Happiness is a place. This tagline for Bhutan Tourism has invited a large number of Indians to visit this gorgeous Himalayan country. Indians do not require a visa to enter Bhutan, and were also exempted from paying the mandatory daily fee of $250 to explore this country until 2019. Bhutan is thus, ideal for Indians who prefer a calm destination, nestled in the beauty of nature.
Most of us are already familiar with the popular western circuit of Bhutan which includes Punakha, Thimphu, Paro, and if a little more adventurous, Haa. The road circuit is smooth, itineraries are well defined, and tourist facilities are also readily available. But this is only a small part of this country. We love Bhutan for its nature and wildlife then why not consider visiting its least commercialised parts?
Eastern Bhutan is all about natural beauty, unhindered by commercialisation and the effects it brings on people. It is the best place to visit if you are looking to break away from the pace of city life, and flow with the clock of nature.
This is how you can plan your visit to Eastern Bhutan from India:
Fly to Guwahati –
The first step in getting to Eastern Bhutan is to reach the nearest major town to the Indo-Bhutan border. Guwahati is the town closest to Samdrup Jongkhar border, and is connected by air with all major cities of India.
Cross the border at Samdrup Jongkhar –
The journey between Guwahati to Samdrup takes about three hours (110 kms). Indians require just a valid Id-card to clear the immigration formalities at the border. It is better if you carry your passport though
Get a cab to Trashigang –
This 180 km journey takes about six hours and takes you through some of the most pristine villages of Bhutan. Make sure that you start early from Guwahati so that you can get a cab that reaches Trashigang by evening. To be safe, make your hotel-booking in Trashigang, in advance.
Explore Trashigang –
Also known as the Jewel of the East, Trashigang lies to the west of Tawang.. You can spend two days in Trashigang to explore the villages around. Some of the notable places to visit here are Trashigang Dzong, Chorten Kora, Merak Valley, Rangjung, Khardung Anim Dratshang, Rangshikhar Lhakhang.
Trashigang to Mongar –
You can either take a bus or cab to Mongar which is situated at a distance of 90 kms from Trashigang. The ride is full of spectacular views of the high altitude Himalayan peaks. You need special permissions to visit some regions here which can be arranged by a local tour operator.
Mongar –
Mongar offers the opportunity to learn about the different tribes of Bhutan. Some of the places to visit in Mongar are Mongar Dzong, Zhongar Dzong, Drametse Lhakhang, Jarung Khashor Chorten, Phrumsengla National Park.
Mongar to Bumthang –
Bumthang is about 200 km from Mongar, and can be reached in seven to eight hours. The highest point of this drive is ThrumshingLa pass at an altitude of 3,750 metres.
Bumthang –
Bumthang is known as the religious centre of Bhutan with great historical tales of Padmasambhava. Some of the important places to visit are Kurje Lhakhang, Jambey Lakhang, Ura valley, Tamzhing Monastery, Membartsho, Ogyen Choling Palace and Jakar Dzong.
Bumthang to Trongsa –
Situated at a distance of 80 km from Bumthang, it takes about two hours to reach Trongsa. The drive goes through two passes Kiki La (2,860 mts) and Yotong La (3,551 mts).
Trongsa –
Some of the notable places in Trongsa are Trongsa Dzong, Trongsa Ta Dzong, Thruepang Palace and Chendebji Chorten.
Trongsa to Gelephu –
This is a lesser taken route back to India, but the shortest. The 180 km route takes about four hours to reach Gelephu. However, ensure that the route is open, well in advance. The alternate route via Wangdue Phodrang to Gelephu might add extra six hours to the journey.
Gelephu –
This is the central border town between India and Bhutan. Complete the immigration process here before coming back to India.
Gelephu to Guwahati –
The 250 km journey takes about six to seven hours. Plan the return journey thoughtfully so that you have enough time to catch your flight from Guwahati.