A Backpacking Trip to Bhutan: The Land of Happy People

A Bhutan budget trip can be planned and executed effectively if you are willing to chalk out a travel plan ahead of the actual visit. Bhutan is a favourite destination for backpackers from around the world. However, there are certain things that a traveller must know before visiting this beautiful destination.

Bhutan budget trip is planned by backpackers annually across the globe. Bhutan as a travel destination is not only beautiful but also extremely budget-friendly. Also, it is one of the most travel-friendly locations in Asia. 

Bhutan, also known as the ‘Land of Happy People’ or the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ is a small landlocked country located between India and China. It is brimming with snow-clad mountains, splendid rivers, varied trees and genuinely warm-hearted people.

The happy land is famous in the world as a ‘Carbon Negative Country.’ Also, Bhutan is known for measuring its success in terms of “Gross Happiness Index” in contrast to the “Gross Domestic Product” which is usually the norm. How cool is that!

Bhutan Budget Trip: An Overview for First Time Visitors

Before I proceed into the details of how to plan and implement a successful Bhutan budget trip, here are a few things that you need to be aware of.

To be honest, since you’re going to have all your bookings in place before visiting Bhutan, there’s not much you need to worry about once you’re there.

Bhutan has an incredible travel policy of  ‘high value, low volume.’  The number of visitors to the happy nation is limited and regulated each year. The nation firmly holds the opinion that it is better to allow less but value adding travellers each year than opening its territories for everyone. This policy helps preserve its traditions, cultural heritage and natural resources.

Bhutan as a Travel Destination: Highlights

Before embarking on your Bhutan budget trip, you should know about the land. This becomes even more significant if you’re a first-time visitor. Having knowledge about a place and its essential aspects will help you connect more with the destination.

Now that you have a brief idea about what the basics of traveling to the land of happiness, let’s move on to the other nitty-gritties.

What’s Special About the Bhutan Budget Trip?

A backpacking trip is different from a normal tourist outing. A Backpacking trip to Bhutan is special because of the multitude of pleasure the country has to offer its visitors. It is a developing country and hence, the costs are mediocre.

Bhutan budget trip is extremely safe for a solo female traveler as well, although slightly more expensive. The distances of the prominent places to visit in a Bhutanese town are less.

Although Bhutan is slightly expensive for solo backpackers, it is viewed like these that make all the money spent worth it! There were so many points during my trip when I was left absolutely spellbound by the beauty. You must definitely experience it.

There is an efficient public transport available for inter-town transport.

Finally, you cannot withdraw money from ATMs frequently, since they aren’t many. Therefore, you set yourself on a budget automatically.

Why Should a Traveler Pursue the Bhutan Budget Trip?

Bhutan is a country that has easy access to most of the travellers from all countries. It is a cost-effective and travel-friendly country. The rich natural and cultural heritage is worth experiencing.

One of the most important reasons for travelling to Bhutan is that you can get a visa/ permit on arrival to either Phuentsholing or Paro.

Best Time to Visit Bhutan

The best time to visit would depend on what you wish to explore in Bhutan. Generally, spring and fall seasons (March-May and Sept – Nov) are considered to be the best time to visit Bhutan. However, since these also coincide with the peak tourist season, I would recommend avoiding it for a Bhutan budget trip.

If you are interested in certain specific activities, here’s an overview of what is your best time to visit Bhutan.

Although Bhutan is most favourable to travel to from March to May and September to November, the rest of the months will save you from the crowds. So, there are pros and cons of travelling every month. Would you want good weather or fewer crowds?

How to Reach Bhutan from Any International Destination?

Paro International Airport is connected directly with 4 major capital cities – New Delhi, Kathmandu, Singapore City and Bangkok.

Out of the 4 airports in Bhutan, Paro Airport is the only international one. It is due to this reason that connectivity (at least for now) is limited.

How to Reach Bhutan from India?

There are 3 major ways to reach Bhutan. One can enter Bhutan from 2 towns – Phuentsholing and Paro.

It’s a wonderful feeling to enter the happy land from the Indo-Bhutan border. The Bhutan gate – an exquisite work of architecture is the entry point to the country, and happily greets its travelers and visitors. Would you visit Bhutan by train or by flight?

Booking your Flights for Bhutan Budget Trip

For your Bhutan budget trip, try booking from any one of the following portals to book flights. The discounts are good and so are the deals.

Wherever you choose to book from, ensure that you make the bookings in advance. Also, always clear cookies before booking. This helps in finding the least possible fares.

Essential Things to Carry on Your Bhutan Budget Trip

The following items are a ‘must have’ for your Bhutan budget trip.

