Travel Information
Visa: Entry & Documentation
Prior to your journey, securing a visa is essential for all travelers except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, who can obtain a permit upon arrival with a valid passport (Indian nationals may also use their Voter ID card). The process is refreshingly straightforward. Instead of mailing your passport, simply provide us with a scanned copy of the photo page, valid for at least six months. We handle the application, and once approved, you’ll receive a Visa Clearance Letter via email. The actual visa is then stamped into your passport upon your arrival in Bhutan.
Accommodation: Your Home in the Himalayas
Bhutan offers a diverse array of places to stay, governed by a policy that ensures tourists are hosted in certified three-star accommodations or above. Choices range from hotels that masterfully blend traditional Bhutanese architecture with modern comforts to internationally renowned luxury resorts (which require a supplemental fee). For a more intimate experience, consider eco-lodges or heritage farmstays for a genuine peek into local life. Note that facilities become more basic in the less-traveled east. On treks, you’ll camp in fully-supplied, weatherproof tents—this is true wilderness trekking without the tea houses found in neighboring countries.
Food: A Taste of the Dragon Kingdom
Bhutanese cuisine is a delightful discovery. Meals are typically built around red or white rice, accompanied by dishes of meat and vegetables. Be sure to ask your guide to help you try the national dish, Ema Datshi (chilies and cheese), as it’s not always served to tourists. Other must-try specialties include momos (dumplings) and various stews. Beyond local flavors, Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisines are widely available. Even on trek, you’ll be amazed by the variety and quality of meals prepared by our skilled trekking chefs.
Transport: Navigating the Mountain Roads
To ensure your comfort on Bhutan’s winding roads, we use modern, well-maintained vehicles from Japanese and Korean manufacturers. Depending on your group size, you’ll travel in a 4WD SUV (1-2 people), a comfortable van (3-7 people), or a spacious coaster bus (8+ people). For those looking to minimize road time, consider our domestic flight network. Drukair offers services to central, eastern, and southern Bhutan, providing a breathtaking aerial perspective of the Himalayas.
Network: Staying Connected
Mobile network coverage is reliable in all major towns, though it can be intermittent on mountain roads and trekking routes. International roaming is available with some providers, or you can easily purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Wi-Fi is standard in all our partner hotels, typically free of charge in rooms and lobbies, though a few may levy a small fee.
Weather: Packing for the Elements
Dressing in layers is key. The months from October to March are cold, especially at night, requiring warm clothing. The period from April to September is warmer but brings the monsoon rains (June-August), making waterproof gear essential. When visiting sacred sites like Dzongs and temples, a respectful dress code is required: long pants, full-sleeve shirts, and skirts below the knee. Hats and shoes must be removed before entering.
Cultural Conduct & Customs
A simple greeting of “Kuzuzangpo” (hello) will be warmly received. When visiting monasteries, remember that photography is prohibited inside the sacred halls. Always ask for permission before taking a portrait of a local person. A fundamental rule to remember is to always walk clockwise around chortens, prayer flags, and temples. This shows respect for local spiritual customs.
Currency & Practical Spending
The local currency is the Ngultrum (Nu.), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR notes except ₹1000 are accepted). While ATMs are available in towns, they can be unreliable for foreign cards. We recommend bringing some USD in cash to exchange upon arrival. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and stores, often with a 3-5% surcharge. Remember to use or exchange any leftover Ngultrum before departing, as it cannot be used outside Bhutan.
Health & Wellbeing
No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry, but ensure your routine boosters (tetanus, diphtheria, polio) are up to date. To avoid stomach issues, drink bottled or boiled water and eat cooked and peeled foods. Bhutan’s healthcare system is excellent and free for all, including tourists. While most tourist areas are below 3,000m, be aware of the signs of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, dizziness) if trekking higher—the best remedy is to descend.
Dzongkha - National Language
Dzongkha is Bhutan’s national language, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas and used in schools. Most guides and hotel staff are fluent in English, ensuring smooth communication. Learning basic phrases like “Kuzuzangpo” (hello) and “Kadrinche” (thank you) will be warmly appreciated by locals and enrich your cultural experience.
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