest" monastery, perched on a cliffside. Explore the Paro Dzong, visit the National Museum, and take leisurely walks in the serene Paro Valley.

Punakha: Punakha Valley is famous for the Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress located at the confluence of two rivers. It's a cultural and architectural marvel. Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the "Fertility Temple," and enjoy the picturesque landscapes of terraced rice fields.

Bumthang Valley: Bumthang is often referred to as the "Switzerland of Bhutan" due to its lush green valleys. Explore its monasteries, including Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang. The valley is also famous for its unique cheese and honey production.

Wangdue Phodrang: : Explore the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, one of the largest dzongs in Bhutan. The town is also known for its bamboo products and traditional stone carvings. The annual Wangdue Phodrang Tsechu is a colorful festival worth attending.

Phobjikha Valley: Known for its natural beauty and conservation efforts, Phobjikha Valley is a winter home to the endangered black-necked cranes. Take nature walks, visit Gangtey Monastery, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Trongsa: Trongsa is famous for its dramatic Trongsa Dzong, perched high on a ridge. The dzong offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, and the town is a gateway to eastern Bhutan.

Things to do in Bhutan

Trek to Tiger's Nest: The hike to Paro Taktsang, or Tiger's Nest Monastery, is an unforgettable adventure. It takes about 2-3 hours to reach this iconic site, perched dramatically on a cliff. Along the way, enjoy the serene forested paths and soak in panoramic views.

Explore Thimphu's Culture: Thimphu offers a cultural immersion like no other. Don't miss the impressive Tashichho Dzong, which serves as a seat of government. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a magnificent stupa, and explore the weekend market, where you can find Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and local snacks.

Attend a Tshechu Festival: Bhutan's Tshechu festivals are vibrant celebrations of culture and religion. These colorful events feature traditional mask dances, rituals, and elaborate costumes. The Paro Tshechu and Thimphu Tshechu are among the most famous.

White-Water Rafting: If you're an adventure enthusiast, Bhutan's rivers offer thrilling white-water rafting experiences. Navigate the Punakha and Pho Chhu rivers, conquering rapids and taking in the stunning natural surroundings.

Visit Traditional Villages: To truly connect with Bhutanese culture, visit traditional villages like those in the Bumthang Valley. Engage with friendly locals, witness traditional customs, and perhaps join in a game of archery, Bhutan's national sport.

Soak in Hot Springs: Bhutan boasts natural hot springs with healing properties. Gasa Hot Springs, nestled in the Himalayan wilderness, provides a tranquil escape. Soak in the warm waters surrounded by pristine nature.

Discover Bhutanese Cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is a delightful journey of flavors. Try Ema Datshi, a spicy cheese and chili stew, or savor momo, delicious dumplings. Bhutanese restaurants offer a range of traditional dishes to tantalize your taste buds.

Why Book a Package for Bhutan?

Booking a package for Bhutan can offer several advantages, including a more convenient and hassle-free experience. Here are some reasons why you should consider booking a package for Bhutan:

Seamless Logistics: Tour operators offer packaged tours that include accommodation, transportation, meals and help you get necessary permits and visas.

Local Expertise: When you book a package, you benefit from the expertise of local tour operators who have extensive knowledge of Bhutan. They can provide valuable insights, recommendations, and guidance about the best places to visit, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-track destinations. This local knowledge can enhance your trip and help you make the most of your time in Bhutan.

Offline Hotels: Bhutan is known for its unique approach to tourism, focusing on sustainable and responsible travel. As part of this approach, many hotels in Bhutan do not have online booking systems. Instead, they work through registered tour operators. By booking a package, you can access a wide range of offline hotels that may not be available for direct booking. This allows you to experience the authentic Bhutanese hospitality and stay in traditional accommodations. Also in Bhutan, where the tourism industry is regulated, tourists are required to book their accommodations in advance through a licensed tour operator. By booking a package, you can ensure that your accommodations are taken care of, and you can enjoy a comfortable stay.

Permits and Documentation: Bhutan requires tourists to obtain a visa and special permits to enter and travel within the country. Licensed tour operators handle the process of obtaining these permits on your behalf. This ensures that you have the necessary documentation to explore the country and avoids any complications or delays.

