Places of Interest in Bhutan
Thimphu (Capital City)
Tashichho Dzong
Built in 1941 and rebuilt into present structure by late king Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in 1965 is the fortress of glorious religion. It is the main secretarial building houses the throne room of His majesty the king of Bhutan and central monk body. It is open to visitors during festival time and when the monk body moves to Punakha in winter months.
Memorial Chorten
It is the stupa which was built in 1974 in memory of third king, late Jigme Dorji Wangchuck who was regarded as the father of modern Bhutan. Inside the temple there is a good example of tantric Buddhism and its philosophy.
Painting School
The school where it teaches the traditional paintings and also making of sculpture and statues. You can visit the students at work and have the idea of how they make them. You can even buy some articles there if you wish.
National Library
The history of Bhutan lies imprinted in ancient texts, which is sealed at the national library. Beside, thousand of manuscripts and ancient texts, the library also has modern books on history, culture, educational books and printing blocks for prayer flags.
Handicraft Emporium
There are many handicraft shops in Thimphu, displaying wide range of beautifully hand woven and crafted products. One can have a good selection of all kinds’ of crafted products. It is always worth a visit.
Traditional Medicine Institute
Prepares the rich herbal medicines which are in large quantities available in Bhutan. In Bhutan equal importance is given to both traditional and modern medicine. The institute also imparts the art of herbal medicines.
Bhutan Broad Casting Centre (BBS)
It is the only radio station in Bhutan. It is a good place for the visitors especially for those who are fond of taking photographs owing to good Thimphu valley view.
Weekend Market
Every Thursday evening, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, people from Thimphu valley and other parts of the country congregate to sell and buy the products. It is an opportunity to mix with local people and see the products they sell.
Simtokha Dzong
It is the oldest Dzong (fortress) in the kingdom, which was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1927. It is located 6 km before reaching Thimphu from Paro over a lofty hill stand. Now it houses the school of Buddhist studies.
Paro
Rimpong Dzong
Meaning fortress of the mountain of jewels. It was built during the time of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1646. It houses both administrative and monastic bodies. It is also the venue of the Paro festival (Tsechu) held once in a year at spring time.
Tadzong
It served as a watch tower during the time of war to guard the Dzong from the external invasion. Even if the Dzong is captured by the enemy, there was always hope for the Bhutanese to regain it if the watch tower was in their hand. It was converted into a national museum in 1968. It has a fine collection of arts, relics, religious thankas, paintings, animals, armory and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps.
Kyichu Lhakhang
One of the two most sacred and the oldest temples in Bhutan built in 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. The legend tells that a giant demon was terrorizing the whole of Himalayan region, so to subdue it the king built 108 temples all over the Himalayan region out of which 2 are in Bhutan.
Drukgyel Dzong
Situated in the north end of the valley built in 1647 now a ruined fort built to commemorate the victory over Tibetans invasion. It was devastated by fire in 1951 but it is kept as a monument for the visitors from outside as historically this Dzong is very important. On a clear day, the view of Mt. Jomolhari can also be seen.
Punakha
Punakha Dzong
This Dzong was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel to serve as the religious and administrative centre of the region. It was the capital of Bhutan until 1955 when the capital was permanently shifted to Thimphu. It still serves as the winter residence of Je Khenpo (Religious Head) & Monk Bodies. The Dzong is open for visitors during festival times and also when the monk body is moved to Thimphu.
Chime Lhakhang (The Abode of Fertility)
It lies on the periphery of the expansive valley of Lobesa where the borders of Thimphu, Punakha and Wangduephodrang districts meet. The Lhakhang is dedicated to Lam Drukpa Kuenley (1455-1570), one of the most popular Buddhist Saints who lived in Bhutan. Lam Drukpa Kuenley is placed among the highest levels of sainthood and is remembered more vividly for outrageous nature of his teachings which were administered in the most unexpected ways, often with strong sexual overtones and inclinations. It is one of the most revered and visited temples in Bhutan. It is not just the Bhutanese who receive blessings from the temple but people from all parts of the world come to seek the blessings of fertility and conception from the temple.
Wangdue phodrang
Wangduephodrang Dzong
Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built this Dzong in 1638. It is situated on a very strategic location between two rivers. The Dzong serves as both administrative & religious center for Wangdue district and it also houses monk body.
Gangtey Gompa
Towards the east of Wangdue, there is an old monastery of Gangtey Gompa some 55 km away from Wangduephodrang dating back to the 17th century. The valley of Phojikha lies below the monastery. This valley is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrates from Tibet in winter months.
