Yes, all international travelers (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) require a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
Your tour operator will apply for your visa on your behalf after you have booked a tour and made the required payment. The visa is typically approved within a few days, and you will receive an electronic visa clearance letter to present upon arrival.
Bhutan charges a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person per night (for most international travelers), which contributes to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism development.
You can fly into Bhutan via Paro International Airport on Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines from cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Singapore, and Kathmandu. Alternatively, you can enter Bhutan by road through India at Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best times to visit Bhutan, offering pleasant weather, clear mountain views, and vibrant festivals.
No, independent travel is not allowed for most international visitors. You must book your trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator who will arrange your itinerary, guide, transport, and accommodations. However, Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals can travel independently but still need to pay the SDF.
The official currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). The Indian Rupee (INR) is also widely accepted in Bhutan.
Yes, major hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas accept credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially in remote areas.
The official language is Dzongkha, but English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Bhutan offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels and resorts. Traditional Bhutanese farmstays and homestays are also available for a more authentic experience.
Yes, Bhutan is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a welcoming, hospitable culture.
It depends on the season. In general, pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, warm jackets for colder months, rain gear for summer, and conservative attire for visiting temples and monasteries.
There are no mandatory vaccinations, but it is recommended to have routine vaccines like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. If you are traveling from a yellow fever-infected area, proof of vaccination may be required.
Bhutanese cuisine is spicy, with Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew) being the national dish. Rice, vegetables, and meat dishes are commonly served. Indian, Chinese, and Western food are also available in hotels and restaurants.
Yes, vegetarian food is widely available. Many Bhutanese dishes are naturally vegetarian, and most hotels and restaurants offer vegetarian options.
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected incidents.
Yes, Bhutan has 3G and 4G networks in major towns and cities. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes, though speeds may be slow in remote areas. You can also buy a local SIM card upon arrival for better connectivity.
Yes, but always ask for permission before photographing people. Photography inside temples and monasteries is generally not allowed.
The most famous festivals (Tshechus) include the Paro Tshechu, Thimphu Tshechu, and Punakha Drubchen. The Black-Necked Crane Festival in Phobjikha Valley is also popular among nature lovers.
Some of Bhutan’s top attractions include:
These FAQs cover essential details to help you plan a smooth and memorable trip to Bhutan. Let us know if you need more information! 😊