Travel Info

1GETTING INTO BHUTAN
The Kingdom of Bhutan remained largely isolated from the rest of the world until the early 1960s. Entering the country was a challenge, as it was only accessible on foot through two main entry points—one in the North and another in the South. The Northern route, via Tibet, involved crossing high mountain passes that were impassable during winter. The Southern route passed through the plains of Assam and West Bengal, but dense jungles made travel difficult.

However, with carefully planned economic development, Bhutan has become much more accessible. A network of roads now traverses the country, connecting it to neighboring regions, and there is one international airport along with several domestic airports.
2Travel by Land
Today, the main roads entering Bhutan are through Phuentsholing in the southwest, linking the country with the Indian plains of West Bengal, as well as through Gelephu in the central region and Samdrup Jongkhar in the east, both of which connect to the Indian state of Assam. These are the only land border crossings open to tourists.

• Phuentsholing: This southwestern town is about 170 km east of the Indian airport in Bagdogra. From Phuentsholing, travelers embark on a scenic six-hour drive covering 170 km to reach Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital.

• Gelephu: Situated in south-central Bhutan, Gelephu serves as another entry point. The journey from Gelephu to Thimphu spans approximately 250 km, traversing sub-tropical landscapes before ascending into alpine zones. This route crosses three districts and takes about ten hours.

• Samdrup Jongkhar: Located in southeastern Bhutan, this border town connects to Assam’s Darranga district. It is about 150 km from Guwahati, the capital of Assam, with a travel time of around three hours. From Samdrup Jongkhar, travelers journey northward through Trashigang, and then along Bhutan’s lateral road through Mongar, Bumthang, Trongsa, and Wangdue Phodrang before reaching Thimphu. This route covers approximately 700 km and requires a minimum of three days to complete.

3Travel by Air
Bhutan is accessible by air from several international destinations, including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore, and Mumbai.

Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international airport, is situated at an elevation of 2,225 meters (7,300 feet) and is surrounded by towering mountains that rise up to 4,876 meters (16,000 feet). At present, two airlines operate flights to Bhutan—Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Additionally, Bhutan has domestic airports in Yonphula (eastern Bhutan), Bumthang (central Bhutan), and Gelephu (south-central Bhutan).

Flying into Paro International Airport is a thrilling experience. The descent into the Paro Valley brings aircraft close to the mountain peaks, making it one of the most scenic flights in the world. The flight between Paro and Kathmandu is particularly breathtaking, offering spectacular views of four of the world’s five highest mountains—Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kangchenjunga—on clear days. This unforgettable aerial journey showcases Bhutan’s majestic Himalayan landscape at its finest.

4BEST TIME TO VISIT
Bhutan’s Seasons
Bhutan experiences four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm. As a year-round destination, visitors can choose their preferred travel period based on seasonal highlights.

1. Spring (March, April & May) Spring in Bhutan is a paradise for nature lovers and botanists alike. As winter recedes, the landscape bursts into life with a stunning display of blooming flowers. Vibrant rhododendrons, wild azaleas, and delicate edelweiss blanket the meadows, creating a breathtakingly picturesque setting. The fresh greenery and mild temperatures make this season an ideal time for trekking and sightseeing.

2. Summer (June, July & August) Summer in Bhutan is a season of abundance, with lush valleys and verdant forests in full bloom. The riversides are adorned with sweeping weeping willows, while pine cones glisten under the sun, heavy with resin, ready to fall. The monsoon rains, though sporadic, enhance the country's natural beauty, making it an excellent time for those who appreciate vibrant landscapes and fewer crowds.

3. Autumn (September, October & November) Autumn is one of the most visually stunning seasons in Bhutan. The entire landscape is bathed in golden hues as farmers harvest their crops against the backdrop of crisp blue skies. The cool, pleasant weather, combined with clear mountain views, makes autumn a favored season for visitors. It is also a time of grand festivals, offering a rich cultural experience.

