Travel Documents Requirement for Indian Tourists Visiting Bhutan
February 7, 2022 in Guest Posts
Indian tourists visiting Bhutan must carry either a valid Indian passport with a minimum validity of six months or a valid Voter Identity card issued by the Election Commission of India. Indian tourists do not require a tourist visa to visit Bhutan. How and however permits must be processed to enter the country. The entry permits can be processed on arrival or in advance by a local travel agent in Bhutan.
Processing entry permits for Indian tourists visiting Bhutan
Indian tourists must process an entry permit on arrival either at the airport or the Department of Immigration Office at the point of entry if traveling by road. With the entry permits, Indian tourists can stay up to 15 days in Bhutan with the possibility of extension subject to approval by Immigration.
Documents required for processing entry permits for Indian tourists:
- Valid Indian passport with a minimum validity of 6 months or valid Voter Identity Card
- Duly filled entry permit application form
- Two standard size passport photographs
- Hotel booking voucher (hotel bookings in Bhutan must be confirmed before applying for the permit)
- Tour Guide details (Indian tourists must avail of the service of a certified local tour guide)
- Processing the entry permit can take up to a few hours, and Indian tourists traveling to Bhutan by road should note that the Department of Immigration offices are closed during the weekends and therefore must plan their trip accordingly to avoid unnecessary delays.
Indian tourists must note that the entry permit allows them to enter Bhutan and visit Paro, Thimphu, and Phuntsholing districts. Indian tourists wishing to visit other places not included in the list must apply for a Route permit on arrival in Thimphu at the Immigration office.
Documents required for processing route permit for Indian tourists:
- Valid Indian passport with a minimum validity of 6 months or valid Voter Identity Card
- Duly filled route permit application form
- Copy of the Entry Permit
- These must be processed and should not be ignored. The immigration check post en route to most places will check for this permit, and Indian tourists failing to apply for it will not be allowed to continue their journey.
Procedures for Indian tourists wishing to drive private Indian cars to Bhutan
Indian tourists wishing to drive a private Indian car to Bhutan must apply and avail authorization letter from the Royal Safety and Transport Authority of Bhutan (RSTA) on arrival at the border town before proceeding to other places in Bhutan.
Documents required for processing the authorized letter from RSTA Bhutan:
- Vehicle insurance
- Vehicle fitness certificate
- Valid driver’s license copy
- Entry Permit Copy
- Copy of Passport/Valid Voter ID Card
- Duly filled approved letter application form
- Certified letter from the owner of the car
Visit MakeMyTrip for bookings. Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
Taste The Mouthwatering Meals Of Bhutan
February 7, 2022 in Bhutan
- Ema Datshi – Stew made of Chillies and Cheese
‘Datshi’ in the Bhutanese language of Dzongkha means ‘cheese’, which is what they use in several dishes, the most popular being Ema Datshi which is like a stew made from chilies and cheese (‘Ema’ means chilies) and might prove to be too spicy for some. Being the national dish of Bhutan, it is unarguably the most popular dish in the country. Any discussion about Bhutanese food cannot go without the mention of Ema Datshi.
The chilies are split lengthwise with their seeds and ribs removed and are mixed with cheese, garlic, water, and some oil. Is this cheese a special kind of farmer’s cheese that doesn’t dissolve in water and is hardly found outside this nation? Sometimes, onions and tomatoes are added, and Yak cheese might also be used. There might be slight variations in the preparation of Ema Datshi throughout the nation (such as the consistency of liquid), but the ultimate essence remains.
- Jasha Maroo or Maru – Spicy Chicken Stew or Curry
Another dish worth tasting would be the Jasha Maroo which is like a spicy stew or curry made with diced chicken, onion, garlic, chilies, tomato, ginger, and coriander leaves. Ginger gives this dish its essence. It may be served with a generous portion of chicken broth, and beef may also be used in place of chicken. This is usually done with red rice, as is in the case of most Bhutanese dishes.
- Phaksha Paa – Pork with Red Chilies
Paa is a curry with gravy or a meaty stew. Phaksha Paa highlights another favorite item of the Bhutanese people – pork. This dish comprises pork slices stir-fried with whole red dry chilies (yet another spicy dish), ginger, and Bok Choy. Bok Choy is also known as White Mustard Cabbage or Pak Choy and is peppery to taste and has a celery-like stalk with dark leaves. It is used in stews like this and fresh salads. Mountain vegetables such as radishes and spinach may also be added to Phaksha Paa. This is often eaten along with rice and Datshi dishes.
- Suja – Bhutanese Butter Tea
Tea is frequently consumed in Bhutan but is a little different. The locals mostly indulge in butter tea, also known as Suja or Po Cha or Goor Goor, which is usually served after meals and is found to be quite comforting in the cold weather. Fermented yak butter is made from fresh yak milk, and this butter is then boiled along with tea leaves and water. It is a bubbly drink that tastes more like butter than tea, and its salty taste might surprise some. Butter tea is relished in Tibet and parts of Nepal, and Suja can also be made with cow’s butter.