Trongsa
Trongsa Dzong
Built in 1648, it is the ancestral seat of the royal family. Both the first and the second king ruled the country from this ancient seat. All four kings held the post of Trongsa Penlop (honorary governor) prior to being crowned as king. The Dzong is the enormous structure with many levels, which slope down the contours of a hill on which it perches. Because of its highly strategic position as the entire connecting route between east and west the Trongsa Penlop was able to control the whole eastern region. This Dzong is the most impressive and the longest in Bhutan.
Ta Dzong
It is the watch tower, which once guarded Trongsa Dzong from inter rebellion, stands remarkably and provides visitors and insight into historical significance of Trongsa in Bhutanese history.
Bumthang (Central Bhutan)
Jakar Dzong
The father of Zhabdrung, Tempa Nyima, founded this Dzong. The Dzong was initially built as a monastery in 1549. It was upgraded after Zhabdrung had firmly established his power in 1646. The Dzong is now used as an administrative centre of Bumthang districts. It also houses monk body of the district.
Kurje Lhakhang
This temple is located north of the valley above Jambay Lhakhang. It consists of three temples. The one on the right is the place where Guru Rimpoche meditated in the 8th century and the temple was built in the same spot in 1652. The second temple was built on the site of a cave containing a rock with the imprint of Guru’s body and is therefore considered the most sacred. The third temple was recently built by the present Royal Queen Mother. These 3 temples are surrounded by 108 chortens wall, symbolic of each joint of the human body.
Jambay Lhakhang
This monastery is the oldest and the most sacred in the Bumthang valley. Built in the same time with Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro in 7th century by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, believed to be the reincarnation of the Buddha of compassion. It is one of the 108 temples built by him to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region.
Konchusum Lhakhang
The temple is located near to Tamshing Lhakhang. This temple was originally built probably in the 7th century. It was renovated in 1995 and looks new. The structure that you see now dates back to from the 15th century when Pema Lingpa restored it.
Tamshing Lhakhang
Located opposite of Kurje Lhakhang on the other side of the river, this temple was founded in 1505 by Terton Pema Lingpa, the incarnation of Guru Rimpoche. This monastery has very interesting religious paintings like, 1000 Buddha and 21 Taras (female form of Bodhisattva). The temple was restored at the end of the 19th century.
Travel Information for Indian Nationals
No Visa Fee for Indian Nationals:
Getting into Bhutan by Druk Air (only National Airline in the country).
| From (Bhutan) | To |
| Paro | Delhi (India) |
| Paro | Kolkata (India) |
| Paro | Bangkok (Thailand) |
| Paro | Bagdogra (India) |
| Paro | Kathmandu (Nepal) |
| Paro | Gaya (India) |
Trip by land through the frontier town of Bhutan from Indian destinations.
| From (West Bengal) | To (Bhutan) | Approx. Time | KM |
| Bagdogra (Airport) | Phuentsholing | 6 hours | 170 |
| Siliguri (NJP Railway Station) | Phuentsholing | 5 hours | 155 |
| Darjeeling (Hill Stations) | Phuentsholing | 6 hours | 200 |
| Gangtok (Sikkim) | Phuentsholing | 7 hours | 220 |
| Kalimpong | Phuentsholing | 6 hours | 185 |
TARIFF FOR INDIAN NATIONALS:
Tariff for Indian Nationals in Indian Rupee (per person per day)
| Tour Package | 2 – 5 persons | 6 – 8 persons | 9 & above persons |
| A. P (American Plan) | 7,500 | 6,800 | 5,350 |
| E. P (European Plan) | 5,350 | 4,850 | 4,450 |
There is a 50% discount for One Person in a group of 12 people and 100% discount for One Person in a group of 17 and above. The duration discount will also be offered; 10% discount from 10 days and above and 15% discount from 15 days and above.
THE TARIFF INCLUDES
American plan
Transportations within Bhutan and vehicles used for will be Hiace Bus, Toyota Coaster Bus, Santa Fee, Tucson and Prado depending on the group size. The accommodation is in twin sharing basis in “A” class hotels and resorts. Three meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and tea with snacks), and temple fees and guide.
European plan
Transportations within Bhutan and vehicles used for will be Hiace Bus, Toyota Coaster Bus and Prado depending on the group size. The accommodation is in twin sharing basis in “C” class hotels and resorts. Three meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and tea with snacks), and temple fees and guide.
THE TARIFF EXCLUDES
Air fare, Airport tax, any bar bill, laundry bill, telephone bill, Travel insurance and other personal gifts.
COMMUNICATION
The telecommunication system in Bhutan is available in every tourist destination. You can bring your own mobile phone and buy Sim card and use in Bhutan to keep up to date information.
CUSTOMS
The Bhutanese authorities monitor export of any religious antiquities of any kind from the kingdom. The personal uses of electronic devices and small amount of alcohol and cigarettes are permitted to bring along into Bhutan.
