Bhutan Tour from Denmark (Europe)
Bhutan Tour from Denmark: A Complete Guide
A trip to Bhutan from Denmark offers a chance to explore one of the world’s most unique and unspoiled travel destinations. Known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and strong commitment to sustainable tourism, Bhutan provides a magical experience for visitors. Here’s a guide on how to travel from Denmark to Bhutan, covering visa requirements, flights, and tour options.
Visa Requirements for Danish Citizens
- Visa Requirement: Danish citizens require a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa can only be applied for through an authorized Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
- Process: Once you’ve booked a tour, the tour operator will apply for your visa. You’ll need to provide passport details and make full payment for the tour. Upon approval, you’ll receive a visa clearance letter that will be stamped into your passport on arrival.
- Cost: The visa fee is USD 40 and is generally included in your tour package.
Flights from Denmark to Bhutan
There are no direct flights from Denmark to Bhutan, so you’ll need to connect via major Asian cities. Bhutan’s only international airport is Paro International Airport, which is served by two Bhutanese airlines: Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines.
Common Flight Routes:
- Copenhagen (CPH) → Delhi (DEL) → Paro (PBH)
- Copenhagen (CPH) → Bangkok (BKK) → Paro (PBH)
- Copenhagen (CPH) → Kathmandu (KTM) → Paro (PBH)
Druk Air Flight Details
- Delhi to Paro-KB201 Dep:1230 Arri:1520 and Return Paro to Delhi-KB200 Dep:0940 Arri:1130
- Round trip fare is USD 595 Per Person
- Kathmandu to Paro-KB401 Dep:0900 Arri:1020 and return Paro to Kathmandu-KB400 Dep:0700 Arri: 0800
- Round trip fare USD 465 Per Person
- Bangkok to Paro-KB153 Dep: 0600 Arri: 0815 and return Paro to Bangkok-KB152 Dep:1620 Arri: 2030
- Round trip Fare is USD 950 Per Person.
Note: The flight schedule is valid till January 2025 and schedule and fare is subjected to change
The most common flights to Bhutan and convenient routes are through Delhi and Bangkok.
Flight Duration to Bhutan:
- From Copenhagen to Paro, the total travel time, including layovers, is about 12-18 hours.
Tour Packages and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Bhutan follows a policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism” to preserve its culture and environment. This policy includes a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person per day for tourists.
Tour Packages Typically Include:
- Accommodation: 3-star hotels or higher.
- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Transport: Private transport for your trip.
- Licensed Guide: Professional guide throughout your tour.
- Entry Fees: Access to cultural sites and national parks.
The SDF covers these services and ensures your trip is fully organized, from airport pickup to sightseeing tours.
Top Places to Visit in Bhutan
During your Bhutan tour, you’ll visit some of the country’s most iconic sites:
- Paro: Visit the world-famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched on a cliffside above Paro Valley.
- Thimphu: Bhutan’s capital, where tradition meets modernity, is home to landmarks such as the Buddha Dordenma Statue and the Tashichho Dzong.
- Punakha: Known for the stunning Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historic fortresses.
- Phobjikha Valley: A serene valley famous for its black-necked cranes and scenic beauty.
- Bumthang: Considered Bhutan’s cultural heartland, filled with ancient monasteries and beautiful landscapes.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
The best times to visit Bhutan are during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons:
- Spring: Ideal for seeing rhododendron blooms and enjoying pleasant weather.
- Autumn: Clear skies and cool temperatures make this season perfect for trekking and attending local festivals.
For those looking to avoid crowds, the winter months (December-February) offer a quieter experience, though it can get cold at higher elevations.
Accommodation in Bhutan
Bhutan offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Tour packages typically include 3-star hotels, but you can request upgrades to more luxurious options if desired.
Luxury Hotels:
- Amankora: Amankora lodges are located in Paro, Thimphu, and other regions, offering premium services.
- Taj Tashi: A luxury hotel in Thimphu.
- Le Méridien: In Thimphu and Paro, offering upscale amenities.
Mid-range Hotels:
- Zhingkham Resort: In Punakha, offering comfortable stays with scenic views.
- Hotel Druk: Located in Thimphu, a popular mid-range option.
Trekking and Adventure in Bhutan
For adventure seekers, Bhutan offers some of the most scenic treks in the world:
- Druk Path Trek: A 6-day trek from Paro to Thimphu, passing through scenic landscapes and high-altitude lakes.
- Jomolhari Trek: A challenging 7-9 day trek offering stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari, one of Bhutan’s highest peaks.
For shorter hikes, consider the Tiger’s Nest hike or a walk through the Phobjikha Valley.
Cultural Experiences
Bhutan is known for its vibrant festivals, where locals gather in colourful attire to celebrate religious and cultural traditions. Some of the most popular festivals include:
- Thimphu Tshechu: Held in the capital, featuring mask dances and religious performances.
- Paro Tshechu: One of Bhutan’s biggest festivals, attracting locals and tourists alike.
- Punakha Drubchen: A celebration of Bhutan’s historical military victories.
Attending one of these festivals offers a unique glimpse into Bhutanese culture.
Travel Tips for Bhutan
- Currency: The Bhutanese currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), and the Indian Rupee is also widely accepted. Credit cards can be used in major hotels, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions.
- Clothing: Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries and religious sites. Bring warm layers, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on the altitude.
- Internet: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, but connectivity can be slow in remote areas.
Traveling from Denmark to Bhutan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you to a land where tradition and nature are deeply intertwined. From the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas to the vibrant cultural festivals, Bhutan offers something for every traveller. With proper planning, including booking a tour package and obtaining your visa, you can enjoy an unforgettable journey in one of the world’s most exclusive travel destinations.
FAQ
How can I get to Bhutan from Denmark or London?
There are no direct flights from Denmark or London to Bhutan. Travelers can fly to nearby hubs such as New Delhi (India), Bangkok (Thailand), or Kathmandu (Nepal), and then connect with Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines flights to Paro, the only international airport in Bhutan.
Is there a minimum daily package for visiting Bhutan?
Bhutan requires tourists to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100per person per night. Tourists can also choose a travel package, which includes accommodation, meals, and guided tours, arranged by an authorized tour operator.
How long does it take to get a visa approved?
The visa process is generally quick once all required documents and payments are submitted by the tour operator. It usually takes around 72 hours for approval.
Is there a dress code or cultural etiquette to follow?
Bhutan values its cultural heritage, so modest clothing is recommended, especially when visiting temples, dzongs, and monasteries. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and hats inside religious sites.
Are there any photography restrictions?
Photography is generally allowed, but it’s prohibited inside temples, monasteries, and some dzongs. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially monks and locals in traditional attire.
