I’m slightly out of breath, thanking my Soul Cycle instructors for my current fitness level. The climb has been hard work. But I’m prepared. After all, I’ve had a year to get ready. A year to imagine the moment I’d see this architectural wonder in person. Hanging precariously from a mountain cliff, it’s lived up to the hype. After hiking several miles and over 800 stone steps, I’m face to face with the Tiger’s Nest, an ancient monastery in western Bhutan. I’m in awe.
Bhutan is having a moment—and for good reason. For adventurers looking to explore a part of the world untouched by mainstream tourism, travel to Bhutan. Bhutanese life is filled with festivals, markets, culture, and art. Bhutan hotels offer quiet luxury and authentic food. The Bhutanese people are warm and welcoming. Travel to Bhutan is on the rise. Get on your bike and start peddling—the hike to the Tiger’s Nest is not to be missed.
Is Bhutan on your radar? Are you intrigued yet unsure if it’s the right destination for you? Follow along to discover the magic of this faraway kingdom.
Where is Bhutan?
‘So where is this magical country, exactly?’ you might wonder. Bhutan is sandwiched between India and Tibet. Small and landlocked, the kingdom of Bhutan is defined by three topographical features: The Great Himalayas, the Inner Himalayas, and the Southern Foothills.
Technically, Bhutan lies at the intersection of South Asia and East Asia. And while Dzongkha (a dialect of Tibetan) is Bhutan’s national language, all kids learn English in school. This makes traveling to Bhutan even more accessible for English-speaking tourists.
General facts:
Bhutan has a population of just under 800,000 people.
Just over 14,000 square miles, it’s roughly half the size of Indiana.
Thimphu is Bhutan’s capital.
The reigning monarch is King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. He’s 43 years old, handsome, and adored by his people.
Bhutan’s median age is 29.4 years old, with one-third of its population under 14.
How Difficult is it to Travel to Bhutan?
For being such a remote Asian country, getting to Bhutan is not as challenging as one might think. But it’s not as direct as hopping over the pond to London, either. The best way to travel there is by air. Cities like Bangkok, Kathmandu, Mumbai, and Dehli offer flights to Paro International, which is Bhutan’s only international airport.
The landing at Paro Airport is known to be one of the world’s scariest most thrilling. This is due to a terrifying trifecta of reasons. Firstly, the plane has to navigate a narrow mountain pass in the Himalayas to land in the Paro Valley. Secondly, the runway is short—just over 7000ft. And thirdly, the weather in Bhutan is extremely changeable—susceptible to fog, low clouds, and strong winds. I was ignorant of this valuable information before my trip. You won’t be.
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When to Go
Bhutan’s climate is diverse because of its varied regions. However, the best months to travel there are spring and fall. Tourists will benefit from pleasant, mild temperatures that amplify the glorious terrain. June and July are notoriously hot. In winter months, the weather is less predictable.
‘Bhutan’ translates to ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ due to the fierce storms that often roll in from the Himalayan mountain range. Unless fierce storms and unpredictable weather are your thing, spring and fall are your best bets.
Why Travel to Bhutan?
Bhutan has only been open to tourism since 1974, when it was recognized as a country by the United Nations. While its history in tourism is short, the country learned how to please travelers quickly.
Some travel to Bhutan in search of answers, meditative opportunities, and guidance. This tiny Buddhist country has a spiritual footprint that draws travelers from around the world. Monks are accessible and welcome guests with open arms. Others travel to Bhutan with questions like: ‘Why is the Tiger’s Nest so important?’ or, ‘How did Bhutan become the only carbon-negative country in the world?’
Whether seeking a meditative experience or an adventure-filled one, this small country has opportunities for all to enjoy and embrace. It’s one of the most scenic countries in the world, with snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, and winding rivers. There are opportunities for endless discovery, both personal and atmospheric, in Bhutan.
What to do in Bhutan
Travelers to Bhutan could easily spend two weeks without running out of things to do. But should you only have a week or less to spare, a few highlights follow.
Hike to the Tigers Nest (aka Paro Taktsang)
Follow a steep and strenuous trail to Bhutan’s most well-known and most photographed landmark. Sitting at 3120 meters above the Paro Valley, the Tiger’s Nest began as a cave used for meditation in the 9th century. In 1692, the monastery was formally built around it. Visitors will pass beautiful scenery along the 3.5-mile in-and-out hike, a powered prayer wheel, and rows of fluttering prayer flags. The Tiger’s Nest itself is an architectural marvel. It’s said to cling to the side of the mountain like a gecko.
