Set in the Himalayas, Bhutan is a pristine country that receives enormous admiration from travellers across the world. Surrounded by ethereal mountains, ancient monasteries, and colourful prayer flags, Bhutan is not only visually appealing but also spiritually uplifting to visit. Have you ever heard of Bhutan Land of Thunder Dragon, and wondered why it is named so?
In this blog, we will explore the origin of Bhutan’s name, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, and how an Indian traveller can explore this Himalayan kingdom. If you are planning a trip to Bhutan, this will help you travel as an informed being.
Also Read: Best Time to Visit Bhutan: Seasonal Travel Guide & Festival Calendar
Lets Know the Origin of the name "Land of the Thunder Dragon"
Bhutan is known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, which is Druk Yul in the local language of Dzongkha. As Bhutan is set in the Eastern Himalayas, violent and strong thunderstorms strike these high-altitude valleys, and the roaring sound and dazzling light of these thunderstorms are believed to be the roaring of the dragon with red fire. In Bhutanese lore, dragons symbolise strength and power, which is even featured in their national flag, known as “Druk” regionally. Also, the leaders of these countries are also known as Druk Gyalpo, meaning Thunder Dragon Kings. Thus, the name the Land of the Thunder Dragon found its source that really captures the essence of Bhutan’s unique identity.
Understand How an Indian Traveller Can Explore Bhutan
Here are some key points to note when you are exploring Bhutan as an Indian tourist:
Deciding Entry Points: Bhutan is a well-connected country, and you can reach it by both land and air. If you prefer travelling by land, you can enter Bhutan through several land borders crossing from India that offer adventurous and scenic routes through the Himalayas. The most popular is via Jaigaon, a small town in West Bengal, to Phuentsholing, the adjacent Bhutanese town, marked by the iconic Bhutan Gate on the Bhutan border. Also, you can reach Bhutan by air, which lands you in Paro International Airport, which is also known as Druk Air.
Ensuring Entry Permits: To enter Bhutan, tourists are required to carry permits. For Indian travellers, a visa is not required, but you must carry either a valid passport with at least six months of validity or a Voter ID card. Whether you are reaching through the border or landing in Paro airport, you will also be required to obtain an entry permit. Alternatively, these permits can be obtained online through certified tour operators before planning the trip.
Considering SDF: Before you plan your trip to Bhutan, you must know that Bhutan's government deducts SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) from every tourist for a per-night stay. For Indians, the current SDF is 1200 INR per person, per night, and for foreign nationals, USD $100 per night per person. However, children below five years are exempted these charges. This fee is charged to support Bhutan’s free public health care and education, forest conservation, tourism infrastructure, and carbon-emission management program.
Choosing the Best Time: If you are planning your trip to Bhutan, choosing the best time to visit can make a significant difference in your travel experience. The ideal time to visit Bhutan is during Spring from March to May, when skies are crystal clear, the surroundings are filled with blooms, and many vibrant festivals, Tshechus, take place during this season. Also, Autumn is a good season from September to November when the air remains crisp, landscapes are lush, skies are clear, providing the best visibility, and grand festivals are celebrated. These are considered the peak season to travel to Bhutan for postcard worthy travel experience.
Being Mindful of Culture and Etiquette: Bhutan’s soul is found in the Vajranya Buddhism, which reflects their culture and traditions and influences their way of living. When you are visiting monasteries, spiritual sites, and temples, be respectful towards their culture and religion by dressing modestly, refraining from photography inside the sanctums, and avoiding any unhealthy habits such as substance use. When you are exploring these ancient monasteries and their intricate architecture, you can find how deeply Buddhism is ingrained in their history, traditions, and heritage. By listening to the holy prayer chants of the monks and meditating with them, you can connect more with your soul rather than only with your travel memory.
Opting for Eco-friendly Travelling: Bhutan is known as the first carbon-negative country in the world, which shows its commitment to preserving nature and the environment. With a 70% forested area, Bhutan focuses on protecting nature from pollution and deforestation by imposing strict rules that are mandatory for every tourist. Ensure you refrain from breaching their environmental regulations by opting for vehicles that use less fuel, avoiding littering, and refraining from smoking in public. Bhutan prioritises “High-impact, Low-value” tourism to ensure the happiness of tourists and maintain the environment.
Carrying Sufficient Cash: Bhutan’s currency is known as Ngultrum (Nu), considered equivalent to Indian currency, such as Nu 1= INR 1. Bhutan widely accepts Indian currency across the country, and you can carry Indian Rupees along with you. As there are not enough ATMs in Bhutan and the existing ones are in remote towns or valleys, prefer carrying sufficient cash for hassle-free transactions during your Bhutan trip.
Final Remarks,
If you are dreaming of a mountain escape in the Himalayas, Bhutan is one of the most scenic destinations for you. Explore this land of happiness that not only offers historical monasteries and quaint valleys but also provides opportunities for adventurous activities like trekking in the iconic mountain passes, river rafting, and more. Whether you are breathing in the fresh mountain air in the tranquil valleys or participating in the vibrant cultural festivals, a well-planned Bhutan trip can be a memorable travel experience that is worth revisiting. Plan your Bhutan trip with Kamkhya Bhutan, a local tour operator for an exclusive experience.