Bhutan, You Stole My Heart - 11D10N Bhutan Travel Itinerary (Part 1 - Thimphu)

Perched amidst the dreamy Himalayas, we have Bhutan, one of the most exclusive country to explore. The top question that I got from everyone was, "Why Bhutan?" Let's just say, I had a calling and I answered. The rest was history and Bhutan has officially topped all my wanderlust adventures around the world.

Prior to my trip, I had no idea what to expect and little information about this magnificent country was available online. Luckily, I was recommended Dragon Trails Tour after doing a vote on Instagram & it was honestly the best decision I have ever made. FYI, independent travel is forbidden in Bhutan therefore you will need to go through some form of an agency to get your trip sorted. I actually tried a couple concurrently but felt that Dragon Trails Tour were the most sincere in making my Bhutan experience a memorable one.

Today's post is going to be one of the most highly requested travel post because everyone is so curious about this "exotic" country. I will try my best to fill you in and give all the tips that I have but trust me, the experience is unique to each & is definitely not one to be missed. I went there with an open heart and now it is filled with beautiful memories. I can't wait to go back. 

All You Need To Know Before Travelling To Bhutan

1. No Independent Travel
Due to its restrictive tourism policy, tourists are required to prebook their tours through an approved operator prior to visiting. You can find the comprehensive list of tour operators here. I settled on Dragon Trails Tours for my trip. You can email a couple of agencies to discuss about your trip and what you would like to experience before settling on one that you are comfortable with.

The other agencies that I have contacted were more "business-like". They were more concerned about securing the transaction than planning a trip to suit my needs. With  Dragon Trails Tours, they went all out to make my trip possible despite my hectic travel schedule. My flight tickets were secured according to MY stipulated dates while other agencies told me that it was impossible. When we were 3 weeks away from my flight dates, I had a last minute news to travel on a business trip and the amazing people at Dragon Trails Tours promptly secured another flight for me in just two days. From hotels, to visas, to itinerary, everything was done by them and I was so thankful for it. If you are already spending a sum of money to visit the country of your dreams, might as well make it happen with a tour operator that would go all out to realise it, no? 

2. Tourist Tariff
There is a minimum daily package fee that covers a 3 star hotel during your stay throughout (can be upgraded with extra charges, please liaise with your tour operators), all meals, guide & car. The daily cost is US$250 (US$200 in low peak months) and if you are travelling solo, there is an additional tax of US$40/day. For a solo traveller like me, it would total to US$290/day. 

In short, you would only need to bring sufficient money to shop for souvenirs and tip your guide/driver. I recommend about US$300 if you are not much of a shopper. You can get your guide to change the USD to their local currency at the bank. Tipping could range about US$15/day for the guide & US$10 for the driver. Of course, the amount is your choice at the end of the day. 

​3. Pack Warm But Smart!
This is definitely a tip that I need to remember the next time when I visit again. Bhutan is a relatively cold country and during the month that I went (April), it is considered as a "freezing" standard according to our Singaporean definition. I sure did under pack but I am SO THANKFUL for my last minute quick wit to bring along a lightweight cardigan. I would definitely recommend getting a lightweight windbreaker, something like this from Uniqlo, as you will be doing a lot of hiking throughout the trip. You wouldn't want to lug around a heavy leather jacket and I promise you'll regret it.

4. Language & People
The people are pretty well educated in basic English, if not, fret not as your guide will always be with you. Bhutan is one of the most friendliest countries that I have been to. The people have a heart of gold and they will stop at nothing just to ensure that you are happy and well taken care of. It is definitely a very safe country, especially if you are a female solo traveller. However, just like anywhere else, it doesn't hurt to be careful along the way. 

Meet the wonderful people who took amazing care of me!

Before we start, meet the wonderful people who took care of my every need throughout the entire trip! On my left, is Kencho Tshering, our driver who has amazing driving skills. He even managed to manoeuvre the car down the hill when the entire place was foggy & blank white! No idea how it was done but I know if it were to be me driving, well.. I definitely wouldn't be writing this post now.

On my right, is one of the most thoughtful and kindest soul I have met, Sonam Chopel. He was my guide and well, he's basically an encyclopedia & storyteller. His passion for his work and dedication to be a good human being has greatly moved me. Sonam made sure that all my needs and princess requests were met, aka dressing me up in their traditional Kira and I can't imagine a trip without the two of them. I promise, with the company of these two, you will be in the best of hands. 
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Day 1: 22 April 2018
​SG>Paro>Thimphu

Plus points of an early morning flight: You get to catch the sunrise!

There are many ways to make your way to Bhutan but since I have zero time to plan and literally just got off the plane from Korea two days before my life changing trip, I opted for a direct flight from Singapore to Bhutan. There are only two airline carriers that operate to Bhutan depending on the route you intend to take. You can discuss this with your tour operator. For the direct flight, there is only one flight available via Drukair and it is 6.30am in the morning.

