With the shining stark of golden mountains and the luminous sky above, there resides a paradise where the whimsical allure of nature envelopes you to enjoy the rhythm of the blue gleaming bodies and dance with the waving leaves of the lush green forest. Bhutan seems bustling with vibrant hues, jagged peaks, glistening beaches, limestone cliffs and off beaten adventure path. It seems to come out straight of a storybook where every fantasy turns into reality. If your heart pumps to have a slice of real adventure, then Bhutan can accelerate your heartbeat with the limitless camping destinations sprawled over here.
If all of this still seems to be a part of a storybook then come on get up of your darkest sleep and come along with us on a ride where moments of thrill and adventure will keep you awake until you explore the best places for camping in Bhutan.
Top 7 Sites For Camping In Bhutan
Bhutan is a small country, and every inch of it has a story to tell. This country of the happiest people on earth is made up of multiple small villages and towns that don’t have even a touch of infrastructure and will truly remind you of the good old times. These are secluded areas and are the best for camping in Bhutan.
1. Punakha
Image Source
With a calm river flowing through it, Punakha is a perfect place to camp in for people who enjoy the river view. It is a small town located in the western areas of Bhutan and is enriched by Mo Chhu river flowing through it. The best time to come here and explore nature in its raw form is between Mid September and April. You can set up a camp on the golden sands with a view of the river flowing calmly like silver and have the time of your life here. With the abundance of natural beauty spread over here you can connect with your soul while camping over here. You can even meet the native people at this place and interact with them more about this place.
Camping at Punakha is the best way to experience the romantic rendezvous landscapes and pristine environment. Spend a night singing around the bonfire in a stary night and soak in the pristine views while living in a tent. Enthusiasts from across the world hit this wonderful destination to experience the best of the outdoor beauty while living across the banks of the river. Get ready for an authentic experience to live in the wild at Punakha which is carpeted with blooming flowers and green leaves and bushes.
Must Read: 7 Valleys In Bhutan: Explore The Scenic Beauty Of These Bhutanese Valleys
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
2. Lhuentse
Image Source
This place is also called the Paradise of eastern Bhutan. You can camp here ideally during autumn and make the most of it. Located about 77 kms from the location of Mongar the dense forests and high mountains will allure you in the magnificent beauty of this place. Camp alongside the river Kuri Chhu and you will be in awe of how Mother Nature is in the best form in Lhuentse. This place is also known for its intricate weaving patterns. If you are lucky, you will find local women making the most out of their handy talents when the weave. You can talk to them, and they will welcome you with utmost warmth. You can also have a look at the weaving activities and basket making activities over here.
You won’t experience a more rewarding feeling than pitching your tent over here and gazing at the stars in a clear sky. The out of the world landscape of Lhuentse will give you an idyllic escape from the humdrum of life, and you’ll be able to explore your true self again. In autumn you can watch the red sun dipping slowly over the beautiful horizon of the sky. The beautiful peaks, scattered valleys, and villages of this place make a scenic backdrop best suited for a unique camping trip.
3. Gongfu
Image Source
Camping in Bhutan is a life-enriching experience, and Campers are said to have the best camping experience in Gongphu, Bhutan. With a camping experience like never before, Gongfu offers the best scenic view of Bhutan in abundance. You can sight some very beautiful and rare birds residing here and waking up to the chirping birds is something you will never forget in your lifetime.
Escape out of the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Gongphu for an ultimate camping experience. This camping site offers breathtaking views from the tent so make sure not to forget packing your binoculars. Indulge in the luscious beauty of nature and take home experiences that you’ll never forget. You can also rent the camping gear over here and enjoy your trip to the most.
Suggested Read: Bhutan In March: Here Is All That You Need To Do In The Land Of Thunder Dragons
4. Limukha
Image Source
If you want to spend your life in the lap of nature away from the mayhem and chaos, then Limukha can be your best camping site. This is a small village of western Bhutan and is undoubtedly a camper's favorite spot. Wrapped in the arms of nature, the place is untouched by any architectural invasion and is extremely pure and quite. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of this camp area at any time of the year, as Bhutan welcomes you with an open heart.
The best thing about this camping site is that you can hit this destination at any time of the year except the month of monsoon when the site can be muddy and patchy. Explore the beautiful destination perched in leisure and mystify all your senses with the true magnificence of this place. This is one of the best sites for camping in Bhutan that is delicately made to allure your senses.
5. Khotokha
Image Source
Situated in Western Bhutan, this camping site is popular amongst the newbies of camping and hiking owing to its flat terrain. Once in speculation of the construction of airport here, Khotokha is still untouched by any infrastructure and is gorgeous to look at. Campers should avoid visiting here in winters and monsoons and rest of the year here is suitable. Campers can go around and look at the sawmills the area and spend some time with the locals in nearby villages.