In addition, always make sure you check the weather forecast before venturing out. Make sure you pack accordingly. This is very important, because trust me, you want to avoid spending on emergency purchases.

Obtaining a Permit and SIM card

The first thing to do after entering Bhutan is to get a permit from the immigration office. The whole procedure takes around an hour with the help of a local agent, and up to 2 -3 hours without an agent.

A solo traveller, or a group of travellers less than 4 need to give in writing that they will be solely responsible for any accident.

After taking the permit for your Bhutan budget trip, head to a nearby shop where you can buy a sim card of ‘Tashi’ company, with a balance of 200 minutes and a sufficient data plan for 200 INR.

Honestly, I did not feel like purchasing a SIM card throughout my Bhutan trip. Using my phone minimally ensured I feel more connected to the views I was being treated to. However, you’d need your phone to coordinate with hotels, drivers, and guides.

Major Towns to Visit During Your Bhutan Budget Trip

Although the whole of Bhutan is beautiful and worth exploring, here are places to visit in Bhutan for first time travellers.

This is a cairn – a pile of stones made by my people in the Himalayas. It’s said to be highly auspicious. Legend has it that if you stack 7 stones like in the photo, your wishes will come true. In prehistoric times, this was also used as a landmark or for directions.

Things to do in Phuentsholing

Phuentsholing is the second largest town in the happy kingdom of Bhutan. It is highly commercialized and serves as the leading trade center of the country. Put it on priority for your Bhutan budget trip.

It is also the entry and exit route between Bhutan and India. Travellers can receive their permits here. 

Places to see around Phuentsholing are –

Zangto Pelri Lhakhang

Zango Pelri Lhakhang is a sanctimonious place for Buddhists and others alike. The architecture of the place is spectacular. Again, a must-visit place on your Bhutan budget trip.

It is home to the exact replica of Guru Rinpoche, with eight life-size idols of different manifestations of the revered Guru. Statues of Bodhisattvas, paintings of Lord Buddha and statues of Avalokiteshvara are worth seeing.

Karbandi Monastery

This is a beautiful monastery located at a height of 400 meters. It is at a distance of 4 kms from Phuentsholing bus station. One can see the complete Phuentsholing town from Karbandi Monastery.

At monasteries, you’ll see a number of Buddhist monks with these metal cylinders that make for ‘prayer wheels.’ They’re said to purify negativities, and accumulate wisdom and merit. You could also get one for yourself, and take it back home.

The prayer flags at the monastery are symbolic of positivity or chi as it is known. The prayer wheels are for the same. Do spin them around and have faith in the goodness of the place around you.

Bhutan Gate

It is the official gate at the international boundary between India and Bhutan. The architecture of the Bhutan Gate is very aesthetically pleasing.

The Bhutan Gate is close to the immigration office. You can even buy stuff here owing to a large variety of shops.

Things to do in Paro

Paro is a charming town (a valley in essence) that is popular for its religious sites, historic places and culturally rich vibe. 

The territory of Paro extends from the confluence of the Paro Chhu and the Wang Chhu rivers at Chuzom, right up to Mount Jomolhari, which lies at the Tibetan border to its North. 

The places to see in and around Paro are –

Paro Taktsang

The famous Tigers Nest monastery or Paro Taktsang, as it is locally known is located in the high mountains. One needs to hike for about 1.5 hours to reach the top. Porters are also available for some cost. Start early as the counter closes at 10 am.

The climb is gentle but continuous. There is only one café on the way up, at around the 50% mark. You need to climb a final of 300 steps to reach the top.

Wear full sleeves with a collar and pants to be allowed to enter the monastery. Nothing except a water bottle is permitted in the Monastery.

The Tigers Nest was constructed in the 17th Century and still functions as a monastery for the monks, and as a popular destination for travelers. The hike up here – is marked with lots of prayer flags, and a cafeteria where many stop for a break.

Main Street

Main Street in Paro has beautiful traditional wooden structures along its side and hosts a variety of shops as well. You can buy a few native items from here.

Rinpung Dzong

Rinchen Pung Dzong popularly known as Rinpung Dzong, is a fortress. In fact, the name itself means “Fortress on a heap of jewels’ in the native language. It was historically used to defend Paro Valley from foreign invasions.

Chele la 

Chele La Pass separates Haa from Paro Valley. The pass lies at an elevation of 3,810 metres and is one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan. The drive till here from Paro is beautiful. One can see dense green temperate forests all around. 

National Museum of Bhutan

This building turned into the National Museum of Bhutan, is in the form of a conch shell. The display here is impressive and is reflective of the rich cultural past of Bhutan. There also happens to be a Natural and Heritage Gallery here.

