Located amidst the Himalayan mountains, Bhutan is the last Buddhist kingdom in the world. Planning a Bhutan tour will bring a new and totally different adventure. For those who love to explore new places, Bhutan will be a game-changer. In this blog, we provide expert tips on the visit to Bhutan by the travel specialists of Sunshine Tour and Travels.
Insider Tips To Follow During Your Bhutan Vacation
1. Understand the Permit Requirements for Indian Tourists
Bhutan has a quite simple welcoming system for Indian visitors, but there are specific permits to be complied with. Indians don’t have to get their visas in order to travel to Bhutan, yet an entry permit must be acquired. This can be arranged through a local tour operator such as Sunshine Tour and Travels. Nevertheless, if you wish to tour closed-off spots like Bumthang, Haa Valley, or any other undiscovered places, you need to get a special permit in advance from your travel agent.
Tip: For your perfect entrance, carry along all the required documents (a valid passport or voter ID card).
2. Timing is everything
Determining the travel season in Bhutan at typical climatic conditions is sometimes a tricky task. Spring and fall are the most celebrated seasons in the Bhutanese calendar. These are the best times for travel, so organize your trip to Bhutan with Sunshine now.
Tip: If you are into the most popular native festivities, take a glance at the local calendar and be prepared for events, including the Paro and Thimphu Tshechu.
3. Be respectful!
While exploring Bhutan, be conscious of the dress code when you visit monasteries. Stepping in without clean shoes at religious sites is improper. Also, no shoes and correct dress bring a better connection to the divine God. Not everyone likes to be reminded of being watched by a camera. Therefore, be respectful, and do not aim your camera at them without their permission. Some temple authorities and religious places restrict photo-taking, so always ask if photography is allowed ahead of time.
Tip: When you give a gift, let it be a part of your culture that represents you rather than some materialistic object. Moreover, try never pointing your feet at the monks or statues of Buddhas, for it is quite disrespectful.
4. Trekking and Hiking – The Ultimate Bhutan Experience
Bhutan has unlimited hiking opportunities. These are treks that not only take in epic views of the snowy Himalayas but also a life-changing experience where you have a chance to be one with nature and also learn more about the life of the Bhutanese people.
Tip: Suppose you are a beginner at hiking or you are inexperienced but still want to see the impressive views of Bhutan, then take the short hikes, some of which are the Gangtey Valley and the Bumthang Valley. Hikers need to be ready to adapt to different altitudes and changes in temperatures. Thus, you should carry the right items.
5. Discover Less Traveled Places
Various places in Bhutan have never been visited by tourists, so it’s always a chance of having a real experience rather than at the most famous spots. It’s the case of Phobjikha, where the communities gather to witness black-necked cranes, which are at risk of becoming extinct and are only available in this spot. In the same way, Bumthang is one of the offbeat places where most of it is full of large trees, and so it is one of the most absolutely wanted places by the Buddhist monks and the people who come there.
Tip: Be more open to a broad range of destinations. Take an opportunity to work together with your travel consultant at Sunshine Tour and Travels to explore such a non-famous place like Haa Valley where you can experience the local atmosphere.
6. Local Guides Enhance Your Experience
A local guide can certainly be the best way for you to get the fullest picture of the lifestyle of the Bhutanese people and their culture. A local guide can help tourists greatly by introducing them to local customs, special heritage, and history and also by expressing their unique views on all the particular cultures of the country. When you are at Sunshine Tour and Travels, you are in the good care of our experts who are not only productively experienced but desirably in love with the Country, giving you an in-depth oversight.
Tip: By discussing the major points of their culture, religion, and even the past events in their lives, you will find it easier to bond with your guide. The chances of getting your mind blown will be higher if you are constantly in touch with native people.
7. Shop for Authentic Souvenirs
Bhutan is the place where you can find the finest handmade items that symbolize the culture and tradition of the nation. Local markets usually exhibit weavings that are made from yarns, which are derived from plant and animal wool fibers of the areas. Handmade shawls, masks, and jewelry are very elegant here. This is a perfect way for visitors to give back to the locals and, in return, support the community.
Tip: Bhutanese people are not used to the idea of negotiating prices, which is usually a good thing. Yet, if you are really in need of something special, your guide can tell you about remote craft villages and not-so-popular markets.
8. Plan for Connectivity and Digital Detox
Bhutan is known for its slow technological progress. Usually, the internet can be used in most of the main cities even if it is not that fast, and wireless networking is not trustworthy. Mobile phone networks are available, but the nation suggests you unplug and let the peace settle in.
Tip: The most beautiful thing about traveling to Bhutan is that you have the chance to disconnect. You can be a part of majestic nature, communicate with people, and get acquainted with the genuine Bhutan.
Make Your Bhutan Tour Seamless With Sunshine Tour and Travels!
A Bhutan tour can prove to be a life-transforming journey. The mountains, the place you feel at peace, and the diversified culture and tradition are some of the trip’s trademarks. The experts at Sunshine Tour & Travel can help you to make your Bhutanese experience as authentic and as carefree as it could possibly be. You should bear in mind the fact that Bhutan is all about sustainability, culture, and spirituality, and you, being a conscious traveler, can conserve all the wonders it has to offer to the coming generations.
Get ready for a breathtaking voyage to the heart of the Himalayas!