Short Bhutan Tour

Weather and the Best Season

The Short Bhutan Tour is available year-round since it involves short drives, short sightseeing and staying at comfortable hotels. The weather is different at different seasons, providing a different experience for visitors throughout the year.

Bhutan is one of the most visited countries around the globe, particularly in springtime, between March and May. The weather is good, flowers are in bloom in the valleys and mountains are visible. This is a great time to sightsee and take photographs.

The 3 Days Bhutan Tour is also an ideal period in autumn (September to November). The post-monsoon skies are generally clear and bright, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the views from monasteries, temples and viewpoints.

The rainy season in summer (June-August) is regular, with rains occurring mainly in the afternoon. The countryside becomes green and there are fewer visitors. December to February is the cooler time of year, especially mornings and evenings, with most days being sunny. For a hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,120 m / 10,236 ft), wear appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

Accommodation

The accommodation in Bhutan Cultural Tour is comfortable and suitable for those who want a relaxed tour. The majority of the hotels in this tour are clean, friendly and are situated near the major attractions in Thimphu and Paro.

Beds are typically comfortable and have a private bathroom equipped with hot water, clean towels and air conditioning or heating as appropriate for the season, as well as a few simple toiletries. Internet access, generally via Wi-Fi, is available in many hotels, but may not be as fast as in larger cities.

The average time you will stay in Thimphu and Paro is 1 night each during the Short Bhutan Tour. They are also easily accessible to key cultural attractions, restaurants and local markets.

Glory Adventure chooses its hotels with careful consideration, in order to ensure service and comfort. The accommodations in the tour are planned to provide you with a comfortable stay and the hospitality of Bhutan. If there are special dietary requirements, let the team know prior to the journey where possible.

Food and Drinks in Bhutan

The food is a fun part of the Short Bhutan Tour and it provides an opportunity for tourists to taste local dishes as well as familiar international dishes. In most of the hotels and restaurants, the dishes are prepared fresh with seasonal ingredients.

Rice, vegetables, potatoes, chicken, pork and beef are widely found. Ema Datshi is one of the more popular dishes; it consists of chilli peppers and local cheese. Most restaurants can prepare less spicy meals if you don’t like spicy food.

During the Bhutan Cultural Tour, you will also get a chance to taste the traditional food items such as butter tea, red rice, noodles and homemade soups. There is wide availability of vegetarian food and if you let the hotel know beforehand, they can prepare any food according to your dietary needs.

The tour is supplied with bottled drinking water and should be used in preference to untreated tap water. If refillable water stations are provided, it’s a great idea to take a reusable water bottle along. Eating local food is a great way of knowing more about the culture in Bhutan during one’s visit.

Insurance, Visa and Permits for the Trip

It is advisable for all travelers to take travel insurance for the 3 Days Bhutan Tour. Medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation and lost or delayed baggage coverage are all key elements of your policy. If you have the right insurance, this will give you added comfort when traveling.

Visitors from most countries require visas to enter Bhutan. A visa is pre-arranged by a licensed Bhutan tour operator before you come. A visa clearance letter will be provided before traveling and the visa will be provided upon arrival at the Paro International Airport.

In addition, visitors have to pay the Sustainable Development Fee for the Short Bhutan Tour according to Bhutan’s tourism policy. Most tour packages will cover the necessary travel arrangements; however, it is always best to check what is included before booking.

Glory Adventure will provide support in the booking process and will inform you of the documents that are needed before departure. Ensure that your passport has at least 6 months’ validity from the intended date of travel and print and carry important travel documents if possible.

Health & Safety

Health and safety is important during the Bhutan Cultural Tour. This tour is an easy one, suitable for all, including the young and old. The tour is laid back and you will be able to relax and enjoy the experience.

Bhutan is safe, with friendly people and a peaceful atmosphere. However, it is always a good idea to store your passport, cash and other valuables in a safe location. While sightseeing and visiting religious sites, obey the directions of your guide.

