A Lashey Tours and Travel Agent in Bhutan is a specialized professional dedicated to organizing and facilitating travel experiences in the mountainous regions of Bhutan. Known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” Bhutan offers a unique combination of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and serene mountain environments. These travel agents cater to adventurers, trekkers, and cultural enthusiasts, providing comprehensive services to ensure a memorable and safe journey through Bhutan’s majestic mountains.

Services Offered by a Mountainous Tours and Travel Agent in Bhutan

1. Tailored Itinerary Planning: Crafting customized itineraries that include trekking, hiking, cultural tours, and spiritual retreats in Bhutan’s mountainous regions.
2. Accommodation Arrangements: Booking a range of accommodations, from traditional Bhutanese guesthouses and homestays to luxury resorts with panoramic mountain views.
3. Guided Expeditions: Organizing guided tours led by experienced local guides who provide insights into Bhutan’s unique culture, traditions, and natural beauty.
4. Cultural and Spiritual Tours: Arranging visits to ancient monasteries, fortresses (dzongs), and participation in local festivals and spiritual ceremonies.
5. Equipment Provision: Facilitating the rental or purchase of necessary trekking and hiking gear.
6. Travel Insurance: Offering comprehensive travel insurance plans that cover adventure activities and potential risks associated with mountain travel.
7. Transportation Logistics: Coordinating transportation, including flights into Paro, ground transportation, and arrangements for travel permits required for certain regions.
8. Safety and Briefings: Providing safety instructions and training sessions to prepare travelers for the physical demands and risks of mountain adventures.
9. Visa and Documentation Assistance: Assisting with the visa application process and obtaining necessary travel permits.

Key Benefits of Using a Mountainous Tours and Travel Agent in Bhutan

• Local Expertise: Bhutanese travel agents possess in-depth knowledge of the country’s terrain, culture, and best trekking routes.
• Customized Experiences: Personalized travel experiences tailored to the interests, fitness levels, and spiritual aspirations of each traveler.
• Cultural Immersion: Opportunities for travelers to engage deeply with Bhutanese culture through interactions with local communities and participation in traditional practices.
• Safety and Comfort: Assurance of safety with well-planned itineraries, trained guides, and appropriate equipment.
• Hassle-Free Planning: Comprehensive handling of all travel details, from planning and booking to on-ground support, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying their journey.

Popular Mountain Destinations and Activities in Bhutan

1. Paro Valley: Home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), this valley offers beautiful hikes and stunning scenery.
2. Jhomolhari Trek: A popular trekking route that offers spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari and passes through remote villages and high mountain passes.
3. Druk Path Trek: A shorter trek connecting Paro and Thimphu, passing by pristine lakes and offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
4. Laya-Gasa Trek: One of the most challenging treks, it traverses through diverse landscapes and offers insights into the unique lifestyle of the Layap people.
5. Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek: Known for its numerous high-altitude lakes, this trek provides opportunities for fishing and bird watching along with stunning mountain vistas.

Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon

Overview

Bhutan, officially known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a small landlocked country in South Asia, nestled in the Eastern Himalayas. It is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural heritage, Bhutan is often referred to as “The Land of the Thunder Dragon.” The country’s capital and largest city is Thimphu.

Culture and Heritage

Bhutan is renowned for its well-preserved cultural heritage, deeply rooted in Buddhism. The country measures its progress through Gross National Happiness (GNH), which prioritizes the well-being of its citizens over material wealth. Bhutanese culture is reflected in its architecture, festivals, and traditional practices. The distinctive Bhutanese dzongs (fortresses), monasteries, and traditional houses exemplify the country’s architectural style.

Natural Beauty

Bhutan’s landscapes are characterized by their diversity, ranging from subtropical plains to alpine mountains. The country is home to several protected areas, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, that conserve its rich flora and fauna. Trekking and hiking in Bhutan offer spectacular views of the Himalayas, lush valleys, and pristine forests.

