Considering a Solo Trip to Bhutan? We can't say it strongly enough: do it! This small Himalayan kingdom between India and China has experiences you won't find elsewhere.
We recommend beginning with a hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery – just be sure to pack solid shoes for that steep incline! Thimphu's weekend markets are ideal for meeting locals who may teach you some Dzongkha words. For pure magic, we love the peaceful Phobjikha Valley, where the silence is practically obvious.
The destinations to explore in Bhutan seem endless, even though the country is relatively small. Everyone's got to include Punakha's towering fortress on their list, and the holy mountain scenery will render you speechless.
Need help ironing out the details? Our Bhutan trip packages handle all the fiddly stuff, such as permits and transfers, for you so that you can just relax and enjoy experiencing the famous Bhutanese hospitality and cuisine!
Why Take a Solo Trip to Bhutan?
Let’s be real, solo travel can feel scary at first. But once you land in Bhutan, you’ll realize it’s one of the safest and kindest places you can explore alone. The people are warm, crime rates are super low, and the vibes are pure peace. Plus, the strong focus on Gross National Happiness adds a magical touch to everything.
A solo trip to Bhutan isn’t just about ticking off tourist spots. It’s about slow travel, soulful experiences, spiritual healing, and reconnecting with yourself. Whether you’re hiking to the famous Tiger’s Nest or sipping butter tea with monks, you’ll feel every moment.
Suggested Read: Cafes in Bhutan
How to travel solo in Bhutan
In today’s world, connectivity has improved a lot between countries all over the globe. Tourists from different corners of the world travel every year to see the magnificent beauty of Bhutan’s landscape and its unique culture. In this solo trip guide to Bhutan, we will inform you about all the necessary routes to explore the best places in Bhutan.
There are two routes that you can take to reach Bhutan:
You can reach Bhutan directly from Bagdogra Airport. Just keep in mind that you should book the tickets in advance, as the flights travel to Bhutan two to three days a week.
Another way is to travel to Bagdogra Airport from any major airports of India and take a private taxi to Phuentsholing, which may cost you around Rs 1700/- to Rs 2000/- to reach your destination.
You can take any train that is going to NJP/Guwahati/Kolkata and get down as soon as the train reaches Siliguri or Hasimara station. Once you reach there, take your next bus to Jaigaon, which is the border town that connects Bhutan and India, and eventually, you can enter Bhutan through Bhutan Gate.
Siliguri-Jaigaon
You can get bus service from Siliguri to Jaigaon. For a solo trip to Bhutan by road, you can take the available buses that will directly drop you near the Bhutan Gate. The first bus starts at 7 am and reaches Jaigaon at around noon.
Time: 4 hours approx
Cost: Rs. 100- Rs.150
Hasimara-Jaigaon
If you want to travel to Jaigaon from Hasimara, you will get plenty of shared or private auto services to that place.
Time: 30-45 mins
Cost: Rs.80- Rs.100(Shared), Rs.200- Rs.400 (Private)
Finally, after one and a half days of road travel or two and a half days of train travel, you will reach Jaigaon. While travelling, you can make new friends, talk with local drivers, and get to know more about the place throughout the entire journey.
Although the roads might seem similar to the roads of Indian cities, once you cross the Bhutan gate, the atmosphere appears completely different, with well-organized traffic, clean roads, and fresh air, which will make your solo trip to Bhutan by road worthwhile.
Best Time for a Solo Trip to Bhutan
Bhutan is beautiful year-round, but the best time for a solo trip to Bhutan depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Perfect weather, blooming flowers, and the famous Paro Tshechu festival. Ideal if you're into culture and color!
- Autumn (September to November):
Crisp skies and clear mountain views. Great for trekking and photography.
These two seasons are the top picks and truly mark the best time for a solo trip to Bhutan.
Avoid monsoons (June to August) if you dislike heavy rain or landslides. Winter (December to February) is cold but less touristy, great for a quiet spiritual retreat.
Suggested read: Nightlife in Bhutan
Best Places to Visit in Bhutan for Solo Travelers
1. Paro – For That Peaceful Start
Paro is where your Bhutan journey will most likely begin. It’s home to Bhutan’s only international airport, but trust, it’s more than just an entry point.
Why Solo Travelers Love It:
- The town is super walkable and laid-back.
- Great mix of nature, cafes, and culture.
- Locals are friendly, and you’ll never feel unsafe wandering around alone.
Must-Do in Paro:
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery: The iconic hike, challenging but spiritual.
