Bhutan Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Bhutan: From the majestic Paro Valley to the vibrant Paro Tshechu festival

National Flag of Bhutan

The 15 Most Searched Questions About Bhutan

The capital of Bhutan is Thimphu, a city blending modernity with Bhutanese traditions.

Yes, all visitors except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives require a visa, arranged through a licensed tour operator. More details in our Documents tab.

Bhutan uses the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), but Indian Rupees are also widely accepted. More details in our Currency tab.

Bhutan is very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. More details in our Safety tab.

Dzongkha is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Bhutan is known for its Gross National Happiness philosophy, Himalayan landscapes, and monasteries like Paro Taktsang. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal, with clear skies and festivals like Paro Tshechu.

Bhutan has a daily tariff of $200-$250 per person, covering accommodation, meals, and guides, ensuring sustainable tourism.

Tap water is not recommended—use bottled water, which costs $0.50-$1 per liter.

Must-visits include Paro Taktsang, Punakha Dzong, and the Haa Valley. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

Bhutan’s climate varies: warm summers (15-30°C), cold winters (-5 to 15°C), and a monsoon season (June-August).

Yes, Paro Tshechu (March/April) and Thimphu Tshechu (September/October) are major festivals featuring masked dances.

Popular souvenirs include handmade textiles, prayer flags, and thangka paintings.

Tourists must travel with a licensed guide and driver, included in the daily tariff. Taxis in Thimphu cost $3-$5 for short trips.

Try ema datshi, jasha maroo, and momos. More details in our Local Cuisine tab.

About Bhutan

Bhutan, nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, spans 38,394 square kilometers and is known for its “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy. Thimphu, the capital, is home to about 115,000 people, part of Bhutan’s total population of 770,000 (2023 estimate), predominantly ethnic Bhutanese (Ngalop and Sharchop) with Nepali minorities. Dzongkha is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. All visitors except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives require a visa, arranged through a licensed tour operator, costing $40 plus a $200-$250 daily tariff that covers accommodation, meals, and guides. In 2023, Bhutan welcomed around 100,000 tourists, drawn by its pristine landscapes, Buddhist heritage, and festivals like Paro Tshechu. The economy relies on hydropower, agriculture, and tourism, with rice, dairy, and weaving as key sectors. Bhutan’s climate varies by altitude: warm summers (15-30°C), cold winters (-5 to 15°C), and a monsoon season (June-August). The daily tariff ensures sustainable tourism, but budget travelers can enjoy local experiences—a meal costs $5-$10, and a coffee $2-$4. Public transport is limited; tourists travel with a guide and driver, though taxis in Thimphu cost $3-$5. Cultural events include Paro Tshechu (March/April) and Thimphu Tshechu (September/October), featuring masked dances and rituals. Bhutan’s history includes unification under the Drukpa lineage in the 17th century and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in 2008, reflected in sites like Punakha Dzong and Paro Taktsang. Natural wonders include the Phobjikha Valley, a winter habitat for black-necked cranes. With its focus on Gross National Happiness, serene monasteries, and untouched nature, Bhutan offers a unique and mindful travel experience.

Visa & Passport for Bhutan: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date from Bhutan and have at least one blank page for stamps. Children need their own passports—they cannot travel on a parent’s passport.
  • Visa Requirements: All visitors except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives require a visa, which must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or international partner before arrival. The visa fee is $40, and a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $200 per day (or $100 for Indian nationals) applies, covering accommodation, meals, transport, and a guide. The visa is issued upon approval by the Department of Immigration, and a copy is sent to your email. Overstaying incurs fines of $50 per day and potential entry bans. Extensions can be requested through your tour operator for an additional $40, subject to approval.
  • Other Requirements: Proof of travel insurance covering medical emergencies is mandatory. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from an affected country. COVID-19 vaccination certificates may be required depending on current regulations.

Driving in Bhutan: Road Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: Tourists cannot drive in Bhutan; travel must be with a licensed guide and driver, included in the daily tariff. If you have a special permit (rarely granted), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside your national license.
  • Road Rules: Driving is on the left side of the road. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 70 km/h on highways. Seat belts are mandatory, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.0%—violations result in fines starting at 5,000 BTN ($60).
  • Road Conditions: Roads are narrow and winding, especially in mountainous areas—landslides are common during the monsoon (June-August).
  • Transport: Your tour package includes a private vehicle with a driver. Taxis in Thimphu cost $3-$5 for short trips.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for police or medical emergencies.

