Question 1

When is the best time to visit Bhutan?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Bhutan largely depends on your preferences for weather and the type of activities you want to engage in. It’s essential to consider your preferences and the specific activities you want to engage in when planning your visit. If you’re interested in trekking, spring and autumn are ideal. For those who prefer a quieter atmosphere and are not bothered by occasional rain, summer can be a unique experience. Winter is excellent for cultural tours, and you can enjoy the festive atmosphere during Bhutanese celebrations. Ultimately, the best time to visit Bhutan depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek. Whether it’s the vibrant festivals, lush landscapes, or clear mountain views, Bhutan has something to offer throughout the year. Bhutan experiences distinct seasons, and each has its own charm:

1, Spring (March to May):

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Bhutan. The weather is generally mild, and the landscape comes alive with vibrant colors as flowers bloom. The temperature is comfortable, making it ideal for trekking and cultural tours.

Weather: Spring is characterized by mild temperatures, with daytime temperatures ranging from 14°C to 25°C (57°F to 77°F). Nights can be cool.
Flora and Fauna: The landscape comes alive with blooming flowers, and the valleys are covered in vibrant hues. It’s an excellent time for nature enthusiasts.
Activities: Spring is ideal for trekking, especially in areas like Paro and Punakha. It’s also a great time for cultural tours.

2. Summer (June to August):

While summer brings lush greenery to Bhutan, it also marks the monsoon season. The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional heavy rainfall. This period is not as popular for tourism due to the rain, but it can still be a good time to visit if you don’t mind occasional showers.

Weather: Summer brings the monsoon season, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Expect occasional heavy rainfall.
Festivals: Despite the rain, summer sees vibrant festivals like the Paro Tsechu. The lush greenery during this time is a unique aspect of the landscape.
Activities: While trekking might be challenging due to rain, summer is a good time for cultural experiences and witnessing local festivals.

3. Autumn (September to November):

Autumn is another peak season for visiting Bhutan. The weather is clear, and the skies are usually bright. The temperatures are pleasant, making it an excellent time for trekking and outdoor activities. The autumn months offer stunning views of the Himalayan peaks.

Weather: Autumn is characterized by clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 23°C (50°F to 73°F). Nights start getting cooler.
Scenery: The landscape is still lush from the monsoon, and the autumn months offer stunning views of the Himalayan peaks.
Activities: This is the peak tourist season. It’s ideal for trekking, and festivals like the Thimphu Tsechu are celebrated during this time.

4. Winter (December to February):

Winter in Bhutan brings colder temperatures, especially in the higher altitudes. While the days are generally clear and sunny, the nights can be quite cold. Winter is a great time for cultural exploration, and you can experience Bhutanese festivals during this period.

Weather: Winter brings colder temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F). Nights can be chilly, especially at higher altitudes.
Festivals: Winter is a great time for cultural exploration, and festivals like Punakha Drubchen and Punakha Tshechu are celebrated.
Activities: While trekking might be limited, winter is perfect for those interested in experiencing Bhutanese culture and festivities.

Question 2

How many days are recommended for a trip to Bhutan?

Accepted Answer

The number of days needed to visit Bhutan depends on the type of experience you’re seeking and the specific attractions you wish to see.

3 to 5 Days: Quick Visit

For a short trip, you can explore key highlights like Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Paro Dzong, Thimphu’s Tashichho Dzong, and Punakha Dzong.

7 to 10 Days: Classic Tour

A week allows for a more comprehensive experience, adding Thimphu’s Buddha Dordenma, the National Memorial Chorten, and Phobjikha Valley’s Gangtey Monastery to the quick visit itinerary.

10 to 14 Days: In-Depth Exploration

For a deeper dive, include the cultural heartland of Bumthang Valley, visiting Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang, along with the previous attractions.

2 to 3 Weeks: Comprehensive Experience

A longer stay offers the chance to embark on treks like the Druk Path or Jomolhari Trek and explore the remote eastern regions like Trashigang and Mongar.

Question 3

What are the must-visit places in Bhutan?

Accepted Answer

Here’s a list of must-visit places in Bhutan to make any itinerary unforgettable:

1. Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)

Location: Paro
Highlights: Iconic cliffside monastery, scenic hike with panoramic views, rich in Bhutanese legends and spirituality.

2. Punakha Dzong

Location: Punakha
Highlights: Bhutan’s most beautiful dzong (fortress), located at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers. Known for its exquisite architecture and history, especially as Bhutan’s former capital.

3. Thimphu

Highlights: Bhutan’s capital, where tradition meets modernity. Key spots include:
- Buddha Dordenma Statue: Massive golden Buddha overlooking the city.
- Tashichho Dzong: Administrative center and summer residence of the king.
- Centenary Farmers Market: Local produce, crafts, and a taste of Bhutanese cuisine.
- Changangkha Lhakhang: One of the oldest temples, overlooking the Thimphu Valley.

