General Information
All You Need to Know
Visiting Bhutan is a unique experience, and there are a few essential things every traveller should know before arriving:
-
Entry & Visa
- All foreign nationals (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) need a visa, which must be arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
- Your tour operator handles the visa application once your trip is confirmed.
-
Tourism Tax (Sustainable Development Fee)
- Bhutan charges a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person, per night for all foreign tourists.
- For Indian nationals, the SDF is INR 1,200 per person, per night.
- This fee goes directly into funding Bhutan’s free healthcare, education, and conservation efforts.
-
Guided Travel
- While independent travel is permitted, visitors are encouraged to use the services of Bhutanese certified service providers, such as tour operators and hotels (bhutan.travel).
-
Currency & Payments
- The local currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), pegged to the Indian Rupee (which is also accepted, except INR 500/2000 notes).
- Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and shops in Thimphu and Paro but may not work in rural areas. Carry some cash.
-
Climate & Clothing
- Bhutan’s climate varies by region and altitude. Winters (Nov–Feb) can be very cold in central and northern valleys, while summers are warm and wet due to monsoons.
- Dress modestly when visiting monasteries and dzongs: no hats, shorts, or sleeveless tops.
-
Etiquette & Culture
- Always walk clockwise around stupas and chortens.
- Remove shoes before entering temples and religious sites.
- Photography is restricted in certain sacred areas—ask your guide before taking photos.
-
Connectivity
- Internet is widely available in cities and hotels, though rural areas have patchy service.
- Local SIM cards can be purchased at Paro airport or in Thimphu.
-
Health & Safety
- Stick to bottled or boiled water.
- Bhutan is generally safe, with very low crime rates.
- * If travelling to higher altitudes, take precautions against altitude sickness.