- Jaju Soup – Traditional Bhutanese Soup
Jaju is a traditional Bhutanese soup, generally served along with other dishes aside. It is made up of green leafy vegetables like local spinach or even turnips. The broth is prepared with milk and butter. Sometimes, cheese is also added to the preparation, making it heartier and tastier.
- Puta – Buckwheat Noodles
Puta is a type of traditional Bhutanese noodle. They are a healthy alternative to regular noodles, made from buckwheat. They are generally served boiled but can also be stir-fried in oil, and they can be spiced up by adding different sauces and sauteed vegetables. Serving as an alternative to rice, buckwheat noodles serve as one of the staple foods in Bhutan.
- Zow Shungo – Veggie Dish
As the term, Zow – which means splendid suggests, this dish is a popular favorite among Bhutanese cuisine. It is made from leftover vegetables and red rice and can be prepared quickly and easily, and it is a healthy option that ensures that you do not have to throw away any leftover veggies.
Some other food items to sample when in Bhutan would include momos, dumplings made with buckwheat and filled with spinach, cheese, turnips, and other ingredients, eaten with a spicy sauce called Ezay, which are a specialty of the Haa Valley, along with other buckwheat dishes. Goep is another popular dish made with tripe which is stir-fried with green onions, chilies, and vegetables. The list doesn’t stop at that. As one explores more, one will come across more exotic dishes (probably not any less spicy) and leave with an overall wonderful experience of tingling taste buds.
Visit MakeMyTrip for bookings. Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.
January 2022
January 1, 2022 in Table of Content
- A New Normal After the COVID‐19 Pandemic
- Top 15 Tourist Destinations In Andaman & Nicobar
- What’s The Best Time To Visit Andaman & Nicobar?
- Complete Guide For A Perfect Andaman Trip
- Travel to Andaman by Ship
- Let’s Visit Cellular Jail In Port Blair, Andaman
- Tribes Found In Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Do’s & Don’ts In Andaman & Nicobar
- All about Barren Island, South Asia’s only Active Volcano in Andaman!
December 2021
December 1, 2021 in Table of Content
The theme of this month’s issue
is about the new year of the country.
November 2021
November 1, 2021 in Table of Content
The theme of this month’s issue
is about the hidden gems of the country.
October 2021
October 1, 2021 in Table of Content
The theme of this month’s issue is Festivals
it includes all the famous festivals of October month.
- Visit Kumartuli in Kolkata to See Durga Idols Being Made
- Why Diwali Day is also Bandi Chhor Divas celebration?
- How do you celebrate the Dashain festival?
- Mysore Dasara – The Colourful Festivities of Mysore
- Why & How the Navaratri Golu is celebrated?
- How Kullu Dussehra is celebrated?
- Mapping Diwali Celebrations Across India
- Where to see Ramlila performances across India?
- Dussehra Celebration All Over India
Enjoy Adventure Sports in Rishikesh
September 2, 2021 in Adventure, Guest Posts
Adventure Sports in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, is India’s most captivating adventure activity. Here, a small group of individuals uses an inflatable raft on which they paddle with their paddles to cruise the Ganga river over a dozen large rapids. It is one of the best activities to do on the Ganges. The river rafting in Rishikesh also offers many other fun-filled sports and activities. River rafting in Rishikesh offers an exhilarating trip for every level of traveler. It is one of the best places to explore the natural beauty of the region. You will love the mesmerizing view of the Himalayas and the natural beauty of the valleys, which are covered with dense forests.
River Rafting and other Adventure Sports in Rishikesh provide a fun-filled adventurous activity during the summer or spring season. However, rafting in Rishikesh during the winter season can be very cold and chilly. The best season to enjoy this adventure is from May to September. River rafting in Rishikesh during the monsoon months from June to September can also be an exciting and fun-filled adventure.
How To Enjoy River Rafting
There are two popular ways of enjoying river rafting in Rishikesh. The first is called Ashtanga Rishikesh, and the second is called Nandighosa Rishikesh. Both these types of rafting in Rishikesh provide you with a challenging experience of river rafting. Ashtanga Rafting in Rishikesh provides a challenging course of action. On this rafting trip, you will have to climb up the mountain pass just 9 km long.
After reaching the nine critical points at the foothills of the mountain, you will have to make your way further up the slopes. Along the way, you will pass through several impressive forests and also encounter a few hippies wandering here and there. If you want to enjoy the area’s greenery, you should go for the Nandighosa Rafting Course. This special rafting package offers comfortable accommodation, a luxurious campsite, a delicious gourmet lunch, a tea house, Internet access, and a gymnasium. All this is offered within a very comfortable camping facility.
