Bhutan Tour – Getting Into Bhutan, Reserving Hotels, and Touring the Country

a farmhouse in bhutan | bhutan homestay experience

Whether you’re looking to visit Bhutan, or already are, it’s important to make sure you know the ins and outs of the country, and how to get there. This article will help you prepare for your trip to the country, including tips for getting into Bhutan, reserving hotels, and touring the country.

Bhutan tour

Bhutan Tourism policy 2022

Developing a sound tourism policy for Bhutan was an effort to provide a sustainable approach to a rapidly growing tourism industry. Bhutan’s Royal Government recognizes tourism as an important economic sector for Bhutan. It also acknowledges the importance of tourism as a tool for socio-economic development. It is important for tourism to be economically, socially and ecologically viable. Tourism promotes deeper understanding among people and strengthens friendships based on cultural appreciation. It also helps to fund free healthcare and education in Bhutan through the collection of Sustainable development fees from every tourist visiting Bhutan.

The Bhutan tourism policy aims to protect the natural environment and cultural heritage. It also promotes a peaceful and sustainable environment for the people. Bhutan’s tourism policy is unique in that it does not involve over commercialism in tourism. Instead, it is a pragmatic approach to sustainability. The sustainable development fees have been raised to USD 200 daily per person from the previous USD 65 per person. However, tourist can book their own trip directly and avail their visa themselves or book a packaged tour such as the trips offered by Always Bhutan.

Getting into Bhutan

Getting into Bhutan has become more convenient thanks to the development of roads. Earlier, Bhutan was cut off from the rest of the world. It was only accessible by foot from two main entry points, which required travelers to cross high mountain passes. Since the 1960s, however, the country has entered the global community and its economy has become more accessible.

Visitors should be prepared for a long journey. It takes at least ten hours to travel from the western entry point to the eastern entry point. The journey takes visitors through the sub-tropical areas of Bhutan and into the capital city of Thimphu.

Bhutan is known for its pristine beauty. However, it also suffers from erratic weather conditions. Travelers should wear warm clothes and comfortable shoes.

Highlights of Bhutan

The National Museum of Bhutan exhibits hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artifacts. It also displays hand-crafted implements for daily life. It also has a traditional dress collection.

The Taktsang monastery, which is also known as the Tiger’s Nest, is a famous landmark of Bhutan. It is situated on an 800-meter rock cliff and is regarded as one of the country’s most important monasteries.

Archery is a popular sport in Bhutan. Visitors can watch local people participate in the sport. Bhutanese cuisine is largely organic. The country’s dishes often contain large amounts of chilli.

Bhutan is a Buddhist country. Visitors should dress modestly and remove their hats and caps when entering religious and administrative premises.

Flying to Bhutan

Getting to Bhutan by flight is a great way to see the Himalayan Kingdom in style. Bhutan has one international airport at Paro, about an hour’s drive from Thimphu. Depending on your itinerary, you may have to make multiple flights, allowing for at least three to four hours between flights.

Bhutan has a long history of protecting its natural resources. It has been a country of isolation for centuries. Today, you can reach Bhutan by flying from Kathmandu, Delhi, Singapore, Bangkok, or Kolkata.

Bhutan is known for its pristine nature, spiritualism, and mysticism. Its history is centuries old, and most Bhutanese still live the same way they did in the past.

Bhutan has many cultural sites and festivals. You can take in the sights, sounds, and smells by attending a religious festival or two. You can also visit a monasteries, sell goods to monks, and watch the sacred mask dances.

Bhutan has become popular for trekking, biking, camping, and other adventure activities. Bhutan is a beautiful country, and you should make the most of it. Getting there isn’t easy, but it is definitely worth it.

One thing you can do to ensure you’re getting the best deal on your trip is to book early. Bhutan has only a handful of airlines, so a reservation is essential. This way you can secure your hotel room and flight tickets.

You’ll also want to check with your airline to find out if they’ve added any new routes. Some airlines have been known to change their schedules at the last minute.

Tour experiences

Taking a Bhutan tour is a great way to experience the country’s beauty. The country offers something for everyone from natural beauty to modern day charm. The best tour operators will also be able to offer you a Bhutan tour that goes beyond the usual tourist activities. This includes a cultural excursion that will leave you with a lasting impression of Bhutan’s rich traditions. You can also help cook dinner for a Bhutanese family and take a traditional stone bath.

A Bhutan tour is an excellent way to get to know this small but mighty country. This secluded Himalayan kingdom is a bastion of Buddhist culture. Besides the usual sightseeing and shopping, the tour also has a few notable natural landmarks to check out.

You might not be able to visit every corner of the country but the best tour operators will ensure that you are able to see the most important sites and experience the best of the country. There is a large number of qualified and experienced tour guides in Bhutan. Many of these guides have taken language courses in other countries and will be able to speak multiple languages. Your local guide can also offer you the chance to meet a local farmer and participate in local activities. This includes archery and cooking lessons.