How to Get Into Bhutan

Visa and Entry Requirements

1. Visa Application:
   • All tourists, except nationals from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, need a visa to enter Bhutan.
   • Tourists must book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner. The tour operator handles the visa application process.
   • A minimum daily package is required for tourists, which covers accommodation, meals, a licensed guide, and transportation within Bhutan.
2. Visa Approval:
   • Once the trip is booked, the tour operator submits the visa application on behalf of the tourist.
   • The visa is approved by the Tourism Council of Bhutan and issued electronically. A copy of the visa clearance letter is sent to the tourist.
3. Entry Points:
   • By Air: The main international airport is Paro International Airport (PBH), which has flights from several major cities, including Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are the two carriers operating flights to Bhutan.
   • By Land: Tourists can also enter Bhutan via land through three border points with India: Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar.

Travel Restrictions and Guidelines

• Minimum Daily Package:
  • The minimum daily package fee is set by the government, ensuring a high-quality experience for tourists and contributing to sustainable tourism. The fee varies depending on the season and group size.
  • The fee includes all internal taxes and charges, a sustainable development fee, accommodation, meals, a licensed guide, and internal transportation.
• Sustainable Development Fee:
  • As of recent updates, tourists are required to pay a sustainable development fee, which is included in the minimum daily package. This fee supports various environmental and cultural preservation projects.
• Seasons and Best Time to Visit:
  • The best times to visit Bhutan are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and several festivals take place. The peak tourist seasons are during these periods, so booking in advance is advisable.

Practical Tips

• Health and Safety:
  • Bhutan is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to take standard precautions and follow the guidance of your tour operator.
  • Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation.
• Currency:
  • The official currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). Indian Rupees are also widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and shops, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and remote areas.
• Connectivity:
  • Bhutan has decent internet connectivity in urban areas, but it might be limited in remote regions. Tourists can purchase local SIM cards for better connectivity.
• Cultural Sensitivity:
  • Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Seek permission before photographing people or religious artifacts.

Visiting Bhutan offers a unique opportunity to experience a country that prioritizes happiness, sustainability, and cultural preservation. By following the necessary procedures and respecting local norms, tourists can enjoy an enriching and memorable journey in this Himalayan kingdom.

Our vision and mission is to provide high-quality, sustainable tourism experiences that celebrate Bhutan’s unique heritage while supporting local communities and preserving our natural environment. We aim to deliver exceptional service, create lasting memories, and foster a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s cultural and natural treasures.

1. Promote Sustainable Tourism

• Environmental Conservation: Encourage eco-friendly travel practices that minimize the impact on Bhutan’s pristine natural environment.
• Low-Impact Tourism: Maintain a policy of high-value, low-impact tourism to preserve the country’s unique culture and environment.

2. Cultural Preservation

• Safeguarding Heritage: Protect and promote Bhutan’s cultural heritage, including its architecture, traditions, and festivals.
• Cultural Exchange: Facilitate meaningful interactions between visitors and local communities to foster mutual understanding and respect.

3. Economic Development

• Revenue Generation: Generate income for the country through tourism, which contributes to national development and local economies.
• Job Creation: Create employment opportunities for Bhutanese people in the tourism sector, including guides, hoteliers, and artisans.

4. Educational Enrichment

• Cultural Education: Provide educational experiences that teach visitors about Bhutanese history, religion, and way of life.
• Environmental Awareness: Raise awareness about environmental conservation efforts and the importance of biodiversity.

5. Promote Gross National Happiness (GNH)

• Holistic Well-being: Integrate the principles of GNH into tourism practices, ensuring that tourism development aligns with the well-being of the people and the environment.
• Quality of Life: Enhance the quality of life for Bhutanese citizens by balancing economic benefits with social and environmental sustainability.

6. Enhance Visitor Experience

• Unique Experiences: Offer unique and authentic experiences that highlight Bhutan’s distinct culture, landscapes, and spiritual heritage.
• High-Quality Services: Ensure high standards of hospitality and service to provide a memorable and comfortable experience for visitors.

7. Strengthen International Relations

• Cultural Diplomacy: Use tourism as a means of cultural diplomacy to build and strengthen international relationships.
• Global Awareness: Increase global awareness of Bhutan’s unique cultural and natural heritage.

Our Services

We offer a wide range of tours and travel services to cater to different interests and preferences:

• Cultural Tours: Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s rich history and vibrant traditions with visits to ancient monasteries, dzongs, and traditional festivals.

