Bhutan for Broke Backpackers: How to Make it Happen

This tiny country, nestled deep inside the majestic Himalayas, remains very mystical to travelers, with its untouched beauty, rich culture, and Gross National Happiness philosophy (basically the GDP for happiness). It is in the reputation of being one of the most expensive destinations and hence off the radar for many a broke backpacker.

But do not be concerned, fellow travelers! With a little inside information and clever planning, it really is possible to experience the magic of Bhutan without blowing the bank. We will share our top tips and tricks for exploring Bhutan on a budget in this blog post. From affordable accommodations and delicious local eats to breathtaking treks and cultural attractions, here is how you can do so.
Get ready to unwind with this hidden jewel of the Himalayas, and not empty your wallet in the process. Let’s have an unforgettable time having an adventure in Bhutan – without breaking the bank!

How to get there:

From India

By Bus: Take a bus from Kolkata or Siliguri to Jaigaon, the Indian town bordering Bhutan. Bus services like NBSTC and SNT operate daily.
Cross the Border: Walk across the border to Phuentsholing, Bhutan’s commercial hub.
Thimphu Bound: Catch a bus from Phuentsholing to Thimphu, the capital city. Royal Bhutan Government’s bus service and private operators like Dhugarr Transport run regular services.

From Nepal

By Bus: Take a bus from Kathmandu to Kakarbhitta, a Nepalese town on the Bhutanese border. Companies like Laxmi Puja Travels and Golden Travels operate daily.
Cross the Border: Walk across the border to Gelephu, a Bhutanese town.
Thimphu Bound: Catch a bus from Gelephu to Thimphu. Royal Bhutan Government’s bus service and private operators like Dhugarr Transport run regular services.

From Bangladesh

By Bus: Take a bus from Dhaka or Chittagong to Burimari, a Bangladeshi town on the Bhutanese border. Companies like Shyamoli Paribahan and Soudia Paribahan operate daily.
Cross the Border: Walk across the border to Gelephu, a Bhutanese town.
Thimphu Bound: Catch a bus from Gelephu to Thimphu. Royal Bhutan Government’s bus service and private operators like Dhugarr Transport run regular services.

When to go:

Spring (March to May)

Weather: Mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to visit Bhutan.
Festivals: Attend the vibrant Paro Tshechu and Thimphu Tshechu festivals, showcasing traditional dances and masks.
Trekking: Enjoy comfortable temperatures and lush green landscapes, perfect for trekking and hiking.

Summer (June to August)

Weather: Warm and humid, with occasional rain showers.
Festivals: Experience the sacred Kurjey Tshechu and Nimalung Tshechu festivals.
Trekking: Higher elevations offer pleasant temperatures, but lower areas can be hot and humid.

Autumn (September to November)

Weather: Comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and golden landscapes make autumn a popular time to visit.
Festivals: Witness the grand Thimphu Tshechu and Wangduephodrang Tshechu festivals.
Trekking: Enjoy comfortable temperatures and stunning fall foliage.

Winter (December to February)

Weather: Cold temperatures, with occasional snowfall in higher elevations.
Festivals: Attend the unique Nabji Lhakhang Drup and Trongsa Tshechu festivals.
Trekking: Higher elevations can be challenging due to snow and cold, but lower areas offer mild winter conditions.

Special Events and Festivals

Bhutan International Marathon (February)
Bhutan International Festival (February)
Himalayan Festival (October)

Best Itineraries:

1-Week Itinerary: The Essentials

Day 1: Arrive in Thimphu, explore city life
Day 2: Hike to Wangditse Goemba, visit Buddha Point
Day 3: Travel to Paro, visit National Museum
Day 4: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Day 5: Explore Paro town, visit Kyichu Lhakhang
Day 6: Travel to Punakha, visit Punakha Dzong
Day 7: Return to Thimphu, depart

2-Week Itinerary: The Cultural Immersion

Day 1-3: Thimphu city life, hike to Wangditse Goemba, Motithang Takin Preserve
Day 4-6: Paro’s Tiger’s Nest Monastery, National Museum, homestay experience
Day 7-9: Punakha valley, hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Phobjikha Valley
Day 10-12: Haa Valley, explore rural life
Day 13-14: Return to Thimphu, visit Chimi Lhakhang

1-Month Itinerary: The Adventure Seeker

Week 1: Thimphu city life, hike to Wangditse Goemba, Motithang Takin Preserve
Week 2: Paro’s Tiger’s Nest Monastery, National Museum, homestay experience
Week 3: Punakha valley, hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Phobjikha Valley
Week 4: Druk Path trek, Haa Valley, Chimi Lhakhang

3-Month Itinerary: The Ultimate Bhutan Experience

Month 1: Explore Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Druk Path trek
Month 2: Haa Valley, Phobjikha Valley, attend a festival (if scheduled)
Month 3: Snowman Trek, Lhuentse Valley, Trashigang Valley

Transportation:

Buses

Royal Bhutan Government’s Bus Service: Connects major towns like Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha.
Private Bus Operators: Offers routes to rural areas and neighboring towns.
Fare: Nu 50-200 ( approx. $0.70-$2.80 USD) per ride.