Hotels in Bhutan

During a Bhutan tour, visitors can choose from a wide range of 3-star categories and above Bhutanese hotels. These hotels offer accommodations that reflect the natural beauty of the country. They also provide basic amenities. Many of the hotels are built in traditional Bhutanese styles. They are also located in locations that provide scenic views of the country.

Amankora is one of the most popular hotels in Bhutan. It is located in several villages in the country and features luxurious accommodations. It is also known for its eco-friendly design. The name “Amankora” is derived from the Sanskrit word for “peace.” Guests are allowed to move between hotels in Bhutan to experience a variety of experiences.

Amankora’s Choekhor Valley lodges offer luxurious accommodations in a peaceful location. The lodges are surrounded by a natural landscape of alpine forests. They also offer a wide variety of dining options and modern conveniences. The resort also provides guests with herbal treatments and appointments with traditional medicine doctors.

Amankora is one of Bhutan’s most luxurious hotels. It features a central lobby bar. It also has an indoor pool and an outdoor eating area. It also offers cultural performances and on-site massage services.

The Bhutan Flag – A Powerful Symbol of the Country’s Culture and History

flag of bhutan has yellow and orange colors | Bhutan flag

|bhutan flag

The Bhutan flag is a powerful symbol of the country’s culture and history. While the design of the flag itself dates back to the 20th century, its symbolism comes from a tradition that predates the modern nation. The country’s colors, shapes, and dragon all reflect this heritage and culture.

Dragon

The Dragon on the Bhutan flag is the national emblem of the Buddhist nation. It was first used in the 19th century and has been in use ever since. The white dragon is part of a larger dragon in the center of the red-yellow field. The dragon represents the local Tibetan name for Bhutan, the Land of the Dragon.

The dragon is a symbol of wealth and perfection, and it is a prominent feature of Bhutan’s national flag. It was originally green but has now been changed to white to symbolize purity. It represents the Bhutanese people and their hope for the nation’s prosperity. It also represents a sense of security.

The dragon’s wings are white, which represents purity, while the orange part represents the yellow Kabney, which represents the Buddhist tradition. The dragon’s claws are adorned with jewels, which represent Bhutan’s wealth and security. In 2008, the dragon was officially classified as a national emblem. The dragon also represents the ferocious commitment of the country’s guardian deities to protect the country.

Colors

The colors of the Bhutan flag are derived from the country’s Buddhist and traditional heritage. In addition, the country’s flag has a dragon, which symbolizes nobility and wealth. The dragon’s body is white, and its claws are adorned with jewels, representing the wealth of the nation. The dragon’s eyes are yellow, representing prosperity and wealth, and his snarling mouth represents the strength of both the male and female deities.

The primary colors of the Bhutan flag are orange and yellow. In addition, the flag features a large dragon in the middle. The flag is divided diagonally and is used for both print and digital projects. These two colors are also used in the country’s national airline, the Druk Air. If you are interested in designing a flag for Bhutan, you can choose from these color values to help you make your design stand out.

The yellow and orange colors of the Bhutan flag represent the country’s Buddhist heritage. While yellow and orange are traditionally associated with the government, yellow and orange are also used for religious purposes. Yellow represents the nation’s political authority and the king, while orange symbolizes the different Buddhist groups that live in the country.

The dragon on Bhutan’s flag is a prominent symbol in the country’s history. In the country’s native language, this dragon is called the Druk. In addition, the dragon represents the national wealth and perfection. Originally, the dragon was green, but it is now white, symbolizing purity and the loyalty of the various ethnic groups.

The Bhutan flag was adopted in 1949 following a treaty with India. The first national flag featured a green dragon in the center, referring to the nation’s mythical dragon, the Druk Ngonm. A photograph of the 1949 flag was used for the 1956 version of the flag.

Shape

The flag of Bhutan may have been first introduced in the late 1960s or 1970s, when the country joined the United Nations. Prior to that, the country was largely closed to the outside world. Its foreign relations were handled through the United Kingdom or India. This isolation limited the country’s opportunities to adopt its own national flag.

The current Bhutan flag has a circular shape and features a diamond-topped thunderbolt, a lotus flower, and two standing dragons. These objects have special meanings for the people of Bhutan. The dragon represents both the religious and civic aspects of the country. It is also the symbol for the nation’s wealth and security. The dragon’s open mouth represents the commitment of the country’s deities to defend its people.

The Bhutan flag has a traditional, geometric design. It is divided into two parts, the upper part is orange, and the lower half is yellow. The orange part represents the nation’s Buddhist heritage, while the yellow portion represents the royal authority. The dragon is a prominent symbol, as it is based in the nation’s ancient mythology. The white dragon is a symbol of purity and loyalty.