Convenient Transportation: Booking a package often includes private transportation within Bhutan. This ensures that you have a dedicated vehicle and a local driver at your disposal, making it easier to explore the country at your own pace. The tour operator will arrange the necessary permits, guide you through the road network, and provide you with a comfortable and safe mode of transportation. They are well-equipped to handle any logistical issues and ensure a smooth journey for you.

Guided Experiences: Many package tours in Bhutan come with a knowledgeable guide who can accompany you throughout your trip. These guides are well-versed in Bhutan's history, culture, and traditions. They can provide in-depth information about the sites you visit, facilitate interactions with locals, and help you gain a deeper understanding of Bhutan's unique way of life.

When booking a package for Bhutan, it's important to know that you should book through a licensed tour operator recognized by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. We work with licensed travel agents who can help in designing a perfect itinerary.

How to Reach Bhutan? 

Air: For travelers seeking convenience and speed, reaching Bhutan by air is the most common option. Paro International Airport serves as the main gateway to the country, offering regular flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, as well as other international destinations. Flights to Paro Airport provide passengers with breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, making it a memorable start to their Bhutanese adventure.

Rail: While Bhutan does not have its own railway network, travelers can reach the country by train via New Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal, India. This major railway hub is well-connected to various Indian cities, including Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. From New Jalpaiguri, travelers can continue their journey to Bhutan by road, either by hiring private taxis or joining organized tours, enjoying scenic landscapes along the way.

Road: Road travel offers an immersive and scenic way to reach Bhutan, with entry points from neighboring Indian states such as West Bengal and Assam. Phuentsholing and Samdrup Jongkhar are two popular border towns that serve as entry points to Bhutan. From these border towns, travelers can embark on picturesque road journeys through the verdant landscapes of Bhutan. Options for transportation include private taxis, buses, or organized tours, providing flexibility and comfort for travelers exploring the enchanting beauty of Bhutan by road.
 

Best Time to Visit Bhutan

The best time to visit Bhutan is from March to May. During these spring months, Bhutan's valleys are flooded with rhododendrons, tourists and pilgrims can enjoy sightseeing under clear skies as festivities like Punakha Tshechu bring colour to life. Most of your itinerary would be driving or hiking along Lateral Road, Bhutan's primary east-west gateway from Phuentsholing.

Ideal Duration for Bhutan Trip

It takes  a minimum of 4-5 days for a Bhutan trip. Begin with exploring the capital city of Thimphu, where sightseeing spots include Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, Simtokha Dzong, Gangtey Monastery and Royal Botanical Garden. Next, visit Jungshi Paper Factory to learn how paper is made traditionally.

Visa For Bhutan 

Visa for Tourists: Traveling to Bhutan as a tourist is a distinctive experience. Unlike most countries, Bhutan does not issue individual tourist visas. Instead, tourists must book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. These operators are responsible for arranging all aspects of the trip, including visa processing.

Minimum Daily Package: Bhutan follows a policy known as the "Minimum Daily Package." This means that tourists are required to pay a fixed daily fee that covers their accommodation, meals, transportation, and the services of a licensed guide. This policy is designed to promote sustainable and high-value tourism in the country.

Booking with a Tour Operator: To begin your journey to Bhutan, you must first select a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. They will help you plan your itinerary, apply for your visa, and handle all logistics. It's essential to book your trip well in advance, as the government has a limited number of visas allocated for tourists each year.

Bhutan Visa Approval: Once you finalize your travel plans with your chosen tour operator and make the necessary payment, they will apply for your visa clearance on your behalf. This process usually takes a few weeks. Once your visa is approved, you'll receive a visa clearance letter.

Visa on Arrival: You won't receive a traditional visa stamp in your passport before arriving in Bhutan. Instead, you'll present your visa clearance letter to the immigration authorities upon arrival at the Paro International Airport or another designated entry point. They will issue your visa, usually with a validity matching the duration of your tour.

Passport Validity: It's crucial to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Bhutan. This is a standard requirement for international travel.
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