Travel Information

It's Time to Start Your Adventures

Visa and Permit

  1. Visa Requirements:
    • Tourists (except for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian citizens) need to apply for a visa in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
    • The visa is processed after paying the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is USD 200 per person per night (as of now).
    • Indian citizens do not require a visa but need an Entry Permit issued at the border.
  2. Permits:
    • A permit is required to visit places beyond Thimphu and Paro, such as Punakha, Bumthang, or Phobjikha. These are issued by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) or relevant authorities.
    • For trekking or visiting restricted areas, you may need special permits.
 
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Timeless in Every Season

  1. Spring (March to May):
    • A vibrant season with blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery. Ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
    • Major festivals: Paro Tsechu.
  2. Autumn (September to November):
    • Clear skies, stunning mountain views, and pleasant weather. Best for cultural festivals and photography.
    • Major festivals: Thimphu Tsechu, Black-necked Crane Festival.
  3. Winter (December to February):
    • Cold but serene, with fewer tourists and snow in higher regions. Ideal for spotting black-necked cranes in Phobjikha.
  4. Summer (June to August):
    • Monsoon season, lush landscapes, and fewer crowds. Great for budget travelers, though roads might be slippery.

Travel Tips

  1. Currency:
    • The currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), but Indian Rupees (₹) are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas, so carry cash.
  2. Guides:
    • It’s mandatory for most international tourists to be accompanied by a licensed guide.
  3. Packing Essentials:
    • Comfortable walking shoes, layers for fluctuating weather, a rain jacket (especially in summer), and sunscreen.
  4. Connectivity:
    • Local SIM cards (TashiCell or Bhutan Telecom) are affordable and provide good coverage.
  5. Health Precautions:
    • The altitude may cause mild altitude sickness, so acclimatize slowly.

Rules & Etiquette

  1. Cultural Sensitivity:
    • Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries, dzongs, and other religious sites.
    • Avoid touching religious artifacts or climbing onto sacred structures.
  2. Photography:
    • Ask for permission before photographing people, especially monks. Photography is restricted inside most monasteries.
  3. Environment:
    • Bhutan is eco-conscious, so avoid littering. The use of plastic bags is banned.
  4. Behavior:
    • Respect local customs, such as removing shoes before entering temples or homes.
    • Avoid public displays of affection, as Bhutanese culture is conservative.
  5. Smoking:
    • Smoking in public is prohibited, and the sale of tobacco is heavily restricted. Bring your own if you smoke, but declare it at customs.
  6. Tipping:
    • Not mandatory but appreciated for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
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