The Short Bhutan Tour involves a hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,120 m / 10,236 ft). The hike is mostly easy for most people; however, walking at a steady pace, drinking plenty of water and taking a break periodically will make the climb easier. If you have any medical condition, please check with your physician before travel.

Glory Adventure is accompanied by experienced local guides, who are prepared to help you throughout your journey. Bring any personal medicines you require, apply sunscreen in the daytime and wear suitable shoes for walking around.

Transportation

The Short Bhutan Tour has comfortable and organized transportation. This tour starts with the scenic flight from Kathmandu to Paro, after which you will have private vehicle transfers for all sightseeing and travel within Bhutan.

It takes approximately an hour to drive from Paro to Thimphu and is run on well-maintained mountain roads. You will get to see the villages, traditional Bhutanese houses, forests and rivers along the journey. The roads are in good condition, with some curves on the mountain.

The 3 Days Bhutan Tour is inclusive of all airport transfers, sightseeing drives and inter-lodging transfers between all the activities. Private vehicles offer greater convenience and comfort than public transport.

Glory Adventure takes care to arrange your travel with reliable local partners to help you enjoy a smooth travel experience. Always wear a seatbelt when travelling and if you are travelling on the road, a light jacket and a bottle of water are a good idea. If you follow your guide’s itinerary, you will get the best out of your trip in Bhutan.

Tiger’s Nest Hike Information

Tiger’s Nest monastery is the most popular hike in the Bhutan Cultural Tour. Taktsang Monastery, also referred to by its Tibetan name of Padma Luma, is one of the most important religious places in Bhutan, located on a cliff at 3120 m (10236 ft) above sea level.

This hike is typically 5 hours round trip, depending on the time you take to walk and on how many breaks you make. The trail passes through pine forests and offers beautiful views of the surrounding valley. There are some gentle slopes and others steeper, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

On the Short Bhutan Tour, those who do not wish to trek uphill the first part of the tour can rent a horse for a portion of the climb for an additional fee. The last part of the monastery can be walked only with steps.

Bring drinking water, sunglasses, sun cream and a light jacket as weather can turn quickly on this hike. Take a break now and then, walk slowly and enjoy the experience.

Currency and Your Extra Expenses

The official currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN), which is equivalent to the Indian rupee. Cash is important for small purchases and many hotels and bigger stores accept major credit cards; some may charge for using them.

The package usually includes 3 days’ accommodation, transportation, meals and sightseeing service. Keep in mind, though, that there will be personal costs like snacks and drinks, souvenirs, clothes and some optional activities.

There are a few experiences you need to pay extra for, such as a hot stone bath at one of the traditional farmhouses or the horse ride on the Tiger’s Nest hike. It is useful to have some local money to use for some optional services and small items.

Glory Adventure will be able to provide a clear description of what will be included in the package before departure. It’s always important to have a little cash on hand when traveling to smaller businesses where they may not take card payments.

Language & Communication

This is the opportunity to visit the country and meet some of the local people and get to know the culture of Bhutan with the Short Bhutan Tour. Bhutan’s official language is Dzongkha, but there are several regional languages spoken in the different regions of the country.

Hotels, tourist resorts, schools and government offices are English-speaking. The majority of tourist guides, hotel personnel and drivers will speak English very well, making it easy for foreign tourists to ask questions and get help while on the trip.

Included in the Bhutan Cultural Tour is a visit to the important monasteries, temples and historical sites. Your guide will provide information on the local traditions, history and local customs, which will be translated into English in an easy-to-understand way.

It’s a kind gesture of respect to learn a couple of local greetings in order to connect with the locals. A pleasant voice, smile and patience are always welcome. Should you have any questions throughout the tour, your guide will be pleased to assist and will be able to give you valuable information.

Mobile Network, Internet & Charging Facilities

For the 3 Days Bhutan Tour, mobile phone coverage is available in most towns and popular tourist destinations. B-Mobile and TashiCell are the major mobile companies and both provide a reasonable mobile network in Thimphu and Paro.