- National Museum of Bhutan: Housed in an old watchtower.
- Local markets & cafes: Try momos or butter tea and people-watch for hours.
2. Thimphu – Solo, but Never Bored
The capital city of Bhutan is where traditional meets modern. You’ll see monks using smartphones and people wearing Gho and Kira while scrolling Instagram, it’s wild and wonderful.
Why Solo Travelers Love It:
- A great place to ease into Bhutanese life.
- Plenty of cultural spots + great Wi-Fi cafes.
- It’s easy to meet locals or other travelers here.
Must-Do in Thimphu:
- Buddha Dordenma: A Giant golden Buddha that overlooks the city.
- Tashichho Dzong: Bhutan's political and religious powerhouse.
- Craft Bazaar: Great for shopping for handmade souvenirs and chatting with artisans.
3. Punakha – For Chill River Vibes & Romance (With Yourself)
Punakha is that dreamy valley with rice fields, rivers, and ridiculously pretty dzongs. It’s warmer than other towns, making it ideal if you want a break from the chilly mountains.
Why Solo Travelers Love It:
- The vibe is peaceful but never boring.
- Nature is everywhere: rivers, forests, and fields.
- You can reflect in silence or join locals for small village events.
Must-Do in Punakha:
- Punakha Dzong: Looks like something out of a fairytale.
- Suspension Bridge: One of the longest in Bhutan, a perfect selfie spot.
- Chimi Lhakhang: A “fertility temple” with quirky vibes and even quirkier legends.
4. Phobjikha Valley – For Nature & Soul Therapy
Now this place is straight outta a National Geographic photo. Phobjikha is a glacial valley, known for its stunning landscapes and the black-necked cranes that migrate here every winter.
Why Solo Travelers Love It:
- Off-the-beaten-path, which means fewer tourists.
- Ideal for journaling, hiking, or just straight-up zoning out with nature.
- You can stay in a farm homestay and live like a local.
Must-Do in Phobjikha:
- Gangtey Monastery: Peaceful and scenic.
- Nature Trail: Easy walk with views for days.
- Cranes Festival (if visiting in Nov): Celebrate nature, Bhutanese style.
5. Haa Valley – Hidden Gem for True Solitude
If you’re craving that raw, untouched Himalayan vibe, Haa Valley is where it’s at. It’s one of Bhutan’s least-visited regions, and that’s exactly what makes it so perfect for solo travelers.
Why Solo Travelers Love It:
- Less commercialized, so you feel more connected with nature.
- It’s remote, but still accessible via a scenic drive from Paro.
- You’ll find time and space to just be.
Must-Do in Haa:
- Hiking to temples that barely anyone visits.
- Homestays for a slice of Bhutanese life.
- Talk walks with epic views, it’s like therapy, but free.
Things to Do in Bhutan for Solo Travelers
Bhutan has a vibe that makes you want to slow down and savor every moment. Here are some amazing things to do in Bhutan for solo travelers:
- Meditate with monks at a local monastery.
- Join a cooking class to learn Bhutanese dishes like Ema Datshi (cheese and chili stew).
- Attend a Tshechu (festival) if your visit aligns.
- Trek through valleys and mountain trails.
- Try a hot stone bath to relax those muscles.
Solo doesn't mean boring, and in Bhutan, it means freedom to explore at your own pace.
Things To Remember Before Planning A Solo Trip
If you are travelling independently, obey this solo trip guide to Bhutan and make sure you consider the following steps to have a safe and secure solo trip to Bhutan:
1. Travel Permits: If you are planning a solo trip to Bhutan, make sure to have a visa or special entry permit known as the Bhutan Entry Permit issued by the Tourism Council of Bhutan for unrestricted entry in Bhutan.
2. Itinerary Planning: It is very important to plan your travel itinerary properly before you reach Bhutan, as this place is a land of diverse cultural sites, multiple trekking routes, and natural places to visit.
3. Health Precautions: Bhutan has many high-altitude areas, so if you are visiting these regions, make sure to have proper vaccination and medication with you for personal safety.
4. Weather Conditions: The climate of Bhutan changes rapidly as you go higher on the mountains. Remember to research the weather of that particular place before you travel and keep the necessary things with you in case of any emergency.
5. Packing Essentials: Before you start the journey, pack your bag with all the necessary items such as a good pair of shoes and clothing, a good quality backpack, sunscreen, and water bottles for trekking.
6. Cash and Currency: Indian currency is widely accepted in Bhutan. Don’t forget to keep enough cash with you for emergencies, as ATM’s will not be available as you move outside the town.