Visit Punakha Dzong
Once serving as a stronghold against enemy attack, a dzong is a Bhutanese fortress/monastery. The second largest, second oldest, and arguably the most stunning example is Punakha Dzong. Strategically placed between two rivers, this enormous fortress is even more fascinating once we learn no nails were used to build it. If your itinerary only allows for one dzong visit, this is the one to see.
Grab a bow and arrow
Archery (known in Bhutanese as ‘Da’) became the national sport in 1971. Its popularity has soared with every passing decade since. According to Wikipedia, ‘Archery in Bhutan is culturally distinctive because it is a martial art practiced among a modern population that abhors killing.’ In addition, archery builds concentration levels, contributing to better mental health.
Visitors can participate in or watch archery at the Changlimithang Archery Range and Workshops at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu. It’s the most popular venue for the sport and is frequented by locals and foreigners alike.
Walk across a suspension bridge
At 160 meters in length, the Punakha Bridge is one of the longest in Bhutan. It links Punakha Dzong to villages across the Po Chu River. Draped in colorful Bhutanese prayer flags, the bridge is about one-half mile from Punakha Dzong and a wonderful starting point for hikes. In a country defined by high mountains and steep gorges, traversing suspension bridges is a way of life. While they will certainly test anyone’s fear of heights, you’ll likely find them to be surprisingly stable.
Drive the Dochu La Pass
The drive from Punakha to Thimphu will take visitors through a mountain pass in the Himalayas called Dochu La. It’s here where 108 stupas (hemispherical structures that contain relics and are used for meditation) known as the ‘Druk Wangyal Chortens’ are displayed. At 3100 meters, on a clear day, travelers will have panoramic views of the highest peak in Bhutan—Gangkar Puensum.
Bhutan’s most unique place to stay
Bhutan has a few wonderful hotels from which travelers can choose to stay. However, Aman Resorts has been a leader in luxury and adventure travel there for decades. Aman is a favorite for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the rich culture of the country they’re visiting.
The ‘Amankora Journey’ in Bhutan is based on guest’s individual goals and desires. With five lodges across five valleys and itineraries that range from three days to 16+, Aman’s experiences are unparalleled in Bhutan. The ‘Amankora Journey’ includes all meals, spa treatments, a car, a driver, and a guide. Each lodge is a Himalayan sanctuary unto its own.
Bhutan Travel: Know Before You Go
Bhutan is a safe country to visit. Petty crime is uncommon, and violent crime is rare. As in any foreign country, it’s always important to be alert. Visitors from the US will need to obtain a visa. And, it’s important to note that Bhutan charges visitors a daily tariff of up to $250 a day in the high season.
Other things to know:
Bhutanese food tends to be spicy.
When visiting a dzong, jeans and hats aren’t allowed. Be respectful by covering up arms and legs.
Internet service is spotty in Bhutan. Consider getting a SIM card when entering the country.
Bhutan roads are windy and steep. If prone to car sickness, don’t forget to pack medications.
Travel insurance is mandatory.
You’re Going Where?
Bhutan is as far off the beaten path as one can get these days. It’s a country known for its staggering beauty, welcoming people, and rich cultural history. Overall—a must-visit for intrepid travelers.
So, when you tell your friends you’re going to Bhutan and they say, “Why Bhutan?” you’ll know. Ready to tackle the Tiger’s Nest? Dust off those hiking boots and start preparing.
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Author’s Note: This article was initially written for CIRE Travel, where I’m a contributing writer and a client.
Dear Jamie, I am a fraternity brother of your dad Barry (aka the Bull) Lyman. In 2005 i went to Bhutan after incorporating the a golf tax exempt by a guy named Rick Lipsey of Sports Illustrated. He had gotten Callaway to send 300 golf club sets to Bhutan for free and i got to play golf with the ministers of culture and of fun. It was a trip well worth it. We also did a heavy duty 4-5day hike at 3500 meters before there were trails and visited the Dzongkha, Tiger’s Nest, archery and drove near the Tibetan Border. The flight from Bangkok was amazing and so was the whole trip. Let’s compare travel notes sometime. Tash’delk. Dan (aka the dipper) Alterman UB 1966
Hi Dan! What a wonderful experience you had in Bhutan… thank you for the great comment. The Tiger’s Nest was a true highlight but the overall immersion in a Buddhist country was pretty unforgettable. Email me anytime! I love to trade travel notes! -Jamie
Thanks for your article on Bhutan
You are very welcome!
Thank you for sharing your experiences in Bhutan. I will be there for two weeks in October with a small group. I’m very excited as well as nervous for the steep Hikes. I signed up for your newsletter, and I look forward to Getting lost and found.