Best places to visit in Bhutan


Bhutan is a small and mysterious country nestled in the Himalayas. The Himalayan country is also called the last Buddhist Kingdom and even referred to as Shangri-La due to its unparalleled beauty. In the year 1974, Bhutan welcomed tourists for the first time and around 300 tourists visited in the same year.

The unique monastic architecture and the graffiti on the walls that bear paintings of penises as a sign to drive away the evil make Bhutan a sui generis destination. 

Best time to visit Bhutan

The best time to plan a vacation in Bhutan is during the spring months of March to May when the valleys come alive with flowers in bloom. The Himalayan peaks are at their most visible with the clear skies of October and this is the best time for trekking though temperatures will be on the cold side. June to August is considered the low season due to the rains, which makes trekking less of an option. 

How to reach Bhutan from India?

By Air

Paro is the only international airport in Bhutan and has connecting flights from Delhi, Bagdogra, Guwahati, and Mumbai. You can take direct flights from Kolkata to Paro.  Hence, there is more frequency of flights from Kolkata to reach Bhutan. The number of flights from Delhi and Mumbai are less as compared to Kolkata and Bagdogra. Druk Air is the national airline of Bhutan and flights can be booked only through the official websites of this airline.

By Road

Indians who wish to travel to Bhutan by road need to acquire an ‘entry permit’ from the Immigration Office of Royal Government of Bhutan in Phuensholing, which is located on the Indo-Bhutan border opposite Jaigaon, West Bengal. But this ‘entry permit’ allows an Indian tourist to visit Paro and Thimphu only. If you wish to go beyond Thimphu and Paro, then you need to obtain a ‘special area permit’ from the Royal Government of Bhutan Immigration Office in Thimphu. It is also possible to arrange the visa from Kolkata at Royal Bhutan Consulate Office. It is better to apply 10-12 days prior to your visit.

Main tourist attractions in Bhutan

  • Thimphu
  • Paro
  • Punakha
  • Trongsa
  • Jakar
  • Phobjikha
  • Jigme Dorji National Park

Main activities to do in Bhutan:

  • Rafting in Paro Chhu
  • Trekking in Mount Jomolhari
  • Kayaking in Paro Chhu
  • Mountain Biking
  • Rock Climbing
  • Fishing
  • Wildlife Safari
  • Tiger’s Nest Monastery Park
  • Attending Bhutanese Festivals
  • Bird watching

Reputed to be the last Shangri La, this one of its kind countries is certainly the best place to visit for family vacation, honeymoon tours and even for adventure holidays.