Things To Do
in Samtse
Samtse is a quiet town in southwestern Bhutan set among rolling green hills and the Chukha river valleys. It serves as a gateway to the Chukha and Samtse districts, blending forested landscapes with agricultural terraces. The town's markets, temples, and the Samtse Dzong echo Bhutan's cultural heritage while offering a slower pace for travelers.
Visitors can explore nearby nature trails, rural villages, and warm local hospitality that defines Bhutanese travel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Samtse and soak in the fresh Bhutanese air as you settle into your accommodations. Take a leisurely walk through the local market, absorbing the vibrant culture and friendly smiles of the locals. Enjoy a traditional breakfast featuring local delicacies for an authentic taste of Bhutan.
Visit the Samtse Dzong, a striking fortress perched on a hill overlooking the town, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Engage with a local guide who will share fascinating stories about the history and significance of the dzong in Bhutanese culture. Wander through the serene gardens that surround the dzong, a perfect place for reflection.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Bhutanese dishes while mingling with friendly locals. Spend your evening indulging in the peaceful ambiance, perhaps enjoying a cultural performance if available. Retire early, replenishing for the adventures that lie ahead.
After breakfast, embark on a guided hike to Dungtse Monastery, nestled in the hills just outside of town. The hike will take you through beautiful landscapes and offer opportunities to glimpse local wildlife and flora. As you approach the monastery, marvel at its striking architecture and the devotion of its inhabitants.
Explore the monastery’s interior, adorned with intricate paintings and carvings that depict Bhutanese Buddhist culture. Engage with the monks and learn about their daily routines and spiritual practices. After lunch, return to Samtse and explore more of the town before dinner.
Savour dinner at a local eatery, discussing your day’s experiences with newfound friends. Take a stroll around town, enjoying the cooler evening air and admiring the starry sky. Return to your accommodation and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚶Local transport (one-way) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $15-35 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly, welcoming locals
- Access to beautiful rural landscapes and hiking nearby
- Limited nightlife and nightlife-type entertainment
- Fewer large-scale dining and shopping options compared to bigger cities
- "Kuzu Zangpo La" - Hello / Good day
- "Tashi Delek" - Greetings / Best wishes
- "Kadrinchey" - Thank you
- "Nyamjozi" - Please (approximate transliteration)
Places to Visit in Samtse
Visit one of these nice places.
A commanding exterior view of the fortress with hills and the river in the foreground, ideal during golden hour.
Mist over the river and soft light reflecting off calm waters make for serene landscape shots.
Colorful stalls, baskets, and locals starting their day provide candid street photography opportunities.
Golden or green rice terraces with traditional farm life as a backdrop.
Food in Samtse
Samtse Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The iconic chili and cheese stew; best enjoyed with red rice at family-run restaurants in Samtse.
Must-Try!
Pork cooked with dried chilies and greens; a flavorful southern Bhutanese specialty.
Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or cheese, served with a spicy chutney.
Spiced chicken or beef curry with vegetables, typically served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market where farmers sell fresh vegetables, chilies, dairy, and local snacks; great for exploring everyday Bhutanese life.
Small stalls offering momos, fried chilies, and quick bhutanese bites; ideal for a quick, tasty bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees, especially near religious sites.
Always request permission; some sacred sites require a respectful approach to photography.
Remove hats and speak softly in temples or monasteries; avoid loud behavior.
In many social interactions, using the right hand is customary for giving and receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Samtse
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for exceptional service, guides, and drivers; rounding up fares is common in informal settings.
Cash in Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is widely used; Indian Rupees are accepted in some places. Many shops in larger towns accept cards, but cash is king in Samtse.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with frequent showers. Light rain gear, breathable clothing, and sun protection are useful.
June to September brings heavy rainfall and occasional landslides. Plan extra travel time and use waterproof gear.
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Cool to cold mornings and evenings with milder daytime temperatures; pack layers and a warm jacket.
Samtse at Night
Hiking in Samtse
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate day hike offering forested paths and sweeping valley views, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Shorter rural trails that connect farmstead villages with terraced fields and local harvest scenes.
Airports
How to reach Samtse by plane.
The main international gateway to Bhutan, located in Paro; travelers typically travel by road from Paro to Samtse, with transfers through Phuntsholing or other routes.
A regional transit option used by some travelers; from Bagdogra you can connect by road to Bhutan’s southern routes and continue to Samtse.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Bhutanese residents with a mix of Lhotshampa (Bhutanese of Nepalese origin) and Sharchha influences; Dzongkha is widely used, with Nepali and English understood in tourist areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Bhutan’s national sport; widely played in villages and towns with friendly competitions and community celebrations.
Common in schools and towns; informal games and local leagues occur in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Samtse.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Bhutanese dishes center on vegetables, cheese, and rice. Request egg-free options and dairy-free preparations when needed; many curries can be prepared without meat.
Rice is a staple; many dishes can be prepared without gluten-containing ingredients. Confirm sauces and thickeners with staff.
Dishes often use cheese (datshi). Request dairy-free prep and ask for dairy-free chutneys or sauces.