Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, all international visitors (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) require a visa. The visa is processed through your licensed Bhutanese tour operator and is included in your tour package. You cannot obtain a visa independently or travel independently in Bhutan.

The SDF is $100 USD per person per night for international tourists (Indian regional tourists pay a reduced fee). This fee supports Bhutan's free healthcare, free education, environmental conservation, and infrastructure development. It's a key part of Bhutan's "High Value, Low Impact" tourism policy.

We recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season (March-May, September-November) or during major festivals. For popular festivals like Paro Tshechu, booking 4-6 months ahead is advisable.

International tourists must book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator and be accompanied by a licensed guide. This ensures quality experiences and supports local employment. Indian nationals can travel independently but still need permits for certain areas.

No specific vaccinations are mandatory, but we recommend being up-to-date on routine vaccines. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended. Consult your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before travel. Malaria prophylaxis is generally not needed for most tourist areas.

The best times are Spring (March-May) with blooming rhododendrons and clear skies, and Autumn (September-November) with crystal-clear mountain views and harvest festivals. Winter (December-February) offers fewer crowds and clear skies but cold temperatures. Summer (June-August) is monsoon season with lush landscapes but occasional rain.

Pack layers regardless of season - temperatures vary between valleys (15-25°C) and mountain passes (below 0°C). Essential items include: warm jacket/fleece, waterproof rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and modest clothing for temple visits (covered shoulders and knees).

Bhutan uses Type D, F, and G power outlets with 230V electricity. We recommend bringing a universal power adapter. Power cuts can occasionally occur, so a power bank for your devices is useful.

Most tourist areas are at moderate altitudes (Paro: 2,200m, Thimphu: 2,350m). However, mountain passes can exceed 3,800m. Symptoms like headache or fatigue may occur. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol initially, and ascend gradually. Consult your doctor about Diamox (acetazolamide) if planning high-altitude treks.

The Bhutanese Ngultrum (Nu. or BTN) is the local currency, pegged to the Indian Rupee (which is also accepted). Major credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and some shops in Thimphu and Paro. ATMs are available in major towns but limited elsewhere.

A typical tour costs $250-400+ per person per day, which includes the $100 SDF, accommodation (3-4 star), all meals, licensed guide, transportation, and monument fees. Luxury options with 5-star hotels cost more. This all-inclusive pricing makes budgeting straightforward.

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Suggested amounts: $8-10 per day for guides, $5-8 per day for drivers, and $2-3 per bag for hotel porters. Tips can be given in USD, Nu, or INR at the end of your trip.

Standard packages include: licensed English-speaking guide, all land transportation, accommodation, three meals daily, monument/museum entry fees, camping equipment (for treks), and permits. Not usually included: international flights, travel insurance, alcoholic beverages, personal expenses, and tips.

Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees. Long pants or skirts and sleeved shirts are required. Remove shoes and hats before entering temples. Photography is usually prohibited inside religious buildings. Your guide will advise on specific protocols.

Bhutan is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. Crime rates are extremely low, and Bhutanese people are known for their hospitality. That said, use common sense with valuables and travel insurance is always recommended.

Always ask permission before photographing people - most Bhutanese are happy to oblige. Photography inside temples is usually prohibited. Exterior shots of dzongs and monasteries are generally fine. During festivals, be respectful and follow your guide's advice.

Bhutanese cuisine features rice, chilies, cheese, and meat. The national dish, Ema Datshi, is chilies cooked with cheese - it's spicy! Hotels offer international cuisine options. Vegetarian options are available. Try momos (dumplings), red rice, and butter tea (suja). Let us know about dietary requirements in advance.

By Air: Fly into Paro International Airport via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangkok, Singapore, Kathmandu, or Dhaka. By Land: Enter through border crossings at Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar from India.

There are no direct flights from the USA or Europe. Common routing options include connecting through Delhi, Bangkok, Singapore, or Kathmandu. We can help arrange the best routing for your trip.

Due to winding mountain roads, travel takes longer than distances suggest. Thimphu to Paro: 1.5 hours (54 km). Thimphu to Punakha: 3 hours (77 km). Paro to Haa: 3 hours (65 km). Punakha to Bumthang: 7-8 hours. All travel is with experienced local drivers.

WiFi is available in most hotels, though speeds vary. Mobile coverage (4G) exists in towns but can be spotty in remote areas. Local SIM cards are available at the airport. Consider downloading offline maps before arriving.

The hike to Tiger's Nest (Paro Taktsang) is moderately challenging: 5-6 hours round trip, 900m elevation gain, mostly uphill with some steep sections. Horses can be hired for the first half. The trail is well-maintained. Start early, take breaks, and stay hydrated. Most reasonably fit people complete it successfully.

Major tshechus (festivals) include: Paro Tshechu (March/April), Thimphu Tshechu (September/October), Punakha Drubchen (February/March), and Jambay Lhakhang Drup (November). Dates follow the lunar calendar and change yearly. Contact us for specific dates and festival tour packages.

Absolutely! Bhutan offers treks from 3-day walks to the legendary 25-day Snowman Trek. Popular options include Druk Path Trek (5 days), Jomolhari Trek (8 days), and Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek (6 days). Best seasons are March-May and September-November. All treks include guides, porters, and camping equipment.

Yes! Bhutan is very family-friendly. The safe environment, fascinating culture, and outdoor activities appeal to all ages. We can customize itineraries with age-appropriate activities, shorter drives, and family-friendly hotels. Many families find it an educational and memorable experience.