Taxis

Shared Taxis: Available for short and long distances, fare divided among passengers.
Charter Taxis: Book a taxi for a private journey.
Fare: Negotiable, approx. Nu 500-1,000 ( approx. $7-$14 USD) per day.

Rental Services

Bike Rentals: Explore Bhutan’s scenic routes on two wheels.
Car Rentals: Rent a car with a driver for a private journey.
Fare: Approx. Nu 1,000-2,000 ( approx. $14-$28 USD) per day.

Other Options

Walking: Explore Bhutan’s towns and villages on foot.
Hitchhiking: A popular option for short distances.

Tips and Reminders

Book in advance: Reserve your seat or taxi in advance, especially during peak season.
Negotiate fares: Agree on a fare before starting your journey.
Respect local customs: Dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering temples or homes.
Be prepared: Bring snacks, water, and sunscreen, as services can be limited in rural areas.

Public Transportation Routes

Thimphu-Paro: 1.5 hours, Nu 100-200 ( approx. $1.40-$2.80 USD)
Thimphu-Punakha: 3 hours, Nu 200-300 ( approx. $2.80-$4.20 USD)
Paro-Haa: 2 hours, Nu 150-250 ( approx. $2.10-$3.50 USD)

Top things to do:

Thimphu

Buddha Point: A 54-meter-tall Buddha statue overlooking the city.
Thimphu Chorten: A memorial stupa dedicated to the third king.
National Museum: Showcasing Bhutan’s history, art, and culture.
Motithang Takin Preserve: Home to the national animal, the takin.
Hike to Wangditse Goemba: A scenic hike offering stunning views.
Tashichho Dzong: A majestic fortress and current government seat.
Folk Heritage Museum: Showcasing traditional Bhutanese life.
Changangkha Lhakhang: A historic temple with stunning views.
Dechen Phodrang Monastery: A scenic monastery with stunning views.
Thimphu Tshechu: A vibrant festival showcasing traditional dances.

Paro

Tiger’s Nest Monastery: A iconic monastery perched on a cliff.
Paro National Museum: Exploring the valley’s history and culture.
Kyichu Lhakhang: One of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
Hike to Jhomolhari Base Camp: A challenging trek with breathtaking views.
Explore Paro Town: Experience the local culture and cuisine.
Drukgyel Dzong: A historic fortress and scenic viewpoint.
Uma Paro: A luxury resort with stunning views.
Paro Valley: Explore the picturesque valley and its rural life.
Taktsang Village: A scenic village with stunning views.
Paro Tshechu: A vibrant festival showcasing traditional dances.

Punakha

Punakha Dzong: A majestic fortress and former capital.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: A stunning stupa with panoramic views.
Punakha Suspension Bridge: A thrilling walk across the Pho Chhu River.
Hike to Phobjikha Valley: A scenic trek through rice fields and forests.
Visit the Divine Madman Temple: Dedicated to the eccentric saint, Drukpa Kunley.
Punakha Valley: Explore the picturesque valley and its rural life.
Chimi Lhakhang: A temple dedicated to fertility and childbirth.
Sobrang Village: Experience traditional Bhutanese life.
Punakha Tshechu: A vibrant festival showcasing traditional dances.
Nalanda Buddhist College: A scenic college with stunning views.

Haa

Haa Valley: Explore the picturesque valley and its rural life.
Lhakhang Karpo: A ancient temple and sacred site.
Hike to Kila Goemba: A scenic hike offering stunning views.
Visit the Haa Town: Experience the local culture and cuisine.
Explore the surrounding villages: Discover traditional Bhutanese life.
Haa Dzong: A historic fortress and scenic viewpoint.
Yangthang Goemba: A ancient temple and sacred site.
Janob Village: Experience traditional Bhutanese life.
Haa Tshechu: A vibrant festival showcasing traditional dances.
Katsho Village: Experience traditional Bhutanese life.

