Bhutan Tour packages

About Bhutan

Plan Your Trip to the Land of Gross National Happiness

Bhutan is one of the few countries that has measured progress by Gross National Happiness, and this has influenced the way of life that focuses on culture, environment, and community over rapid modernisation. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas between India and China, this little kingdom has a great deal to offer travellers who are looking for something more considered.  From fortress-like dzongs built without a single nail to monasteries high on towering cliffs, the mist-covered Dochula Pass adorned with 108 stupas, Bhutan is a land where tradition and nature are intricately linked. It is this balance that continues to attract travellers in search of experiences that are meaningful and not simply memorable.

For Indian travellers specifically, Bhutan is also not very difficult to reach. No visa is required, the process is clearly laid out for entry, and the country can be accessed by road, rail, or air. Traveloi’s Bhutan tour packages are based on these realities: practical, expert-guided itineraries covering the most meaningful destinations in the country without rushing through them or chatting them up unnecessarily.

Why Bhutan Is a Considered Travel Choice

Bhutan is one of the few remaining countries that practice a controlled tourism model. The government’s “High Value, Low Impact” approach means that tourism is planned to deliberately protect the country’s culture, ecology, and way of life.

What this means for travellers:

• No mass market tourism or overcrowded sites
• Constitutionally-protected forest cover of at least 60 percent
• Rare wildlife, including the Black-Necked Crane, the Takin, and many other Himalayan bird species
• Dzong architecture (fortress-monasteries), which is unique to Bhutan and found nowhere else in the world
• A travel experience that is truly different from the mainstream of international destinations

For travellers who want to experience authentic travel and not just tourism theatre, Bhutan never disappoints.

Key Destinations Covered in Traveloi’s Bhutan Travel Packages

Phuentsholing: The Entry Point

Phuentsholing is a border town and the main road entry point for travellers coming from India. This is where immigration formalities and travel permits are handled at the official immigration office.

The town has a relaxed pace and good local markets for buying Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. On the way from Phuentsholing to Thimphu, travellers pass through the Kharbandi Gompa and the Crocodile Park with scenic stops made at the Dam View Point and the Dantak View Point on the way.

Thimphu: The Capital

Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan, although it still maintains a very low-key environment that is easily lost in most capital cities. It is the starting point for almost all Bhutan itineraries and is worth at least one full day of sightseeing.

Key places to visit in Thimphu:

• Buddha Dordenma Statue (Buddha Point): A massive golden Buddha on top of a hill, built on top of a meditation hall. The statue has 125,000 smaller statues of Buddha inside it.
• National Memorial Chorten: Built in honour of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third king of Bhutan. One of the most popular religious sites in the city and a center of the city’s daily Buddhist life.
• Motithang Takin Preserve: Originally built as a small zoo, it was later turned into a wildlife preserve. This is where you can see the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, in its natural setting.
• National Folk Heritage Museum (Phelchey Toenkhyim): Located in a traditional 19th-century rammed mud and timber house. It presents a clear picture of the traditional Bhutanese village life across three floors.
• Institute for Zrig Chusum (Painting School): Students here are trained in traditional arts of Bhutan, such as painting, carving, and embroidery. Visitors can watch the work in progress.
• National Library: This library was established in 1967 in the centre of Thimphu. Houses ancient manuscripts of the Bhutanese and Tibetan people and national archive records.
• Changangkha Lhakhang: An 800-year-old temple constructed in the 12th century, this temple is believed to be the spiritual home for the newly born children of Chang Valley.
• Clock Tower Square: A famous architectural landmark featuring four clock faces in central Thimphu with restaurants and souvenir shops located around it.

Dochula Pass

Located between Thimphu and Punakha at a height of about 3,100 metres above sea level, Dochula Pass is a beautiful mountain crossing with magnificent views of the Eastern Himalayan range on clear days. The pass has 108 memorial chortens (stupas) arranged in a circular layout, making it one of the most photographed places in Bhutan. In winter, the space is frequently covered in snow, which adds to its visual appeal.

Punakha: The Ancient Capital

Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and is still the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan). The town is lower in altitude than Thimphu, and hence it is comparatively warmer and lush.