THE BEST SEASON FOR INDIAN CLIENTS
June, July, and August to skip the heat of Indian plains. Bhutan’s temperature will in maximum 28 degree & minimum 16 degree.
January, February, November & December for winter vacations. You can enjoy the beautiful snow capped mountains.
TREKKING IN BHUTAN
March, April, May, June, & Sept, Oct, would be the best season on the high mountains.
ENTRY PERMIT (Route permit)
Indian Nationals traveling from India to Bhutan does not need Bhutan Visa. Passport or an election commission I. D card is, however required for presentation at the immigration during entry, to obtain an entry permit. An Affidavit from Supreme Court is needed for those who don’t have any of the above documents.
Indian Nationals traveling from Bhutan to Nepal or Nepal to Bhutan require valid passport as per Nepalese immigration regulation.
SPECIAL PERMIT
Special permit is required for those who wish to travel to restricted areas beyond Dochula pass from special commission, Ministry of Home Affairs. The Special Permit is processed & issued in Thimphu, only after arrival in Bhutan and on production of the Entry Permit or Route permits. Two copies of passport size photos required while processing Route Permit. Also this permit can be processed only during working days (Mon-Fri) and applications are accepted from 9-11 a. m and Special permit will be given on same day from 3 -5 p.m in summer and 3 -.4 p.m in winter.
Immigration office is closed on Saturday, Sunday & Govt. holidays.
FOOD (VEG & NON VEG)
Bhutanese delicacies are rich with spicy chilies and cheese but are normally tempered to the taste of the visitors. All our hotels and lodges offer delicious Indian, Chinese, Continental and Bhutanese cuisine. Hotels normally serve a mixture of vegetarian and non-vegetarian items on buffet style however pure vegetarian meals also served on request and prior information.
HOTELS WE USE IN BHUTAN:
| Paro valley | Thimphu | Punakha/Wangdue
|
Trongsa Valley | Bumthang Valley |
| Holiday Home | Jhomolhari hotel | Dragon Nest Resort | Yangkhil Resort | Wangdi Choling Resort |
| Valley view Resort | Hotel Pedling | Meri Phunsum | Swiss Guest House |
The Bhutanese currency is called Ngultrum (Nu.) and it is equal to Indian Rupee. Credit cards (Amex and Visa cards) are accepted by only few limited establishments. Indian Rupee is acceptable all over Bhutan however please do not carry Rs. 1,000/ and Rs. 500/ denomination currency notes.
LANGUAGE
The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha. English is widely spoken. And Hindi also remains very common among the business community around the country.
TIME
Bhutan is half an hour ahead of IST (Indian Standard Time).
AIRPORT TAX
If you are departing by air, there is departure tax or airport tax of Rs 800 payable at Bhutan’s Paro International Airport. The company will do ticketing upon your request and will charge Rs. 500 per ticket as service charge.
IMPORTANT TIMINGS:
| Place | Closed |
| Ta Dzong (National Museum) Paro. Entrance Fees: Rs. 50 per person (Indian Nationals only) Tourists Allowed: Tue to Sat: 9am- 4pm |
Sundays, Mondays & National Holidays; |
| Tashichhodzong | Till 5 PM in Winter |
| School of Art & Craft (Painting School) Thimphu Tourists Allowed: Monday – Friday: 2 – 4 p m ; Sat: 9 – 12 a m Fees: Rs 50 Per Person |
In Winter (Dec 17- Mar 10) Sunday & Govt. holidays |
| National Library, Thimphu Tourist Allowed: Monday – Friday: 9 a m – 5 pm (Summer) 9 am – 4 pm Winter |
Saturday, Sunday & Govt. holidays. |
| Textile Museum, Thimphu Tuesday – Friday: 9 a m – 4 p m Saturday: 1 pm – 4 pm / Sunday: 10 am – 3 pm |
Monday & Govt. holidays |
| Punakha Dzong: | Winter, visitors are limited to court yard. |
| Tashicho Dzong | In summer / after 5 pm |
All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately in their own national dress, leave shoes / sandals / caps at the entrance of temple and other appropriate personal decorum should be followed.
