You know that feeling when you walk into a place and it just clicks? That was Bhutan for me. The moment I stepped in, I felt at peace—like I had just hit the mute button on the noise of everyday life. No honking, no chaos, just fresh mountain air and the friendliest people ever. Coming from Mumbai’s madness, this was a whole new world, and I was loving it.
Crossing Into Bhutan: Instant Zen Mode
Picture this: You’re at the India-Bhutan border in Phuentsholing, with all the usual Indian hustle and bustle around you. Then you step across, and boom—silence. No blaring horns, no rush, just calm streets and a 50 km/h speed limit that everyone actually follows (mind-blowing, right?). It’s like someone flicked a switch, and suddenly, life is slower and way more peaceful.
My Route: A Quick Breakdown
- Flight from Mumbai to Bagdogra
- Car ride to Phuentsholing
- Off to Thimphu for two nights
- Paro for two more (spoiler: LOVED it)
- Back to Phuentsholing for the last night
Tiger’s Nest Hike: Sweat, Struggle & Pure Magic
If there’s one thing that defines my Bhutan trip, it’s the Tiger’s Nest hike. I won’t lie—this hike was brutal for a non-hiker like me. Every step felt like a battle for survival. But something about that climb made me feel like a total badass. Huffing, puffing, questioning my life decision that led me to this moment. Reaching the mid-point itself felt like an achievement—I was literally fighting for my dear life. But I kept telling myself, You can do this. And guess what? I DID! The moment I reached the monastery clinging to a cliffside like it was straight out of a fantasy movie, I felt an overwhelming sense of achievement, like I could conquer anything if I put my mind to it. It was a big deal for me, a moment of pure self-belief. And the way down? Absolute piece of cake… except for my trembling legs that had officially turned to jelly. Huge shoutout to my roommate, who stuck by my side the entire way—support like that is priceless. The hike was tough, but reaching the top? Totally worth every aching muscle.
Bhutanese People: Too Nice to Be Real
Bhutanese folks are the best. So warm, so welcoming, and somehow, they all know about Indian cinema! Our guide was fun, but our bus driver, Mr. Dorji, stole the show. The sweetest human ever. Also, nobody honks here. I repeat, NOBODY HONKS. It’s freaky at first but trust me, you’ll love it.
Food: Datshi & Redemption
Okay, so my first Bhutanese dish was Yak Datshi, and let’s just say… it was not love at first bite. But then I tried Shamu Datshi in Phuentsholing, and whoa, my taste buds had a party. Creamy, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Also, Bhutanese Chowmein and Thukpa? 10/10 would eat again.
The Cost: Surprisingly Affordable!
People think Bhutan is expensive, but I did my trip with TripHawker for ₹32,000, airfare was ₹13,000, and with food, shopping, and random splurges, I spent around ₹50-52k. Not bad for a week of mountain magic, right?
Would I Go Back? Duh.
Bhutan, I’m not done with you yet. Next time, I want to explore the non-touristy side and live like a local. Maybe milk a yak? Who knows. But one thing’s for sure—Bhutan is pure magic, and I’m already dreaming about my return trip.
Wander with Fernandez 
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