Bhutan

About Bhutan

Known for its Gross National Happiness Score, which indicates its happiness as an alternative to its GDP, Bhutan is a unique country with distinctive Buddhist culture and pristine nature. Proudly recognised as the last erstwhile Buddhist kingdom, Bhutan enjoys seclusion from the rest of the world.

Apart from its scenic beauty, there is plenty to do in Bhutan, ranging from visiting Bhutanese temples and monasteries in Paro to exploring the culture and crafts of Thimpu to visiting the Motithang Takin Nature Preserve and Punakha Dzong while enjoying the delicious Bhutanese cuisine.

Experience Bhutanese culture at Festival Ground or kayaking and rafting in the Chhu river. The Tiger’s Nest, Ta Dzong, Bumdra Monastery, and Kyichu Lhakhang are among the many attractions of Paro.

Adorned with Buddhist influence, explore the capital city by visiting the Buddha Dordenma, Simtokha Dzong, Motithang Takin Preserve, and the Dochula Pass. For a truly unique experience, attend an open-air concert at Clock Town Square, located in the city’s centre.

The ancient Punakha Dzong, built by the royal family in 1637, is the city’s highlight. Other unmissable experiences include the hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, crossing the Punakha Suspension Bridge, and white water rafting on the Mo and Pho Chhu river.

The old town is home to magnificent architecture and distinctive nature. Visit the Trongsa Dzong, Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park, Thruepang palace, Chendebji Chorten, and Mangdue foot trail to explore the untouched beauty of Bhutan.

Bhutan Factsheet

Culture

Bhutan’s vibrant culture is easy to identify. Despite their division into four ethnic groups, they converge on following slightly different forms of the Tibetan form of Mahayana Buddhism. The society follows a sophisticated system of etiquette to preserve its national identity that has been enforced via royal decree.

Festivals

Bhutan celebrates over 200 festivals annually. Thimphu Tsechu Festival, Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival, Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu Festival, Punakha Drubchen and Tshechu Festival, Paro Tshechu Festival, and Haa Summer Festival are some of the vibrant festivities that one cannot miss.

Architecture

With the heavy influence of Tibetan culture, most of Bhutan’s ancient monuments are Dzongs, which cannot be found in its neighbouring countries. Apart from these, monasteries, temples, and Buddhist Stupas are predominant. Key architectural marvels of Bhutan include the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Trongsa Dzong, and more.

Cuisine

The standard Bhutanese diet includes stews of meat, lentils, dried vegetables, and red rice, commonly grown in the country. Cheese and chilies are popular ingredients in most dishes, serving as excellent comfort foods. Ema Datshi, Shakam Paa, Kewa Datshi, Zow Shungo, and Goep are some top delicacies of Bhutan.

Best time to visit

October to December is the best time to visit the landlocked country when the air has a slight chill, and the sun shines bright. The usually green valleys come to life with colour in the late spring months, making it perfect for a biodiversity exploration trip.

Shopping

Be it a major city or a small town- shopping enthusiasts are in for a treat when visiting Bhutan. Norzin Lam Street, Town Square, Yarkay Central Mall, and Thimphu weekend market are the perfect places to find souvenirs and discover local crafts like shoes, bags, carpets, and more.