Bhutan, nestled in the eastern Himalaya, is slowly becoming one of the hottest tourist destinations in the world. It’s ideal for Indian tourists, as there’s no need for a visa. If you have about five days, Paro and Thimphu are the best options. Bhutan can be reached both by air, as well as by road. Some of you might want to try the road, which is quite spectacular. Fly to Bagdogra in West Bengal and do the very scenic drive via Siliguri, Jaigaon and Phuentsoling to either Paro or Thimphu. A direct taxi to Thimphu or Paro costs approximately Rs 7,000-8,000 and takes about 13 hours.
If that’s too much, then there are regular flights to Paro from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati and Mumbai.
Here’s how you can do a trip to Bhutan (Thimphu and Paro) in five days and back.
Day 1 and 2: THIMPHU
What To See & Do
If you are flying in directly to Paro, Thimphu is about a 90-minute drive away. Thimphu is the capital as well as the largest city and cultural hub. Start with the oldest monastic temple complex, the Changangkha Lhakhang. [caption id="attachment_4727" align="aligncenter" width="900"]Suggested Read: Shillong and around – Travel Guide
From here, proceed to Dochu La—a picturesque pass dotted with prayer flags and a chorten (a stupa). It’s a great spot for a picnic with a grand view of the beautiful Himalaya. Next place to visit is the Memorial Chorten, its golden spires and bells of which make it one of Bhutan’s most famous landmarks. A few kilometers away is famous monastery-cum-fortress Tashichho Dzong, originally constructed in the 13th century. [caption id="attachment_4728" align="aligncenter" width="710"]Further read: Trip to ladakh in a Budget – Day to Day Itinerary
Another interesting place to visit is the Changlimithang Archery Ground. If you go early in the morning, you might even see archers practicing! You can end your Thimphu visit by visiting Buddha Point, from where you can get a lovely view of the Thimphu valley under the shadow of the 51-foot-high statue of the Buddha Dordenma, the largest in the country.Where To Stay
Centrally located hotels like Hotel Norbuling (www.hotelnorbuling.com/bhutan-hotel; from Rs 4,900), Druk Hotel Thimphu (www.drukhotels.com/hoteldruk; from Rs 6,300), Taj Tashi Bhutan, Le Meridien Thimphu, Terma Linca Resort & Spa and Namgay Heritage Hotel, but the best options if you want to pamper yourself and enjoy the calm and quiet of Thimphu at the same time.Suggested read: How to monetize your blog?
Where To Eat
Try the centrally located Musk Restaurant for a chance to interact with the locals. If you can’t leave your Indian taste-buds behind, then try Chula. For the best of local cuisine, try Bhutan Kitchen.Day 3,4 & 5: PARO
What To See & Do
Just an hour and a half away from Thimphu is Paro, a lovely city full of traditional architecture that’s best explored on foot. To begin with, visit the Drametse Lhakhang, a 16th century monastery of the Nyingma sect, set upon a narrow and steep, forested ridge.Suggested read: 13 websites that pay you to write reviews.
Kyichu Lhakhang, a short drive away, dates back to the 7th century CE, when the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo was said to have established it. [caption id="attachment_4731" align="aligncenter" width="858"]Further read: 8 monsoon treks around Mumbai and Pune