amethysttags

My husband and I recently returned from a memorable 10-day journey through Bhutan, and we’d like to share some detailed insights from our experience. We had the opportunity to explore several regions, including Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, and Gangtey. As residents of Singapore, Bhutan had long been on our travel bucket list, and we’re thrilled to have finally visited. Although the trip was physically demanding, it was immensely rewarding. Here are our personal observations and tips for anyone planning a similar adventure:

Traveling to Bhutan - We flew with DrukAir, which offers a twice-weekly flight from Singapore to Paro with a layover in Guwahati. The entire journey, including the layover, takes just over 6 hours. The flight departs Singapore around noon and arrives in Paro by late afternoon. While an earlier arrival would have allowed us more time in Bhutan, this was the most convenient fllight option for us.

Accommodation - We stayed in 4-star hotels throughout our trip. These hotels offered buffet-style meals featuring fresh local ingredients. Although the menu options were somewhat limited, the food was flavorful and included a variety of spicy dishes. If you choose 5-star hotels, you might find a broader selection of meal choices. Overall, we were satisfied with the options available.

Accessibility - Bhutan may present challenges for travelers with mobility issues. Many accommodations lack elevators, and many of the cultural sites, such as dzongs and temples, feature steep steps and uneven surfaces. Walking sticks can be very helpful. You can request your tour guide to provide you this in advance.

Facilities - Most of the hotels we stayed in provided Western-style toilets, which was a comfort. However, it's advisable to carry your own toilet paper as a precaution, as it may not always be readily available. The showers in these accommodations were equipped with reliable hot water, which was a welcome feature after a day of sightseeing. Each lodging also supplied basic toiletries, including soap, shampoo, and conditioner, ensuring we had everything we needed for personal care. As for the beds, they were noticeably firmer than what we are used to, but they were still quite comfortable and provided a good night’s sleep.

Clothing and Gear - Be sure to pack UV-protective clothing and comfortable shoes. Ensure that you dress modestly for temple visits, and be prepared to remove your shoes. Some temples may require you to leave your belongings in lockers, so plan accordingly.

Communication - Cell service was generally reliable, except in more remote areas. Free Wi-Fi was available at most restaurants and hotels. To stay connected throughout your trip, it's better to arrange an international plan with your mobile carrier before departure. This will ensure that there is no disruptions in you communication.

Scenery and Wildlife - The mountainous roads of Bhutan offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities to spot wildlife. Bringing binoculars or asking your guide to provide them can enhance your experience. If you are prone to motion sickness, consider requesting a front seat in your vehicle.

Tiger’s Nest Hike - The hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery is both challenging and rewarding. The terrain is steep and rocky, so take your time, use a walking stick, and stay hydrated. The halfway café offers stunning views and delicious food, making it a great spot to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Travel Agency and Tour Guide - We booked our trip through Druk Asia and were extremely satisfied with their service. The booking process was smooth from start to finish, and our tour guide, Dorji, was exceptional. We highly recommend Druk Asia for their professionalism and knowledgeable guides.

Overall Experience - The people of Bhutan are exceptionally warm and welcoming, making it a truly special destination. Despite the physical challenges, Bhutan’s unique beauty and the kindness of its people make it a place worth visiting.

julies

Thank you for this report with its suggestions.

You say that it is the people of Bhutan and their friendliness that greatly impressed you. What would you say were some of the most impressive sights or locales on your trip? Any favorite places or places you would skip?

lcuy

Would you mind posting your hotels and itinerary? That would be really helpful for those of us hoping to go to Bhutan!

bestofbhutan

Thank you for sharing such a detailed and insightful account of your 10-day journey through Bhutan, amethysttags! It sounds like you had an amazing and fulfilling experience, especially with the variety of regions you explored and the unique cultural insights you gained.

I’m curious, out of all the places you visited—Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, and Gangtey—did you have a favorite spot or experience that stood out the most? Bhutan has so many hidden gems, and it’s always interesting to hear what resonates with different travelers.

Looking forward to hearing more about your journey!

amethysttags

Hello Julies,
I’m happy to hear that the recommendations were helpful in any way. Although Bhutan is well known for its friendliness, it also boasts some enchanting sights and places.

My favorite Spots and Areas:
1. Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang): this symbolic monastery located on a cliff should be visited for its spectacular view and spiritual importance.
2. Punakha Dzong: This is a significant feature of Bhutanese culture and history owing to its amazing architecture as well as the scenic backdrop provided by intersection of two rivers where it stands.
3. Phobjikha Valley: a peaceful glacial valley with scenic beauty that attracts nature lovers who may catch sight of endangered black-necked cranes.

Things to Leave Out: Although almost every part of Bhutan is worth visiting; others may not thrill you especially if you have less time to spare. For instance, some lesser-known towns or less developed regions may not give such exceptional experiences compared to other more notable places.

Bhutan has a lot to offer, so your choices might also depend on your interests and the kind of experience you're looking for.

amethysttags

Hi Lcuy,Our travel agent arranged the hotels for us, all of which were 3 to 4 stars in the places we visited. We followed the itinerary provided by our agent, but it can definitely be customized to fit your preferences. You can visit their website and see the packages + itineraries to get a feel of it (sorry, I'm not sure if I am allowed to post link in this forum )
Travel Agency: Druk Asia Bhutan Travel Specialist

There are many travel agencies that offer personalized tour packages, so it's a good idea to search online and compare their rates.

amethysttags

Hello Bestof Bhutan,

These are our favorite Spots and Areas
1. Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang): this symbolic monastery located on a cliff should be visited for its spectacular view and spiritual importance.
2. Punakha Dzong: This is a significant feature of Bhutanese culture and history owing to its amazing architecture as well as the scenic backdrop provided by intersection of two rivers where it stands.
3. Phobjikha Valley: a peaceful glacial valley with scenic beauty that attracts nature lovers who may catch sight of endangered black-necked cranes.

lcuy

I see you are new, so welcome to Fodor's Asia Forum! A lot of us on Fodor's don't use tour agencies, so sharing actual itineraries and opinions of the places that they sent you, helps other Fodorites to compare the various options in each location. Recommending your agency is fine, but it's hard to judge them if we don't yet know your personal style of travel.
Again, thank you for your general tips for Bhutan!