Bhutan in brief. Bhutan is a Buddhist Himalayan kingdom that protects its culture and nature by limiting tourism. Visitors travel with a guide, pay a nightly sustainable development fee and explore mountain valleys filled with monasteries, fortresses and forests. It suits travellers seeking culture, walks and scenery without crowds.
What should you see in Bhutan?
- Thimphu: the capital, the only one in the world without traffic lights. Highlights include the 51.5-metre Shakyamuni Buddha statue, the Zorig Chosum school of traditional arts, the National Library and the reserve for the takin, the national animal.
- Gangtey Valley (Phobjikha): one of the country's most beautiful glacial valleys, at 3,000 metres. Black-necked cranes arrive in winter.
- Punakha: a warm valley that was the capital until 1955. Highlights include Punakha Dzong, built in 1637, Bhutan's longest suspension bridge and Chimi Lhakhang temple.
- Paro: home to the National Museum, seventh-century Kyichu Lhakhang temple and Taktsang, the Tiger's Nest monastery, clinging to a cliff above 3,000 metres.
- Mountain passes: Dochu-la (3,088 m), overlooking the Himalayas, and Chele La (3,988 m), the country's highest paved road.
When should you travel to Bhutan?
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Winter, from December to February, is dry and sunny, with fewer visitors and opportunities to see the cranes. Read our seasonal guide for more details.
How much does travel to Bhutan cost?
Budget for the sustainable development fee (SDF) of $100.00 US dollars per person per night, a $40.00 US dollars visa, hotels, meals, a guide and transfers, plus flights. Our cost guide explains the details.
How do you get to Bhutan?
Fly into Paro with Drukair or Bhutan Airlines, connecting through cities such as Delhi, Bangkok, Kathmandu or Singapore. There are no direct flights from the Americas.
What is our 10-day trip like?
From 1 to 10 December 2027, a maximum of 16 people travel with Wandernow guides and a certified local guide through Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha and Paro. Four-star hotels, breakfast, dinner, lunches, visa and SDF are included, along with private transfers, including transfers to and from Paro Airport. Arrival and departure are at Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international airport. $5,500.00 US dollars in a single payment or $5,978.00 US dollars with deferred payments; flights are not included.
View the Bhutan trip