A wedding is a major highlight in everyone’s life, filled with sparkles, loud music and a crowd of people. But after the music fades and guests take their leave, the burden of stress and the depleting adrenaline can take a toll on a couple’s life. But with a short, intimate trip, you can rejuvenate your love, among the most beautiful mountains.
After a lavish celebration, planning a Bhutan honeymoon on a budget can be the best way to finance a quick escape. To experience the magic of Bhutan without burning your money, you need to make all the smart choices, plan thoroughly and make the most of flexible itineraries. Here is a list of tips and suggestions for your future romantic getaway to Bhutan.
Understanding the Daily Tariff Policy
The Bhutanese government has a unique view of their tourism industry. Unlike other countries, they are more focused on sustainable tourism and have a strict limit on the number of tourist coming into their country. The quality of the experience for visitors is more important to them as compared to quantity of visitors.
This is one of the major reasons why they have implemented various policies, such as the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) on international visitors. Visitors from across the globe are also required to enter Bhutan with the help of a registered local tour operator. However, for tourists from India and Bangladesh, the rate of SDF is significantly lower but needs to be paid for each day.
Picking the Right Entry Point
While planning a Bhutan honeymoon on a budget, your method of entering the country also matters a lot. If you are arriving by flight for a distant location, the price of the ticket can be considered. However, if yur are from destinations near the state of West Bengal, the best way is to enter through the Jaigao Phuentsholing border.
The most economical and popular way to get into Bhutan if you are nearby is to head to the border town of Jaigaon by train or flight. You can proceed by getting your permits in phuentsholing and head to other destinations like Thimphu and Paro. The trip can be completed with private as well as shared cabs.
Choosing the Right Accommodation
While you may want to spend time in luxurious rooms of commercial hotels sprawling through Bhutan, it is important to make smart and affordable choices. To make your trip a romantic and memorable one, you can choose to spend your time at one of the many homestays and guest houses, which provide cosy and comfortable rooms. In some destinations, you can also find beautiful boutique hotels that give you a rustic experience.
In destinations above the mountains, you can also rent wooden cabins at cheaper rates. Make sure to choose your accommodation in locations that don't have much tourist density, as the prices can be negotiated.
Making a Properly Planned Itinerary
If you do not know which locations you will be visiting while planning a Bhutan honeymoon on a budget, it can have a direct impact on your travel budget. But already confirming the destinations you will be heading to, you can calculate the travel charges between the destinations. You can stick to 2-3 major destinations in Bhutan, such as Phuentsholing. Thimphu and Paro. These destinations include some of the most iconic locations, such as the Buddha Dordenma, Dochula pass, as well as Paro Taktsang. If you're looking for an affordable and rustic experience, you can head to the Haa Valley as well as the Phobjikha Valley, which are known for being packed in dense emerald forest.
Choosing Local Cabs
While private cars can give you the flexibility to explore different destinations, the charges for the chauffeur services and the rental can be quite expensive. To make your travels affordable, you can book seats in buses and local cars. This way, you will not be affected by overcrowding and make the most of your trip without cramping yourself in a seat. If you are confident about driving through the terrains of Bhutan, you can also rent a car on yourself and get essential permits to drive through the beautiful country and its destinations.
Eating At Local Eateries
Various high-end restaurants in Bhutan offer luxurious dishes which may not have the authentic taste, but can burn a hole in your pocket. To get an immersive and rustic experience, you can eat from one of the many local eateries. You can go and explore the street stalls and food stands, which offer affordable and authentic dishes at the cheapest price.
You can try out some of the most tastiest dishes such as red rice, Ema datshi, as well as curries with lentils. When compared to INR, these tend to cost only 2-3 hundred dollars. While planning a Bhutan honeymoon on a budget, you can choose to stay in the local homestays or guest houses, where you can get the tastiest homemade dishes.
Exploring Low-Cost Experiences
While there are various destinations in Bhutan which require permits to visit, you can still head to monasteries and observe landscapes that do not require payment to explore. Buddha Dordenam, Dochula pass, as well as the Paro Taktsang, do not require you to buy permits but offer spectacular perspectives of Bhutan. Most of the monasteries in Bhutan also offer a unique spiritual ambience, which you can visit by hiking to the mountains. You can also opt for low-cost activities to spend time with your partner, such as picnics, scenic walks as well and explore the local market. If you visit during the festive period, you can also experience the vibrant.
Shopping Wisely
You and your partner may want to commemorate your trip with souvenirs and also bring some goodies for your family back home. However, it is essential to keep an eye out for all the expenses you are making, as they can limit your freedom to explore. To ensure you are not affected by the price tags, you can go to buy souvenirs after you have completed your long-distance trips. Make sure to shop from the local markets that have more authentic Bhutanese goods. It is also okay to bargain, but make sure to be polite while doing so. While planning a Bhutan honeymoon on a budget, remember that a meaningful souvenir doesn't have to be expensive. Instead, you can buy prayer flags, handmade scarves and even postcards that are more meaningful.
Consider A Local Travel Operator
While travel operators from your home location may cost a lot, hiring a Bhutanese Local tour operator can be considerably cheaper. With a local tour operator, you can savour Bhutan in its true essence rather than just heading to the sightseeing locations. With their expertise, they can create an interior for you which fits your style, preference, as well as a strict budget. With a reliable local tour operator, you won't have to worry about logistics, accommodation or any other travel essentials.
Do your research through Travel Communities
It can be very reassuring to learn about the experiences of previous travellers before heading to any destinations. When it comes to planning a Bhutan honeymoon on a budget, platforms such as Reddit and TripAdvisor can be great for checking out the easiest routes and gaining more information. Platforms such as Quora and Wiki Travel can also be great for researching destinations before travelling. If you are active on social media, you can also become part of travel groups and check out their Instagram or posts regarding destinations in Bhutan.
Conclusion
A journey to Bhutan can be relaxing and a transformative one, especially if you are heading there to rejuvenate your relationship after a hectic celebration. Here you get to indulge in silences with your loved one and cherish your moments together, letting your love blossom completely. The slow-paced misty mountains, emerald forests and the warm smile of the locals are sure to fill your hunger for exploration while also making you feel cosy and at home.
