Bhutan

Bhutan is a Himalayan kingdom between India and China, known for its dzongs, monasteries, forests and its measure of progress, Gross National Happiness. Its capital is Thimphu, and most of the country lies in steep valleys between the southern foothills and the high Himalaya.

Travellers come for the Paro valley and Taktsang, the Tiger's Nest monastery, the dzongs of Punakha and Thimphu, the Phobjikha valley, the temples of Bumthang and the eastern districts beyond. Festivals called tsechus are held in dzongs and villages through the year.

The best time to visit Bhutan is March to May and September to November, when the skies are clearest. Bhutan charges a Sustainable Development Fee for every night a visitor stays. Indian visitors pay 1,200 ngultrum a night, which equals ₹1,200. Visitors from most other countries pay 100 US dollars a night, a rate due to last until the end of August 2027.

Pollen Dots plans customised journeys anywhere in Bhutan, with local guides and family run stays. Browse the journeys and stories below, or write to us to plan a journey around what you want to see.