Travel to Bhutan — everything you need to know
When to go to Bhutan?
- March – May — Spring & Rhododendrons : Blooming rhododendrons (more than 46 species), clear Himalayan skies and mild temperatures. Ideal for trekking and festivals (Paro Tsechu in April).
- September – November — Crystal-clear autumn : After the monsoon, the air is washed clean and the views of the peaks (Jomolhari, Gangkhar Puensum) are spectacular. Ideal for trekking.
Weather in Bhutan
Check the weather city by city, starting with Thimphu.
- Thimphou: daytime highs from 15 to 27 °C depending on the season, 51 mm of rain per month on average.
- Paro: daytime highs from 13 to 25 °C depending on the season, 53 mm of rain per month on average.
What to do in Bhutan?
Bhutan is the last Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas, measuring its success by “Gross National Happiness” rather than GDP. Cliffside monasteries, terraced rice fields, pristine forests and an unspoilt Tibetan culture make it a timeless destination—accessible, yet truly unique.
Paro — Taktsang (Tiger's Nest)
The Paro Taktsang monastery, perched at 3,120 m on a sheer cliff face, is Bhutan's iconic image. The 2-hour hike up from the valley is accessible to most travellers.
Highlights : Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang), Rinpung Dzong — fortress-monastery, National Museum of Bhutan.
Thimphu
A capital city with no traffic lights (unique in the world), Thimphu is a human-scale city with Tashichho Dzong, the 51 m Buddha Dordenma statue and colourful markets.
Highlights : Buddha Dordenma (51 m), Tashichho Dzong, Changangkha Lhakhang (12th c.).
Punakha
Former winter capital, Punakha is home to Bhutan's most beautiful dzong, at the confluence of two sacred rivers, surrounded by rice paddies and golden mustard fields.
Highlights : Punakha Dzong — architectural jewel, Mustard fields (Feb–Mar), Chimi Lhakhang — fertility temple.
Bumthang — Sacred Valley
Bhutan's cultural and spiritual heart, with the country's oldest temples, fir forests, craft breweries and warmly welcoming locals.
Highlights : Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang (Guru Rinpoche footprint), Red Panda Brewery (Bhutanese beer).
Travel budget for Bhutan
Bhutan charges a daily tourism fee (Sustainable Development Fee: $100/day in 2024, down from $200/day since 2023). This includes 3-star accommodation, meals, a guide and local transport.
- Backpacker : 200 €/j — SDF $100/day + averaged return flight + minimal extras
- Comfort : 300–400 €/j — SDF + 4-star hotel + extra excursions
- Luxury : 700 €+/j — SDF + Aman / Six Senses lodges + private treks
Practical tips for travelling to Bhutan
- Flight from Paris : ~12h (Druk Air/Bangkok Air via Bangkok or Delhi)
- Visa : Visa required (arranged through an approved agency + SDF)
- Currency : Ngultrum = pegged to the Indian rupee (1€ ≈ 90 BTN)
- Language : Dzongkha (English is used in tourism)
- Electricity : Type D/F/G – 230 V
- Mobile network : Coverage in the valleys, limited in the mountains
- Tap water : Not recommended — bottled water
- Health : Hepatitis A vaccine recommended, plus altitude medication
Compare Bhutan with other destinations