Phuentsholing - Discovering Bhutan

Travelling to Phuentsholing

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Phuentsholing, a pretty good destination in Bhutan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Phuentsholing and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Phuentsholing, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bhutan, here's everything to know about Phuentsholing for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Phuentsholing

Phuentsholing is a town located in the southwestern part of Bhutan, near the border with India. It is the gateway to Bhutan for travelers from India and is an important commercial hub for both countries. Phuentsholing is known for its lively marketplaces, bustling streets, and unique blend of Indian and Bhutanese cultures. Some notable attractions in the area include the Karbandi Monastery, the Bhutan Gate, and the Zangto Pelri Lhakhang temple.

What to visit in Phuentsholing

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Phuentsholing, Bhutan: 1. Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang: This is a beautiful temple located in the heart of Phuentsholing. One of the major attractions of the city, this temple is adorned with intricate wood carvings and paintings depicting the life of Guru Rinpoche.
2. Bhutan Gate: This is the official gateway to Bhutan from India. The gate welcomes travelers to the magical land of Bhutan and is a popular spot for taking photographs.
3. Chukha Hydropower Dam: Located a few kilometers away from Phuentsholing, this hydropower dam is considered one of the largest in Bhutan. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in engineering marvels.
4. Karbandi Monastery: This beautiful monastery is perched on a hilltop overlooking Phuentsholing. It offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and the plains of West Bengal.
5. Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre: This breeding center is located on the banks of the Amo Chhu river and is home to several species of crocodiles. Visitors can see crocodiles of different ages and sizes and learn about their behavior and habitat.
6. Kharbandi Gompa: This is another beautiful monastery located on the outskirts of Phuentsholing. It is known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.
7. Torsa River Side: This is a serene and picturesque spot located on the banks of the Torsa River. Visitors can spend some time relaxing by the river, enjoying the scenic beauty and watching local fishermen at work.
Overall, Phuentsholing has a lot to offer to its visitors, ranging from serene natural beauty to stunning architecture and engineering marvels.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Bhutan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Phuentsholing

The best time to visit Phuentsholing, Bhutan is between October and December. During this period, the weather is mostly dry and clear, and the temperatures are pleasant during the day and cool at night. It's also the perfect time to trek and to explore Bhutan's stunning landscapes. However, note that this is also the busiest tourist season, so it's recommended to book your accommodations and tours in advance. If you prefer to avoid crowds and don't mind some occasional rainfall, you can consider visiting Phuentsholing during the shoulder seasons and off-season (March-May and January-February) when you can also get better deals on accommodations and tours.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Phuentsholing

Phuentsholing is a Bhutanese town located on the border of India and Bhutan, and it is the gateway for travelers entering Bhutan by land. Here are some ways to get to Phuentsholing: 1. By air: The nearest airport to Phuentsholing is Paro International Airport, which is about 160km away. You can take a domestic flight to Paro from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati or Bangkok and then travel by road to Phuentsholing.
2. By train: The nearest railway station is Hasimara, which is approximately 17km away. From there, take a taxi or shared auto-rickshaw to Phuentsholing.
3. By bus: There are regular bus services from Kolkata, Siliguri, Jaigaon and other nearby cities to Phuentsholing.
4. By car: You can hire a private car or taxi from nearby cities like Siliguri or Bagdogra to reach Phuentsholing.
Note: Foreign Tourists require a Bhutanese visa to enter the town.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Phuentsholing, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Phuentsholing

Phuentsholing is a town located in the southern part of Bhutan, near the border with India. The cuisine in this region is a blend of traditional Bhutanese and Indian flavors. Here are some typical foods of Phuentsholing and their short descriptions: 1. Ema Datshi: This is Bhutan's national dish and a spicy and savory dish made with chilies and cheese. It is typically served with rice.
2. Phaksha Paa: This dish consists of slices of pork cooked with chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and onions.
3. Jasha Maroo: A delicious chicken dish often found in Bhutan, made with boneless chicken, tomatoes, onions, and spices.
4. Momos: A popular traditional snack in Bhutan, similar to dumplings, filled with vegetables or minced meat.
5. Shamu Datshi: This dish is made with mushrooms cooked in a cheese sauce and spicy chili peppers.
6. Goep: A type of curry made with tender pieces of beef or goat, cooked with fragrant spices and served with rice.
7. Khur-le: A traditional Bhutanese bread made with wheat flour and butter, typically served as a side dish.
8. Suja: Butter tea is a popular beverage in Bhutan. Made with tea leaves, yak butter, and salt, suja is a great way to start the day in Bhutan.
9. Zow: A type of Bhutanese porridge made with wheat flour, served with milk and sugar.
Bhutanese cuisine is unique and flavorful, characterized by spicy chilies and cheese, fragrant spices, and tender meats.
You can find general info about typical foods in Bhutan here.

