Altitude Himalaya welcomes you to Bhutan, a country that values GNH (Gross National Happiness) over GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Beyond being one of the happiest nations in the world, Bhutan is also one of only three carbon-negative countries on the planet.
Also known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan offers a deep connection to rich mythology, untouched nature, and spiritual traditions. Even more fascinating is the fact that 70% of the country is covered in forests, making trekking and wildlife experiences incredibly immersive.
This is the ideal destination for travelers seeking spiritual journeys through meditation in Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Across Bhutan, you’ll encounter a clean environment, rich biodiversity, and strong commitments to sustainability.
To ensure you experience the very best of Bhutanese culture, Altitude Himalaya has long been helping guests with customizable travel options. While our base is in Nepal, we offer convenient connections from major international hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore, and Delhi, not just from Kathmandu!
Altitude Himalaya’s core mission is to provide you with meaningful experiences, not just sell travel packages. We proudly align with Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy and collaborate with experienced local guides to ensure a truly authentic and immersive journey.
Why Visit Bhutan?
Whether you call this country The Last Shangri-La, The Nation of Flying Tigers, or The Kingdom in the Clouds, visiting Bhutan is nothing short of a mystery.
From its traditional culture and warm hospitality to thrilling Himalayan adventures and unique trekking destinations, Bhutan invites you to dive deep into its unmatched beauty!
With Altitude Himalaya's excellent services, we assure you that you’ll receive only the finest hospitality from the Bhutanese people. Our local guides will accompany you as you explore various temples, monasteries, and other architectural wonders across the country.
Not just that. Bhutan also offers glimpses of a peaceful environment, breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and the warmth of its loving locals. We guarantee that your trip to Bhutan will be fun, adventurous, educational, and an overall enriching experience!
Fascinating Facts About Bhutan
Location |
South Asia |
Total Area |
38,394 sq. km |
Highest Point |
Gangkhar Puensum (7,570m) |
Lowest Point |
Drangme Chhu (97m) |
Bordering Countries |
India and China (Land-locked) |
Time Zone |
Bhutan Time (BTT), UTC+06 |
Population (2022 census) |
727,145 |
Capital City |
Thimpu |
Official Language |
Dzongkha |
Total Languages Spoken |
53 |
Religion |
Buddhism (most), Hinduism, Bon, Christianity |
No. of National Parks |
5 |
No. of Wildlife Sanctuaries |
4 |
No. of Nature Reserves |
1 |
No. of Biological Corridors |
9 |
UNESCO Tentative Lists |
8 |
Political System |
Constitutional Monarchy |
Administrative Division |
20 districts |
Currency |
Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) |
Calling Code |
+975 |
ISO 3166 code |
BT |
Must-Visit Destinations in Bhutan
No matter how many days you plan to spend in Bhutan, our team ensures that you get to visit all the iconic locations.
The list is long, but to give you the best possible experience, we’ve curated packages that perfectly match your timeframe so that you get a full cultural and scenic immersion.
You won’t just explore the major cities and towns. You’ll dive deep into each district’s main attractions. From sightseeing to visiting sacred religious sites, Altitude Himalaya includes everything in our Bhutan travel packages.
Expect to visit the following destinations during your trip to Bhutan:
- Major cities/towns: Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang
- Religious sites: Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Tashichho Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, Chimi Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang, Zilukha Nunnery, Jangtsa Dumgtseg Lhakhang, Tachogang Lhakhang, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Namkha Nyingpo Goemba, Gangtey Monastery, Simtokha Dzong, Chendebji Chorten, Talo Sanga Choling
- Cultural & Historical Sites: Rinpung Dzong, Trongsa Dzong, National Library of Bhutan, National Institute of Zorig Choesum, Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, Changlimithang Archery Ground, Centenary Farmers Market
- Natural spots: Phobjikha Valley, Dochula Pass, Motithang Takin Preserve
Do note that for shorter Bhutanese tours, we might skip places that are too far to reach. This is solely to ensure you have the best experience, allowing you to explore the nearby spots in a better and more meaningful way.
Top Things to Do in Bhutan
From fully immersing yourself in Bhutan’s rich Buddhist culture and vibrant festivals to seeking spiritual and natural experiences amid breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, there’s so much to do in this small yet extraordinary country!
Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect after arriving in the Land of the Thunder Dragon:
- Sightseeing: Dedicate a full day or two to explore all the attractions in Bhutan’s main cities, primarily Thimphu and Paro. Make sure to visit all the dzongs, monasteries, and temples.
- Go for nature hikes: You can opt for longer trekking routes, such as Chomolhari, Bumthang, Druk Path, Jomolhari, and Snowman. But if you're short on time, choose shorter yet iconic hikes like Tiger’s Nest or Gangtey Valley.
- Experience wildlife: Visiting places like Phobjikha Valley or Jigme Dorji National Park offers you the chance to spot rare species such as the takin, red panda, and black-necked crane.
- Attend local festivals: The best way to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture is by joining the country’s main festivals, including Paro Tshechu, Thimphu Tshechu, Punakha Drubchen, and Jambay Lhakhang Drup.
- Participate in traditional sports: If you’re an archery enthusiast, don’t miss the chance to try it in Bhutan, where it’s locally called ‘dha’.
- Indulge in spiritual retreats: Bhutan is well-known for meditation, traditional healing therapies, and hot stone baths (dotsho). These are available at many hotels and even in certain monasteries.
- Taste authentic Bhutanese food: Sample local delicacies like Ema Datshi (the national dish), Red Rice, Jasha Maroo, Phaksha Paa, Mo:Mo:, Shakam Datshi, Sikam Paa, and more.
- Shop for authentic handicrafts: Last but not least, be sure to pick up souvenirs before you leave. Some of the best options include cane and bamboo crafts, Himalayan beads, handmade Bhutanese paper, thangkas, Buddhist paintings, prayer wheels, and more!
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Every season in Bhutan offers unique attractions. However, the best time to visit Bhutan has always been Spring (March through May) and Autumn (September through November).
Spring brings blooming flowers, crystal-clear blue skies, panoramic vistas of the Himalayan peaks, and the vibrant celebration of the Paro Tsechu festival.
Likewise, Autumn offers slightly sunny yet cool weather, an ideal time for trekking, and colorful festivals like Thimphu Tsechu, Wangdue Tsechu, Jambay Lhakhang Drup, and the Black-Necked Crane Festival.
Even the summer/monsoon season (June through August) can be a good time to visit Bhutan. However, frequent afternoon showers during this period can make travel a bit more challenging.
The one season we typically don’t recommend is Winter (December through February), as temperatures can drop significantly. Sometimes as low as -4°C, especially in higher regions.
What’s truly essential when visiting Bhutan is choosing the right time rather than just the right season. Do your research before planning your trip, stay in touch with experienced travel agencies like Altitude Himalaya, and get the latest travel updates before booking your flight. Because in the end, the experience is what matters the most, right?
Now that you’ve learned everything about Bhutan and the reasons behind choosing Altitude Himalaya as your travel partner, you can proceed to scroll through the different packages we offer. Carefully check the descriptions to find what best suits your preferences. And for booking, we’re just a call or text away!