Table of Contents
Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, unraveled before us in a series of breathtaking landscapes and enriching experiences, all while being kind to our wallets. This journey in July 2016 stands as testimony to the fact that sometimes, the road less traveled not only brings in rich experiences but also proves to be budget-friendly. Our decision to fly into Bagdogra and enter Bhutan by road was both an adventure and a savings coup. Join us as we recount a trip that was not just memorable but showcased the quiet beauty and cultural richness of Bhutan in an economical way.
Where we stayed
During our 8-day adventure, we were fortunate to stay in accommodations that not only were budget-friendly but also provided a delightful experience of Bhutanese hospitality.
Hotel Sinchula, Phuentsholing
At the gateway to Bhutan, we had an overnight stay at Hotel Sinchula. Though a budget option, it offered decent amenities for a comfortable start to our trip. The hotel is known for its convenient location, decent washrooms, and mildly comfortable beds – making it a good enough option for an overnight stay
Wangchuk Hotel, Thimphu
Our next home was the Wangchuk Hotel, a premium establishment with fantastic amenities. One of its standout features is the grand view it offers of the Thimphu valley. Apart from the spectacular views, the hotel also delights with its culinary offerings, serving great food that tantalizes the taste buds. Its convenient location makes it an excellent base for exploring the capital city.
Wangchuk Lodge, Gangtey
Nestled in the heart of the lush Gangtey valley, the Wangchuk Lodge was nothing short of a retreat. With its spectacular views and tranquil location, it offers a peaceful respite away from the bustle of city life. The rooms are comfortable, promising a restful sleep amidst the calming sounds of nature.
Tashi Namgay Resort, Paro
A place that promises luxury and breathtaking views of the Paro valley. The resort boasts of its premium location and rooms that offer both comfort and visual delight. With spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and dining areas offering panoramic views of the valley, it promises an experience of luxury amidst nature.
Getting around Bhutan
Navigating through the stunning landscapes of Bhutan can be both a journey and a destination in itself. Here’s how you can get around:
Private Vehicle: Hiring a vehicle along with a driver for the day or for inter-city travel can be a wise decision. Not only does it offer convenience, but it also allows you the flexibility to explore the picturesque surroundings at your own pace. Particularly when heading to destinations like Wangdue or Gangtey, a private vehicle can be a more comfortable and time-efficient option.
Public Transport: For the popular routes connecting Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha, utilizing the frequent bus services can be a cost-effective way to travel. These buses offer a reliable mode of transport, connecting you with the vibrant local culture along the way.
It’s worth noting that Bhutan embarked on a significant infrastructure upgrade in 2016, focusing on the major highways. The routes which were under construction have since been completed, offering smoother and safer journeys across the country.
Remember, whether you choose a private vehicle or public transport, the journey through Bhutan is characterized by beautiful landscapes and scenic vistas that offer a refreshing and serene travel experience.
Our Itinerary
We embraced the journey through Bhutan, each day unfurling new aspects of this majestic land. We packed a lot into a few days but on other days kept our exploration to just a couple of places – a good mix of a tight and relaxing schedules
Day 1: A Beginning with Spiritual Blessings in Phuentsholing
We flew into Bagdogra and embarked on a scenic drive to Phuentsholing, immersing ourselves in the spiritual ambiance of local monasteries and temples before resting for the night in anticipation of the adventures that lay ahead.
Day 2: Thimphu Calls
After securing our permits, we were on the road again, driving up to Thimphu. An evening walk around the city acquainted us with the charming capital’s harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
Day 3: Discovering Thimphu
A day of exploration awaited us, with visits to the towering Big Buddha statue, bustling local markets, and the tranquil precincts of Changangkha Lhakhang.
Day 4: From Thimphu to Punakha to Gangtey
We started the day towards Punakha, but making a stop at the historic Semtokha Dzong, a fortress that stands as a testament to Bhutan’s rich history. The long day saw us driving to Dochula Pass and then to Punakha. After marveling at the Punakha Dzong’s grandeur, we journeyed to Gangtey for a night amidst the tranquil vistas of the valley.
We reached Gangtey after nightfall and could feel that we’d reached some place special. Though we couldn’t see anything, there was an extraordinary sense of calm and peace in the region. This was as remote as one can get.
Day 5: The Tranquillity of Gangtey and the Excitement of Paro
When we woke up, we were pleasantly surprised at the sight that awaited us – a panoramic view of the Gangtey valley with clouds deep in the valley. We had breakfast with that view, mesmerized and energized by it. We followed it up with a morning visit to the serene Gangtey Monastery which prepared us for a journey to Paro, where a new chapter of exploration awaited.
Day 6: The Trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
A highlight of our trip, the trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery was an exhilarating experience, a blend of spirituality and awe-inspiring views, etching an indelible memory in our hearts.
Day 7: Homeward Bound
We bid farewell to Bhutan, driving back to Phuentsholing and cherishing the calm quietness of the region before heading to Bagdogra for our flight back to Bangalore, with hearts full and spirits enriched.
Tips for an enjoyable trip
- Opt for land journey: Save substantially by flying into Bagdogra and driving into Bhutan, a unique experience that also cuts down costs.
- Alternate travel days, sightseeing and rest days: As roads and travel in the mountains can be tiring, it’s always best to sequence a travel day with a rest day (with light sightseeing) and packed sightseeing.
- Trek Tiger’s Nest at the end of the trip: It can be a tiring (but worth it) experience and doing it early in your trip can just add to the fatigue over the next few days.
- Savor inter-city road trips: You can stop frequently to take in the spectacular views of the valleys and mountains. Add some tea breaks in the cloudy misty conditions – there’s no better way to explore the mountains.
Best time to Go
While we visited in July, Bhutan is a year-round destination. Each season has its charm, unveiling different facets of this beautiful country. October to December is the peak season to visit Bhutan as the air is clear and fresh with sunny skies and catching sights of the rare black-necked cranes in Gangtey.
January and February are colder, but from then until April the climate remains dry and pleasant and in late spring the famous rhododendrons bloom spectacularly, flooding the valleys with color. Heat and humidity increase from May, and from June to September the monsoon rains cover the mountains which makes it a shoulder season and a relatively cheaper time to visit.