Key places to visit in Punakha:

• Punakha Dzong: The most beautiful dzong in the country is generally regarded as the Punakha Dzong. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal on the confluence of the Pho Chu (male river) and Mo Chu (female river). It was the seat of the Bhutanese government for many years, and the first National Assembly of the country, which was held here in 1952.
• Chhimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility): This temple was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, better known as the Divine Madman. Located on a round hillock near Lobesa village is a short walk through rice fields.
• Punakha Suspension Bridge: One of the oldest suspension bridges in Bhutan, strung up with prayer flags from end to end. It is a well-known bird-watching and nature photography spot.

Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)

Gangtey is a wide glacial valley at about 9,840 feet above sea level. It is one of the most scenic landscapes in Bhutan and is well known as the seasonal residence of the Black-Necked Crane, which migrates from the Tibetan plateaux to this valley every winter. The Gangtey Gompa overlooks the entire valley. This destination is a part of the 9-day itinerary as a full – day excursion from Punakha.

Paro: Culture, History, and the Famous Tiger’s Nest

Paro is the most visited district in Bhutan and has the country’s only international airport and some of the most important cultural landmarks.

Key places to visit in Paro:

• Ta Dzong (National Museum of Bhutan): Originally constructed in 1649 as a watchtower for protecting Rinpung Dzong during wartime. Converted into the National Museum in 1968. The museum contains traditional costumes, armour and weaponry, handcrafted implements, and a wide collection of cultural artifacts documenting Bhutanese history.
• Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong): This was built in 1644 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. One of the best examples of Bhutanese dzong architecture and one of the major tourist landmarks in Paro.
• Kyichu Lhakhang: One of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan dates back to the 7th century. Built by a Tibetan King called Songtsen Gampo. According to the local belief, two orange trees in the courtyard of the monastery provide fruit throughout the year.
• Paro Airport Viewpoint: Paro Airport is considered to be one of the most technically difficult and visually dramatic airports in the world. It is Bhutan’s only international airport and can be seen from a specific viewpoint in the town.

Traveloi’s Bhutan Package Overview

• 5 Days / 4 Nights: Covers Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Ideal as a core Bhutan circuit for first-time visitors.
• 6 Days / 5 Nights: It covers Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Offers longer sightseeing with more time at each destination.
• 7 Days / 6 Nights (Best of Bhutan): Covers Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. A well-paced, comprehensive Bhutan Tour itinerary.
• 7 Days / 6 Nights (Amazing Bhutan): Cover Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. An alternative 7-day circuit for those seeking a slightly different routing.
• 9 Days / 8 Nights (Glimpses of Bhutan): Covers Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha, Paro, Gangtey, and Gorumara National Park. Complete Bhutan itinerary trip by Traveloi.

Entry Requirements for Indian Travellers

Indian nationals do not need a visa to visit Bhutan. A travel permit, however is mandatory and is processed at the immigration office in Phuentsholing or at Paro Airport.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

The Bhutanese government charges a Sustainable Development Fee per person per night for Indian nationals. This fee goes directly towards the public services of Bhutan, such as free healthcare and education.

• Children aged between 6 to 12 years receive a reduction on the SDF
• Children aged 5 and below are completely exempt

Documents Required for Entry

• Valid Indian Passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the departure date from Bhutan, or a Voter Identity Card for travellers aged 18 and above
• Birth certificate (original, in English) for children younger than 5 years
• Academic school identity card plus birth certificate for children from 6 to 17 years
• Passport-size photographs
• Travel insurance with the seal and signature of the insurer’s official

Currency Rules

• Indian currency of Rs. 500 and above is banned legally in Bhutan
• Carry denominations of Rs. 100 or less for day-to-day purposes
• ATMs are available at Thimphu and Paro only
• Credit cards are accepted at some but not all establishments across the country

Best Time to Visit Bhutan

• Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and dry conditions during this time of year. The best experience in terms of mountain views from Dochula Pass and major festivals in Thimphu and Paro, and general sightseeing. This is also the peak travel season.
• Winter (December to February): Cold at higher altitudes, with frequent snowfall. Ideal for seeing the migration of Black-Necked Cranes at Gangtey Valley and for a quieter and less crowded travel experience.
• Spring (March to May): Cool and clear. Excellent for trekking, nature walks, and to experience the rhododendron bloom season in Bhutan.
• Summer and Monsoon (June to August): Warm and heavy rainfall. Landscapes are lush and green, the tourist footfall is less, but some of the roadways leading to the mountain may be affected by landslides or disruptions.

Autumn is the most popular season, mainly because the skies are clear, the views of the Himalayas from Dochula Pass are at their best, and major festivals are held in Thimphu and Paro. Spring is great for trekkers and people who are interested in Bhutan’s rich flora.