The Bhutan flag has undergone a few changes over the years. The first version, commissioned by the second dragon king Jigme Wangchuk, was more square-shaped than the current version. It also featured the dragon on the hoist side of the flag. The current version is made of orange and yellow, while the original was red.

Bhutan’s flag changed shape in 1956 when the third dragon king, Dasho Shingkhar Lam, visited eastern Bhutan. During his trip across the country, the king would place a flag on each tenth pony. It would fly in the air whenever the king halted for the night.

Code of conduct

The flag of Bhutan has several rules. The first one is that it must maintain the 3:2 ratio. This is the ratio in which the colors should be spread out evenly. However, the flag’s colours have changed over the years. Today, Bhutan uses a more modern colour combination – orange.

The National Assembly of Bhutan approved a code of conduct for Bhutan flag usage in 1972. The code governs the design and colours of the national flag, the size of the flag and the protocol for hoisting the flag. It also sets out the occasions on which the flag can be flown. It also defines the size of a flag, including how it should be displayed on vehicles.

Bhutan’s flag is a powerful symbol of its culture. Although the flag design dates to the early 20th century, its symbolism has been handed down from generations past. The country’s flag is a symbol of a long and rich history. In fact, it predates the modern nation.

The national flag is to be hoisted with respect. It should be hoisted during national celebrations or ceremonies. It is also hoisted at half-mast during mourning. On national days, the flag is hoisted in honor of the nation’s military and civilian heroes.

The national flag of Bhutan features a dragon from Bhutanese mythology. Its orange and white color sections symbolize the nation’s Buddhist heritage. In addition, the dragon is placed in the center of the flag to emphasize the nation’s equality with its Buddhist heritage.

Luxury Tours to Bhutan in 2023

aman kora bhutan | Top 5 star luxury hotels in Bhutan

luxury tours to bhutan

Luxury tours to Bhutan are an excellent way to see this ancient country in style and comfort. These tours offer ultra-luxury accommodations at world-class luxury hotels such as Amankora, Six Senses, and Uma by COMO. During these tours, travelers can expect privacy, serenity, and a unique experience. These luxury tours also allow travelers to choose the exact itinerary they want.

COMO Uma Paro

COMO Uma Paro offers a truly luxurious Bhutan experience. Set in a lush valley, this hotel is a stunning introduction to the Himalayan country, and a perfect end to your tour before you fly home. It has a unique ambiance, which is reminiscent of a family hotel, but still offers excellent service.

Amankora Journey

Amankora Journey is a luxury tour that combines sightseeing, trekking, and cultural immersion into the western region of Bhutan. This trip involves luxury accommodations in five unique valleys and is tailored to suit the individual interests of travelers. The journey includes spa services and gourmet cuisine, and each hotel has its own unique atmosphere and ambiance. Guests of this luxury tour also enjoy a complimentary one-hour massage every day of their stay.

COMO Uma Thimphu

The COMO Uma Thimphu hotel is the ideal spot for luxury travellers looking for a luxury tour in Bhutan. The hotel’s expert staff can help you make the most of your stay in this enchanting country. You’ll visit the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery and the Temple of the Divine Madman. You’ll also enjoy scenic drives and unique nature walks. Afterwards, take a helicopter tour of the Laya Valley, which has been described as a hidden paradise. Also, visit the lush Punakha Valley, where you’ll explore ancient temples and rice paddies.

Amankora Thimphu

Amankora Thimphu is a luxurious retreat in the pine forests of the upper Motithang area of the Thimphu Valley. Nestled away from the city, it is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the capital. The hotel’s elegant dzong-style architecture features soaring ceilings, an enclosed arrival court and a combined dining and living room. A spa offers three treatment rooms, steam and sauna rooms, and a changing area.

COMO Uma Punakha

COMO Uma Punakha is a luxury hotel in Punakha, Bhutan. This small, intimate property is set in a lush valley, nestled among rice fields and orchards, overlooking a bend in the Mo Chu River. It offers Asian-inspired spa treatments and luxurious accommodation.

COMO Uma Phodrang

COMO Uma Phodrang is a luxury hotel located in Punakha, Bhutan. This beautiful town is located at an elevation of 3,100 meters. Guests can take an easy drive from the hotel to Punakha Dzong, the country’s second largest dzong. Located in the Punakha Valley, COMO Uma is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

COMO Tashichhodrang

A luxury tour to Bhutan allows you to travel in the lap of luxury and privacy. Many of these packages feature world-class hotels, spas, and resorts. You’ll stay in preferred rooms in some of the most exclusive hotels in the kingdom. You can also customize your trip to meet your needs and interests.

COMO Wangduephodrang

COMO Wangduephodrang offers luxurious Bhutan tours. The hotel is an ideal place to stay when visiting this remote country. Guests can indulge in luxurious spa treatments as well as experience the pristine beauty of Bhutan. The hotel offers customized packages to suit different budgets.

