Frequently Asked Questions

All nationalities except Indian need a visa (US$40, processed within five days, valid for stays up to 90 days). Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals can get theirs on arrival; everyone else applies in advance. Indian nationals need a permit rather than a visa.

Read the full guide: Visa, Costs & Entry Requirements

US$100 per adult per night (children 6-11 pay US$50, under-6s are free; Indian nationals pay INR 1,200, locked until September 2028). It funds Bhutan's free healthcare, education, and conservation.

Read the full guide: The SDF Explained

At least 2-3 months ahead, and 4-6 months for peak-season festival trips like Paro Tshechu.

Read the full guide: How to Book a Tour to Bhutan

You can book your whole trip independently - since September 2022 no tour operator is required - but a licensed guide must accompany you at all times, and treks require an accredited guide or operator.

Read the full guide: The First-Timer's Guide

None are mandatory; Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended - talk to your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel.

Read the full guide: Health & Safety in Bhutan

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the clearest skies, best trekking, and biggest festivals.

Read the full guide: Best Time to Visit Bhutan

Layers above all - valley afternoons are mild while passes drop below freezing - plus modest clothing for temple visits.

Read the full guide: What to Pack for Bhutan

Types D, F, and G at 230V - bring a universal adapter.

Read the full guide: Internet, SIM Cards & Power

Main towns sit at a moderate 2,200-2,400m, but passes exceed 3,800m - ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Read the full guide: Health & Safety in Bhutan

The Bhutanese Ngultrum (Nu.), pegged to and interchangeable with the Indian Rupee.

Read the full guide: Money & Currency in Bhutan

Plan on US$250-400+ per person per day all-inclusive - the SDF, hotels, meals, guide, and transport.

Read the full guide: What a Bhutan Trip Costs

Entirely up to you. Tipping is not traditional in Bhutan but has become customary in tourism - there is no set rate and no expected amount, and what you give is yours to judge by the service.

Read the full guide: Money & Currency in Bhutan

Guide, transport, accommodation, all meals, and entry fees; international flights, insurance, and tips are extra.

Read the full guide: How to Book a Tour to Bhutan

Covered shoulders and knees, shoes off inside temples, hats off in courtyards.

Read the full guide: Dos & Don'ts in Bhutan

One of the safest destinations anywhere - crime affecting visitors is rare. Keep your distance from stray dogs and don't feed wildlife.

Read the full guide: Health & Safety in Bhutan

Ask before photographing people; interiors of temples are usually off-limits, exteriors are fine. Drones are not permitted for tourists without an advance permit.

Read the full guide: Dos & Don'ts in Bhutan

Built on rice, chilies, and cheese - the national dish Ema Datshi is genuinely spicy, and milder options are everywhere.

Read the full guide: Bhutanese Food & Cuisine

Fly into Paro or Gelephu - Bhutan's two international airports - with Drukair or Bhutan Airlines from cities including Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Singapore, and Dubai, or enter overland from India.

Read the full guide: How to Get to Bhutan

No direct flights exist - connect through Delhi, Bangkok, Singapore, Dubai, or Kathmandu.

Read the full guide: How to Get to Bhutan

Mountain roads make journeys slow: Paro-Thimphu is 1.5 hours, Thimphu-Punakha 3 hours, Punakha-Bumthang a full day.

Read the full guide: Typical Bhutan Itineraries

Yes - hotel WiFi is standard and 4G covers the towns; local SIMs are sold at Paro Airport.

Read the full guide: Internet, SIM Cards & WiFi

Moderate: 5-6 hours round trip with 900m of climbing - most reasonably fit visitors complete it.

Read the full guide: Tiger's Nest Hike Guide

Paro Tshechu (spring), Thimphu Tshechu (autumn), and dozens more - dates follow the lunar calendar and shift each year.

Read the full guide: Bhutan Festival Calendar

Yes - everything from the 5-day Druk Path to the legendary 25-day Snowman Trek, fully supported with guides and camps.

Read the full guide: Bhutan Trekking Guide

Very - it's safe, welcoming, and easy to customize with shorter drives and family-friendly hotels.

Read the full guide: Bhutan with Kids