Experience the Essence of Summer in the Land of the Thunder Dragon
Imagine a land where the mountains touch the sky and the air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. Travelling to Bhutan offers a unique opportunity to engage in mindful exploration, where every moment is a chance to connect deeply with nature, culture and its people. Bhutan stands out as a destination that values well-being and sustainability above all with its preserved culture, stunning landscapes and commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH).
This summer, from June through August, let Bhutan’s warm embrace enchant you, where temperatures linger between a pleasant 15 and 30 degrees Celsius, accompanied by the soothing rhythm of gentle rainfall. Whether you seek the serenity of nature or the thrill of adventure, Bhutan is a captivating escape for every traveller.
Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan offers a tranquil escape where the practice of spirituality permeates daily life, inviting travelers to engage in mindful exploration and personal transformation. The nation sees culture as central to its identity for its people and prioritizes ensuring the well-being of its community and environment is well cared for. Many are drawn to the country as seek out a serene and sustainable travel experience. From ancient monasteries perched on cliffs to vibrant festivals celebrating centuries-old traditions, Bhutan captivates visitors seeking a journey that nourishes both the soul and the senses.
“If you ever seek to find answers to some of the fundamental questions in life, please know that there is a country somewhere in the Himalayas that could offer you the answers.”
His Excellency Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering
Honorable Prime Minister of Bhutan (in his foreword for Bhutan Travelog)
Trekking Adventures
Bhutan is an amazing country in which to explore the great outdoors. Adventurers can choose to experience Bhutan’s natural splendor on some popular treks such as the Trans Bhutan Trail, the Jomolhari Trek, and the Druk Path Trek. Passing through these trails, surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of Bhutan’s natural surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Water-based Thrills
In addition to trekking activities, the summer season also makes Bhutan an ideal place for thrilling water-based activities including rafting and kayaking along the stunning rivers of Bhutan.
Raft through the glacial waters from the Himalayas, surrounded by lush greenery and natural landscapes. The Pho Chhu (male river) and Mo Chhu (female river) are two popular spots in Punakha popular for water rafting. The first river Pho Chu is 16km long with 15 rapids of class 2 – 4 and passes through stunning landscapes of Punakha valley and see rare exotic birds such as White-Bellied Herons and Kingfishers. The second river Mo Chu is 10km long with 10 rapids of class 2 and 2+ is milder and great for beginners, passing through a beautiful canyon.
Wildlife and Bird Watching
Bhutan provides a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. The summer season nourishes the forest, luring a wide range of animal species. It’s an excellent opportunity to see wildlife in their natural setting. Some of the well-known bird and wildlife-watching locations in Bhutan are Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park in Central Bhutan, Zhemgang district, Bhutan’s biodiversity hotspot, and the Bumthang valley in central Bhutan.
Festivals and Cultural Celebrations
The summer season is also a time of vibrant festivals and cultural celebrations. Festivals known as ‘tsechus’ are held throughout the country. Some of the popular festivals held in summer are the Matsutake Festival in Genekha, Thimphu from the 15th to 16th of August, and the Ura Matsutake festival from the 23rd to 24th of August annually, and many other exciting festivals, both religious and non-religious.
Culinary Delights
Visitors to Bhutan can enjoy its rich culinary offerings, which showcase fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a farm-to-table approach. One renowned dish is ema datshi, featuring chili and cheese, representing Bhutanese cuisine’s bold flavors.
Another treat is hoentays, savoury dumplings filled with ingredients like cheese, spinach, or turnips, often sourced directly from Bhutanese households’ gardens. By engaging in Bhutan’s culinary traditions, visitors not only satisfy their taste buds but also deepen their connection to the land, culture, and people of this Himalayan kingdom.
Helicopter Tours
Bhutan also provides captivating helicopter tours offering a distinctive perspective of its landscapes. These tours present an opportunity to admire the stunning beauty of Bhutan’s terrain, including snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and pristine forests, from the air. Guests can enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas and access remote and inaccessible areas of Bhutan. These personalized and luxurious helicopter tours cater to individual interests and preferences, whether focused on photography, adventure, or relaxation.
Bhutan Visas and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
All visitors must have a visa and permit before travelling to Bhutan (except for visitors from Bangladesh, Maldives, and India who require a permit). Applying for a visa (or permit) to Bhutan is simple and it takes about five days to process. Apply online for a visa or permit or via your Bhutanese Tour Operator.
All guests must pay Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person per night (Concessionary rates apply for children) and a non-refundable, one-off visa application fee of USD 40. Indian guests pay SDF of Nu/INR.1,200 per person per night. The SDF funds important cultural, environmental, health and educational projects across Bhutan. More information is available at: http://www.bhutan.travel
To book your trip to Bhutan, visit https://www.drukasia.com/
Read our interview with Joni Herison, co-author of Bhutan Travelog here
Image credit : Department of Tourism of Bhutan
