Bhutan is unlike anywhere else in the world. Its dramatic Himalayan landscapes, ancient monasteries, colourful festivals and peaceful valleys make it a destination that stays with you long after you've returned home. It's certainly one of the most memorable places we have ever travelled, and one that rewards those who plan ahead. With a little preparation, you can make the most of your time in this remarkable Himalayan kingdom and create a journey that reflects the experiences you most want to enjoy.
Here are our team’s top tips for planning your Bhutan adventure.
Book Early – Especially During Peak Season
This is probably our number one piece of advice.
Bhutan has a limited number of good-quality hotels, and they fill up quickly. This is particularly true during the popular autumn months of October and November, when the weather is excellent, mountain views are at their best and many travellers are drawn to the country's famous festivals.
We recommend planning and booking your trip 6–12 months in advance wherever possible. This gives you the best chance of securing the best accommodation, flights and travel dates, and allows more flexibility when arranging your route through Bhutan.
Check Your Passport
It sounds simple, but it is an important detail to check early.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. If you need to renew it, do this before making firm arrangements to avoid unnecessary stress later.
Think About What You Would Like to Experience
Bhutan offers something very different from a typical holiday, so it is worth considering what appeals to you most.
Would you like to experience one of Bhutan's spectacular festivals, with colourful ceremonies and traditional masked dances?
Are you looking for a walking holiday, with time to explore mountain trails, valleys and rural villages? Alternatively, you could consider one of Bhutan’s incredible high altitude treks taking you far off the beaten track.
Perhaps you are most interested in Bhutan's monasteries, Buddhist culture and historic fortresses, or simply want to enjoy the scenery and a slower pace of life.
There is no single way to experience Bhutan. Taking time to think about what interests you most will help ensure your trip feels rewarding from start to finish.
Consider Adding Another Himalayan Destination
Bhutan is a wonderful destination in its own right, but its location in the Himalayas makes it easy to combine with another fascinating country.
Many travellers choose to spend a few days in Nepal before continuing to Bhutan. Kathmandu is the easiest—and often the most economical—gateway to Bhutan, and spending a few days there is a great way to recover from jet lag before your Bhutan adventure begins.
Beyond Kathmandu, Nepal has so much more to offer. From peaceful mountain retreats and wildlife safaris in Chitwan and Bardiya National Parks to some of the world's finest trekking routes in the Himalayas, it is well worth extending your journey if time allows.
For those with a particular interest in Himalayan history and Buddhism, Tibet may also be an option, with flights available from Kathmandu, subject to current travel regulations and permits. If you're considering combining destinations, it's worth discussing your plans early so everything can be arranged seamlessly.
Start Planning Your Bhutan Adventure
Bhutan is a destination where early planning really does make a difference. By booking ahead, checking the practical details and thinking about the experiences you would like to include, you can avoid unnecessary compromises and make the most of your time in this extraordinary country.
Whether you are drawn by the festivals, the landscapes, the culture or the tranquillity of the Himalayas, Bhutan is a journey that is well worth preparing for.