Cultural Etiquette and Travel Guidelines

Bhutan practices serious respect for culture, especially at religious sites. Knowing the rules before you get there means that it can be a more meaningful experience, and that you are not going to deal with awkwardness.

Photography:

• Ask permission before photographing people, events, or objects
• Photography is forbidden in temples, dzongs, and monasteries
• Photography is permitted in areas of the courtyard only

At dzongs, temples, and monasteries:

• Remove hats before entering
• Shorts, half pants, and slippers are not allowed
• Full-sleeve t-shirts or collared shirts are needed at many sites
• Mobile phones should be switched off or put on silent mode
• Move in a clockwise direction within all religious premises
• Not touching ritual objects, mural paintings, or sacred objects
• Use an open upturned flat hand rather than a finger when pointing at sacred objects or  places

Tobacco and alcohol: Tobacco products are widely prohibited in Bhutan. Travellers may import up to 200 imported cigarettes (10 packets) for their own consumption with 200 percent customs duty payable. Indian tobacco products invite a 100 percent customs duty. Alcoholic drinks up to 1 litre for personal use are allowed.

Why Plan Your Bhutan Trip Through Traveloi

Traveloi is a Dehradun-based travel company with direct experience of Himalayan destinations. The team has first-hand knowledge of permit processes in Bhutan, seasonal conditions, accommodation, and cultural protocol. Every itinerary is designed to allow traveller sufficient time at each destination without the rushed, overloaded itineraries that are so common in lower- end packages.

All Bhutan holiday packages that are available through Traveloi come with verified accommodation, in reliable local transport, and with knowledgeable guides who are fluent in both English and Hindi. If you are also looking towards Nepal as a companion Himalayan destination, look into Traveloi’s Nepal tour packages for a similar holistic approach to regional travel. Families with an emphasis on spiritual and cultural travel can also browse pilgrimage tour options or honeymoon packages that are based on the same principles of the above examples of thoughtful and experience-based travel.

Who Should Consider a Bhutan Trip

Bhutan is not suited to a narrower range of travellers than most people assume:

• Families: Safe, clean, culturally rich, and genuinely interesting for adults and children alike. The wildlife preserves and valley landscapes appeal to all age groups.
• Couples and honeymooners: Quiet, picturesque, and immersive in culture. Bhutan is a romantic travel experience and not like any other beach or resort holidays.
• Senior travellers: Most of the major sights are not treacherous to reach. The pace of travel is leisurely, and the roads, although mountain routes, are well-managed.
• Nature lovers: Gangtey valley to see the Black Necked Crane, Motithang for the Takin, Gorumara National Park to see the Indian Rhinoceros, and abundant Himalayan birds all around the year.
• First-time international travellers from India: Cultural proximity and lack of a visa requirement make Bhutan one of the most manageable first international destinations for Indian travellers.

Ready to plan your trip? Send an enquiry via the form in this page or contact the Traveloi team at info@traveloi.com or +91-7060106084. You can also find out more about the full range of international tour options or contact us through the contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bhutan Travel

Q1. Do Indian nationals require a visa to visit Bhutan?

No. Indian nationals do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. A travel permit is required, which is obtained at the immigration office in Phuentsholing or at the Paro International Airport upon arrival.

Q2. What is the Sustainable Development Fee for Bhutan? 

The Sustainable Development Fee is a compulsory nightly fee charged by the Bhutanese government on Indian travellers. It is separate from your tour package cost and goes directly towards the public welfare services of Bhutan, including healthcare and education. Children of some age groups are partially or totally exempted. The relevant fee will be confirmed at the time of enquiry.

Q3. What documents are needed to travel to Bhutan from India?

Indian citizens do not need a visa to visit Bhutan. Travellers have to carry their valid Indian Passport (with a minimum validity of six months) or an original Voter Identity Card to get the entry permit. Children under 18 years require a birth certificate or passport, and children between 6 and 17 years old can also carry a school identity card for identification.

Q4. What is the best time of year to visit Bhutan?

Autumn (September to November) is the best time for most of the travellers. Spring (March to May) is great for trekking and nature walks. Winter is the time to see the Black-Necked Cranes of Gangtey Valley. The monsoon months (June to August) bring beautiful green landscapes but occasional road disruption.

Q5. Can I take Indian currency to Bhutan?