Almost all the hotels, cafes and restaurants offer internet connection for guests. It’s easy to use the internet to send and receive messages, read and send emails and surf websites – although it might be slower during rush hour or in certain areas.

In the main area visited by the Short Bhutan Tour, the electricity supply is reliable, so charging your phone, camera or other electronic device is generally possible. The power sockets in Bhutan are of Type D, F and G with a standard voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz. It is advisable to have a universal travel adapter.

Alternatively, you can buy a local SIM if you need to access the internet often after you arrive in Bhutan. If necessary, your guide will be able to explain the process and help you select the right one.

Cultural Etiquette and Do’s and Don’ts

One of the important parts of the Short Bhutan Tour is respecting the local customs. Respect the traditions, religion and culture of Bhutan; respect the country while visiting Bhutan.

In monasteries, temples, dzongs, wear modest dress so that shoulders and knees are covered. Take your hat off before you go into religious buildings and always listen to the instructions of your guide and/or the local staff. Ask before taking photos; some temples might not permit photography on site.

While visiting Bhutan for a cultural tour, do not point to or touch religious objects or articles unless invited to do so. Walk clockwise around chortens, prayer wheels and monasteries.

Always ask people in the area for permission before taking photos of them. Be respectful to the religious sites, respect local customs and speak quietly to have a positive experience for both visitors and communities.

Cultural Festivals in Bhutan

Bhutan is well known for its colorful festivals, which are an important part of the country’s culture and religious traditions. Most known festival is Tshechus and take place in various places and monasteries.

If your travel dates fall on the festivals in the Bhutan calendar, many visitors opt for the 3 Days Bhutan tour to experience one of these festivals. At a Tshechu, the monks and performers are in elaborate masks and costumes and they perform traditional dances depicting the Buddhist stories and teachings in the community.

The most popular festivals in Bhutan include the Paro Tshechu and Thimphu Tshechu. Thousands of locals attend to celebrate, pray and spend time with family and friends. These special events are open to the public for a healthy, respectful view.

If your itinerary doesn’t match the festivals, then there is the opportunity to appreciate the cultural heritage of the country and enjoy the tranquil life of Bhutan through visiting the monasteries, dzong and cultural landmarks of the country.

Sustainable and Responsible Travel

Responsible tourism is helping to preserve the natural resources and cultural heritage of Bhutan for generations to come. The Bhutan Cultural Tour is a different way of travelling to respect the local traditions, support the local communities and minimising impacts on the environment.

It’s small things that can make a big difference on your journey. Where possible, bring a reusable water bottle, use no single-use plastics and put all rubbish in specified bins. Sustaining cleanliness of public areas and natural areas helps to maintain the beauty of Bhutan’s landscape.

It is a Short Bhutan Tour which encompasses monasteries, temples and historical places which are very revered among the locals. Wear modest attire, obey your guide and don’t touch religious items unless you are given permission. By honoring these traditions, you can help maintain Bhutan’s distinct cultural heritage.

Glory Adventure promotes responsible tourism through the use of responsible local guides and service providers. Purchasing local goods, eating out at local eating establishments and shopping at local shops also contribute to the benefits of tourism to the local community, whilst maintaining any local way of life.

Tips for First Time Bhutan Visitors

When planning, you will get to appreciate your Short Bhutan Tour from the moment you reach the country. Keep your passport, visa clearance letter, travel insurance and other important papers in a secure, safe and accessible location.

Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses and a water bottle. Weather might change throughout the day, particularly when hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,120 m / 10,236 ft). Layering your clothing will help you stay comfortable and comfortable during the journey.

Modest clothing is recommended as the 3 Days Bhutan Tour involves visiting religious sites. Do not take photographs in monasteries or of local people without asking permission and please take the advice of your guide when sightseeing.

Bhutan is known for its peaceful climate and generous people. Spend the time to enjoy the local culture, taste local food and learn local traditions. If you’re prepared and well-willing, your visit will not just be comfortable but memorable as well.