Other Areas

Phobjikha Valley: Famous for its black-necked crane migration.
Bumthang: Known for its ancient temples and sacred sites.
Trashigang: A scenic town in eastern Bhutan, perfect for trekking.
Lhuentse: A rural valley with stunning natural beauty.
Gasa: A picturesque town in northern Bhutan, ideal for trekking.
Mongar: A scenic town in eastern Bhutan, perfect for trekking.
Trashiyangtse: A scenic town in eastern Bhutan, known for its sacred sites.
Zhemgang: A rural valley with stunning natural beauty.
Sarpang: A scenic town in southern Bhutan, perfect for trekking.
Gelephu: A scenic town in southern Bhutan, known for its sacred sites.

Food:

Having been a broke backpacker, I had read Bhutan was truly an expensive destination, but food was surprisingly cheap and delicious. From a variety of hearty meat dishes to tasty vegetarian options, Bhutanese cuisine has something for everyone.
My culinary journey in Bhutan started with Ema Datshi, a general dish that consists of chilies and cheese. It is very spicy and savory; in fact, many people in the country say that the stew is their staple food. I could savor the same at a local restaurant in Thimphu for just Nu 100 (approx $1.40USD).
Momos are the Bhutanese version of dumplings and are very common in the country. These delicious foods are filled either with meat or vegetables and served steamed or fried. I had a plate of them in a street food stall in Paro for Nu 50 (~$0.70).
Red rice is the staple in Bhutan and is served with most of the meals. This nutty and somewhat sweet rice, reaped from the high altitude fields of Bhutan, is nutritious. A plate of red rice with vegetables and meat was enjoyed at a local restaurant in Punakha in just Nu 150, around $2.10 USD.
Hoentoe are Bhutanese pancakes and a most satisfying breakfast fare. These are thin pancakes made out of buckwheat flour served with just about any kind of sums or eggs, cheese, and vegetables. I had a plate of these at a local café in Thimphu for just Nu 80, around $1.10.

Tips for Broke Backpackers

Eat at local restaurants and street food stalls for affordable options.
Try traditional Bhutanese dishes like Ema Datshi and momos.
Red rice is a staple in Bhutanese cuisine and is often served with most meals.
Hoentoe, or Bhutanese pancakes, make for a delicious breakfast option.
Don’t be afraid to try new foods and drinks, like suja (Bhutanese tea) and ara (Bhutanese liquor).

Nightlife:

Thimphu: The Party Capital

Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is the hub of the country’s nightlife. The city has a range of bars, clubs, and lounges that offer a variety of music, drinks, and ambiance.

The Club: A popular nightclub that plays a mix of international and local music.
The Lounge: A trendy bar and lounge that serves a range of cocktails and has a relaxed atmosphere.
The Sports Bar: A sports bar that shows live matches and has a selection of beers and snacks.
The Irish Pub: A cozy pub that serves a range of beers and has a relaxed atmosphere.
The Thimphu Tower Lounge: A rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

Paro: The Party Town

Paro, a charming town in western Bhutan, has a growing party scene that caters to tourists and locals alike.

The Paro Tavern: A cozy bar that serves a range of drinks and has a fireplace.
The Village Pub: A popular spot for live music and sports.
The Club: A nightclub that plays a mix of international and local music.
The Olathang Lounge: A cozy bar and lounge with stunning views of the valley.
The Tashi Namgay Bar: A popular spot for live music and drinks.

Punakha: The Chill-Out Destination

Punakha, a scenic town in central Bhutan, has a more relaxed nightlife scene that focuses on chill-out bars and lounges.

The Punakha Lounge: A cozy bar that serves a range of drinks and has a relaxed atmosphere.
The Riverside Bar: A scenic bar that serves drinks and snacks by the river.
The Khuru Bar: A cozy bar that serves a range of drinks and has a relaxed atmosphere.
The Lobesa Lounge: A cozy bar and lounge with stunning views of the valley.
The Wangdue Bar: A popular spot for live music and drinks.

Other Areas:

Gelephu: The Gelephu Nightclub is a popular spot for live music and dancing.
Phuentsholing: The Phuentsholing Lounge is a cozy bar and lounge with stunning views of the city.

Accommodations:

Best Hostels in Thimphu:

Thimphu Bed and Breakfast: one of the cheapest hostels in Bhutan, offers free WiFi, parking, common rooms, and a hassle-free self-help concept.
Khamsum Inn: a moderately priced stay equipped with all basic amenities and hosts who go out of their way to guide you during your stay.
Damchoe’s Homestay: a pleasant stay surrounded by organic vegetable gardens, a tofu processing unit, and a poultry farm.
Tshetrim’s Place: a great option for solo and young travelers looking to explore Bhutan.
House by the Garden: a newly furnished home with modern facilities available for vacationers.
Thimphu City Hotel: a comfortable stay with a restaurant, bar, and fitness center.
Wangchuk Hotel: a budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a central location.

