Thimphu Tour Package

The best time to visit Thimphu is from March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). Spring offers pleasant weather with blooming flowers and clear views of the Himalayas. Autumn is perfect for festivals, especially Thimphu Tshechu in September/October. Winter (Dec-Feb) is cold but offers fewer crowds and clear skies. Summer monsoon (Jun-Aug) brings rain but lush green landscapes. For the famous Thimphu Tshechu festival, plan your visit in late September or early October.

Top attractions in Thimphu include: Buddha Dordenma (169-foot golden statue), Tashichho Dzong (fortress monastery), National Memorial Chorten (sacred stupa), Changangkha Lhakhang (ancient temple), Simtokha Dzong (oldest fortress), Motithang Takin Preserve (national animal), Folk Heritage Museum, Textile Museum, Weekend Market, and National Institute for Zorig Chusum (traditional arts school). Allow 3-4 days to cover major attractions comfortably.

Yes, except for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian passport holders who need only valid ID/passport. Indian tourists can enter with Voter ID or passport. International tourists require a visa arranged through registered tour operators like us. We handle all visa formalities - you'll receive a visa approval letter via email, and the visa stamp is obtained at Paro Airport upon arrival. The process takes 3-5 working days. Tourist visa fee is included in our package prices.

Our packages include: hotel accommodation (twin/double sharing), daily breakfast and dinner, private vehicle with experienced driver, licensed English-speaking guide, all monument entrance fees, Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), government royalty and taxes, and airport transfers. Excluded: international/domestic airfare, lunch meals (₹300-500 per meal), travel insurance, personal expenses, laundry, tips for guide/driver, alcoholic beverages, and activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

We recommend 3-4 days for a comprehensive Thimphu experience. A 3-day package covers major attractions like Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, Memorial Chorten, Weekend Market, and key monasteries. For deeper cultural immersion including museums, handicraft centers, and day trips, opt for 4-5 days. Many travelers combine Thimphu with Paro (2-3 days for Tiger's Nest) and Punakha (1-2 days), requiring 6-8 days total for a complete Western Bhutan tour.

Yes, Thimphu is extremely safe for tourists. Bhutan has very low crime rates and the capital city is well-policed. Locals are friendly and helpful. However, take standard precautions: keep valuables secure, avoid isolated areas at night, and respect local customs. Women travelers report feeling very safe. Tourist police are available for assistance. The city is clean with good infrastructure. Traffic is minimal as Thimphu is the only world capital without traffic lights (managed by traffic police in white gloves at major junctions).

Dress modestly when visiting dzongs, monasteries, and temples. Requirements: shoulders and knees must be covered, remove shoes before entering prayer halls, avoid shorts/sleeveless tops, no revealing clothing. Recommended: long pants/skirts, full-sleeve or half-sleeve tops, comfortable walking shoes, scarf for covering if needed. For visiting government buildings and Tashichho Dzong, men should wear long pants and closed shoes (no flip-flops). Women should dress conservatively. Carrying a light jacket is advisable as temples can be cool inside.

Yes! Indian Rupees (₹100, ₹500, ₹2000 notes) are widely accepted throughout Thimphu. Bhutan's currency Ngultrum (BTN) is at par with INR (1:1 exchange rate). However, ₹2000 notes may not be accepted everywhere, so carry smaller denominations. ATMs are readily available in Thimphu accepting international cards (Visa/Mastercard). Credit cards work at major hotels, restaurants, and shops. Carry sufficient cash for small vendors, markets, and tips. Currency exchange available at banks and hotels. US Dollars are accepted at some establishments.

Yes, Thimphu has excellent mobile network coverage. Two operators: TashiCell and B-Mobile. Indian tourists can use roaming (expensive) or purchase local tourist SIM cards (₹300-500 with data). Tourist SIMs require passport copy and passport-size photo, available at airport and city outlets. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free WiFi. Internet speed is decent for browsing and messaging but may be slower than what you're used to. 4G coverage is available in Thimphu city. Download offline maps and content beforehand for convenience.

Thimphu offers diverse cuisine options. Traditional Bhutanese: Ema Datshi (chili cheese), momos, red rice, phaksha paa (pork with chilies), and butter tea. International: Indian, Chinese, Continental, Korean, and Japanese restaurants available. Vegetarian and vegan options widely available. Notable areas: Norzin Lam (main street) has numerous restaurants. Popular spots include Zombala 2 Restaurant, Ambient Cafe, and Cloud 9. Street food at Weekend Market. Most hotels serve buffet meals. Food is generally mild to moderately spicy. Notify your guide about dietary restrictions - accommodations can be easily made.