4. Winter (December, January & February) Winter in Bhutan is serene and magical. While the days are bright and sunny, the evenings can be chilly. Soft, floating clouds drape over mountain peaks, creating an ethereal landscape. The season offers unparalleled visibility of the snow-covered Himalayan ranges, making it an ideal time for photographers and mountain enthusiasts. Despite the cold, Bhutan’s lower valleys remain pleasant, providing a tranquil escape for travelers.

Regardless of the season, Bhutan offers an extraordinary experience, each time of year bringing its own distinct allure to the Kingdom’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
5TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
All tourists (excluding Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian passport holders) who wish to travel to Bhutan require a visa and must book their holiday through a Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners. The tour operator will take care of Visa arrangements for visitors. A listing of licensed Bhutanese tour operators can be found at the link below.

In keeping with the Tourism Council of Bhutan’s policy of “High Value. Low Impact” tourism a Minimum Daily Package is required for tourists. Visa or Entry Permit Visa and Entry Requirements With the exception of visitors from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, all other travelers to Bhutan require a visa.

Visa Exemptions for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian Nationals Citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives can obtain a permit upon arrival at the port of entry. To do so, they must present a valid passport with at least six months of validity. Indian nationals also have the option to use their Voter Identity Card (VIC) as an alternative travel document.

Visa Process for Other International Visitors All other tourists must obtain visa clearance before traveling to Bhutan. The visa application is processed online through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an authorized foreign travel agent.

To initiate the visa application process, travelers are required to submit a scanned copy of the photo page of their passport to their tour operator. The visa is then processed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) upon receiving full payment for the holiday package, which includes a non-refundable visa fee of USD $40.

Once the payment is successfully transferred and received in the TCB bank account, the visa clearance is issued within 72 working hours.

Arrival Procedures Upon arrival in Bhutan, travelers must present their visa clearance letter at the port of entry. The immigration authorities will then stamp the visa into their passport, granting them entry into the country.

This streamlined visa process ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience for visitors traveling to Bhutan.

Online Regional Permit System
To enhance convenience and streamline entry procedures for tourists from Bangladesh, India, and the Maldives, the Department of Immigration, under the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB), has introduced the Online Regional Permit System.

This system allows for the online processing of permits through registered Bhutanese tour operators and TCB-certified hotels. It serves as an optional channel for regional tourists to obtain their permits in advance, ensuring a smoother entry process.

The Online Regional Permit System is applicable for travelers entering Bhutan through Paro and Phuentsholing. Visitors utilizing this facility will receive their permit clearances and route permits ahead of arrival, similar to international tourists, allowing for a hassle-free travel experience.
6SDF (REGIONAL TOURIST)
The FAQ is developed to help regional tourist from Bangladesh, India and Maldives to help plan their trip to Bhutan.
7TRAVEL TIPS
Travel Guide to Bhutan
This guide provides essential information to help you plan your journey to Bhutan. While not exhaustive, it covers key aspects of travel, safety, and convenience for visitors.

Travel & Medical Insurance
The Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan (RICB) offers a dedicated travel and medical insurance plan for visitors. Travel insurance can be arranged through your Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner. For more details, visit www.ricb.com.bt.

Currency & Banking Bhutan's official currency is the Ngultrum (Nu.), which is on par with the Indian Rupee. The Indian Rupee is widely accepted in Bhutan.
Payment Options: • Point of Sale (POS) services are available nationwide, allowing payments via credit card at most hotels and handicraft stores.
• Traveler’s cheques can be exchanged for local currency at banks.
Banking Services: • Bhutan has a well-developed banking system with institutions such as Bank of Bhutan Limited, Bhutan National Bank, Druk PNB, and Tashi Bank.
• Many banks offer internet banking services for added convenience.