The beautiful fields and green plantations make camping in the open a nice idea with sheltered camps and absolute peace. The beautiful cloud, gleaming sun, and picturesque setting make an ideal allure for the human soul and the eye.
Suggested Read: Snowman Trek: All About The Adventurous & Thrilling Trek In Bhutan!
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
6. Tingtibi
Image Source
Located in the laps of Tingtibi village, this camping site is a must go to for wildlife lovers. This village is surrounded by forests and is enriched with a variety of flora and fauna. The Mangdechu River flows right through Tingtibi, and the banks of this river will serve the purpose of your suitable camping location. The best time to visit this place is in winters between November to March.
Many campers find Tingtibi an easy escape from the humdrum of life and get enthralled into the abundance of flora and fauna over here. Camping at this place is something that you must indulge in your life. The feeling to wake up with the shining streaks of sun and the wonderful scenes is something you’ll always cherish.
Suggested Read: 53 Popular Tourist Places In Bhutan: The Land Of The Thunder Dragon!
7. Gangtey
Image Source
This is by far the quietest and most beautiful places to set up a camp in, in Bhutan. Offering the view of beautiful mountains and lakes, waking up here is pure bliss. Gangtey is a small village located in western parts of Bhutan and is absolutely gorgeous. You can see Gogona Lhakhang and also interact with Bhutanese people while camping here in Gangtey. Bhutanese people are warm and welcoming and will introduce you to their culture. This place is close to the Himalayas, and this is very cold during winters. The best time for camping in Gangtey is spring and autumn.
The best thing about this place is that it remains untouched by the modernization and harmful human activities. Camp in the open over here and indulge into one in a million experience of your lifetime. This place is also known for it's a rich cultural heritage that you must explore in entirety.
Suggested Read: Guest Houses In Thimphu: 4 Places In Bhutan To Feel Home Even When On The Road
Rules Of Camping In Bhutan
Image Source
Bhutan is beautiful and clean, and such beauty comes at a cost. The Bhutanese authorities are very strict about some tourist rules. Below are the rules of camping in Bhutan:
- You cannot camp in Bhutan independently due to many reasons be it security or preservation of wildlife. Personal camping in Bhutan is illegal, and you can camp here only through a licensed Bhutanese agency.
- Leaving litter and garbage behind when you are done camping is absolutely discouraged and prohibited. You visited a beautiful country; your aim should be to leave it beautiful.
- Sabotaging or defaming of cultural properties is illegal.
- The wildlife, plants, and population of Bhutan should not be disturbed and destroyed through any of your practices since it is illegal in Bhutan.
Must Haves For Camping In Bhutan
- Mosquito Repellants – Keep mosquito repellants with you. Camping is an outdoor experience and to enjoy it to the fullest; you need to be comfortable and in peace with your surroundings. The mosquito can be an issue anywhere outdoor so better keep some repellant creams or mosquito nets handy before Camping in Bhutan.
- Food and Water bottle– Be well loaded with food and water. You do not want to continuously keep visiting shops and restaurants for food and water; this will just ruin your closeness with nature experience. It is always better to be self-equipped when camping.
- Have sufficient clothes -If you are camping in winters, make sure you have enough warm clothes so that you can sustain the coldness of the Himalayas. It is always advisable to carry full sleeves covered clothing to avoid mosquito bites. Have sturdy shoes that will save you from any chances of frostbite if you be in the river for too long.
- Medicine box – Carry your medication if you are on any. Also, carry a handy first aid kit. The kit should preferably have band-aids, sanitizers, anti-pyretic, anti-allergic and inhalers in case of asthmatics.
Further Read: Airports In Bhutan: 4 Places That Connect The Country To The World
Traveling around and camping in Bhutan is a step towards knowing yourself and nature better and what better place to explore than the untouched lands of this country? Bhutan has its arms open for you, what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Bhutan rightaway.
Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.
Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Camping In Bhutan
Is camping allowed in Bhutan?
Yes, camping is allowed in Bhutan.
What is the best time for camping in Bhutan?
March, April, and May are considered the best months for camping in Bhutan.
Is Bhutan safe?
Yes, Bhutan is completely safe for all travelers. All you need to do is to take care of your belongings.
What is Bhutan famous for?
Bhutan is famous for its lush green valleys, stunning monasteries, and picturesque landscapes.
Looking To Book A Holiday Package?
Gaurav is an entrepreneur by profession and an avid Yoga enthusiast. He loves to explore and know about Varied traditions, arts and colourful cultures of people at different places around the world. He loves to spend time in nature and to read books.