A Backpacking Trip to Bhutan: The Land of Happy People

traveller Nihar

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.

Bhutan Budget Trip

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.

Peak season for Bhutan budget trip

August to February. It is recommended that you plan your Bhutan budget trip in the aforesaid months to make it cost friendly.

Backpacking in Bhutan

As strange as it may sound, Bhutan does not allow backpackers. This implies that you have to book your trip with Bhutanese travel agents beforehand. They will help you in everything – planning, customizing itineraries, making reservations and bookings. Based on your needs & budget, you may select any one of the Bhutan tour packages available for visitors.

Solo travel to Bhutan

Travelling solo to Bhutan will prove more expensive than travelling in a group. If you don’t like company, try collaborating with fellow solo travellers beforehand. This will help you pool and share costs during your Bhutan budget trip. Also, you will have to book your trip in advance.

Surcharge for solo travellers

For solo travellers, there will be a surcharge of about $30 per day. This can be minimized if you travel in a group of 3 or more.

Planning your Bhutan budget trip via a private travel company

It is mandatory for a visitor to arrange for a private tour before landing in Bhutan. Also, the payment has to be made in advance. Only then will you be granted your visa. You should not worry about paying the advance payment because the Bhutanese government monitors each private travel company closely. Make sure the company is approved by the Government.

Daily expenses on your Bhutan budget trip

Daily expenses will include accommodation, food, transportation, entrance fees to various places and a private guide and driver (if you hire one). Good thing is that the cost per day will be less than you expect.

Cost per day

$200. This amount may seem expensive but it is not, because it covers everything – accommodation, transportation, cost of visiting various places, food, personal guide, personal driver.

The $200 cost is not applicable to citizens from India, Bangladesh and Maldives. Citizens from these nations can travel Bhutan on a cost-effective budget of $25 per day.

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 Bridge

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.

Location

South Asia

Official language

Dzongkha

Most Bhutanese are fluent in English

Population

797,765

Currency

Ngultrum

Safety

Extremely Safe

Visa

A permit is given on arrival in Bhutan

Official Dress

Gho for men and Kira for women

Best Time to Visit

All year round

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.

Bhutan Budget Trip

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.

Trekking

April, May, September October

The trails are clear and clear blue skies make the treks even more appealing.

Bird Watching

December, January, February

This is a good time to see the endangered black necked crane in Phobjika

Festivals

Bhutan is a land of festivities. Many festivals are celebrated throughout the year in different towns of Bhutan. Some of the most popular ones are:  

Punakha Dromche:  14-17 February 2019 in Panakha

Paro Tshechu – 17-21 March 2019 in Paro

Rhododendron Festival: 19- 21 April 2019 in Thimphu

Haa Summer Festival: 13-14 July 2019 in Haa Valley

Thimphu Tshechu:  8-10 October 2019 in Thimphu

Jambay Lhakhang Drup: 13-16 November 2019 in Bumthang

Bhutan Budget Trip

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.

From New Delhi

Board a plane to New Delhi from your country. Reach New Delhi and head towards Paro on your connecting flight. You will be asked to pay the transit visa fee in New Delhi.

From Kathmandu

Board a plane to Kathmandu from your country. Reach Kathmandu and head towards Paro via Drukair.

From Singapore

Board a plane to Singapore from your country. Reach Singapore and head towards Paro via Drukair. Your flight will halt at Kolkata for refuelling. 

From Bangkok

Board a plane to Bangkok from your country. Reach Bangkok and head towards Paro via Drukair.

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.

Train

To enter from Phuentsholing, board a train from the place closest to you and reach Hasimara.

Hasimara is the closest Indian train station to the India-Bhutan border.

From Hasimara, one can board a rickshaw, taxi or bus to reach Jaigaon which is the Indian town adjoining Phuentsholing.

Flight to Bagdogra

Take a flight to Bagdogra from the airport nearest to you.

Most of the airports have a direct flight to Bagdogra.

From Bagdogra, it is a 3 to 4-hour road journey to Phuentsholing.

Flight to Paro

Travel directly to Paro by flight.

The permit is issued at the Phuentsholing as well as the Paro immigration office.

Bhutan Gate

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.

Agoda
Booking.com
Expedia

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.

