The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys and undisturbed forest, with a rich Buddhist heritage reflected by its cliff-top monasteries and red-robed monks, while the nation advocates the philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Indeed, Joni Herison, Director of Bhutan travel specialist Druk Asia, tells us: “The reason many travelers enjoy Bhutan is the country’s warm, hospitable people.” Despite the hefty tourism fee of USD200/250 (B6,500/8,000) per night, accommodation, food and transport is all included, as well as a guide. Start your trip from the culturally rich town of Paro, nestled in a valley in south-west Bhutan. 

Making a trip even more attractive, to celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations between Bhutan and Thailand, a special friendship offer was recently launched with the aim to attract Thai residents to Bhutan. For travel from June to August this year, Thai nationals and foreigners who have proof of residency in Thailand can enjoy up to 50 percent discount on hotel rates and air tickets with Bhutan national airlines including Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. The offer also sees the mandatory daily tariff of USD200 per day waived, though you’ll still be levied a daily royalty of USD65. Bhutan will hold local cultural festivals on Jun 5-7, July 5-7 and Aug 23-24. A Thai food festival will also be held weekly during the three months. Make sure to book a trip from a licensed tour operator from the Association of Bhutan Tour Operators (see www.tinyurl.com/kjf8e2e). Let them know your purpose of visit and your flight tickets and visa will be taken care of. 

Thimbu festival performers

Discover

Spiceroads, Bhutan Heritage by Bicycle

Starting in Paro, this seven day tour, leads you on a 190km cycle route to mountain monasteries and through forests and valleys, incorporating visits to cultural sites such as Tiger’s Nest temple complex. The tour costs USD2,300 (B74,000), next scheduled for April 28 and May 26. 

World Expeditions, Bhutan 

Dragon Kingdom

If you’d rather explore on foot, this 11-day tour consists of a seven-day trekking and camping journey, high above Paro and Thimphu valleys with views of the Himalayan peaks separating Bhutan and Tibet. You also get to visit the markets, monasteries and fortress-like dzongs of Paro and Thimphu. Check the website for the next tour, which costs about USD4,190 (B135,000).

Uma by Como villa terrace

Where to stay in Paro, Bhutan

Uma by Como, Paro

At this luxury resort in Paro Valley, villas are each situated in their own glade, with valley, forest and mountain views, combining artisanship with contemporary luxe. The property features Bhutanese hot stone bathhouses, an indoor pool with alfresco sundeck, steam rooms, and a yoga studio with valley views. It serves as an ideal base for camping, hiking and cycling. The five-night Himalayan Explorer package starts from USD5,800 (B187,000) per person. PO Box 222, Paro, Bhutan, 97 5827-1597

Como's Villa

Essentials

Getting to Paro, Bhutan

Fly from Bangkok to Paro with Drukair for around B32,000, though do book through one of the Association of Bhutan Tour Operators (www.tinyurl.com/kjf8e2e) to enjoy the current Bhutan-Thailand friendship promotions.

Visa for Bhutan

A visa is required for all visitors to Bhutan, and can only be obtained through authorized travel agencies like Druk Asia (who have a helpful explanation of the process here).

When to go

Bhutan can be visited all year round. It has a dry spring from March to mid-April, a warm early summer from mid-April to June, the monsoon season from June to late September, a cool autumn from September to November, and a cold winter, with snow, from November to March.