Treks and Tours in Bhutan

Bhutan is famous for its vast natural beauty and serene environment. Time spent in Bhutan will remain etched in your memory for a long time. Far from the hustle and bustle of modern life, the quaint little country is the place to be for those looking to spend some time in the midst of nature’s unadulterated splendor.

Although it shares border with China and India- which are relatively more developed, Bhutan still remains shielded from the influences of modern civilization. A fact substantiated by the government’s endeavor to keep 60 per cent of the country forested. Presently, around 72% of the country is under forest cover. What will surprise you more is that even in the capital city Thimpu there are no traffic lights. Probably, it is the only country in the world that has not fallen trap to the superficial gifts of modern technology.

Tourists were first allowed to have a sneak into the 'the Last Shangri-La' in 1974, and since then its popularity as a place of immense natural beauty has risen exponentially. The land of beautiful valleys and majestic mountains, Bhutan will leave you spellbound.

Bhutan is home to many beautiful monasteries, temples and fortresses. The people of the country follow Buddhism and adhere by its teachings. In 2006, a survey conducted by a global agency had rated Bhutan as the happiest country in Asia and the 8th happiest in the world.

The Bhutanese like to call their country ‘Druk Yul’ which means the land of the peaceful thunder dragon. Though the country is relatively small, it still has vast reserves of nature’s treasures. Thimpu is the capital city of Bhutan. There are several places in Thimpu like the Punakha Dzong and Memorial Stupa that attract tourists all round the year. The Stupas have exquisite carvings and architecture. Para is one of the popular tourist destinations in Bhutan.  It is here that you will find the famous Taktsang or the "Tiger's Nest".

A place so magnificent will captivate your senses and make you want to come again and again.

Bhutan Visa Information

A visa is stamped in the passport at Paro Airport ( or entry port) during the immigration process. A visa cost US$20 and Visas are approved and issued prior to entry, with the pre-payment of travel itinerary. The visitors are required valid passport and visa to enter Bhutan, except for Indian nationals. Travelers to Bhutan must have a visa approved prior to arriving in the kingdom of Bhutan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Thimphu issues visa to all foreign travelers. To obtain a Bhutanese visa, you need the following:

1. Bhutan visa application form x 3 copies duly filled
2. Two passport-size photographs
3. Photocopy of the passport
4. For private visitors, a sponsorship certificate form must be filled in by the sponsor.
5. Visa processing time: 1 month.
6. A fee of US $70 a day should be paid directly to the department of tourism for private visitors, except for family members.

 

Note:- When entering Bhutan, you receive a visa for only 2 weeks from Paro airport. Visa extensions can be granted if you stay longer. Except for SNV employees, the visa extension fee of Nu. 510/- for each passport should be paid.

Nationals from India and Maldives do not need a visa. All others will need a visa before arriving.

Bhutan Price Information

Government’s fixed rate of US$ 250 for all the tourists visiting Bhutan per night which is inclusive of Expert leadership, All accommodations, All meals, All transportation during the tour, All tax and All activities as will be stated in the itinerary based on twin room sharing basis.

However, there is a surcharge applicable for the group size of less than three people. It’s US$ 30 for a person per night for two people traveling together, and US$ 40 per night for solo traveler.

Note: This tariff is the same for cultural tours, treks or any other special Interest tours.