Electricity & Power Supply
Bhutan’s electricity supply operates on 220/240 volts, with round-hole two-pin and three-pin power outlets. Visitors are advised to bring universal adapters if necessary. Most hotels offer multi-plug sockets.
Bhutan remains a carbon-neutral destination, utilizing clean, renewable hydropower energy.
Photography Guidelines
Bhutan offers incredible opportunities for photography, especially during outdoor sightseeing. However, please note:
• Always check with your guide before taking photographs inside Dzongs, temples, monasteries, and religious institutions, as some areas prohibit photography or filming.
• You are free to capture Bhutan’s landscapes, mountain ranges, rural life, flora and fauna, traditional architecture, and exteriors of Dzongs and Chortens.

Shopping in Bhutan
Popular Bhutanese handicrafts and souvenirs include:
• Handwoven textiles of raw silk or silk
• Carved masks of various animals
• Woven baskets made from cane and bamboo
• Wooden bowls known as Dapas
• Handmade paper products
• Exquisite Buddhist thangkha paintings
• Bhutan’s unique postage stamps

These items can be found in handicraft shops across Thimphu and other major towns. Note: The buying and selling of antiques is strictly prohibited in Bhutan.
Gratuities
Tipping is not mandatory but is left to the discretion of visitors. If you choose to tip guides or drivers, it is recommended to place the gratuity in an envelope as a gesture of appreciation.

Communication & Connectivity
Bhutan has a well-developed telecommunications network.
• Most hotels and cafés provide Wi-Fi access.
• The country has comprehensive mobile coverage, with global roaming services available.
Clothing & Dress Code
Given Bhutan's diverse altitudes, weather conditions can be unpredictable. Visitors are advised to dress in layers and be prepared for varying temperatures.

Dress Code for Religious & Cultural Sites:
• Visitors must dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting monasteries, Dzongs, and religious institutions.
• Long pants and long-sleeved tops should be worn.
• Hats and caps must be removed when entering religious and administrative buildings, or when encountering the national flag being raised.
Measurement System & Time Zone
• Bhutan follows the metric system (grams, kilograms, meters, liters, etc.)
• The standard time is GMT +6 hours.
Health & Safety Precautions
Before traveling to Bhutan, consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and medications. The minimum recommended vaccinations include:
• Tetanus
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A

General Precautions:
• Bhutan is one of the safest countries, but visitors should still exercise caution.
• Keep valuables such as passports, cameras, wallets, and purses secure at all times.
• Avoid drinking tap water that has not been boiled. Bottled and treated water is readily available.
Tobacco & Customs Regulations
Bhutan has strict regulations on tobacco and controlled substances.
• Visitors must comply with customs inspections and should not carry tobacco products beyond the legal limit.
• For further information, refer to the Tobacco Control Act.
Public Holidays & Festivals
Bhutan observes national and regional public holidays. Each Dzongkhag (district) has its own local holidays, especially during annual Tshechus (religious festivals).
For a complete list of holidays, contact your service provider or travel agent.
8Cancellation Policy
Tour Program Cancellation
• More than 60 days before the tour start date: Free cancellation.
• 30 to 59 days before the tour start date: 20% of the total rate.
• 14 to 29 days before the tour start date: 30% of the total rate.
• Less than 7 days or cancellation without prior notice: 50% of the total rate.
• After arrival in Bhutan: 100% of the total rate.

Note: If a tour is canceled within one month of the start date, a cancellation charge will apply, as hotels and other bookings made in your name will be charged to the company.

Weather-Related Delays
There are no cancellation charges for delays in arrival or departure due to weather conditions affecting flights or roadblocks. However, guests must bear the costs of food, accommodation, transportation, and other services required during such delays.
Druk Air Flight Ticket Cancellation & Refund Policy
• More than 50 days before arrival in Bhutan: 100% refund.
• 30 to 49 days before arrival in Bhutan: 50% refund.
• Less than 30 days before arrival in Bhutan: No refund.
• Passengers who fail to show up for a flight: No refund.
• Change of Name Fee: $25 per ticket.

Rescheduling: Permitted, but once rescheduled, tickets become non-refundable and non-reroutable.
Administration Fee: $25 per ticket for all cancellations.
For any cancellations or modifications, please contact your tour operator as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary charges.