Must-do activities to experience the essence of summer in the Kingdom of Bhutan

(Thimphu, Bhutan- May, 2024): Welcome to Bhutan, a year-round haven nestled in the Himalayas. This summer, from June through August, experience the country's warm embrace, where temperatures linger pleasantly between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius, complemented by gentle rainfall. Whether guests are drawn to serene natural settings or seeking thrilling adventures, Bhutan in summer is a tempting destination for every traveller. 

The summer season adds more beauty to Bhutan's breathtaking trekking routes. Adventurers have an opportunity to experience Bhutan's natural splendour during the summer season by embarking on some of the well-known treks such as the Trans Bhutan Trail, the Jomolhari Trek, the Druk Path Trek and many other stunning treks in Bhutan. Trekking through these trails, surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of Bhutan's natural surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In addition to trekking activities, summer season also makes Bhutan an ideal place for thrilling water-based activities including rafting and kayaking along the stunning rivers of Bhutan. The Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in Punakha are popular spots for these activities and visitors can enjoy the rivers surrounded by lush greenery and the breathtaking landscape as you navigate and raft through these rivers.

Wildlife and bird watching is yet another activity that visitors can enjoy during the summer season. Bhutan provides a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. The summer season nourishes the forest, luring a wide range of animal species. It's an excellent opportunity to see wildlife in their natural setting. Some of the well-known bird and wildlife-watching locations in Bhutan are Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park in Central Bhutan, Zhemgang district, Bhutan's biodiversity hotspot, and the Bumthang valley in central Bhutan.

 The summer season is also a time of vibrant festivals and cultural celebrations. Festivals known as 'tsechus' are held throughout the country. Some of the popular festivals held in  summer are the Matsutake Festival in Genekha, Thimphu from the 15th to 16th of August and the Ura Matsutake festival from 23rd to 24th August annually, and  many other exciting festivals, both religious and non-religious. For more information, visit the  LINK here.

Visitors to Bhutan can enjoy its rich culinary offerings, which showcase fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a farm-to-table approach. One renowned dish is ema datshi, featuring chilli and cheese, representing Bhutanese cuisine's bold flavours. Another treat is Hoentays, savoury dumplings filled with ingredients like cheese, spinach or turnips, often sourced directly from Bhutanese households' gardens. By engaging in Bhutan's culinary traditions, visitors not only satisfy their taste buds but also deepen their connection to the land, culture and people of this Himalayan kingdom.

Bhutan also provides captivating helicopter tours offering a distinctive perspective of its landscapes. These tours present an opportunity to admire the stunning beauty of Bhutan's terrain, including snow-capped mountains, deep valleys and pristine forests, from the air. Guests can enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas and access remote and inaccessible areas of Bhutan. These personalised and luxurious helicopter tours cater to individual interests and preferences, whether focused on photography, adventure, or relaxation.

For more information, please visit www.bhutan.travel

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About the Department of Tourism

The Department of Tourism of Bhutan is responsible for the development and promotion of sustainable tourism in Bhutan. It works to share the Kingdom's remarkable places, people and experiences with conscious travellers, guided by the principles of high value, low volume tourism.

Bhutan Believe

Bhutan Believe is Bhutan's national identity, which showcases an evolution and a spirit of optimism, destined to inspire pride, and spark the imagination of citizens and visitors alike.

As part of the revamped identity, the nation developed policies and plans for the country's advancement – in particular, for how it can invest in creating sustainable opportunities for its young people. Bhutan Believe goes beyond simply creating a new identity but aims to leverage the power of branding to connect Bhutan, and the stories it wants to tell, with a global audience.

Bhutan Visas and SDF

Applying for a visa (or permit) to Bhutan is simple. All visitors must have a visa and permit before travelling to Bhutan (except for visitors from Bangladesh, Maldives, and India who require a permit). Visitors apply online for a visa or permit or via a Bhutanese Tour Operator. It takes around five days to process a visa.

All guests must pay Bhutan's Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person per night (Concessionary rates apply for children) and a non-refundable, one-off visa application fee of USD 40. Indian guests pay SDF of Nu/INR. 1,200 per person per night. The SDF funds important cultural, environmental, health and educational projects across Bhutan. More information is available at: www.bhutan.travel

For media enquiries please contact:

Carissa Nimah, Chief Marketing Officer, Department of Tourism

cnimah@moice.gov.bt