South Asia is filled with some of the most popular travel destinations in the world. That includes the likes of India, Sri Lanka, and the legendary natural vibes of the Maldives. But they aren't the only countries in the region worth checking out. There is beauty and wonder to be found across the entirety of South Asia.
Bhutan is a landlocked nation near China and India in the Eastern Himalayas. With an estimated population of less than a million people, this small nation offers that kind of vibe for travelers. It might be the out-of-the-way spot you've been looking for. At the same time, you need to make sure you understand the nature of the place you're trying to visit.
Taking the trip seriously
When planning a trip to a smaller, unknown country, a lot of people will immediately be concerned with their safety. Bhutan boasts a surprisingly low crime rate with violent crime being an absolute rarity. On top of that, attitudes and laws have changed around a variety of topics in recent years. That being said, it still has some conservatives mentalities, particularly in more rural regions.
The Bhutanese people take their culture and traditions seriously, so be respectful. That includes dressing appropriately when visiting sites of religious importance. Alcohol and cigarettes are legal to buy, but there are limits on when, where, and how much one can use. And possessing, trafficking, or using illegal drugs comes with heavy fines and prison sentences.
This extends to the environment, as well. Conservation is incredibly important to the people of Bhutan. Natural biomes and the animals that call them home are heavily protected. Littering is illegal everywhere in the country. Being caught comes with some rather stiff penalties. Tourist or not, you will be expected to show the same level of reverence for the environment, as well.
Get a reliable guide
Bhutan might be a small country but it is filled with incredible culture and beauty. From the subtropical plains to the peaks of the Bhutanese Himalayas and the stunning monasteries that hang from their cliffs, there is so much to see and do. But to navigate the complicated culture and rules of the country, you definitely need a guide.
Mountaineering is actually illegal in Bhutan, meaning you can't just start climbing mountains all willy nilly. There are approved trails for exploring and hiking but a guide is required to help you navigate them. They will know where you can and can't go as well as how to make the most of your trip, and how to enjoy that adventure safely.
On top of that, a good guide will help you make sure that you don't commit a cultural faux pas. Again, there some absolutely incredible monasteries and religious sites in the mountains. A guide is key to knowing what you should and should not do when observing one. The last thing anyone wants is to cause a stir when visiting a foreign country.
A successful trip is in the details
Like any other new place, there are a variety of ins and outs to navigating a trip to Bhutan. Naturally, you want to be aware of any of the major details, like laws, regulations, and local customs. But the smaller details can catch you off guard, as well, and throw your trip into chaos before it even gets rolling. A little knowledge goes a long way.
- ATMs are hard to come by and the vast majority of shops and restaurants don't accept debit or credit cards. Bring cash.
- Don't drink water straight from the tap. It needs to be boiled before it can be safely consumed. Plan to carry bottled water.
- This is a tipping culture, so remember to tip when appropriate. At the same time, this isn't a haggling culture. Don't push too hard in this regard.
- Altitude sickness is the real deal, and Bhutan is well above sea level. Give yourself time to adjust before getting too deep into strenuous activities.
- No vaccinations are required, but staying up to date on the key ones is still recommended.
Bhutan is a unique culture that values its history and traditions deeply, and has almost reverential attitudes towards the environment. It is an immensely underrated place to visit. But if you're planning a trip, just make sure you understand how you should act while you're there. A little research and a lot of knowledge will make your trip that much better.