Bhutan Travel Guide 2025 – Best Places, Festivals and Tips from India
Bhutan isn’t just another travel destination — it’s the world’s happiest nation. Tucked in the lap of the Himalayas, this tiny kingdom welcomes you with fluttering prayer flags, crisp mountain air, and smiles that feel like home.
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For Indian travellers, Bhutan is that rare mix of exotic yet familiar. You don’t need a visa, the currency is accepted straight from your wallet, and the food feels like comfort with a twist.
If you’re dreaming of monasteries on cliffs, valleys carpeted in flowers, and streets without traffic lights (yes, really), here’s your complete guide to planning the perfect Bhutan trip — plus how Travelicious can make it stress-free.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
- Spring (Mar–May): Blooming valleys, pleasant days, great for trekking.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, occasional rain.
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear skies, best for sightseeing and festivals.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow-dusted views, quiet trails, chilly nights.
💡 Travelicious Tip: April and October give you the best mix of good weather and vibrant festivals.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Bhutan
- 1. Thimphu – The capital where tradition meets quirk. Visit Buddha Dordenma, the weekend market, and note — no traffic lights here.
- 2. Paro – Home to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Rinpung Dzong, and serene riversides.
- 3. Punakha – Known for Punakha Dzong and the country’s longest suspension bridge.
- 4. Phobjikha Valley – A glacial valley where black-necked cranes arrive every winter.
- 5. Dochula Pass – 108 chortens with panoramic Himalayan views.
- 6. Haa Valley – Remote, scenic, and beautifully peaceful.
- 7. Bumthang Valley – Bhutan’s spiritual core with ancient temples.
- 8. Chele La Pass – Highest motorable road in Bhutan, lined with prayer flags.
- 9. Gasa Hot Springs – Relax in mineral-rich baths after long treks.
- 10. Mongar & Trashigang – Eastern Bhutan’s untouched beauty.
Festivals Worth Timing Your Trip For
- Paro Tshechu (Spring) – Masked dances, music, and colourful costumes.
- Thimphu Tshechu (Autumn) – One of the largest cultural events in the country.
- Punakha Drubchen – Historic battle reenactments.
- Black-necked Crane Festival – Celebrates the arrival of cranes in Phobjikha Valley.
Fun Facts: Bhutan is carbon-negative, banned plastic bags way back in 1999, and got TV only in 1999.
Bhutanese Food You Must Try
- Ema Datshi – Chillies in cheese, Bhutan’s signature dish.
- Momos – With a Bhutanese spice twist.
- Phaksha Paa – Pork with dried chillies.
- Jasha Maru – Spicy chicken stew.
- Suja – Salty, buttery tea.
Where to eat:
- Folk Heritage Restaurant, Thimphu – Authentic traditional meals.
- Bukhari, Paro – Upscale dining with stunning views.
- Chimmi Lhakhang Cafeteria, Punakha – Cozy, home-style food.
Shopping & Souvenirs
- Thimphu Weekend Market – Spices, local produce, and handicrafts.
- Norzin Lam – Thangka paintings, textiles, jewellery.
- Paro Craft Market – Wooden masks, carvings, prayer flags.
Best buys: Handwoven fabrics, thangkas, wooden masks, and handmade paper.
Cultural Etiquette in Bhutan
- Dress modestly at monasteries and dzongs.
- Remove shoes before entering temples.
- Ask before taking photos of people.
- Avoid public displays of affection.
- Walk clockwise around religious monuments.
Visa & Entry Tips for Indians
- Visa: Not required.
- Documents: Valid passport or voter ID.
- Entry points: Phuentsholing (by road) or Paro (by air).
- Permits: Route Permit required for travel beyond Thimphu & Paro — Travelicious can arrange all permits for a smooth journey.
Practical Travel & Safety Tips
- Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (equal to INR; ₹200 notes and below accepted).
- Connectivity: Get a TashiCell or Bhutan Telecom SIM.
- Cash: ATMs and cards are limited — carry cash.
- Health: Take it slow in high-altitude areas.
- Transport: Roads are winding — motion sickness tablets help.
- Rules: Smoking in public is banned.
Why Travelicious is Your Best Bhutan Partner
Bhutan is magical — but the best experiences often hide beyond the usual tourist spots. From timing your visit with the right festival to finding that tea house with the perfect mountain view, insider knowledge makes the difference.
At Travelicious, we’ve been crafting personalised Bhutan trips for Indian travellers for years. We handle everything:
- Flights & hotels
- Permits & local transport
- Guides & special experiences
You enjoy the happiness of Bhutan — we take care of the hassles.
Check out our Bhutan travel packages and let’s plan your perfect, stress-free holiday. Bhutan is waiting, and so is your story