Best Hostels in Paro:

Nivvana Lodge & Homestay: a place to come close to nature, wake up in the morning with the chirping of birds and have a sip of tea amidst nature.
Ama’s Village Lodge: a great option for group travelers who wish to spend the weekend near the paddy fields and lots of open space.
Hotel Phunsum: a backpacker hostel that provides all the basic amenities as well as free WiFi and a bar for constant in-and-out travelers.
Namgay Homestay: a serene atmosphere facing the Dop-Chu River, great for peace and tranquility.
Zhuochen Lodge: a simple yet great hostel with a pleasant vibe, traditional hot stone bath, and bonfires in the evenings.
Paro Village Lodge: a cozy stay with a beautiful garden and stunning views.
Tenzinling Resort: a resort with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a spa.

Best Hostels in Punakha:

Punakha Village Lodge: a peaceful stay surrounded by rice fields and a scenic view of the Punakha Dzong.
Khuru Village Lodge: a great option for travelers looking to experience rural Bhutanese life.
Dobesa Homestay: a homestay with a beautiful garden and a traditional hot stone bath.
Punakha Hotel: a comfortable stay with a restaurant and a bar.
Yoezer Hotel: a budget-friendly option with basic amenities.

Best Party Hostels in Bhutan:

Hotel Phunsum (Paro): a backpacker hostel with a bar and a lively atmosphere.
Thimphu City Hotel (Thimphu): a hotel with a restaurant, bar, and fitness center, great for meeting fellow travelers.
Tenzinling Resort (Paro): a resort with a spa, restaurant, and bar, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relaxed Hostels in Bhutan:

Nivvana Lodge & Homestay (Paro): a peaceful stay surrounded by nature.
Damchoe’s Homestay (Thimphu): a pleasant stay with organic vegetable gardens and a tofu processing unit.
Namgay Homestay (Paro): a serene atmosphere facing the Dop-Chu River.
Dobesa Homestay (Punakha): a homestay with a beautiful garden and a traditional hot stone bath.

Culture:

History and Heritage

Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage dates back to the 8th century, with the arrival of Buddhism. The country’s strategic location between India and China has made it a melting pot of influences, shaping its distinct culture. Bhutan’s history is marked by the reign of powerful kings, the development of Buddhism, and the country’s commitment to preserving its unique identity.

Customs and Traditions

Bhutanese culture is built around strong customs and traditions. Some notable practices include:

Dress Code: The traditional Bhutanese dress, known as gho for men and kira for women, is worn on formal occasions and as a symbol of national pride.
Respect for Elders: Older individuals are highly revered in Bhutanese society, with children taught from a young age to show respect and deference.
Buddhist Practices: Buddhism plays a significant role in Bhutanese life, with many citizens practicing daily rituals and attending festivals.
Festivals and Celebrations: Bhutan celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, showcasing traditional dances, music, and art.

Values and Beliefs

Bhutanese culture is built on a foundation of strong values and beliefs, including:

Gross National Happiness: Bhutan prioritizes happiness and well-being above economic growth, reflecting its commitment to sustainable development.
Environmental Conservation: The country’s pristine natural beauty is protected through sustainable practices and eco-tourism initiatives.
Community and Family: Bhutanese society values close-knit communities and family ties, with many citizens living in rural areas.

Arts and Crafts

Bhutanese art and craft are renowned for their intricate designs and symbolism. Some notable examples include:

Thangkas: Colorful paintings depicting Buddhist deities and stories.
Woodcarvings: Intricately carved wooden masks and decorative items.
Textiles: Vibrant fabrics woven with traditional patterns and designs.

Cuisine

Bhutanese cuisine is a unique blend of spices, herbs, and meats, with popular dishes including:

Ema Datshi: A spicy chili and cheese stew.
Momos: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
Red Rice: A staple in Bhutanese cuisine, often served with most meals.

For generations, Bhutan has been a country of mystery and intrigue, a place really reserved for rich tourists and adventurous travelers. Exploring this beautiful country on a broke budget is quite possible, though, as we have tried to prove in this blog post.
From hiking to holy shrines and trekking through breathtaking landscapes to imbibing the unique culture and relishing the delicious local cuisine, Bhutan has a bit of everything that makes any sort of traveler happy.
So if you’re a broke backpacker looking for that journey of a lifetime, put Bhutan on your bucket list because, with a little planning and research, you can experience all this incredible country has in store on a broke budget.

Remember, it’s not about how much money you spend, but about the experiences you have and the memories you create.