Pre-Flight Fuel

In-Flight Fuel

I had to drag my groggy self with a swollen eye (thank you Korea) all the way to the airport. Be sure to reach early and request for a window seat! I promise, it is worth it. You will never get the same opportunity to be present in an aircraft that is able to skilfully cruise through the Himalayan mountains. I have never encountered anything as spectacular as this and I still marvel at the expertise of these pilots. The plane ride was comfortable and there is a short stopover at Kolkata. Food is amazing, leg space is pretty alright as well so if you are not a fussy traveller, economy class is good enough. Psst, due to the exclusivity of the carriers, even an economy ticket is pricey. Mine was about SGD$1145 for a round trip.

City Hotel, Thimphu

Arrived at the international airport in Paro and my guide was right outside waiting for me. We then made a 1.5 hours car journey from Paro to Thimphu and checked into the hotel. City Hotel was the only hotel that I specifically chose whilst the rest were all recommended to me by the tour agency.

Situated in the busy heart of Thimphu, City Hotel is extremely spacious and clean. I love every bit of it except that two single bed that creeped me out as a solo traveller. As a 3-star accommodation, it sure did exceed my expectations! 

Authentic Bhutanese Cuisine

Always ready for food!

We then headed out for lunch at Simply Bhutan (Living Museum) for a delectable spread of authentic Bhutanese cuisine. I even got to try the famous butter tea (which is a no-go for me) and Ara, a local distilled alcohol. Afterwards, we did a tour of the living museum to get a gist of how traditional Bhutanese people were living. 

Your eyes aren't playing tricks. It is what you think it is! This is actually a symbol of protection.

How chilli was dried in the past

Traditional Bhutanese Kitchen

The tour at Simply Bhutan was great as it gives you a gist on what you will be in for throughout the next couple of days. The museum is well kept and there are many interactive displays available for you to experience the authentic traditional Bhutanese culture. I even got a chance to try out in archery, a national sport in Bhutan!

Pema Tshering, a living example on how nothing is impossible.

What struck out to me most was the little cosy shop of Pema Tshering, Bhutan's ever talented cerebral palsy foot artist. As a child, he was abandoned by his family but his determination made him one of the most renown artist in the country. You can read all about his story here. He is truly an inspiration in life and a living example of how nothing is impossible. If you ever have a chance to visit Bhutan, be sure to make a trip down here. You can support him by purchasing his works, every piece of his work is done using his feet. How remarkable is that?! It is unfortunate that I could not buy any of his pieces as I do not own an apartment to myself, but I hope sharing his story here might move a reader or two.

Buddha Point

After the museum tour, we then drove up to the famed Buddha Point. It holds a massive statue of the Shakyamuni Buddha and measures 51.5 metres tall! Inside the statue itself, there are over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues that are made of bronze and gilded in gold. What a feat! I wish I could show you everything inside but out of respect to the sacred places, photography is forbidden so let's just appreciate this marvel from the outside. Side note, I am so glad, as for the first time, I am truly admiring the beauty of what's in front of me and not busy fumbling for the perfect shot. 

This was originally planned for Day 2 but as I was dressed inappropriately to enter the Dzong (what's new, Winter!), we decided to do an impromptu switch of the itinerary. With both Sonam & Kencho, it was always flexible and carefree. I really dislike making plans as based on my personal experiences, plans always fall through. I am so glad to be with these two as there was always a backup plan whenever something crops up.

National Memorial Chorten

Prayer Wheels

As I am writing this post, I'm actually really shocked that we covered so much in Day 1. I was constantly asking myself throughout the day, "Wow! Is there more to see?" and here I am thinking, I have seen so much in just a short span of hours. Guess I was really pumped with adrenaline back then.

The last stop of the day, we drove to National Memorial Chorten, a memorial stupa built in memory of the third King of Bhutan. Locals come and circumambulate in a clockwise direction as a religious practice. There were also prayer wheels whereby people turn it to accumulate wisdom & good merits. I do not have a religious background but I do respect all religions so of course, I did participate in some of the practices like such! It was truly an insightful experience to learn more about Buddhism. Like many have said, Buddhism is more of a lifestyle than a religion. 

Every part of Bhutan is just as picturesque!

As I was still quite hyped on adrenaline, we visited the local market and Sonam also helped to get me a data card. Data is pretty affordable, I am just an excessive user because I work on my phone so you get the gist. The local market was exciting - From fresh produce to interesting trinkets, my eyes could only take in that much. There were traditional weavings, archery bows, clothes and even daily necessities like wooden bowls etc; I must say, I am not a shopper kinda girl but I sure was tempted to bag a couple of trinkets home. Through the things that were sold, you an get a glimpse of the daily Bhutanese life - simple & contented. 

