Situated between Tibet and India is the small kingdom of Bhutan. Remote and unique, this traditional Buddhist country is rich in spirituality and packed with beauty.
Situated on the eastern fringe of the Himalayas is the Kingdom of Bhutan, the second least populous country in Asia after the Maldives. It’s an incredibly diverse nation in terms of its landscape, with a subtropical climate found to the south of the country and the sub-alpine surroundings to the north near the Himalayan mountains.
Bhutan is one of the least developed countries in the world but one of the safest and most peaceful, making it a true step back in time to a period when everyday life was simple and straightforward.
As a low-volume tourist destination, you can guarantee that you won’t have fellow holidaymakers stepping on your toes as you explore a closely-guarded culture that has only been open to visitors since the 1970s. If you consider yourself to be deeply spiritual, you’ll almost certainly feel a connection to Bhutan with its Buddhist population characterised by the magnificent monasteries that overlook the mountain tops.
If you don’t want to travel too far from the country’s sole international airport in Paro, the Paro Valley is an excellent place to soak up authentic Bhutanese architecture, including the iconic Taktshang Goemba monument.
It’s also ideal for those who enjoy the great outdoors with plentiful trekking and mountain biking opportunities across the region. Amankora Paro is nestled in the heart of the Paro Valley. The ultimate pine forest retreat, this 24-suite spa hotel sits 2,250 metres above sea level, affording spectacular views of the forest and the valley. From this base, you can explore the National Museum and trek throughout the valley, all just 30 minutes from the airport.
Head a little further afield to discover Bhutan’s capital city of Thimphu. It’s generally the busiest region in the country, but still retains a healthy dose of Bhutanese culture and traditions. One important point of note is its incredibly high altitude, which can take some getting used to.
Mix with the traditionally-robed monks and locals and browse the lively weekend markets to get a feel for Bhutanese creativity and flair. A stone’s throw from the capital’s intriguing sights and sounds is the Amankora Thimphu, another popular spa resort overlooking the blue pine forest of the Thimphu Valley. Guests here can book tours of the National Memorial Chorten, the National Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum to get a genuine sense of life in the Bhutanese capital.
A short drive from the capital to Punakha is also an important journey to make if you want the best possible view of the Himalayan mountain ranges. The mesmerising Dochula Pass offers the pinnacle of views of the Eastern Himalayas for trekkers.
If you wish to explore the historic city of Punakha too, the Amankora Punakha offers a once-in-a-lifetime luxury holiday experience. This eight-suite farmhouse overlooks rice terraces and offers enchanting spa and meditation facilities to escape the stresses and strains of western life.
If you’re seeking a luxury holiday in Bhutan that’s sure to leave a lasting impression, Inspiring Travel company’s exclusive and unique resorts can help to create a magical getaway in the heart of Bhutanese life. Our in-house team of experts have personally visited every Bhutanese resort we offer and can help you to design a bespoke luxury holiday in Bhutan like no other.
Ricky
Travel Specialist
Bhutan travel information
When to visit Bhutan
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best time
Good time
Ok time
- Time zone: GMT+6
- Flight time: 16-19 hours
- Recommended airlines: Eithad, Qatar Airways, Bhutan Airlines
- Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum
- Tipping guideline: Not expected
- Health considerations: There is a risk of altitude illness when travelling to destinations of 2,500m or higher. There is a risk of dengue. There is a low risk of malaria in the southern belt districts of Bhutan along the border with India. There is no risk of malaria in the rest of Bhutan.
- Capital: Thimphu
- Population: 792382
- National languages: Dzongkha, English
- Electricity and plugs: Type C / D / F, 230V
- Mobile phone coverage: Good
- UK passport visa requirements: You need a visa for Bhutan if you have a British passport - apply online
Would you like to speak to an Bhutan expert?
Contact our Travel Specialists for a bespoke quote or some first-hand knowledge.
Monday - Friday: 9am - 7:30pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
The Inspiring Difference
Personal to you
- We get to know you personally
- Tailor-made holidays that are unique to you
- Enhancing your escape with personal touches
Experts in luxury
- Expert Travel Specialists with first-hand knowledge
- Only the best premium travel experiences
- Handpicked selection of world-class luxury resorts
Always here
- Speak to us any time with 24-hour support
- Premium concierge service
- Personal relationships with our passionate team
Extensive experience
- Nearly 50 years of bespoke luxury travel
- Strong Relationships with industry partners
- Diverse portfolio and exclusive experiences
For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware