30 Sep 2022

The cultural attraction not to miss during Bhutan cultural tours

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Bhutan is famed for its integral cultural distinctiveness ideally showcased through local Buddhism, conventional arts and ways of life. When you travel in the world’s happiest country, especially if you are a culture lover, you will be astonished by the striking beauty of countless well-preserved legacy and captivating tourist attractions. It will offer an inspiring impression of real Bhutanese highlights. If you are a culture lover, do not forget to contact us at Authentic Bhutan Tours and be part of our customized Bhutan cultural tours. We will arrange to take you to the iconic sites depicting the cultural aspects of Bhutan.

Jhomolhari Mountain Festival

Let us look at some of the cultural attractions you need not miss during a cultural tour in Bhutan.

Chimi Lhakhang – The fertility temple 

Locally called the fertility temple Chimi Lhakhang is a Buddhist temple in Sopsokha Village, Punakha District. The only way to reach the temple is to take a short hike along the village path and paddy fields. Constructed in 1499, it is a significant Bhutanese pilgrimage site.

Not only locals but foreigners also visit this temple due to a belief hardly found anywhere. The temple stands for fertility belief and has representation in the phallus symbols and paintings. Childless couples visit the temple to have the blessings of having a baby. However, the temple is associated with everyone’s wealth, luck, and security. Chimi Lhakhang is an exceptional part of Buddhist ethnicities in Bhutan, somehow uncommon yet very imposing and fascinating.

Beautiful Dzongs 

When you are in West Bhutan, do not miss to be at Tashichho Dzong, Punakha Dzong, and Rinpung Dzong. While in middle and East Bhutan, you must be at Trongsa Dzong and Trashigang Dzong.

Dzongs are integral to Bhutanese culture, combining various functions like religion, military, administration, and society. Moreover, the symbolic architecture of the Dzongs makes them a structure to look at. At such Dzongs, you can witness iconic masterworks of Bhutanese architectural sculptures with planned locations, spectacular structural splendour, attractive layouts, and beautiful details.

National Institute of Zorig Chusum 

The National Institute of Zorig Chusum opened in 1971, and being there; you can have an insight into Bhutanese traditional arts. Young students have taught thirteen conventional arts of Bhutan, which include painting, sculpturing, wood carving, embroidery, and weaving. The primary purpose of this institute is to carry forward the cultural legacies to the next generation. It also showcases the effort of the Bhutanese people to keep their cultural heritage alive.

Royal Highlander Festival

To learn about the cultural traditions of Bhutan, we also make arrangements so that you can witness the traditional festivals, such as Paro Tshechu, Thimphu Tshechu and Punakha Tshechu. You can participate in these festivals and sing and dance with the locals.

During the Bhutan cultural tours, you can draw nearer to local individuals, getting to know their lifestyles, places, artistry, engineering, history, and music. If you wish to have the best exposure to Bhutanese culture, do remember us at Authentic Bhutan Tours.

27 Aug 2022

Bhutan Small Group Tour

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Authentic Bhutan Tours operates our tour business with flexibility, tailor-made and customized tours that fulfill the hopes and aspirations of every guest.
We design our escorted tours specifically for small groups, which allow us to move about more flexibly and efficiently – providing the best possible Bhutan experiences with a degree of freedom and independence to all our guests. Our guests can always change the tour even after arrival to Bhutan and can ask and discuss anything they would like to experience and explore while in the country. We create and operate tours that suit and match our client’s needs and requirements, with high-quality and outstanding services.
With our small group tour, you have more opportunities to experience and explore the major sightseeing places, traditional farmhouses, villages, visiting schools, off-the-beaten paths, and the Bhutanese Way of Life.
Small Group Tour is the best option for a tour that focuses heavily on local culture, can meet your needs with a personal touch, and makes it easier to have a personal relationship with your tour guides and the people you meet. These all bring your tour alive and unforgettable in a truly, and meaningful way.

25 Aug 2022

Importance of Tour Operator in Tourism Industry

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Tourism is one of the most important and biggest industries in the world. It employs thousands of people and contributes to the economic growth of a country by generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. Tourism is an important part of our economy, and because of this, everyone needs to take care of the environment so that we can have sustainable tourism.

Tour operators are an essential part of this industry. They have the knowledge, experience, and expertise to provide the ultimate travel experience for their customers. Having a tour operator can be a great way to make sure that you are getting the most out of your holiday experience. They can help you find the best deals on travel packages and offer advice on how to make your trip memorable.

Tour Operators play a vital role in making your holiday to a destination one of the most memorable in your lifetime. Tour operators are the most important component for the success of the tourism industry. Tour Operators are responsible for making their dream holidays into realities. Without the expertise of tour operators, it will be difficult to provide the ultimate travel experience in a destination.

Tour operators are the backbone of the tourism industry. They are responsible for providing the best tour services to their clients. They offer a variety of travel packages that make it easy for tourists to explore places they have never been to before. Tour operators also provide immediate support to their customers in case they need any help while they are on a tour or while they are back home.

Authentic Bhutan Tours is located in the heart of the capital city of Bhutan. It is among the top tourism agents in the country. With many positive reviews and feedback from our guests, today, we have a mark in this rising industry of tourism. With more than decades of experience in the tourism sector, we have come a long way in nurturing our business in giving the best to the people. We have a team of well-known and experienced guides and drivers who make the most of every expedition. We believe in the vision of imprinting a happy soul in every guest who travels with us along with a mission of customizing every journey to suit our visitors. We guide not as an agent but as a friend. We have the utmost consideration for the wellness and safety of our visitors and assure every traveler of one of the most memorable excursions in their lifetime.

Why travel alone when you have a friend? Travel with Authentic Bhutan Tours – Your Trusted Tour Operator in Bhutan.

27 Jul 2022

Why Bhutan Trekking Tours |Benefits of trekking in Bhutan |Why choose Bhutan for trekking|

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Trekking tours in Bhutan offer a unique and captivating experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Here are some reasons why trekking in Bhutan is popular:

Pristine Natural Beauty: Bhutan is known for its untouched natural landscapes, including breathtaking mountain ranges, dense forests, alpine meadows, and cascading waterfalls. Trekking allows you to immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the Himalayas and experience the country’s unspoiled wilderness.

  • Diverse Trekking Routes: Bhutan offers a variety of trekking routes suitable for all levels of experience and fitness. From easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks, you can choose a route that matches your preferences and physical abilities. Some popular treks include the Druk Path Trek, Jomolhari Trek, Snowman Trek, and the famous Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang) Trek.
  • Cultural Exploration: Bhutan is renowned for its unique culture and tradition. During treks, you’ll not only witness the stunning landscapes but also have the opportunity to visit remote villages, monasteries, and temples that are deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture. Interacting with the friendly locals and witnessing their way of life adds a fascinating cultural dimension to your trekking adventure.
  • Bhutanese Hospitality: The Bhutanese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Trekking in Bhutan often involves staying in traditional guesthouses or camping in picturesque locations. You’ll have the chance to experience the genuine hospitality of the Bhutanese people, enjoy delicious Bhutanese cuisine, and learn about their customs and traditions.
  • Spiritual Retreat: Bhutan is often referred to as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon” and is deeply influenced by Buddhism. Trekking through Bhutan’s serene landscapes offers a unique opportunity for introspection, meditation, and spiritual retreat. The tranquil environment, sacred sites, and peaceful monasteries contribute to a sense of tranquility and inner peace.
  • Conservation and Sustainability: Bhutan is committed to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. The government has implemented strict regulations to preserve its natural resources and maintain a low-impact approach to tourism. By participating in trekking tours, you contribute to the country’s conservation efforts and help support local communities.
  • Limited Tourist Numbers: Bhutan has a regulated tourism policy that limits the number of visitors each year. This ensures that the trails and natural sites remain relatively uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy the serenity and solitude of the surroundings.
  • Adventure and Challenge: Trekking in Bhutan can be physically demanding, especially on the more challenging routes. The thrill of conquering high mountain passes, navigating through rugged terrains, and witnessing panoramic views from the summits adds an adventurous element to the experience. It’s an opportunity to challenge yourself physically and mentally while being rewarded with stunning vistas.

When planning a trekking tour in Bhutan, it’s advisable to engage with a reputable tour operator who can help with permits, logistics, experienced guides, and ensure a safe and memorable journey.

22 Jul 2022

09 Informative Things You Have to Know Before Planning Your Bhutan Tour.

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1. You need visa to enter Bhutan

The first and foremost thing that you should know while visiting Bhutan is to obtain a Bhutanese visa. Every tourist must obtain a Bhutanese visa to enter and exit Bhutan, unless if you are from a visa-free country to Bhutan. Moreover, to obtain a Bhutanese visa, it costs around $40 and should be paid in advance through your travel agency. You just have to give your passport photocopy to your tour company along with the total tour payments and they will do all the necessary things and confirm your visa.

2. You must plan your tour with a Bhutanese tour company

If you want to visit Bhutan, you must hire a Bhutanese tour company/travel agency to get your visa to Bhutan approved, unless, if you are from a visa-free country to Bhutan. Besides, you also need to have a guide which will be provided by your tour company and cannot visit different cities/places independently without that guide because the officials at different checkpoints between different cities will check the company’s documents (the company that you hired). Therefore, you must hire a tour company and can just relax and enjoy your stay in Bhutan as other things will be taken care of by the tour company.

3. Don’t be surprised to see the Phallus

Lama DRUKPA KUENLEY was also the saint who advocated the use of phallus symbols as paintings on the walls and as flying wooden phallus on the housetops at four corners of the eves. These phalluses are used to drive away from the evil spirits, eyes, and malicious gossip. This is also used to bring blessing for fertility. You will see a lot on the wall paintings as you walk through the Bhutanese house.

4. Challenge the Bhutanese food

When you visit Bhutan, you must try the most famous curry of Bhutan that is the EMA DATSHI (chilies with cheese) with red rice. It is extremely delicious and hot and can even make you warm if you try this curry at cold places. Moreover, there is also another unique Bhutanese cuisine like JASHA MARU (spicy chicken), PHAKSHA PAA (pork with red chilies), KEWA DATSHI (potato with cheese) and many more. Furthermore, you can even try the local alcohol called ARA, which is a fermented drink made from rice, maize, millet, or wheat and it is extremely strong and many tourists have tried and enjoyed it.

If you are a person, who is very particular about your diet, then you must inform your tour company or your guide in advance as they can make arrangements as per your choice.

5. Dress up well when you visit DZONGS and MONASTERIES

DZONGS and monasteries are some of the truly famous architecture of the Bhutanese. Most of the tourists visit Bhutan to witness the very aesthetic architecture of the DZONGS and monasteries. As DZONGS and monasteries serve as a workplace for high officials, study place for monks, and to perform annual festivals and other Buddhist rituals, anyone who wants to visit these places must wear the national dress of Bhutan (GHO and KIRA). Tourists don’t need to wear the Bhutanese traditional dress while visiting DZONGS and monasteries, but you are only allowed to wear long-sleeved clothing. Shorts and hats are not allowed inside the DZONGS and monasteries.

6. ATMs and cash in Bhutan

In Bhutan, there is the availability of ATMs in every town and it accepts visa cards as well as master cards. Bhutanese currency is Ngultrum and even accepts the Indian currency. Moreover, there is no need to worry about the currency because you can always exchange the foreign currency for Bhutanese currency with the bank as per the exchange rates of the banks in Bhutan. Furthermore, a foreigner can bring only up to a maximum of USD 10,000.

7. Your tour will be guided tour only

Once you reach Bhutan, your tour will be a guided tour only. You cannot travel on your own in a taxi or cab to visit places and you will be guided by a tourist guide throughout your tour. You will be guided by your guide while going for sightseeing and visiting other places like museum, DZONGS, and monasteries and even while going for trekking and hiking. Furthermore, your meals will also be ordered by your guide as per your choice or your diet.

    

8. There are luxury tours in Bhutan.

Apart from the common tours, Bhutan also provides luxury tours to foreigners/tourists. It is similar to the common tour, but a luxury tour involves living in a luxury environment like living in a 4-star hotel and above. In addition, the luxury tours in Bhutan include staying in, UMA PARO, AMANKORA, Bhutan Helicopter AdventureSIX SENSES, and many more.

During these tours, you can discover and experience the breathtaking natural beauty of the environment, have fun with Bhutanese friends, grasp or understand about the Bhutanese philosophy that is guided by the principles of GROSS NATIONAL HAPPINESS, opportunity to see the magnificent DZONGS, MONSTRIES and ANCIENT TEMPLES and even have a practical understanding about the Bhutanese culture that is rich in tradition, religion and benevolence monarchy.

9. Is it safe for solo travelers/ solo woman

Bhutan is safe for solo travelers/ solo women and is one of the safest destinations in the world. You just have to book your tour package with one of the tour companies in Bhutan and you will be provided with a driver and a guide which makes it more secure. Unfortunately, regarding the daily tariff cost, it will be higher than traveling in groups as you have to pay the FIT Surcharges of USD 40 night for the single traveler and USD 30 per person per night for the 2 people traveling together