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Travel Guide

Travel Guide » Asia » Bhutan
Explore: The World | India
Kingdom of Bhutan
(Bhutan)


The land of the thunder dragon has shunned the rush towards modernity.

Bhutan, nestling in the heart of the great Himalaya, has for centuries remained aloof from the rest of the world. Since its doors were cautiously opened in 1974, visitors have been mesmerised: the environment is pristine, the scenery and architecture awesome and the people hospitable and charming.


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Getting There
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To Do & See
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At a Glance
Getting Around:

Because Bhutan has no domestic air service, possesses no helicopters, and does not include an inch of railway track, the only way to see the place is by foot or by road. If you're on a normal tourist visa, your tour operator will provide all your transportation. If you're working on a government project or are an Indian national you will have to rely on public transport. Good luck! Public buses are crowded and rough and the winding roads make them perversely uncomfortable.

If you don't already have a vehicle at your disposal, it's possible to hire one with a driver through a travel agency. Mountain biking in Bhutan is gaining popularity and this is a great way to explore, especially around the Thimphu and Paro valleys. Bikes are available for rent in Thimphu. Taxis operate without meters and fares are very much open to negotiation, and sometimes exploitation.

Weather:

Higher parts of Bhutan have pleasant months either side of the rainy season, which lasts from May to September. Days from March to April and October to November are generally warm with less rain, decent sunshine and temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F). Nights can get a bit fresh between November and March. Lower parts of the country experience heavier falls and warmer temperatures during the day across this time.

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