Ten Things to Experience in Bhutan
1. The Longtey Hike
One of our favourite hikes in Bhutan — it is one of the most picturesque hike in Bhutan, starting in a village, through bamboo bush and an old-growth rhododendron forest, and the reward — a 360° view of Phobjikha valley after emerging from the forest.
2. Hot Stone Bath
Soak in a traditional bath with heated river stones and local medicinal herbs.
3. Bhutanese Festival
Tsechus are colourful Bhutanese festivals in auspicious times of the year with masked performances and pageants. Receive blessings by the rare sight of a thondrel, a holy silk scroll painting only revealed at dawn and kept right before the sun rays shines on it at some of the biggest tsechus.
4. Camping
Experience the thrills and rugged ambience of camping out in the wild Bhutanese outdoors.
5. Rafting in Punakha
Get adventurous and experience another view of the valley at a different angle as you row down rivers in a guided white water rafting tour.
6. Picnic
Spend an easy afternoon picnicking on a side of a mountain or by the river under the vast Himalayan skies of the many magnificent valleys of Bhutan.
7. Archery
Indulge in a fun game of archery. Bhutan’s national sport is also a favourite pastime among the Bhutanese. A duel between archers is quite a common sight in Bhutan and you will find they take their targets pretty seriously. Look out for the cute little victory dance they do when they hit the bullseye!
8. Farmhouse Visit
Enjoy a home-cooked meal and Bhutanese hospitality when you visit a farmhouse. Be prepared to be entertained with some potent ara (home-brewed wine).
9. Tiger’s Nest
Take a slow hike up to the revered Taktsang Goemba, also known as Tiger’s Nest, perched on a side of cliff 800 metres above the valley.
10. The Three Peaks of Kitiphu
Hike up to the first (also the last) peak of the Kitiphu Ridge and take in the views of Chumey and Choekhor valleys on the way up.