1.      Identity proof
2.      Address proof
3.      Cash. There are not many ATMs in Bhutan.
4.      Woolen garments
5.      Medical kit
6.      College Id (if you’re a student). It will help you avail discounts.

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.

Bhutan Budget Trip

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.

Town & Places to Visit
Phuentsholing

Zangto Pelri Lhakhang

Karbandi Monastery

Bhutan Gate

Paro 

Paro Takstang

Main Street

RinpungDzong

Chele la 

National Museum of Bhutan

Thimphu

Chorten Memorial

National Textile Museum

Folk heritage museum

National Library of Bhutan

Tashichho Dzong

Phobjikha

Gangte Goemba

Nyelung Descending

Bhutan Budget Trip

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.

Bhutan Budget Trip

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.

Tigers Nest Bhutan

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.

Buddha Point Thimpu

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:

Ema Datshi

Ingredients: Chilly and cheese

Ema Datshi is a national dish of Bhutan, and one of the most famous ones as well.

Kewa Datshi

Ingredients:  Potato and cheese

It is a related dish to Ema Datshi where potatoes are substituted for chilly

Phaksha Paa

Ingredients:  Red chillies and pork

In this dish, slices of pork are stir-fried with red chillies and vegetables. It can be eaten with rice.

Jasha Maru

Ingredients:  Spicy chicken

It is a great chicken curry with excellent ginger flavour

Arra/Ara/Arang and Chang/ Chaang

These are traditional and Local alcoholic drinks

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.

Invest a lot of time in planning your Bhutan budget trip. The more time you devote to planning, the more clarity you’ll have regarding saving money.
Use public transport once in Bhutan. It will help you minimize costs effectively.
Try booking accommodation places that are near major towns. It will help you save both time and money.
Avoid travelling solo. Travel in groups of 4 or more. This will help you cut down on the surcharge on stay.
Save money by not consuming exotic beverages and alcohol. Go for local drinks and food items.
Avoid shopping too much. Travel isn’t about buying stuff. It’s about exploration.
Bhutan River

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 –

Volunteer Program & Details
High School Summer Community Service

Location: Thimphu

Duration: 7 days

Work: Volunteers will work with Bhutanese young children. In addition, environmental and community beautification or construction projects around Thimphu will also be looked after.

Film Makers Without Borders

Location: Thimphu

Duration: 1 month

Work: Filmmakers and art educators teach filmmaking, media literacy, and technology skills to budding students in Bhutan.

Bhutan Budget Trip

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.

Train Journey

(Mumbai, Lokmanya Tilak Terminals (LTT) to Hasimara (HSA) via Kamakhya Express)

700 INR for sleeper class to 2500 INR for 2-tier AC

Internal transport

25 INR for the public bus. 50 to 100 INR for a rickshaw.

Accommodation per day

1000 INR

Breakfast

300 INR

Lunch

250 INR

Dinner

250 INR

Snacks

300 INR

Public Transport from Phuentsholing to Paro

250 INR

Public Transport from Paro to Thimphu

50 INR

Public Transport from Thimphu to Phuentsholing

250 INR

Bhutan Nature

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

Carry Cash. ATMs are only in the main towns in Bhutan and these also aren’t completely reliable.
Carry some warm clothes regardless of the season you are visiting Bhutan in.
Photography might be prohibited in certain areas like Dzongs, monasteries, temples, or any religious institutions. Enquire before you start clicking.

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 🙂

THIS POST IS AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF BUDGET WAYFARERS. ANY INDIVIDUAL OR ASSOCIATION INDULGING IN PLAGIARISM WILL BE DEALT WITH STRICTLY . IF YOU WANT TO USE INFORMATION FROM THE ARTICLE ABOVE, KINDLY QUOTE THE SOURCE.

Nihar Sabnis

Nihar Sabnis is a passionate Travel Blogger, an innovator and also an astronomer. He is an ardent trekker having completed many challenging Himalayan treks. One of the feats achieved was reigning supreme on a high altitude trek. A travel enthusiast and philanthropist, Nihar pursued a solo backpacking budget venture to Bhutan during which he had 108 intense conversations. In addition to being a backpacker, Nihar also happens to be a cyclist and a professional badminton player.