The Kingdom of Bhutan is a jewel in the Himalayas. Bhutan remains one of the least visited South Asian destinations - The number of tourists are kept to an environmentally manageable level through the government regulated tourist tariff. Bhutanese are renowned for their happiness and are a proud people who wear their national costume with pride.

In addition to Sodha Travel's private Bhutan tours, we also offer specialty experiences with local families. Cook local dumplings in a Bhutanese farmhouse, or explore meditative spaces while hoisting a prayer flag for good luck and prosperity. Read on to learn more:

Bhutan Dumpling

To Market, To Market: Learn to Cook Dumplings in a Bhutanese Farmhouse

Location: Thimphu

Travel Period: Year-round

Duration: 1/2 day

Join Sonam, a Thimphu local and foodie who knows the best eating joints in Bhutan’s capital city. Sonam will take you to the local market and introduce you to stores and vegetable vendors who keep the best stock of chilies, cheese, flour and other ingredients. She will then drive you to a farmhouse where you will learn to cook Bhutanese dumplings for dinner. Did you know that in Bhutan, chilies (known as "Ema") are regarded as a vegetable instead of a spice? Sonam will also highlight the varieties of chilies available in Thimphu and show you how to prepare fresh chili chutney and a chili-cheese dish.

Bhutan Prayer Wheel

Explore Meditative Spaces – Hoist a Prayer Flag for Good Luck and Happiness

Location: Thimphu

Travel Period: Year-round

Duration: 2 hours

In Bhutan, the sights of colorful prayer flags are very common. Prayer flags are hoisted for happiness, long life, prosperity, luck and merit. The colors used in the prayer flags follow the concept of ‘Kham’ which are five characteristic birth elements that determines an individual’s dominant personality. A Buddhist Monk and friend of Sodha Travel will accompany you to a shop that sells prayer flags, where you will gain insight to and an interpretation of your birth element. Then, buy a prayer flag with the colors corresponding to your birth element and head out to a designated place in Thimphu. The Monk will chant the consecration prayers once you finish the hoisting of your flag.

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For more information about these unique Bhutan tour experiences, contact a Sodha Travel Destination Specialist.