Bhutan Travel Blog

Phobjikha is the most idyllic place in Bhutan. A 16th century Gangtey Goemba monastery built on a ridge overlooks the open marshy valley. Part of an important wildlife preserve, the valley is home to the endangered black necked cranes. These flock fly south from Tibet every winter before returning back in early spring. The community has an interesting narrative where it says that the birds circle the monastery three times on arrival to the valley every time before gathering in the marshland. It is considered as an auspicious sign in the Buddhist community and the locals believe that these cranes are the reincarnations of the monks of the monastery. In addition to the cranes, this wildlife preserve is also home to the red foxes, leopards, wild boars, Himalayan black bears.

This majestic Bhutanese architecture precariously perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley has intrigued travelers across the globe. Taktsang translates to “The Tiger’s Nest”. Locals believe that Guru Padmasambhava, who introduced Buddhism in Bhutan, flew riding atop a tigress and it is believed that he meditated in the cave for three years, three months, 3 days to subdue evil forces in the 7th century.

Visa and Immigration Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals referred to as regional travelers are exempted from the USD 250 dollars per day tariff set by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. They need not apply for visas however are required to process an entry permit. While this permit can be processed upon arrival, the processing can take up to 5 hours for tourist travelling by road and service is offered only during office hours and may cause unanticipated delays. Therefore it is advised to process your permit in advance. International tourists are subject to a minimum daily tariff travelers must arrange their trip including visa application through a local tour operator certified by Tourism Council of Bhutan.

Budget Travel for the same experience “Something is better than nothing” is the mantra these service providers live by during the lean season. Airlines and hoteliers slash their rates to offset their losses during these extended periods of drought. Hoteliers are known to offer discount up to 50% if you can successfully bargain. Travel agents charge minimal service fee.

Taktshang: The Tiger’s Nest First built in 1692 AD, this temple is perhaps the most holy site in the kingdom. Legend has it that Padmasambhava flew to this site on the back of a tigress in the 7th century to meditate and subdue a demon hence the name, the Tiger’s nest. Aside from the historical significance, travelers visit this site to witness a marvelous architectural achievement of how this temple has been built on a sheer cliff 900 meters above Paro Valley. It is a 2 hour hike through the pine forest from the base and it offers an amazing panoramic view of the Paro valley aside from the magnificent view of the temple on arrival.