Cover Best things to do if you only have 48 hours in Bhutan (Photo: Getty Images)
Best things to do if you only have 48 hours in Bhutan (Photo: Getty Images)
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To see all of Bhutan in 48 hours is impossible, but that shouldn’t stop you from making the most of your trip. Here we share some of the best things to see, do and eat while visiting the country
Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan offers a rare blend of pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and a commitment to sustainable tourism that sets it apart from typical luxury destinations. From its friendly locals to breathtaking scenic views, there are plenty of reasons why the tiny kingdom is not to be missed.
Although Bhutan only began welcoming tourists in 1974, the number of tourists visiting the kingdom has increased steadily. In that inaugural year, the country welcomed just 287 tourists. This May, Bhutan welcomed 23,547 visitors, marking the highest monthly arrivals since reopening after the pandemic.
Read more: The historic Trans Bhutan Trail reopens after 60 years
Getting to Bhutan used to be a journey in itself but the country has recently made key enhancements in its travel procedures, allowing us to visit easily. For one, Bhutan has reduced its Sustainability Development Fee (SDF) from USD$200 to USD$100. The visa process has also been simplified and made more efficient, with visas being processed within five working days. Planning for a trip to the country is also made more convenient thanks to the use of SoulTrips, a travel platform that creates bespoke itineraries.
This June, Tatler Singapore was invited to explore Bhutan’s off-the-beaten path in partnership with DrukAir and SoulTrips. While our guide told us that many tourists would stay from 7 to 10 days, it’s still possible to experience the best of the country within 48 hours.
Below, we share the best things to do if you only have 48 hours in this Himalayan kingdom.
Friday
Check in at Amankora Thimphu
After meeting your guide at the Paro airport, take an hour-long journey to Thimphu as you marvel at the Himalayan kingdom’s idyllic countryside and villages. Pamper yourself with a stay at Amankora Thimpu, a luxury lodge that offers a quiet retreat from the bustling capital. The serene oasis features 16 spacious suites, each offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Visit the great Buddha Dordenma
Perched atop a hill overlooking Thimphu, the Great Buddha Dordenma is a colossal 169-foot bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Completed in 2015, it’s one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, housing over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues inside. The statue commemorates the 60th anniversary of Bhutan’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Here, you’ll also find panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley.
Simply Bhutan museum
This living museum offers an immersive experience of traditional Bhutanese culture. Learn more about various aspects of Bhutanese life, from traditional architecture to customs and crafts. The museum is built using old timber, doors and other materials, putting the spotlight on traditional architectural techniques. Get to try on traditional Bhutanese dress, sample local beverages and participate in archery, Bhutan’s national sport.
Dinner at Phangu
Culinary expert Bleu Tshering Dorji offers us a taste of authentic Bhutanese cuisine at Phangu. Popular among tourists and locals alike, the restaurant is known for its traditional dishes presented with modernity. Get to try a range of traditional dishes including ema datshi (chilli cheese stew), sikam paa (dried pork belly with sun-dried red chillies), momo (dumplings) and more. While you’re here, don’t forget to check out the restaurant’s private rooms, each decorated with various Bhutanese elements. The Mural Room is our favourite, decked in beautiful illustrations of Nagas (mermaids), the Garuda (mythological bird) and the Makara snail, among others.
Saturday
Check in at Amankora Paro
Start the day with an early drive back to Paro and check in at the Amankora Paro. The largest of the five Amankora lodges, this property has 24 suites and features a contemporary take on traditional Bhutanese architecture. Its suites are lavish, complete with plush King-sized beds, large windows that overlook the forest, Bukhari wood-burning stoves and more.
Trek up to the Tiger’s Nest (Paro Taktsang) Monastery
Take a 19-minute drive from the lodge and you’ll find yourself at the base of the mountain. Grab a hiking stick and begin the trek up to the monastery. While the hike takes around two to three hours complete with steep stairs and narrow paths adorned with prayer flags, breathtaking views of the 17th-century monastery make the pilgrimage worthwhile. At the halfway point, take a break at Takstang Cafeteria before continuing up the final stretch.
Explore Paro’s High Street
The Main Street of Paro offers a charming blend of traditional Bhutanese architecture and modern commerce. The street is lined with colourful, two-storey buildings featuring local handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs. Sample local delicacies and observe the daily lives of the locals, all while surrounded by the beautiful backdrop of the Himalayan foothills.
Relax the muscles with a Hot Stone Bath
There’s no better way to relax after a long hike than with a Hot Stone Bath. While there are plenty to choose from in the town, the lodge offers a Himalayan hot-stone bath. Here, natural river stones are heated and lowered into the bath to release beneficial minerals. Local Khempa herbs are also added to the water, refreshing the body with healing properties.
Sunday
Visit Paro’s National Museum
The National Museum of Bhutan is housed in the Ta Dzong, a former watchtower overlooking Paro Dzong. The museum showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and contains a diverse collection of artefacts such as ancient thangka paintings, weapons, textiles and natural history exhibits. Learn more about Bhutanese art, culture and history while you’re here.
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
