Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, all visitors to Bhutan, except for nationals of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, must obtain a visa. The visa can be obtained through an authorized Bhutanese tour operator, who will apply for the visa on your behalf.
The only international airport in Bhutan is located in Paro, and flights to Paro are available from several cities in Asia, including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, and Singapore. Drukair, Bhutan’s national airline, is the only carrier that operates flights to and from Paro.
If you are entering Bhutan from India, there are three border crossings that are open to foreign visitors: Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar. Phuentsholing is the most commonly used entry point and is located in the south of Bhutan, near the Indian state of West Bengal. From Phuentsholing, it is about a 6-hour drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
It is important to note that road travel in Bhutan can be challenging due to narrow and winding mountain roads, and it is recommended to hire a reputable driver and vehicle through your tour operator to ensure safety and comfort during your journey.
The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring and autumn months (March, April, May, September, October, and November), when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. However, these are also the busiest months, and hotels and tour operators may be booked out well in advance. The summer months (June, July, and August) can be rainy, and the winter months (December, January, and February) can be cold, particularly in the higher altitudes.
Depending on the season, you should pack warm clothing, particularly for higher elevations, as well as comfortable walking shoes, a raincoat, and sunscreen.
Bhutan is a deeply traditional country with a strong emphasis on Buddhist culture and values. Visitors are expected to respect local customs and dress modestly, particularly when visiting temples and other religious sites. It is also customary to remove your shoes before entering homes and religious buildings.
Bhutanese cuisine is known for its spiciness and use of local ingredients such as chilli peppers, cheese, and buckwheat. Rice is a staple in Bhutanese cuisine, and is often accompanied by a variety of side dishes and stews.
One of the most popular Bhutanese dishes is “Ema Datse”, a spicy stew made with cheese and chili peppers, which is considered the national dish of Bhutan. Another popular dish is phaksha paa, a spicy pork stew cooked with radishes and other vegetables. Momos ( Dumplings), which are steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, are also a popular snack or meal option in Bhutan.
Vegetarian options are also widely available in Bhutanese cuisine, with dishes such as kewa datshi (potatoes cooked in cheese and chili peppers) and ” Shamu Datse ” (mushrooms cooked in cheese and chili peppers) being popular choices.
Bhutan also has a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, including apples, pears, oranges, and cucumbers, which are often used in salads or as side dishes. Dairy products such as butter, cheese, and yogurt are also widely used in Bhutanese cuisine.
The currency in Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN), but the Indian Rupee (INR) is also widely accepted in Bhutan. It is advisable to bring some cash with you, as credit cards may not be accepted in all places.
Bhutan is generally considered a safe country for travelers. The country has a low crime rate, and violent crime is rare. However, like in any other destination, travelers should exercise normal precautions, especially when it comes to personal belongings and valuables. It is recommended that travelers keep their passports, money, and other important documents in a safe place at all times.
The electrical voltage in Bhutan is 220-240 volts, with a frequency of 50 Hz. The electrical outlets in Bhutan are typically the Type D, M, and G plugs, so travelers may need to bring a travel adapter.
Bhutan is on Bhutan Time (BTT), which is 6 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+6). Bhutan does not observe daylight saving time.
To enter Bhutan, all visitors are required to have a full, valid travel insurance policy.
For visitors from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, the travel insurance policy can be purchased at their port of entry. However, for all other visitors, the insurance policy must be in place when they apply for their visa to enter Bhutan.
Therefore, it is important for visitors to ensure that they have obtained the required travel insurance policy before their trip to Bhutan
Foreign visitors to Bhutan are allowed to bring with them up to one liter of alcoholic spirits, as well as either 200 sticks of cigarettes or 30 cigars. However, it is important to note that duty taxes must be paid for these items at customs upon arrival at Paro International Airport or any other entry points into Bhutan.
It is also important to be aware that Bhutan is the first country in the world to ban the sale of tobacco products. As a result, duty rates for cigarettes are quite high at 200 percent in total, which equates to roughly USD 30 per carton. Therefore, visitors who wish to bring cigarettes or other tobacco products into the country should be prepared to pay these taxes upon arrival.