Simply Bhutan — Attraction in Thimphu District

A Cultural Gem: Exploring Simply Bhutan Nestled in the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city, Simply Bhutan offers visitors a unique and immersive cultural experience that showcases the rich heritage and traditions of this enchanting Himalayan kingdom. As someone who recently had the pleasure of exploring Simply Bhutan, I can confidently say that it is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to delve deeper into Bhutanese culture.Upon entering Simply Bhutan, visitors are greeted by the warm hospitality of the staff, who are eager to share their knowledge and passion for Bhutanese culture. The complex is designed to resemble a traditional Bhutanese village, complete with intricately designed buildings, lush gardens, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.One of the highlights of Simply Bhutan is the opportunity to participate in hands-on cultural activities that offer a glimpse into various aspects of Bhutanese life. From trying your hand at traditional archery, Bhutan's national sport, to learning the intricate art of weaving on a traditional loom, there is no shortage of engaging activities to enjoy. These immersive experiences allow visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the skills and craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations in Bhutan.Another captivating aspect of Simply Bhutan is its cultural performances, which showcase the vibrant traditions of Bhutan through music, dance, and storytelling. Visitors can enjoy mesmerizing performances of traditional Bhutanese folk dances, performed by talented dancers adorned in colorful costumes. The rhythmic beats of traditional instruments fill the air, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration that is truly infectious.In addition to its cultural offerings, Simply Bhutan also features a museum that provides insight into the history and heritage of Bhutan. The museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that chronicle the country's rich cultural heritage, from its ancient origins to the present day. Visitors can learn about Bhutan's unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness, as well as its traditional arts, architecture, and religious practices.One of the most memorable aspects of Simply Bhutan is its commitment to supporting local communities and preserving Bhutanese culture. The complex is operated by the Bhutan Youth Development Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young people and promoting sustainable development in Bhutan. By visiting Simply Bhutan, visitors are not only treated to a memorable cultural experience but also contribute to the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Bhutanese heritage.In terms of amenities, Simply Bhutan offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for guests. The on-site restaurant serves delicious Bhutanese cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, providing an authentic taste of the country's culinary traditions. Additionally, the gift shop offers a selection of handcrafted souvenirs and artisanal products, perfect for those looking to take home a piece of Bhutanese culture.Overall, my experience at Simply Bhutan was nothing short of extraordinary. From its immersive cultural activities to its captivating performances and educational exhibits, the complex offers a comprehensive and enriching exploration of Bhutanese culture. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Bhutan or a seasoned traveler looking to deepen your understanding of this fascinating country, Simply Bhutan is a destination not...

As the name placard says, Simply Bhutan is a living museum. It shows life in Bhutanese village - how they build house, cook (utensils used), prepare butter tea, store food, their traditional dance, art, and sports (archery). They serve arra (a sort of rice wine) as welcome drink in a small bowl to taste (not for kids). You can drink more if you like it. This is done in batches when it is crowded and you might to have to wait for some time for your turn to get in after buying the ticket. Simply Bhutan's staff are the guides here. All the staff are dressed in traditional dress of Kira(women) and Go(men). They show how they preserve butter in bamboo boxes for months! (The temperature is pretty low in Thimpu, probably that helps in preserving). You can donate to a disabled artist if you'd like. They then make us seated in sofas and men and women dance to Bhutanese songs. We are served (including kids) butter tea and sweet rice. After couple of dance, we're given opportunity to dance with them (to watch and follow). It was fun! Next, we get chance to try archery. If you manage to hit the target board, they perform a victory dance for you! There's a wishing pond at the exit. You take 5 coins and they spin an empty bowl on top of water. You make a wish and try to throw the coin inside bowl. It's said that if the coin falls and stays inside the bowl, your wish will come true! It was a great way to visualize and experience Bhutanese culture. A lot of people depend on tourism for their livelihood and the cost of living is high(a traditional dress costs 7000inr and upwards!), so I understand the expensive entry fees. Here, I felt it...

Simply Bhutan is simply a waste of time. The tour guides you travel with often get commissions for bringing tourists here, so they spin all kinds of exaggerated stories to convince you it’s a great place.

They charge an entry fee of 1,000 rupees per person, and once inside, you’re given a standard scripted tour that offers little to no value. Everything they tell you can easily be learned from your guide during your travels.

They offer rice wine, but it smells awful and tastes more like vodka than wine. The staff are forced to perform dances for the tourists, and you can clearly see in their expressions that they are exhausted and uninterested. The idea of making the staff dance for tourists feels uncomfortable and unnecessary.

The tour itself is short and uninformative. You’re given some butter tea and, like an amusement park, allowed three archery shots—amidst a crowded environment.

Save yourself the time, money, and energy by visiting other places. Completely avoid this attraction, and don’t fall for your guide’s recommendations of Simply Bhutan or other gimmicky tourist traps like hot stone baths.

Also, avoid taking your guide to local markets when shopping, as they often bump up prices to secure commissions...