Things to do in Thimphu

Thimphu is not only the charming capital city of Bhutan, but also its largest city. It is a rich combination of traditional and contemporary culture.

In addition to its traditional attractions, it also hosts cafes, nightclubs and restaurants. Thimphu should certainly be on your Bhutan budget trip itinerary. 

Places to see in around Thimphu are –

Chorten Memorial

A place of daily worship for many, the Chorten Memorial is a large Tibetan religious structure. Its richly painted annexes face the cardinal directions. It has mandalas and statues crafted on it. 

National Textile Museum

Operated officially by the National Commission for Cultural Affairs, the National Textile Museum displays and promotes the textile industry of Bhutan. The achievements in textiles are also put to the fore.

Folk Heritage Museum

The Folk Heritage Museum gives a traveler an insight into the traditional Bhutanese way of living and culture. In addition to artefacts, it also displays a wide collection of household objects, tools and equipment.

National Library of Bhutan

The National Library of Bhutan preserves the ancient Dzongkha and Tibetan texts. It comprises of a number of ancient books and manuscripts. The architecture of the building is appealing. The National Museum of Bhutan has the world’s largest book.

Tashichho Dzong

In the Tashichho Dzong, reside the king and queen of Bhutan. A point to note is that it is open for visitors only after 4.30 pm for 1 hour.

The Buddha Point – a huge metal statue of Buddha Dordenma is a popular tourist spot in Thimpu. While most visit this wonder during the day to enjoy the wonderful views offered from this spot, the statue also looks amazing when illuminated at night!

Things to do in Phobjikha

Phobjikha is actually a valley -a glacial valley to be precise. It is extremely beautiful and forms a natural habitat to Black Neck Cranes, deer, leopards, red foxes, etc.

Places to see in around Phobjikha are –

Gangte Goemba

Gangte Goemba is a large monastery that overlooks nature. The premises consist of a central goemba, quarters for monks, a guesthouse and meditation centres. 

Nyelung Descending

Nyelung Dechenling is a temple. It is one of the 8 residences of Nyingma Dzogchen master Longchen Rabjam (Longchenpa). 

Recommended Food for Your Bhutan Backpacking Trip 

If you think Bhutanese food is just like Nepalese Tibetan food, you’re highly mistaken. Bhutan offers a range of authentic Bhutanese food for you to try out. Here are a few:

Cost of Eating Meals During Your Bhutan Budget Trip

Most travelers have their meals covered in the pre-paid travel plan before entering Bhutan. Once you visit eating places, your guide will sign a receipt to the owner. He will be reimbursed by the Bhutanese Government later on. In case you order something lavish and alcohol, you will have to pay extra.

The Good thing is that food is not very expensive in Bhutan. You can get a decent meal even outside your travel plan for about 100-250 INR or let’s say about $3-$5.

How to Minimize Cost During Your Bhutan Budget Trip?

There are various ways to cut down expenses during your Bhutan budget trip. Remember, traveling is about exploration and not spending huge bucks.

When you travel to countries as beautiful as Bhutan, you realise that you do not need luxury, comfort, and lots of bucks to have a great time. All you need to invest is lots of time and patience. That’s all you need to enjoy sights as pure as these!

Recommended Volunteer Programs in Bhutan

Due to the stringent (although brilliant) travel policy, Bhutan can be a tad bit expensive for backpackers. This is especially true for backpackers from non-SAARC nations. 

However, planning the ideal budget Bhutan trip is possible by enrolling on a volunteering program. Bhutan sponsors trips (sometimes even 100%) for skilled volunteers. All you have to make sure is that you contribute to their nation-building and not be a freeloader.

Two of the most recommended volunteer programs for your Bhutan budget trip are –

The people of Bhutan are happy, hospitable and truly amazing. It would be a real pleasure to work with them and for them! If you have the time and passion for something like that, do give it a shot. There’s a wide variety of volunteer programs in Bhutan.

Bhutan Budget Trip: An Insight to My Expenses

Here’s a little breakdown of the expenses of my Bhutan budget trip. The figures will help you plan your trip and manage costs.

What I loved the most about Bhutan was how everything goes slowly. Unlike a lot of other places today, people here aren’t in a rush. Hours are spent gazing at the mountains, napping, or enjoying a good meal. That’s the life I wish to have one day!

General Tips for Bhutan Budget Trip

Bhutan with its rich culture and heritage along with the blend of nature and perfect people makes it a surreal and exotic country for travelling. I’ve undertaken my Bhutan budget trip and explored a new place. You should visit it too.

Happy Wayfaring 🙂