Travel Recommendations For You
Travelling to Bhutan can be one of the best decisions of your life. The breathtaking hills, age-old historical monasteries, local traditions, and a variety of cultural cuisine have a unique ambience to offer to its travellers. Here are some of the travel tips and recommendations that will help you plan your solo trip to Bhutan.
There are several resorts and luxurious hotels available in different cities and towns of Bhutan. Here are some of the top-rated hotels mentioned for you:
Paro- Ama’s Village Lodge
Phuentsholing- Centennial Hotel
Thimphu- Bhutan Boutique Residency
Punakha- Damchen Resort
The average cost may take you around Rs 30000/-, which majorly includes food, transportation, flight ticket, and other small related expenses. The travel budget may depend on the season in which you are travelling, the way to spend, but for a safe and comfortable trip, you can expect to have around Rs. 20000/- for the entire trip.
Bhutan Solo Trip Itinerary
Here's a chill yet exciting Bhutan solo trip itinerary for 5 days. It covers the must-visit, but also gives you space to just wander and vibe.
- Day 1: Start your trip with Thimphu and Paro
On the first day, you can visit the famous Paro Taktsang(Tiger’s Nest) monastery along with some incredible views of the mountains.
Spend some time in the capital of Bhutan(Thimphu) and visit the famous Buddha Dordenma Statue and Tashichho Dzong to learn about the history of this place. Explore different traditional restaurants there and gear up for the next day.
- Day 2: Absorb the cultural vibrancy of Bumthang
Start your journey from Paro and head your way to Bumthang.
Spend time exploring the cultural homeland of Bhutan, like Jambay Lhakhang and Kurje Lhakhang.
Enjoy the cultural vibrancy of the place by exploring the remote villages by interacting with the local people and experiencing the traditional Bhutanese food.
- Day 3: Explore the beauty of Haa Valley and Phobjikha Valley
On the third day, trek to the Haa valley. You will be amazed at the trekking experiences in Bhutan, from its beauty to the thrill it offers.
You can do some adventurous activities like mountain biking and hiking to add a thrilling experience to your trip.
Head up to visit Gangtey Monasteries, situated in Phobjikha Valley, which is popularly known as the home for the endangered Black-Necked Crane bird.
- Day 4: Experience the challenging Druk Path Trek
After covering the southern, western, and eastern parts of Bhutan, set yourself up for exploring the northern part of the country and begin an adventurous Druk Path Trek from Punakha.
On the way towards your trek, explore the remote villages, tough mountain passes, along with pristine lakes and mesmerising views of the Himalayas.
You can camp under the night sky during the trek and experience the nightlife in Bhutan, and finally end your journey in Paro and relax for the day.
This itinerary covers all corners of Bhutan, from visiting lush green mountain ranges to adventurous treks to exploring the historic monasteries. You can cover almost everything in this solo tour and make some remarkable memories throughout the trip.
Do’s And Don’ts For Solo Explorers
Do’s
- Bhutan is a safe place for tourists, but don’t forget to take basic precautions you would take before travelling to a new place alone.
- Keep the necessary travel documents with you in case you need to show them when necessary.
- Remember to investigate and familiarize yourself with the hotel and travel policies, as these rules vary from place to place.
- Make sure to have appropriate attire before visiting religious places and offices.
- Before visiting any monasteries and temples, leave your footwear outside to respect the religion and tradition of the place.
Don’ts
- Don’t touch the sacred paintings and temple essentials while visiting the place, as it is considered a discourteous act.
- Avoid smoking in public places without watching the rules of that particular place.
- Try to restrict yourself from taking pictures or videos of certain areas where these things are not allowed.
- It is considered a shameful act to throw waste into the local lakes, as most of the tourist places focus on sustainability.
Avoid feeding stray dogs while visiting different temples of Bhutan, as many places do not appreciate these kinds of acts.
Conclusion
A solo trip to Bhutan can be the best gift you can give to yourself. This guide is the ultimate answer for how to plan a solo trip to Bhutan. So, read it carefully before starting on your journey. On the way to your trip, you can uncover many hidden truths about yourself and spend some quality time alone in the lap of nature.
Moreover, when you decide on a solo travel tour to Bhutan, the trip may seem comfortable and quite safe, as this place has very friendly and welcoming local people to guide you on your journey. Interacting with them and understanding their rural lifestyle will interest you in visiting the place again. So, don’t hesitate. Pack your bag, get enough knowledge, and start your journey and cuddle the unknown.