Day 1 ended pretty early with an in-room dinner *cues masala chai party* and a good night's sleep at City Hotel. Not sure if it was the early flight or my body's way of adjusting to the altitude, I could literally feel my heart pumping out of my chest so it was sleep, sleep & sleep for me! 
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Day 2: 23 April 2018
Thimphu

Breakfast view at City Hotel, Thimphu

Woke up early to pack my tummy with food since I am perpetually always hungry. At City Hotel, there is a patio overlooking Thimphu city so you can have your breakfast while breathing the crisp fresh air. After fuelling up, we then left the hotel to embark on an hour hike up to Tango Monastery. 

The hike is slightly steep but it is pretty easy. My body was still adjusting to the altitude so I was panting a lot even though there was little to no strain on my body. I promise, it is so refreshing to start your day with a morning hike. In Singapore, nobody has the luxury to be one with nature, or even admire the surroundings as you take your breakfast. Most of the time, I spend my breakfast typing away on my laptop in the office. Oh how I miss waking up to a view like this and starting my mornings with a hike to clear my thoughts. I always believe that every now and then, it is crucial for us to reconnect with Mother Nature, to center our thoughts and align with the Universe. 

Mindfulness, even in the disposal of your rubbish!

Midway mark - Rest & take in your surroundings.

Pretending to pose for a picture but all I was trying to do was to catch my breath.

Finally, I could see the end of the hike instead of mountains and forests. I think halfway, Kencho was too kind, he even helped to carry my backpack. Thinking back, it is actually pretty funny. Nonetheless, the entire hike was so fulfilling and beautiful. All I could think of was "HOW?!" How did these amazing people construct such intricate buildings at the top of a mountain? Alright, to be honest, I was thinking aloud and the answer to all these questions: WALK.

One thing for sure, I definitely enjoyed being behind the lens than in front of it!

Monk Quarters

As usual, no photography is allowed inside but we got lucky and managed to visit a room filled with sacred relics as they were renovating the premises! 

Intricate Carvings

Expect to meet many friendly strays in Bhutan!

After touring the Tango Monastery, we made our way down (or up). I was delighted to see many more of these magnificent buildings perched on the precipice and like a curious child, I kinda made them bring over too. The roads are mostly unpaved soil so do remember to wear a good pair of shoes with some grip so that you wouldn't slip and fall.

Always living life on the edge. I'm kidding. Let's just admire this humanly impossible-made-possible feat!

(Untreated Photo) The beauty of Bhutan is even more stunning when seen with your eyes.

Take in the breathtaking landscape as you hike.

Selfie at the top of the world!

We even descended into a cave!

Y'know what's next after spending the entire morning climbing, walking and exploring - LUNCH! Opted for a Bhutanese meal again because I LOVE the baked corn & chilli! Also, I had a good amount of pasta this year already so no thank you. Serve me up some Bhutanese food cuz' I am Asian like that. 

First date: Poised & Pretty

After: JUST GIVE ME MY FOOD!

The flavours of the traditional Bhutanese food are mostly spicy. They are usually sautéed with lots of butter & cheese so you can expect your taste buds to be engulfed in full, wholesome flavours. My favourite food is Momos but they're not pictured here. It is a dumpling (kinda like a gyoza) and it tastes SO GOOD! By this time, I ate pretty well thanks to all the cheese & butter, and I could feel my body getting more adjusted to the altitude. If you are experiencing any altitude sickness, load up on em' butter teas! It is an acquired taste but I promise you'll feel better. 

Traditional Art School

Wood Carving

Painting

As we were still early to visit the Dzong, we made a pit stop at the Traditional Art School. Let me just put it out there that these are one of the most talented people I have seen and I am simply amazed by the works that were produced from their bare hands. Coming from all walks of life, they are truly an inspiration. Their dedication, determination and sole goal to master a skill is definitely something we need to learn from. 

Tashiccho Dzong

Ended the day at Tashichho Dzong, an architectural beauty that is now a Buddhist monastery & administrative office of the Bhutanese government. We arrived just in time to watch the flag ceremony. The compound is vast and you get to explore snippets of it. It is a truly impressive fortress that is worth a visit. Do note that you have to be dressed modestly to enter. 

Every corner of the Dzong is just as picturesque. Can you believe that this entire structure is built without the use of nails or written plans? It is only Day 2 and I am blown away by the genius minds of the Bhutanese. Of course, you guys have come a long away together with me so let's revel in my memories of the great city of Thimphu for now.

Stay tuned for part 2 as we make our way to the previous capital of Bhutan, Punakha and down to central Bhutan, the Switzerland of Bhutan - Bumthang, for a more immersive experience of the traditional Bhutanese culture. For now, thank you for reading and feel free to drop me any questions regarding my trip! It would be my pleasure to answer your queries. Have a good one! 

xx
Winter