Tour to Bhutan from Ireland

Tour to Bhutan from Ireland. Embarking on a tour from Ireland to Bhutan is a journey into the heart of the Himalayas, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and a chance to explore one of the world’s most unique destinations. This guide provides essential information, travel tips, and advice to help you plan your Bhutan adventure.

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General Overview

Location: Bhutan, a small kingdom in the Eastern Himalayas, is nestled between India and China. Its isolation has allowed it to preserve its unique culture, traditions, and pristine natural environment.

Capital: Thimphu
Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN)
Official Language: Dzongkha
Time Zone: Bhutan Standard Time (BST), 6 hours ahead of GMT.

Visa and Travel Requirements

Visa: Bhutan requires all foreign visitors, including those from Ireland, to have a pre-arranged visa. This can be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner. You’ll need to provide passport details, a passport-sized photograph, and pay a visa fee.

Visa Process:

• Contact a Bhutanese tour operator.
• Pay the visa fee of USD $40 and Sustainable Development Fees of USD 100 per person per night.
• The tour operator will handle the paperwork, and you’ll receive your visa upon arrival.

How to Get to Bhutan from Ireland

Since there are no direct flights from Ireland to Bhutan, travellers need to transit through a major hub in Asia before flying into Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport.

Flight Routes:

• Dublin to Delhi or Kathmandu: Most travellers from Ireland first fly to New Delhi, India, or Kathmandu, Nepal, both of which have connecting Flights to Paro via Bhutan’s national carriers, Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines.
• Popular Layovers: Cities like London, Doha, and Abu Dhabi offer convenient connections from Dublin to these Asian hubs.

Druk Air Flight Details

• Delhi to Paro-KB201 Dep: 1230 Arri:1520 and Return Paro Delhi-KB200 Dep : 0940 Arri: 1130
• Round trip Fare is USD 645 per person
• Kathmandu to Paro -KB401 Dep: 0900 Arri:1020 and return Paro Kathmandu-KB401 Dep:0900 Arri:1020
• Round trip fare is USD 550 per person

Note: Flight schedule and fare is subjected to change

Best Time to Visit Bhutan

The best time to visit Bhutan is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer mild weather, clear skies, and vibrant festivals like the Paro Tshechu and Thimphu Tshechu.

• Spring: Rhododendron blooms and pleasant temperatures.
• Autumn: Clear views of the Himalayas, ideal for trekking.

Summer (June to August) experiences monsoon rains, while winter (December to February) can be cold, especially in higher altitudes, though it’s quieter and good for budget travel.

Travel Packages and Costs

Mandatory Tour Packages: Bhutan follows a “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy, which requires tourists to book through an authorized Bhutanese travel agency. The cost is set by the government and includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and a guide.

Standard Cost:

• USD 200–250 per day per person during off-seasons.
• USD 250–300 per day per person during peak seasons (spring and autumn).

This Travel Package includes:

• Accommodation in 3-star hotels (upgrades to higher-star hotels available for an additional fee).
• All meals.
• A licensed tour guide.
• Ground transportation within Bhutan.
• Entrance fees to museums and attractions.
• Visa fees.

Itinerary Ideas to visit Bhutan

A typical 7-10 day itinerary will allow you to explore key attractions in Western and Central Bhutan. Here’s a sample itinerary for an 8-day tour:

• Day 1: Arrival in Paro: Visit Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong (National Museum).
• Day 2: Paro – Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang): Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest, perched on a cliffside.
• Day 3: Drive to Thimphu: Explore Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong.
• Day 4: Thimphu: Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, Textile Museum, and local markets.
• Day 5: Drive to Punakha: Cross Dochula Pass for panoramic Himalayan views. Visit Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang (fertility temple).
• Day 6: Punakha Valley Exploration: Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and enjoy a rafting trip on the Mo Chhu River.
• Day 7: Return to Paro: Stop at local monasteries or handicraft markets en route.
• Day 8: Departure from Paro

Accommodation

The daily tariff includes a stay in government-approved 3-star hotels, but you can upgrade to luxury hotels like Aman or COMO for an additional cost. Accommodations offer a blend of Bhutanese architecture and modern amenities.

Packing and Travel Tips

• Clothing: Layered clothing is recommended, as temperatures can vary. A warm jacket, comfortable hiking shoes, and traditional Bhutanese attire for festival visits (optional) are useful.
• Currency: While credit cards are accepted in some hotels and high-end stores, most transactions in rural areas are in cash. Bring USD or exchange for Bhutanese Ngultrum upon arrival.
• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
• Health: No mandatory vaccinations, but it’s a good idea to consult your doctor for routine travel vaccinations. Carry any necessary personal medications.

Bhutanese Culture and Etiquette

• Respect for Monasteries: Bhutan is a deeply spiritual country. Always ask for permission before taking photographs in monasteries and observe proper dress codes.
• Local Customs: Bhutanese people are warm and welcoming. Show respect by removing shoes when entering temples and homes, and refrain from public displays of affection.

Responsible Tourism

Bhutan emphasizes sustainable tourism. Travellers are encouraged to respect the environment, avoid single-use plastics, and minimize their carbon footprint by travelling responsibly.

Travelling Bhutan from Other Destinations

• Travel to Bhutan from Europe
• Travel to Bhutan from Norway
• Travel to Bhutan from Singapore
• Travel to Bhutan from Switzerland
• Tour to Bhutan from Ireland

Luxury Bhutan Tour for Ireland National

A Luxury Tour in Bhutan is a unique experience that combines ancient and modern hospitality. Hotels and activities are all customized to the careful needs of the clients. Most Luxury tours offer free massages, a cultural show, and a luxury Hot stone bath experience.

Bhutan Tour Packages for Ireland National

• 8 Days Bhutan Luxury Tour
• 6 Days Bhutan Tour
• 5 Days Bhutan Tour
• 12 Days Bhutan Tour
• Luxury Bhutan Aman kora Journey
• Bhutan Luxury Tours

FAQ

Do Irish citizens need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Yes, Irish citizens require a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa must be arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international travel agent working with Bhutan. The Visa fee is USD $ 40 per person for one one-time visit.

How do I apply for a visa to Bhutan?

Your tour operator will handle the visa application process once you book a package. You’ll need to provide a passport copy and complete the necessary forms. The visa approval letter will be sent to you before your trip, and the actual visa will be stamped upon arrival in Bhutan.

How can I travel from Ireland to Bhutan?

There is no direct flight from Ireland to Bhutan. The most convenient route is to fly from Ireland to a connecting hub like Delhi, Kolkata, or Bangkok, and then take a direct flight to Paro, Bhutan, with Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines.

What are the accommodation options in Bhutan?

Bhutan offers a range of accommodation, from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to standard hotels and guesthouses. The accommodation quality depends on the tour package you select, as most tours include accommodations in the daily rate.

What language is spoken in Bhutan, and is English commonly used?

The official Language is Dzongkha, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and by guides, making it easy for Irish travelers to communicate.