Yes, but only of denominations of Rs. 100 and below. Indian currency notes of Rs. 500 and above have been legally banned in Bhutan. ATMs are available in Thimphu and Paro, and credit cards are accepted in selected establishments.

Q6. How do I reach Bhutan from India? 

Bhutan can be accessed by road through crossing the border at Phuentsholing, which is the most frequent route from West Bengal, and by train from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Station, or by flight to Bagdogra airport (IXB), followed by a road transfer into Bhutan. Direct flights to Paro International Airport are also available.

Q7. Which Bhutan package is best for a first-time visitor? 

The 7-day or 9-day packages are recommended for first-time visitors as it covers all the major destinations, including Thimphu, Punakha, Paro, and optionally Gangtey and Gorumara with a sufficient time stay at each destination.

Q8. What is the Punakha Dzong, and why is it significant? 

Punakha Dzong was constructed in 1637 at the junction of the river Pho Chu and the river Mo Chu. It is considered the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan and was the administrative capital of Bhutan for several decades, and the site of the first National Assembly in 1952. It is also still the winter residence of the Chief Abbot of Bhutan.

Q9. What is the Takin, and where can it be seen?

The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan and is a large hoofed mammal found in the Himalayan area. It can be seen at the Motithang Takin Preserve in Thimphu, which was originally a small zoo and which was later converted into a dedicated wildlife preserve.

Q10. Is photography allowed inside temples and monasteries in Bhutan?

Photography inside temples, dzongs, and monasteries is not allowed. Photography in the area of courtyards is only allowed. Travellers should always ask their guide if it is permissible to take photographs of people or religious events.

Q11. What is the Buddha Dordenma Statue in Thimphu?

The Buddha Dordenma, also known as Buddha Point, is a large gilded Buddha statue that has been constructed on a hilltop in Thimphu. It is built over a meditation hall and features 125,000 smaller statues of Buddha inside it. It is one of the most recognised landmarks in the country.

Q12. What is Dochula Pass? 

Dochula Pass is a beautiful mountain pass between Thimphu and Punakha at an altitude of around 3,100 metres above sea level. It has 108 memorial chortens and spectacular views of the mountain of Eastern Himalaya on clear days. In the winter, the pass is frequently covered with snow.

Q13. What wildlife can be seen during a Bhutan trip?

Key wildlife includes the Takin (national animal) at Motithang Preserve, Thimphu, the Black-Necked Crane at Gangtey valley (winter migration), and the Indian Rhinoceros at Gorumara National Park, included in the 9-day package.

Q14. Are Traveloi’s Bhutan packages suitable for senior travellers?

Yes. Many of Bhutan’s major attractions, such as dzongs, museums, valley points, and wildlife preserves, are accessible without intensive trekking. Traveloi can liaise with the senior travellers to adapt the pace and specific sightseeing activities.

Q15. What are the dress code rules for visiting religious sites in Bhutan? 

Shorts, half pants, and slippers are not permitted inside dzongs, temples, or monasteries. Full-sleeve t-shirts or collared shirts are necessary at many sites. Hats have to be removed before entering any religious premises.

Q16. Is Bhutan a good destination for a honeymoon?

Yes. Bhutan’s beautiful valleys and Buddhist monasteries, pristine environment and emphasis on quiet and meaningful travel make it conducive to couples. Traveloi’s honeymoon package can be discussed and customised to include Bhutan.

Q17. What is Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro?

Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century. It was constructed by the Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. A local belief states that the orange trees in the courtyard of the monastery produce fruit throughout the entire year.

Q18. What are the major festivals in Bhutan, and can tourists attend them?

Bhutan’s major festivals, known as Tshechus, are celebrated at dzongs and monasteries, the most popular ones being the Thimphu Tshechu and the Paro Tshechu. Tourists can participate in these colourful ceremonies with masked dances and rituals, especially in autumn (September-November), when most of the big festivals take place.

Q19. What languages are spoken in Bhutan, and will I have language support?

The official language is Dzongkha, but English is widely spoken among the people in towns, tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. All Traveloi Bhutan packages come with an English and Hindi speaking guide for the whole duration of the trip.

Q20. How do I book or customise a Bhutan Trip with Traveloi?

You can fill the enquiry form on the Bhutan destination page, call Traveloi at +91-7060106084 or +91-9634514095, or email info@traveloi.com. For customised travel which includes particular group sizes, travel dates or special requirements, the Traveloi team will work with you directly. Visit the contact page to find all options.