Bhutan

Heralded as the Kingdom of Happiness, the mystical land of Bhutan is steeped in spiritualism. The mountainous nation is devoutly Buddhist, and monasteries, ceremonies & daily devotion is ubiquitous. Warm smiles greet you on the happy faces of simple-living locals, & it is easy to see why it has been declared the happiest country in the world.

activities & experiences

Spirituality forms the basis of any visit to Bhutan, such is its pervasiveness. Regardless of one’s own beliefs, seeing the vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze, the cacophanous festivals and the majestic monasteries clinging to the mountainside is a profound experience on a luxury Bhutan safari. But delve deeper into the landscapes of Bhutan and you will find a great deal more.

destinations

When thinking of Bhutan safaris, one might envisage the snow-capped peaks of the Himalaya. While this is a distinct aspect of the highest country in the world, it is by far the only one. Lush forested valleys give way to pristine lakes and the low-lying foothills provide extensive walking and cycling trails to explore without being overly steep or taxing. Religion and culture are fundamental aspects of any luxury Bhutan safari, and by exploring monasteries and sacred sites you will begin to understand the sense of peace and contentment that exudes from every radiant face.

Paro Taktsang

Undoubtedly the most recognised, and photographed, destination in Bhutan, Paro Taktsang, or the Tiger’s Nest monastery, clings to the side of a steep mountainside. Even on the smooth, flat plains of a valley, this remarkable structure would be a stunning building, but its almost unfathomable location makes it simply spectacular to witness. Visitors can walk to the monastery, though altitude can make it somewhat challenging and, to make you feel even more unfit, you will likely meet elderly Bhutanese folk happily making their daily pilgrimage as if it is the easiest stroll in the world!

Thimphu

The capital of Bhutan, Thimphu is wonderfully intriguing. The architecture is highly distinctive and tradition can be found at every turn. Museums and libraries share the history of the country, while the city’s Clock Tower Square hosts regular concerts and performances, with dances telling the tales of Butanese folklore. Here, you will also be able to sample Bhutanese traditional dishes, both at small cafes and fine-dining restaurants, and also take in some shopping for arts, crafts and the many, many carved phalluses on display! (Explanation in FAQs)

Royal Manas National Park

Bordering Northern India, Manas National Park is where you will discover Bhutan’s safaris. One of the last remaining bastions of the Bengal tiger, Royal Manas National Park is filled with wildlife found in few other places in the world. On its forested plains you will discover Asian elephant, greater one-horned rhinoceros, clouded leopard, Himalayan black bear, and pangolin among other creatures, including an abundance of birdlife. With luck, you may even spot the incredibly rare golden langur on your luxury Bhutan safaris, a species of monkey endemic to the region spanning the country’s border.

Changlimithang

Archery is a vital part of Bhutanese culture, and experts have been using this method of hunting for centuries. At Changlimithang Archery Ground you will be able to observe this fine art and the inordinate skills of the locals. For the more enthusiastic, you can even be taught the ways of the bow and arrow and try your hand at archery yourself.

Phobjikha Valley

Also known as the valley of the black-necked crane, and for good reason. On a tranquil stroll along Bhutan’s Gangtey Nature Trail, you will pass by monasteries, Buddhist statues and stupas to emerge at the winter roosting place of these majestic birds. The locals celebrate their annual return in a series of festivals which, while traditional, raise conservation awareness for the endangered black-necked crane.

accommodations

The government of Bhutan have only allowed Western tourists to cross their borders in the last 50 years and maintain a stringent hold upon the industry. Because of this, development and, ergo, your choice of accommodation is limited. Some of the larger international hotel names are present in Bhutan, offering their usual high standard of accommodation and service, but to visit the more remote regions your adventurous spirit will need to extend to your lodgings. Comfortable and homely, these simple homestays and lodges are a far cry from the RItz-Carlton, but are pleasant enough and add a rustic charm to your stay.

BHUTAN ESSENTIALS

BEST TIME: Mar-May & Oct-Nov

CLIMATE: LOW: 28-33ºF (-2-1ºC) Dec – Feb / HIGH: 60-81ºF (15-27ºC) Jun – Aug

SEASONS: Summer (Wet): Jun-Aug / Winter (Cold): Nov-Mar

BEST FOR:
Culture & spirituality, adventurers, a unique safari experience

Entry into Bhutan is still stringently monitored. Accommodation is only by government approval, visas are always required in advance and you must be accompanied by a pre-arranged guide at all times. This will, of course, all be arranged or advised of by your travel designer. International flights arrive in Bhutan from nearby Asian countries, including India, Thailand and Nepal.

Some inoculations, including COVD, are required for Bhutan. Your travel designer will assist, but it is highly recommended that you consult your medical travel specialist.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW LONG SHOULD I SPEND IN BHUTAN?

Bhutan is an absolutely fascinating country and worthy of at least a week’s attention. Experiences and extensive travel within the country are somewhat limited though, and it advised that you either only visit for a maximum of ten days or combine with another country.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BHUTAN?

Bhutan is cold and wet, though not at the same time. Winters can drop below freezing, while the hot summer months can be almost monsoonal in their rainfall, with almost six inches (150mm) of precipitation falling in July. Spring and Fall are both pleasant, with amiable temperatures and lighter showers giving way to blue skies. March, April and May are the better months of Spring, while October and November are the pick for the Fall.

OTHER BHUTAN DETAILS:

Much of the entertainment in Bhutan is in the landscapes and culture. Because of this, as well as the high altitude, it is a better destination for a fairly wide but select type of traveller. Young families and the elderly may struggle a little. The Bhutanese people are gentle, humble and welcoming, and a certain level of decorum and cultural respect should be adopted.

When wandering the markets and shops of Bhutan, and even in hotels and private homes, you will doubtlessly notice an abundance of phalluses. Far from being crude, they are a symbol of fertility and prosperity and are also thought to ward off evil spirits. Rather than being aggrandising of the male form, they also serve as a reminder for men to uphold humility and equality.

Bhutan is quite simply unlike anywhere else in the world, and an adventure to this Himalayan nation will not only remain with you for the rest of your life, it may well profoundly transform you, instilling just a little of what makes this the happiest nation on earth.

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Choosing a safari expert is never easy given the choice and lists upon lists of "top suppliers"....but we made the BEST choice for us....why....because above all, Rothschild listened ....really listened to what we wanted to experience.

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Trip was PERFECT!! Every single detail was planned out and the accommodations and people were wonderful. This trip exceeded all of our wildest expectations. Every place we stayed was just lovely and each each camp had a different vibe, which was really neat. Everyone we worked with was outstanding.

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