THINGS TO DO IN BHUTAN

GUIDED CYCLING AROUND THIMPU

One of the most fun ways to familiarise yourself with Bhutan’s capital is on two wheels. Bhutan’s beautiful mountain scenery is a dream for avid mountain bikers. Both off-road and off-road trails snake through picturesque countryside and those who reach dizzying peaks are rewarded with the best views of the Thimpu Valley. With a great variety of routes available, a private guide will help to match a trail to each rider’s ability.

RAFTING ON THE PUNAKHA RIVER

Try your hand at white water rafting on the Punakha River. The Mo Chhu (meaning mother) branch is ideal for families or beginners; the Po Chhu (meaning father) is aimed at the more adventurous and has more challenging rapids. Experienced guides steer and, in between rapids, will point out places and things of interest along the river bank including rare and exotic birds. The best months for rafting are March and April or November and December. Suitable for those aged seven and upwards.

ATTEND THE BLACK NECKED CRANE FESTIVAL

Held every November in the courtyard of the Gangteng Monastery (known as Gangtey Gonpa), the Black Necked Crane festival celebrates these endangered birds that arrive in Bhutan to roost every October. They are said to be in the reincarnation of two deities who guard the valley. The festival consists of a masked dance, which over 100 villagers and school children participate in, as well as songs and plays. Money raised from the event is reinvested back into the village.

ENJOY A BIRD'S EYE VIEW OF BHUTAN

For the best views of Bhutan, charter a private helicopter for a day. It’s a fantastic way to understand the ever-evolving landscapes of this incredible country, which shift from snow-capped mountains and Himalayan peaks to sprawling forests. Along the way, look out for small villages where the streets are lined with traditional wooden houses, ancient monasteries and mighty fortresses. Arrive at Bumthang in style, ready to explore this fascinating and culturally exciting destination.

TRADITIONAL ARCHERY EXPERIENCE

Image courtesy of COMO Uma Paro

Archery has been Bhutan’s national sport since 1971, and has grown in popularity over the years. Have a go at scoring a bullseye during a one-to-one lesson with an experienced archer, learning the techniques to ensure you hit the target (lessons are tailored so all abilities can be catered for). If you don’t fancy picking up a bow and arrow yourself, perhaps watch a tournament instead, where teams typically compete in traditional dress to become the champion. Available at locations in Thimphu and Paro.

CLIMB TO TIGER'S NEST MONASTERY

The best time to climb to Tiger’s Nest Monastery is early in the morning before the crowds and the heat of the day (start at 6am if you can, and with an experienced guide). After around 45 minutes of walking up a steep dirt track, you’ll get your first glimpse of this impressive monastery through fluttering prayer flags. The Takstang café, halfway up, makes a good pit stop for refuelling on coffee and crackers while taking in the view. This sacred Buddhist site, which is perched on a cliff 900m off the ground, was constructed in 1692 around the cave where Guru Rinpoche first meditated. The monastery comprises several temples: take your time in each before making your way back down. October to December is the best time to visit; it’s a challenging hike so allow half a day for the round trip.

PRAY AT THE GANGTEY SHEDRA MONASTERY

Sponsor a dinner for the monks at the Gangty Shedra monastery in the Gangtey Valley and, as a thank you for your donation they will offer special prayers and blessings in which you can participate. This sponsorship supports the preservation of the Bhutanese tradition and provides religious education and retreat facilities, supporting over 30 Goenpas, Shedras and Dubdras. It is also possible to attend meditation classes with lamas at the Shedra – a truly once-in-lifetime experience.

AN ENCOUNTER WITH BROKPA NOMADS

Experience a unique semi-nomadic lifestyle, culture and dialect in one of the most scenic pastoral valleys in the protected area of Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary in Eastern Bhutan. A long, but very scenic drive from Trashigang, leads high into the mountains of the Mon-La Pass where a welcome party of Brokpa nomads in local dress will be waiting. The Brokpa live in the Merak and Sakteng area of Bhutan. They are fiercely protective of their culture, herding yaks and sheep from which they derive their milk and clothing, and roaming to find grazing land. As Bhutan slowly develops, their traditional way of life is increasingly threatened. Your encounter with the Brokpa community will include a delicious nomad lunch and a glass of the local spirit. Continue driving to Merak village, then explore on foot to get a better understanding of local culture. There will be the opportunity to watch as locals spinning wool, and see how they expertly weave it to craft their colorful traditional clothes and textiles. They will also show you how they make yak cheese, butter tea and ara (local rice, wheat or corn spirit).

Spend the evening under canvas in a comfortable but sturdy tent, before you return to Trashigang the next day by road.

EXPLORE THE URA VALLEY

The Ura Valley in the Bumthang district is believed to be home to the earliest inhabitants of Bhutan, the main village comprising roughly a hundred traditional houses and a temple dedicated to Guru Rimpoche. Homes reflect the the community's dependence on livestock and crop cultivation, with the ground floor accommodating livestock, the middle floor the family, and the uppermost floor the crops. Spend time with the village residents and explore all aspects of their life, including trying traditional Bhutanese dishes such as chilli and cheese, over lunch with a family.