Animal Path Camping Resort
On the other hand, for the less experienced rafters, an ideal river rafting destination is Animal Path, a popular destination for Camping & Adventure Sports in Rishikesh, wherein the course is less demanding. A luxury campsite is provided in this route, along with a mini shopping mall, health clubs, and beautiful nature sights. For those who prefer to camp with others, an attached camping site is available where you can socialize and take a rest during the day. However, for those who want more excitement, a swimming pool is available with the attached washroom.
If you are not interested in swimming and wish to experience the thrills of white water rafting without the danger, the best option is to go for the Ganga River rafting trip. The river runs through several towns which are easily accessible by road. There are several lovely resorts here that offer luxuries to their guests. Many exciting activities are organized here, including a treasure hunt, trekking, paragliding, rock climbing, water skiing, bungee jumping, and thrilling bungee jumping. However, if you don’t want to risk your life, it would be wise to opt for the simpler river rafting trips where there are no risks.
Adventure Sports In Rishikesh
If you are looking for an adventure trip to Rishikesh and have an adventurous nature, try out mountain climbing, white water rafting, and cliff jumping. These activities are organized and specially designed for individuals who love to explore the thrill of adventure sports. The best time to do these activities is between May and October when the weather is scorching. The climate in the region is substandard, and it is essential to take proper clothing like a thick insulated jacket, thick shoes, fleece, or any other insulating material that will keep you warm.
Camping In Rishikesh – The Most Amazing Experience For Kids!
Camping in Rishikesh is a unique experience, and you can enjoy it to the fullest. Rishikesh is an attractive place for camping, and you can easily find good options for camping in Rishikesh here. Many tourists visit Rishikesh each year, and they love to spend their time here in this beautiful place. This region has some of the best parks, and there is no dearth of places for camping in Rishikesh with amazing views.
But before you create your itinerary, take a look at the incredible list of the top places for camping in Rishikesh at low prices. You will be surprised at the choices available in camping in Rishikesh at affordable rates. You can hear for that kick of outdoor adventure or rejuvenation or your religious side, and you won’t be disappointed. If you like to camp at the edge of lakes or rivers, then camping at Rishikesh near the foothills of the great Himalayas will be perfect for you. And if you are a nature lover, then you will love the majestic views of these mountains and valleys from far-off places.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Rishikesh and enjoy the adventure sports in the region is between September and April. The weather is pleasant, and the climate is cool. The summers are not as hot as they are in other cities, and the monsoons are not as harsh as Delhi or other big cities. So it is better to choose the time and season-appropriate to do some exciting adventure sports.
Where To Camp In Rishikesh
There are many popular places for camping in Rishikesh, and you can choose the sites according to your choice and feasibility. You can opt for tent campsites or for the sites that comprise all luxury campsites and their services. But you must ensure that these campsites are located far away from the crowded areas, and there is no public transport available. You can take buses or taxis to reach your destination, but it would be better to go by jeepney or horseback.
Rishikesh has some of the finest spots for camping in Rishikesh, and its natural setting always makes them worth visiting and exploring. There are many rivers and water bodies where you can enjoy river rafting, camping, and hiking. Depending upon the river you wish to raft, you can choose the best time and day to go camping in Rishikesh. Two rivers are flowing in the region, and they are named the Chenab and Yamuna. And these two rivers offer an excellent chance for rafting.
For More Adventure Sports
Also if you are looking for a more adventurous kind of camping, you can try river rafting and trekking. Treks include hiking, climbing, camping, and a lot more. There are several treks available for hiking, and one of them includes trekking to the Manali Mountains. So there are plenty of things to do if you are into adventure sports, and spending time outdoors and away from the noisy city life is what camping is all about.
And you must do enough research and visit at least three to four sites before deciding on the right one for you. Some of the most popular river rafting destinations include Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh. And Himachal Pradesh is famous for the hot sun and the gorgeous landscapes of the state. And if you are enthusiastic, then you can try mountain climbing even up to 7500 feet. So it’s not surprising that Himachal Pradesh is called the Heaven on Earth or God’s Own Country because mountains and greenery form the bulk of the country, and that’s why tourists like Himachal Pradesh the most.
Everyone’s adventure is different from the other, the serenity of the forests may be attractive to some, while some may find adventure in skydiving. Find out more about the variety of adventure sports for every type of individual in our May 2021 Issue.
For more information about Adventure Tourism in Rishikesh, visit the Uttarakhand Government Website.
So, whether you want to spend a few days hiking, camping, river rafting, or trekking, then camping in Rishikesh will prove to be the right choice for you. Many luxury camps in Rishikesh offer facilities like attached washrooms, AC rooms, and internet broadband. And kids to have their fun activities to enjoy during their stay at these camps. So this year, make sure you take your kids to explore the hidden wonders of Rishikesh!
September 2021
September 1, 2021 in Table of Content
The theme of this month’s issue is Ladakh.
It is quite famous for its incandescent mountains and longing valleys;
all of which makes it a hot favorite amongst travelers.
