1. TAKTSANG MONASTERY
The Number 1 on our list is the Paro Taktsang. Paro is a small valley town about 40 minutes away from Thimphu. It is a popular spot amongst both tourists and locals. It stands at 2,950 meters above the sea level, clinging to an 800 meter tall rock. The hike to Taktsang is about 2-3 hours long. It is advisable to walk slowly to adjust to the changing altitude. The picture below does not do justice to the view and the experience of seeing Taktsang after a long hike.

2. BUDDHA DORDENMA

Also known as the Buddha Point, this popular spot can be seen from the main Thimphu town! The 51.5-meter bronze statue is three stories tall with several chapels. It is considered to be one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world. It takes a rough 10-15 min drive from the main town to reach and is one of the most amazing viewpoints.

3. WATER RAFTING

Located in Punakha, about 2-hour drive away from Thimphu. Only a few rivers are open for rafting considering their safe and easy access. The Pho Chu is a approx. 16km course with about 15 rapids of class 2 – 4. It's the most popular spot for rafting in Bhutan, followed by the Mo Chu river with a 10Km course comprising around 10 rapids with 2- 2+ rapids.

4. HOT STONE BATHS

A traditional hot stone bath is a must when you come to Bhutan! Infused with traditional Tibetan and other Himalayan herbs, this bath is believed to have several healing properties. The bath consists of a stone being left in a fire until it gets hot and is then put into the water for use.

If you want to indulge in a typical Bhutanese Dining experience, make sure you visit the Babesa Village Restuarant located in Thimphu.

Some popular Bhutanese dishes are:

• Kewa Datsi (Potato and cheese)
• Shakam Datsi (Air dried beef with cheese and red chilis)
• Jaju (Jajus are made from various vegetables and greens)

Greetings: Bhutanese people may shake hands with a foreigner when offered one. However, like in many Asian cultures, Bhutanese bow their heads/backs instead of shaking their hands as a way to greet. A common phrase to use is “Kuzuzangpo-la” “la” is usually used when greeting people who are older to you or if they are higher in rank. However, it can also be used while talking with respect to anyone. Kuzuzangpola directly translates to “good health”, so it is like saying “wishing you good health” to people you greet.

A white ceremonial scarf (Khadar) is also offered to guests coming to Bhutan for the first time. People usually offer Khadars during various ceremonies & occasions (Welcomes, goodbyes, weddings, promotions, funerals, etc) as a way to wish well and as a way to offer condolences.

Hands for food: Bhutanese people love eating with their hands and it is in fact, a part of culture. The use of silverware during meals is seen as a part of culture that’s imported. But don’t worry, this doesn’t mean forks and spoons aren’t available, just be prepared to watch people eat with their hands (weird?). People usually wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Also, an average Bhutanese will wait for people with seniority (in terms of ranks or age) to start eating before they do. You’ll most likely see people gesturing to each other to go first in a queue for meals, because it is considered respectful to do so. If you go as a guest to someone’s house and decline food/water, the host will most likely continue to offer you until you decline a couple of times because Bhutanese consider it polite to decline a few times before accepting anything.

(Tip: if you are visiting someone's house for the first time don't go empty handed, many believe it to be a bad omen and some just find it disrespectful!)

Food Habits: An average foreigner may find Bhutanese food too spicy to eat, while eating at restaurants make sure you clarify the level of spice or just ask for a less spicy version. The national food, which people eat on a regular basis, is known as ema datsi: Ema means chili and datsi is a locally produced cheese. So, it is literally just cheese and chilli!

Majority of the Bhutanese population do not suffer from severe food allergy, so remember to clearly and specifically state all your allergens before you eat. Always carry EpiPens, allergy medications, and any other prescribed medicines with you, just in case of an emergency.

Sim cards: Tourists can get their sim cards from the airport or from a local Bmobile or Tashicell (Network carrier) outlet.

Medical Assistance: Hospitals in Bhutan are equipped with a limited number of medical doctors, personnel, and medical equipment. Therefore, visitors are advised to bring their own prescription and other medication with them, as supplies in the country may vary.

• Emergency contact numbers:
• Police: 113
• Ambulance: 112