Bhutan is a beautiful land to set your foot on. The country is great in retaining the tradition and culture yet embracing modernisation. Right from the monasteries with monks granting wishes to various adventuresome activities to try, it surely has something to attract people of all kind. Visiting Bhutan itself is good but in April, its the best. Whether it is its pleasant climate or religious festivals, it is unique in every way and there are plenty of reasons to visit the beautiful country. However, here are a few reasons why visiting Bhutan in the month of April can give you a perfect experience:
How will the weather be?
April marking Spring in Bhutan makes it an ideal time to visit this beautiful country. Moreover, the temperature will range between 7 to 16-degree celsius in major parts and might differ at high altitudes. Due to the favourable weather conditions, one could get the best trekking experience.
Festivals celebrated in Bhutan in April
Apart from its pleasant weather, the month is also famous for the festivals celebrated by the people of Bhutan. Some of the festivals are listed below:
1. Talo Tshechu
Celebrated by the Talo Monastery, it is one of the many special festivals celebrated at Bhutan. Teshechu translates to the tenth, referring to the day it is celebrated. In the festival, a number of monasteries join together celebrating the Buddhist leader, Guru Rinpoche’s birth. Visit the temple and fill your day with colours of spiritualism.
2. Gomphu Kora
The festival is celebrated on the 10th day of the Bhutanese calendar. Gom translates to meditation, Phu translates to cave and Kora to circumambulation. Devotees flock at this temple from all over the world. Especially, the locals dressed-up ethnic, wearing the finest pieces of jewellery. Never miss attending this festival if you are there at Bhutan.
3. Chorten Kora
The festival of Chorten Kora named after its temple, is one of the ancient festivals celebrated in the temple, popularly called as Chorten Kora Stupa. It is celebrated on 15th of the first lunar month. In addition, treat to the visitors is that the festival is celebrated on two different days of April.
Places to visit
Bhutan has many famous attractions that one can visit. If you are curious to know the top few, keep reading.
1. Tashiding Monastery
Tashiding Monastery also called the Tiger’s Nest, is a very famous place to visit. Also, it is said that Guru Rimpoche, one of the greatest Buddhist leaders rode to this monastery on a tigress’ back. Hence the monastery got its name as Tiger’s Nest. To reach the place, you can either ride a horse or start to hike the mountain. Undoubtedly, it is going to be too much fun visiting this place.
2. Buddha Dordenma
Buddha Dordenma is said to be one of the biggest statues in the world, it is situated 51 m up above the clouds. Also, this place never fails to attract Buddhist devotees with tourists flocking to enjoy the festival. While you visit, you will not only see the beauty of the statue but also the spectacular views of Kuensel Phodrang.
3. Thimphu Dzong
Standing as home to the king of Bhutan and his ministers, Thimphu Dzong is of high political importance. Not just that, it has become one of the must-visit places in Bhutan due to the art and architecture of this building. Visit the Dzong and get lost in its beauty!
4. Dochula Pass
Said to be one of the largest monasteries in the country, Dochula Pass is situated two hours away from Thimphu. If you think the monastery is famous only because of its location, you are wrong. Also, this beautiful monastery stands as home to 108 stupas within itself. Never miss to include this in your itinerary and get admired by the way it looks.
Things to do on your trip
1. Tasting the local food of Bhutan
Isn’t it on everyone’s must list to try the local dishes while visiting a new country? The best of your trip starts with food. Especially, the Bhutanese food, they are unique and gives you plenty of options. Right from the street foods to restaurants and cafes, you can taste the best.
2. White water rafting
Out of all the adventurous activities the country has, whitewater rafting at Punakha is one of a kind. Moreover, the difficulty seems to be moderate, makes it comfortable to try even for those who are trying it for the first time. One shouldn’t miss this experience as it is said that the flow of water is also perfect for rafting.
3. Mountain trekking
Bhutan, known for its magical mountains and surreal valleys, tempts one to trek. For trek lovers, undoubtedly Bhutan is gonna treat you. You can find treks from 2 days to 45 days to choose from. Above all, a trip to Bhutan without the experience of trekking will sound incomplete.
Precautions to be noted
- Stick to bottled or treated water. This is because the water from the tap may not be filtered.
- Avoid smoking in public as Bhutan is one country to ban the consumption and sale of Tobacco.
- Though Bhutan is safe, it is better to take care of the belongings.
What to pack for April
- It is recommended to carry clothes for both hot and cold season. Sometimes, the weather at the southern part might get cold at night.
- To beat the heat, do not forget to bring in your sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun shining bright.
- Especially, it is a must for the trekker to carry trekking shoes as some of the roads can be rough.
“With such amazing things to do, it is worth visiting this destination for your next trip. Bhutan gives you insight into the architecture of the monasteries, beauty of the surreal mountains, exciting festivals and many more. If you are not sure where to plan your summer vacation to, Bhutan is one perfect place to be. Head out to the Pickyourtrail website and start creating your itinerary to Bhutan with us, where you can explore tailored honeymoon packages and vacation packages.”