General Information

1. Where is Bhutan located?

Bhutan is a landlocked country in the eastern Himalayas, bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west.

2. What is Bhutan known for?

Bhutan is best known for her philosophy of Gross National Happiness, which started when the Fourth King said to a western journalist, “Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross Domestic Product”. Bhutan is also known for being the last Buddhist Kingdom and being the first carbon negative country in the world.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Yes, all visitors require a visa. Nationals from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives can obtain a visa on arrival, while other tourists must secure it in advance.

4. What is the official language of Bhutan?

The official language is Dzongkha. However, English is spoken by almost the entire population.

5. What currency is used in Bhutan?

The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN/Nu.) is the official currency, and is pegged in value to the Indian Rupee, which is also accepted.

6. What is the time zone of Bhutan?

Bhutan follows Bhutan Standard Time (BST), which is 6 hours ahead of GMT (UTC+6).

7. What are the main airports in Bhutan?

Paro International Airport is the primary entry point for international visitors.

Travel and Transport

1. How do I get to Bhutan?

Bhutan can be accessed by air through Paro International Airport or overland via Phuentsholing and other border towns from India.

2. Is it mandatory to travel with a tour guide in Bhutan?

Yes, tourists must travel with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, which provides a guide and arranges all logistics.

3. Can I customise my travel itinerary?

Yes, tours can be customised to include trekking, cultural tours, and adventure activities such as rafting and cycling. Be sure to let us know in advance if you have any particular preferences and we will make it happen.

4. Is internal travel included in the tour packages?

All internal travel, including airport transfers, is covered by the tour packages. Domestic flights are the exception and must be covered by the tourist if they request it. However, taking domestic flights is not necessary unless tourists wish to visit more parts of the country but are faced with time constraints.

Accommodation and Services

1. What types of accommodation are available?

Bhutan offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. All accommodations must meet standards set by the Tourism Council of Bhutan, which ensures quality.

2. Are vegetarian and vegan food options available?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Bhutanese cuisine.

3. Is Wi-Fi readily available in Bhutan?

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes, though it can be slow in remote areas.

 Health and Safety

1. Is travel insurance mandatory?

No, travel insurance has recently been made non-mandatory. However, it is advisable to avail it.

2. Are there specific health requirements or vaccinations needed?

There are no mandatory vaccinations, but it is advisable to be up to date on routine vaccines. Consult your healthcare provider for any recommended vaccinations.

3. How safe is Bhutan for tourists?

Bhutan is very safe for tourists, with extremely low crime rates. However, visitors should exercise usual precautions.

4. What if I fall ill while in Bhutan?

Healthcare is completely free for everyone within the borders of Bhutan, even for non-citizens. This includes emergency transportation, consultation, medication and accommodation.

Cultural and Practical Tips

1. What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

The best times are during the spring (March to May) and autumn/fall (September to November) for pleasant weather and festivals. The other months have lower number of visitors and can be cheaper too.

2. Can I use drones in Bhutan?

No, drones are prohibited for tourists without special permits, which are almost impossible to obtain.

3. What are some key cultural norms to follow?

Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Always remove shoes before entering a temple.

Costs and Expenses

1. What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?

The SDF is USD 100 per night for adults and USD 50 for children aged 5-12. It is waived for children under 5. Indian nationals pay 1,200 INR per night.

2. How much does a typical trip to Bhutan cost?

Costs vary based on the tour package:

• Standard Packages: USD 300 per night. (3* accommodation)
• Deluxe Packages: USD 350 per night. (4* accommodation)
• Luxury Packages: Costing depends on hotel charges. (5* accommodation and above)

3. What are the additional costs to consider?

Additional costs include:

• International and domestic airfare.
• Personal expenses (shopping, extra meals).
• Entrance fees to certain sites.
• Optional activities like trekking or cultural shows.

4. Are there ways to reduce travel costs in Bhutan?

Yes, consider travelling during the off-season (December-February, June-August), joining a group tour, and opting for shorter stays.

5. Is there a cancellation policy for tours?

Generally, the earlier you cancel, the better the refund terms.

6. Do I need to pay the full cost upfront?

A deposit is required to secure the booking, with the remaining balance due before travel.