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Explore Thimphu in Under Rs 14,000

Maryann Taylor

Last updated: Jan 21, 2020

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Want To Go ?

Why Thimphu?

The capital and largest city of Bhutan, Thimphu is is one of the world’s most fascinating destinations, where Buddhism is not a religion, but a way of life. Surrounded by hills on all side Thimpu is a perfect destination away from the hustle and bustle of busy cities. It is a treat to one’s eye as it is an abode of eternal beauty and serenity. And what’s more, you don’t need to break the bank to visit this beautiful Himalayan kingdom. Don’t believe us? Here’s how you can visit Thimphu on a budget.

thimpu-bhutan — Thimphu- Beautiful views everywhere you look

Getting There

Flight to Bagdogra> Taxi to Phuentsholing> Bus to Thimphu

Road/Self Drive: One of the best (and most cost-effective) ways to reach Thimphu is by road from Bagdogra in West Bengal. You will need to drive to Phuentsholing first, from where you can take a bus to Thimphu. The distance between Bagdogra and Phuentsholing is 164 kilometres and will take 4 hours to cover. (You can find details of the fares below.)

Where to Stay

Khamsum Inn: The Khamsum Inn is a comfortable hotel located close to popular tourist attractions such as the Tashichho Dzong fortress, the Memorial Stupa and Buddha Point. The hotel is also close to the taxi stand.

Tariff: Rs 2,800 per room per night

Amenities: Restaurant | Free Wi-Fi | Free Parking |Bar

Gyelsa Boutique: This hotel offers modern amenities such as flat screen TV’s and tea/coffee maker. The hotel also offers free WiFi and swimming pool.

Tariff: Rs 2,800 per room per night

Amenities: Restaurant | Free Wi-Fi | Free Parking |Bar| Swimming Pool

What to Do

trashi-chhoe-dzong — Trashi Chhoe Dzong is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thimphu

1. Pay a visit to Buddha Point

One of the tallest structures of Lord Buddha in Bhutan, this statue of the seated Buddha is 51 feet high. Pay your respects and take in the stunning Thimphu valley down below. Entry is free.

2. Admire the Trashi Chhoe Dzong

One of the most visited tourist spots in Bhutan, the Trashi Chhoe Dzong, with its impressive Bhutanese style golden spires, is the seat of the government. The building also houses the national library and is the residence of the His Majesty the King of Bhutan.

Opening Hours: 5am – 6pm Mon-Fri, 8am - 6pm Sat & Sun, to 5pm in winter
Entry here free.

3. Enjoy a quiet afternoon at Cherry Goemba

One of Bhutan’s earliest gompas (monasteries), the Cherry Goemba dates back to several hundred years. The monument has great historic and religious significance and is a good place to enjoy peace and calm.

Where to Eat

Bhutan Kitchen: One of the best places to try traditional Bhutanese food like Ema Datse (made of chili and cheese), minus the spice.

Address: Gatoen Lam, Thimphu

Opening Hours: 12 pm-3 pm and 6:30 pm-9 pm

Cost: Rs 400 (approximately) for two people

The Zone: This is a great place to enjoy food old favourites like burgers, pizzas, momos, hotdogs and fish and chips.

Address: Chang Lam, Thimphu

Opening Hours: 11 am -10 pm, Monday to Wednesday

Cost: Rs 300 (approximately) for two people

Karma’s Coffee: Serving some of the best coffee in Thimphu, Karma’s Coffee is a great place to enjoy all-day breakfasts, burgers, fried chicken and brownies.

Address: Tashi Rabten Bldg, Phenday Lam, Thimphu

Opening Hours: 10 am-9 pm

Cost: Rs 300 (approximately) for two people

Total Cost of the Trip*

Expenses	Cost for 3 Nights (per person)
Taxi (from Bagdogra to Phuentsholing)	Rs 4,600 (return taxi fare)
Bus from Phuentsholing to Thimphu	Rs 500 (return bus fare)
Hotels	Rs 3,000 (per person, approx.)
Food	Rs 3,000 (per person, approx.)
Miscellaneous	Rs 1,500
Total	Rs 13, 800*

* All tariffs and costs are subject to change.

You can take a flight to Bagdogra from either Kolkata or Delhi. You can get a great deal on air fares if you book a few months in advance. If you want to save time, you can fly directly to Thimphu, but that will cost you around Rs 20,000 (return).

Tempted to spend some more?

Shopping

Buy interesting Druk handicrafts from Yarkay Central. Handcrafted fabric and Bhutanese souvenirs are your best buys.

Explore a Nearby Destination

If you have the time and budget, you can plan a day trip to the picturesque town of Paro, just an hour’s drive away. (More about Paro here.)

Sneaky Tips

Visit between December to February. This is winter in Bhutan and considered offseason. You will have the city all to yourself and can also enjoy great discounts on flights and hotels.

Book Your Flight to Bagdogra

Comments

Mrigank | on 18 December 2018

Hi, loved this short and beautifully explained article. When is the best time to visit thimpu and is it a good idea to visit there in jan?

Nikhil Narayana | on 01 April 2018

That was a very informative article! Bhutan is absolutely amazing! A different experience altogether. here is another great piece on budget travel in Bhutan. Drop by if you'd like, would really love and appreciate your feedback! Keep traveling and exploring! cheers:)

Pranab Kumar Dhar | on 15 March 2018

I am from Tripura, I am willing to visit Bhutan with my wife in the last week of April 2018. I can join with you at Guwahati or NJP because train is wel connected with Tripura. Please provide me detail information about the cost of packages .