Experience Trans Bhutan Trail in 2023

TRANS BHUTAN TRAIL

The Trans Bhutan Trail begins in Pelela, a mountain town at 3,407 meters above sea level. After a steep ascent, the trail then passes through lush meadows and passes by yak herder camps. It also passes through a traditional farmhouse in Rukubji, a small village known for its unique language.

To travel on the Trans Bhutan Trail, you must hire a guide who speaks the local language. Your guide will be able to interpret the many dialects spoken throughout the country. You’ll also get tea breaks and snacks at your campsite. In order to get the best experience, make sure to apply for a Bhutan visa in advance.

While you’re in Bhutan, remember to bring a reusable water bottle and water purifier. Most of the Trail’s restaurants and homestays serve local organic food, which is great for the environment. The Trans Bhutan Trail also works to minimize its carbon footprint by providing hikers with filtered water and refillable water bottles. As part of its commitment to sustainability, the trail also works with the local community and plants a tree for each international visitor.

The Trans Bhutan Trail is an excellent way to see the country’s natural beauty. The trail passes through subtropical forest and alpine tundra. It is home to over 200 species of mammals. It also passes through the towns of Punakha and Paro, as well as the capital, Thimphu.

DAY 1 (SEMTOKHA TO TOEBESA THINLEYGANG)

On Saturday (15-10-22 to 16-10-22) Our company organized a trip for the Trans  Bhutan trail from Thimphu to Punakha led by Guide Jamyang. The trek team comprised 3 travel guides. This trek was part of our profession and our team always wanted to explore this route since it has been restored recently to its former glory.

Before 1960s, before the transportations roads were built, for generations this ancient trail (Trans Bhutan trail/ Zhung Lam) was made used by locals for barter and Wola (labor tax), messengers, ancient warriors, and this trail is used by central monastic body to migrate from Punakha to Thimphu during summer and vice versa during winter and the most importantly this trail is used by Lam Drukpa Kuenley (Divine Madman).

The day was clear on that day, after packing our lunches and gears, we started our trek at 8: 15am from Semtokha road and descended from there to the river. After reaching the river the trail gently rises and keeps ascending until Dochula Pass. For the most part of this trail, we went along on the sides of the river under the shades of the trees. We crisscrossed the same river 6 to 7 times before the ascending part of the Dochula started. During this trail the vegetation of the forest changes from mostly pine trees and Chir-pine to rhododendron and Hemlock and oak, also temperature declines faster as we ascend towards Dochula depending upon the weather. When we reached Dochula pass, the gain in the elevation was 880m and it took around 5 and half hours to reach there. There at Dochula after having some snacks and coffee at the café we visited Druk Wangyel Chorten, Druk Wangyel Lhakhang and Druk Wangyel Tsechus spot.

After that we began descending down the valley towards Toebesa Thinleygang since we have booked a homestay there. This part of trail belongs to the larger trail used by The Divine Madman Drukpa Kuenley to spread the dharma teaching by suppressing evil energies and fulfilling his legacy. On this trail also, as we descended, the vegetation started changing from alpine to subtropical vegetation and so did the temperature, it started increasing. On the way we had lunch at Lampari bit late but after seeing the view from there we thought it was all worth it. We reached the homestay after trekking for almost 7 hours.

DAY 2 (TOEBESA TO PUNAKHA DZONG)

After having an early breakfast we started our journey at 8:30 am. The trail from there was gentle climb and the trail was much wider and well maintained after all it was our old capital. After walking for 2 hours we reached Toeb Chadana. A legend has it that Lam Drukpa Kuenleys arrow of destiny landed on the 11 stepped wooden ladder of Toeb Chandana house. Lam shot the arrow from Tibet after the spiritual deity Palden Lhamo appeared in his dreams and instructed him to seek his destiny in the south. This trail was unlike the day 1 trail since the trail mostly run on the side of the mountain and as we ascend we get to see the views of Sopsokha, Lobesa and the Bajo town. From there, we also get to see the view of the vast paddy fields of Punakha district. After walking for 2 and half hours to 3 hours from Toeb Chadana our route

joins the road to Talo. There the place known as Sew Drangsa , an open space marked with prayers flags was the exact spot where monk bodies have to have their lunch during their journey. From there the trail towards Punakha Dzong is on the feeder road along the sides of Punatsangchu. We reached the Dzong around 4:45pm, in total we took around 7 to 8 hours to reach our destination.

At the end of the trail was approaching, there was a sense of satisfaction on the faces of my team as a total of 22.5km was covered by our team within 2 days and 1 night through mountains, rivers, and valleys. Many old people and young people we met along the route appreciated the effort our team put to reviving this ancient trail and making this trek a huge success.