Is Phuentsholing an expensive destination for tourists?

Phuentsholing, being a gateway to Bhutan and a major town, may be slightly more expensive than some other destinations in Bhutan. However, Bhutan, as a country, is known for its high daily tariff for tourists, which covers accommodation, meals, guides, and transport within the country. This tariff, set by the Bhutan government, varies seasonally and typically ranges from $200-$250 per day per person. This means that regardless of the destination in Bhutan, the cost of a trip will be relatively similar. That said, there may be some regional variations in prices for certain services such as accommodation, meals, and tourist activities. Overall, Phuentsholing can be an expensive destination for tourists, but this cost is related to the daily tariff and not specifically due to the town's prices.

Where to find accomodation in Phuentsholing

Phuentsholing is a border town in Bhutan and most travelers visit it as a gateway to explore the country further. The main areas to find accommodation in Phuentsholing are: 1. City Center: This area offers a variety of budget and mid-range hotels, guesthouses and homestays. It's a convenient location with many restaurants, shops and services nearby.
2. Kizompo: This area is located slightly away from the city center and overlooks the hills. There are a few upscale hotels and resorts in this area, offering a peaceful stay with scenic views.
3. Torsa river: This is a quieter area located on the outskirts of Phuentsholing. There are a few well-appointed resorts located alongside the Torsa River, offering a relaxing stay with nature views.
Overall, wherever you stay, it shouldn't be difficult to get around in Phuentsholing, as it's a small town with good transportation options.
You can check hotel prices at Phuentsholing here:
Booking.com

Is Phuentsholing a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Phuentsholing is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Bhutan as a country has a very low crime rate and violence is rare. However, visitors are always advised to take basic safety precautions to ensure a trouble-free trip. It is also advisable to follow the local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bhutan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Phuentsholing.

What type of travelers will enjoy Phuentsholing the most?

Phuentsholing in Bhutan has something to offer for all types of travelers- from couples to families and even solo travelers. Here are some highlights of what each type of traveler will enjoy: - Couples: Phuentsholing is a great destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. They can enjoy the scenic beauty of the place, explore the local markets, and indulge in some of the best food Bhutan has to offer. Moreover, couples can also opt for a private tour to Thimphu or Paro, which are the two most popular destinations in Bhutan.
- Young people: Phuentsholing is also a great destination for young people looking for fun activities. They can indulge in adventurous activities such as trekking, hiking, and rock climbing. Additionally, they can explore the local nightlife, which offers a range of options such as bars, pubs, and discos.
- Families: Families can enjoy Phuentsholing's scenic views and relax in the serene environment. Kids can enjoy activities such as horse riding, boat rides, and cycling. Families can also visit nearby tourist attractions such as Karbandi Monastery, which offers stunning views of the valley.
Overall, Phuentsholing offers a serene environment, stunning views, delicious food, and fun activities for travelers of all types.

How to get around Phuentsholing

In Phuentsholing, you can use various transportation modes such as taxis, private cars, buses, or rental bikes to move around. Taxis and private cars are the most convenient and comfortable option to explore the city, while buses are cheaper and provide access to different parts of the city. Rental bikes are also available for those who prefer to explore the city at their own pace. It's essential to negotiate the fares before deciding to use any of these modes of transportation.

What to see around Phuentsholing

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Phuentsholing: 1. Zangto Pelri Lhakhang: A beautiful temple located in Phuentsholing that is worth visiting.
2. Kharbandi Goemba: A monastery situated on a hilltop, about 7 km from Phuentsholing, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
3. Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Center: A unique attraction where you can see crocodiles being bred in their natural habitat.
4. Torsa River: A scenic spot to enjoy a picnic or a stroll, with views of the Torsa River and the surrounding mountains.
5. Karbandi Monastery: A beautiful monastery located in Phuentsholing, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
6. Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary: A wildlife sanctuary located in Jalpaiguri district in West Bengal, India, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, deer, and tigers.
7. Bhutan Gate: A landmark gateway to Bhutan located in Phuentsholing that offers a great photo opportunity.
8. Chuzom Bhutanese Restaurant: A great place to sample some of Bhutan's delicious local cuisine.
9. Kizom Cafe: A cosy cafe located in Phuentsholing that serves a range of tasty treats and beverages, including coffee and snacks.
10. Phuentsholing Market: A bustling local market, selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing.
For every travel information about Bhutan you can click here.

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