To transfer money to Bhutan National Bank, Thimphu from India, please request your bank to remit as follows:
BANK ADDRESS IN INDIA
To transfer money to the Bhutan National Bank, Thimphu from India, Please request your bank to remit money as follows:
- Beneficiary Bank : Bhutan National Bank, P.O Box 439 Thimphu, Bhutan SWIFT: BNBTBTBT
- Account No. : 01510390000013 (INR A/C)
- Bank Address : HDFC BANK Ltd, Sevoke Road Siliguri 734401, India. (Any HDFC branch in India will accept the transfer)
- Ultimate Beneficiary : Account No 5004987006 of Harka Bdr. Tamang maintained with BNB, Thimphu, Bhutan
To transfer money to the Bhutan National Bank, Thimphu from India, Please request your bank to remit money as follows:
- Beneficiary Bank : Bhutan National Bank, P.O Box 439 Thimphu, Bhutan SWIFT: BNBTBTBT
- Account No. : 035010200012537 (INR A/C)
- Bank Address : Axis Bank Ltd, Spectrum House, Sevoke Road Siliguri 734401, India. (Any UTI branch in India will accept the transfer)
- Ultimate Beneficiary : Account No 5004987006 of Harka Bdr. Tamang maintained with BNB, Thimphu, Bhutan
CANCELLATION CHARGES
The trips booked and consequently cancelled are subject to cancellation charges as follows:
- Tour booked and cancelled within one month of prior notice; only 75% of the total cost will be refunded.
- Without notice or less then a month; only 50% will be refunded.
All tourists visiting temples and Dzong must be dressed appropriately in their own national dress, leaves shoes and caps at the entrance and appropriate decorum should be followed.
Contact Information:
H B Tamang
Bhutan Everest Tours & Treks,
P O Box # 879, Thimphu: Bhutan
Tel # 00975-2-326464
Fax # 00975-2-334873
Mobile # 00975-17640420/17824795
Email: everest@druknet.bt or hbtamang@yahoo.com
Druk Air Schedule 2010
SUMMER SCHEDULE FOR 2010 (D)
EFFECTIVE 15MAY2010-30OCT 2010
|
DAY
|
FLIGHT.NO |
SECTOR |
DEP |
ARR |
|
MON
|
KB204 |
PBH-DEL |
0830 |
1015 |
|
KB205 |
DEL-PBH |
1115 |
1455 |
|
|
KB127 |
BKK-DAC DAC-PBH |
0650 0850 |
0820 0950 |
|
|
KB128 |
PBH-BKK | 1050 |
1500 |
|
| TUE |
KB210 |
PBH-CCU |
0710 |
0750 |
|
KB211 |
CCU-PBH |
0830 |
1010 |
|
|
KB130 |
PBH-IXB IXB-BKK |
1140 1205 |
1135 1635 |
|
|
KB129 |
BKK-PBH |
0650 |
0850 |
|
|
KB400 |
PBH-KTM |
0940 |
1025 |
|
|
KB401 |
KTM-PBH |
1105 |
1220 |
|
| WED |
KB204 |
PBH-DEL |
0830 |
1015 |
|
KB205 |
DEL-PBH |
1115 |
1455 |
|
|
KB131 |
BKK-IXB IXB-PBH |
0650 0905 |
0835 1000 |
|
|
KB128 |
PBH-BKK | 1050 |
1500 |
|
| THU |
KB210 |
PBH-CCU |
0710 |
0750 |
|
KB211 |
CCU-PBH |
0830 |
1010 |
|
|
KB126 |
PBH-DAC DAC-BKK |
1150 1320 |
1250 1655 |
|
|
KB129 |
BKK-PBH |
0650 |
0850 |
|
|
KB400 |
PBH-KTM |
0940 |
1025 |
|
|
KB401 |
KTM-PBH |
1105 |
1220 |
|
| FRI |
KB127 |
BKK-DAC DAC-PBH |
0650 0850 |
0820 0950 |
|
KB128 |
PBH-BKK |
1050 |
1500 |
|
|
KB204 |
PBH-DEL |
0830 |
1015 |
|
|
KB205 |
DEL-PBH |
1115 |
1455 |
|
| SAT |
KB129 |
BKK-PBH |
0550 |
0750 |
|
KB210 |
PBH-CCU |
0710 |
0750 |
|
|
KB211 |
CCU-PBH |
0830 |
1010 |
|
|
KB130 |
PBH-IXB IXB-BKK |
1140 1205 |
1135 1635 |
|
| SUN |
KB131 |
BKK-IXB IXB-PBH |
0650 0905 |
0835 1000 |
|
KB126 |
PBH-DAC DAC-BKK |
1150 1320 |
1250 1655 |
|
|
KB400 |
PBH-KTM |
0940 |
1025 |
|
|
KB401 |
KTM-PBH |
1105 |
1220 |
|
|
SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. THEREFORE, NO RESPONSIBILITY CAN BE ASSUMED FOR DELAY, CANCELLATION OR UNAVAILABILITY OF FLIGHT OR MISSED CONNECTIONS. Abbreviation: PBH: PARO (BHUTAN) BKK: BANGKOK (THAILAND) DEL: DELHI (INDIA) CCU: CALCUTTA/KOLKATA (INDIA) DAC: DHAKA (BANGLADESH) KTM: KATHMANDU (NEPAL) GAY: GAYA (INDIA) BAGDOGRA: IXB (INDIA)
|
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