4. Dochula Pass

Location: Between Thimphu and Punakha
Highlights: Offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Known for the 108 chortens (stupas) and the annual Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival in December.

5. Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey)

Location: Wangdue Phodrang
Highlights: A stunning glacial valley, famous for black-necked cranes migrating from Tibet in winter. The Gangtey Monastery here is one of Bhutan’s most important Buddhist centers.

6. Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)

Location: Near Punakha
Highlights: Known for blessings of fertility, built in honor of Drukpa Kunley, also known as the “Divine Madman.” The temple is known for its unique phallic symbolism.

These destinations represent a blend of Bhutan’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and traditional architecture. Each location offers unique experiences, making Bhutan a destination of deep spiritual and scenic wonder.

Question 4

What types of accommodations do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a minimum of 3-star rated accommodations to Luxury Resorts, certified by the Department of Tourism, Bhutan.

We also offer Homestays with a local family that can give you an authentic Bhutanese experience. Rooms are typically modest but comfortable, often featuring traditional Bhutanese décor.

Our selection of 3-star accommodations has been carefully curated based on top ratings and consistent positive feedback from our past clients. These hotels offer a blend of comfort, convenience, and authentic Bhutanese hospitality.

Question 5

How to make a payment?

Accepted Answer

When booking a trip to Bhutan, you might be required to make advance payment. Sustainable development Fee (SDF) and Visa Fee must be paid in advance as a part of the Visa application process. Once the SDF & Visa Fees are received, the Visa is approved in 2-3 working days by the Department of Immigration, Royal Government of Bhutan. For more details check Mode of Payment.

Wire/Bank Transfer:

We have maintained our accounts with the Bank of Bhutan and the Bhutan National Bank. Once your trip has been booked, we’ll send you the details of our bank here in Bhutan; you will inform your bank that you’d like to send a wire transfer to Bhutan. Send us a copy of your remittance slip; payments are typically processed within two or three business days, and we’ll send you an e-mail confirmation as soon as your transfer has been received.

Transfer charges apply: Confirm with your bank the fees associated with the wire transfer, including any service charges. Transfer charges may vary depending on your location, banking institution, and the recipient’s bank in Bhutan.

2. Credit/Debit Card:

You can make payment through Credit/Debit Card by using our Payment Gateway. The transactions are secured by Stripe’s payment technology, and enables next-to-real-time electronic disbursement of the funds. We can create the invoice and email you a link, you just need to visit the link and make the payment.

Transfer charges apply: 4.99% bank transaction surcharge apply.

3. Third Party Transfer Option

Advantages: Easy and Low Transfer Cost.
Disadvantages: Currency conversion may be a concern.

A. Wise: Online Money Transfer

You will have to register on www.wise.com and make the transfer by first adding money (Add Money) into the wise account through a bank card and then send the payment by clicking on “Send” and then click on “An Account Outside Of Wise”. Add a recipient by adding the bank details. When filling out the transfer details, select SWIFT and not ACH or Wire. Please do not send money to Omsha Travel’s account with Wise. Fund should be sent to “An Account Outside Of Wise” or Omsha Travel’s Bank Account in Bhutan.

B. Revolut: Online

Open the Revolut app.
Tap “Payments” at the bottom.
Tap “Send money” and select “To a bank account.”
Enter the recipient’s bank details and tap “Send.”

Question 6

How long does my visa allow me to stay in Bhutan?

Accepted Answer

The visa allows you to remain in Bhutan for a maximum of 90 days from the date of entry.

Question 7

Are there any nationalities restricted from being granted a visa to enter Bhutan?

Accepted Answer

No, there are no restricted nationalities in Bhutan.

Question 8

Is there good internet connection and Wi-Fi in Bhutan?

Accepted Answer

Most hotels have Wi-Fi in Bhutan, but we recommend obtaining a Tourist SIM card for more convenient access to data and a more reliable internet connection.

Question 9

How to Book a Tour with OMSHA Travel

Accepted Answer

Step-by-Step Guide

Booking your Bhutan journey with OMSHA Travel is simple and hassle-free. Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Send Us Your Inquiry

Start by contacting us with your travel details. Please mention:

Your travel dates
Number of people traveling
Duration of your trip
Your interests and preferences for the trip (culture, nature, trekking, birding, luxury, etc.)

This helps us design a trip that truly matches your expectations.

Step 2: Finalize Itinerary & Cost

Based on your preferences, we will prepare a customized itinerary along with a detailed tour cost. We are happy to fine-tune the plan until you are fully satisfied.

Step 3: Flight Booking & Visa Processing

Once the itinerary is confirmed, we will:

Book your flights to Bhutan
Process your Bhutan visa through official channels

We take care of all the necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth experience.

Step 4: Pack Your Things & Get Ready to Travel

After everything is confirmed:

Pack your things
Get ready to travel to Bhutan

Our team will warmly welcome you on arrival and take care of your journey from start to finish.

✨ With OMSHA Travel, your Bhutan trip is planned with local expertise and personal care.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.