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Spicy Bhutan – Cooking Session for Half a Day

4 hours

Spicy Bhutan – Cooking Session for Half a Day

Spicy Bhutan is our personalised and exclusive cooking session which we offer to our guests as we have partnered with local host families and select restaurants in Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Trongsa and Bumthang. If you’re a gourmand or a fan of homemade cuisine, this intimate, fun half-day cooking course is for you! The experience does not start in the Kitchen, because Bhutanese cooking is relatively simple, but the magic starts with finding the right ingredients. That is precisely why the lesson actually will start at the market! We’ll take you to the colourful Farmers’ market where proud villagers behind pyramids of their agricultural produce greet you with stone weights in their hands and smiles on their faces. Our Chef/Tour Leader will accompany guests and explain the myriad and unique essential ingredients of Bhutanese culinary. You will shop for the ingredients, and then proceed to the local host family, or the Kitchen in the restaurant that we work with. You will spend another 2 hours on a step-by-step hands-on lesson in preparing traditional Bhutanese cuisines – which will always include popular meals such as momos, Ema Datshi, Shakam Paa etc. The small number of participants in this class ensures you will have personalized attention from the chef and a highly memorable Bhutanese culinary experience. Our focus is on home made cooking by introducing western travelers to authentic Bhutanese cuisine, allowing them to learning real Bhutanese food at the same time enjoying real local people’s life. Enjoy your dinner with a decent amount of home-made Ara (local alcohol).

Good to Know

Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?
Most international visitors need a visa before travelling to Bhutan. You can apply online yourself or ask Bhutan Travel Club to arrange the application. The one-time visa application fee is USD 40. Indian nationals require an entry permit; nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives may also obtain a visa on arrival. Check the official Bhutan travel guidance for your nationality before departure.
What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is USD 100 per adult per night for international visitors other than Indian nationals. Children aged 6 to 11 pay USD 50 per night; children under 6 are exempt. Indian nationals pay Nu./INR 1,200 per adult per night, with a 50% concession for children aged 6 to 11 and exemption for children under 6. We will confirm the applicable SDF in your trip quotation.
When is the best time to take this trip?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the most popular, with clear skies, mild days and the biggest festivals. Winter is quiet, crisp and great value with sunny days, while summer (June–August) is lush and green with occasional afternoon rain. We are happy to advise on the best window for your dates.
How do I book and pay for my trip?
Once we have finalised your itinerary we send a confirmation invoice. Payment is by secure bank wire transfer or card. Your SDF and visa are processed together with the tour, so everything is settled before you arrive — no cash handovers on the ground.
Is Bhutan safe, and will I have internet?
Bhutan is consistently ranked one of Asia's safest destinations, with very low crime and welcoming people. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and towns, and a local SIM card with mobile data is inexpensive and easy to buy after you arrive.
What should I pack?
Bring layers for changeable mountain weather, a warm jacket for evenings and high passes, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a modest outfit — long trousers or skirt and covered shoulders — for visiting dzongs and temples. Your guide will advise on anything specific to your itinerary.
Do I need to book this experience in advance?
Yes, we recommend booking ahead so we can arrange your licensed guide, private transport and any permits required. Even short day experiences in Bhutan must be accompanied by a licensed guide.
Is this suitable for beginners and families?
Most of our day experiences are relaxed and family-friendly. Let us know the ages, interests and any mobility needs in your group and we will tailor the pace and content to suit everyone.
What is included in this experience?
Typically a licensed guide, private transport, applicable entry fees and the activity itself. We will confirm exactly what is and is not included when we share your quote so there are no surprises.

How to find us?

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