• Adventure Tours: Explore Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes through trekking, hiking, and nature excursions that bring you closer to the country’s stunning natural beauty.

• Spiritual Journeys: Discover the spiritual heart of Bhutan with visits to sacred sites, meditation retreats, and wellness programs that nurture the mind, body, and soul.

• Custom Itineraries: We offer tailor-made travel experiences designed to meet your specific interests and requirements, ensuring a personalized and fulfilling journey.

BHUTAN VISA AND ENTRY PERMIT

All visitors require a visa before traveling to Bhutan (except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, for whom the relevant processes and fees are outlined separately below.)

As part of the visa application process, you will be required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). 

A fifty percent discount shall be granted on the prevailing SDF of USD 200 for US Dollar paying tourists visiting Bhutan. The effective SDF with the discount shall be USD 100 per person per night for US Dollar paying tourists.

The SDF is exempt for children of 5 years and below. There is a concessionary levy rate of 50% for children between the ages of 6-12 years. Anyone aged 12 and above pays the full SDF rate.

The same long-stay SDF incentives outlined above can be applied to US-dollar SDF-paying children.

The above incentives will come into effect from 1 September 2023 and shall remain effective for four years till 31 August 2027.

The Royal Government shall conduct periodic assessments of the domestic and international tourism scenarios and may discontinue the above incentives to uphold and promote High Value Low Volume Tourism Policy of Bhutan after 31 August 2027.

VISITORS FROM INDIA.

Visitors from India require a permit. You can also apply at your point of entry, but please be aware that there may be a long wait depending on the number of applicants at the time. If you are applying for a permit on arrival, you will need a passport-size photograph. You must also have insurance for the duration of your visit, which you can prearrange or purchase upon arrival. Your SDF is payable when applying for your permit.

We recommend arranging your permit or visa beforehand.

TOURSIT TARRIF

Sustainable Development Fee

All the international visitors visiting Bhutan will have to pay Sustainable Development Fee of USD 100 per person per night

The sustainable development Fee for the Indian nationals is INR 1200 per person per night.

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), however, exempts day tourists (Indian) who do not travel past the first designated location (Border town, Phuntsholing).

Minors under the age of five is exempted and children between the ages of six and below twelve, pay a 50% sustainable development fund. 

The government of Bhutan has always adopted a cautious approach taking the right balance between sustainability and enriching travel experiences at the heart “High Value, Low Volume” of the policy. The New SDF is set to make the country an exclusive travel destination and it’s driven by an enhanced and revitalized “High Value, Low Volume” policy which was adopted when Bhutan first welcomed tourists in 1974.

Our country always took pride in being the only carbon-negative country and putting environment conservation at the forefront of the policy. The transformative times bought on by the covid 19 and other factors have made our tiny kingdom take a pragmatic approach to ensure the upkeep of sustainability initiatives adopted by our forefathers. 

TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR TOURSIT
A) Entry Requirement: 

All travellers to enter Bhutan must hold a 

1. Valid Passport (valid for a minimum period of 6 months) 
2. A Valid visa 
3. Travel Insurance

1. B) Covid -19 requirement: 

Effective from 23rd September,2022 , no Covid-19 testing is required for inbound travellers. 

All individuals (12 years and above) entering Bhutan may be subject to random RT-PCR testing at the point of entry to maintain Covid-19 surveillance for new variants. 

Note: No fee shall be charged for the testing. 

1. C) To apply visa: 
2. A digital copy of a valid passport is required
3. A recent digital passport photo 
4. Valid travel insurance for duration of your travel 
5. Payment details 

As part of the visa application process, you will be required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee and of USD 100 per person per night. 

Children aged 6-12 at the time of travel receive a 50 % concessionary discount on their SDF.

Children who have not yet turned 6 are exempted from paying any SDF 

For Indian National: To apply for permit 

1. A digital copy of a valid passport is required
2. A recent digital passport photo 
3. Valid travel insurance for duration of your travel 
4. Payment details 

As part of the visa application process, you will be required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee and of INR 1200 per person per night. Children aged 6-12 at the time of travel receive a 50 % sustainable development fund discount on their SDF. Children who have not yet turned 6 are exempted from paying any SDF. 

Note: We recommend arranging your permit or visa beforehand.