Currency in Bhutan: Using the Ngultrum for Your Trip

  • Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN): The official currency, pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Banknotes come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 BTN; coins are 0.25, 0.50, and 1 BTN. Indian Rupees are also widely accepted.
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or authorized counters in Thimphu or Paro—rates are better than at hotels. ATMs are available in major towns but may have withdrawal limits of 10,000 BTN ($120).
  • Payment Methods: The daily tariff covers most expenses, but carry cash for small purchases like souvenirs—small denominations (10-100 BTN) are useful. Cards are accepted at some hotels in Thimphu; mobile payments are not common.
  • Costs: A local meal costs $5-$10, a coffee $2-$4, and a souvenir like a prayer flag costs $5-$15.

Legal Guide for Bhutan: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Smoking and tobacco products are banned—fines start at 10,000 BTN ($120). Drug laws are strict; possession can lead to up to 5 years in prison.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Dress modestly at religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. More details in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography inside monasteries or dzongs requires permission—fines for violations start at 2,000 BTN ($24). Drones are prohibited without a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority.
  • Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Littering incurs fines of 500 BTN ($6).
  • Customs Rules: You can bring up to 1 liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes duty-free, but tobacco imports are banned. Declare cash over $10,000 or its equivalent in BTN.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for police or medical emergencies.

Travel Safety in Bhutan: Staying Safe During Your Trip

  • Crime: Bhutan has very low crime rates; petty theft is rare, even in Thimphu.
  • Road Safety: Mountain roads are narrow—your driver will be experienced. Avoid hiking alone in remote areas.
  • Health Risks: Tap water is not safe to drink—use bottled water. Altitude sickness is a risk above 2,500 meters (e.g., Dochula Pass); acclimate gradually.
  • Natural Hazards: Landslides can occur during the monsoon (June-August). Earthquakes are a risk due to the Himalayan location—follow local guidance.
  • Border Areas: Borders with India and China are heavily guarded and generally safe—stick to tourist routes.
  • Medical Facilities: The Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu handles emergencies. Pharmacies are available in major towns—look for the “Pharmacy” sign.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. The US Embassy in New Delhi (covering Bhutan) can be reached at +91 11 2419 8000.

Culture & Etiquette in Bhutan: What to Know

  • Greetings: A slight bow with “Kuzuzangpo la” (Hello) is polite. Bhutanese are warm and may offer tea—accepting shows respect.
  • Dining Customs: Remove shoes before entering a home or temple. Don’t point your feet at people or sacred objects.
  • Community Respect: Dress modestly—wear long pants or skirts at religious sites. Always walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
  • Festivals: Paro Tshechu (March/April) and Thimphu Tshechu (September/October) feature masked dances and rituals—plan your visit accordingly.
  • Language Tips: In tourist areas, you might hear “Kadrinche” (Thank you). Learning “Kuzuzangpo la” (Hello) is appreciated.
  • Social Practices: Tipping is not expected, as the daily tariff covers services, but small tips ($5-$10) for exceptional service are appreciated.

Local Cuisine in Bhutan: Dishes & Drinks to Try

  • Ema Datshi: A spicy stew made with chilies and cheese, Bhutan’s national dish—$5-$8 per portion.
  • Jasha Maroo: A chicken stew with garlic, ginger, and chilies—$6-$10 per portion.
  • Momos: Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables—$4-$7 per portion.
  • Suja: Bhutanese butter tea, salty and rich—$1-$2 per cup.
  • Red Rice: A nutty-flavored rice often served with main dishes—$2-$4 per serving.
  • Where to Eat: In Thimphu, try ema datshi at Ama Restaurant in the city center. In Paro, many guesthouses serve authentic jasha maroo. Both are highlighted in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Bhutan: Must-Visit Places

  • Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery): A sacred monastery perched at 3,120 meters above Paro Valley. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Punakha Dzong: A stunning fortress at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Phobjikha Valley: A glacial valley and winter home to black-necked cranes. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Dochula Pass: A mountain pass with 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Haa Valley: A serene valley with traditional villages and ancient temples. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Buddha Dordenma Statue (Thimphu): A 51-meter tall statue overlooking Thimphu Valley. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Where to Eat: In Thimphu, Ama Restaurant in the city center serves authentic ema datshi. In Paro, many guesthouses offer traditional jasha maroo.

Flights to Bhutan: Travel Options

Paro International Airport (PBH) is Bhutan’s only international airport, with flights from Bangkok, Delhi, and Kathmandu via Drukair or Bhutan Airlines. A taxi from PBH to Paro town costs $5-$10 and takes 15 minutes; to Thimphu, it’s $30-$40 and takes 1 hour.

Create Your Packing List for Bhutan

Travel Tips for Bhutan

  • Connectivity: SIM cards from B-Mobile or TashiCell offer 5-10 GB for $5-$10, available at Paro Airport. Wi-Fi is available in hotels but can be slow.
  • Health Prep: No specific vaccinations are required, but hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are recommended. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is mandatory.
  • Weather Prep: Pack layers for varying altitudes—light clothing for valleys, warm layers for higher passes like Dochula. Good hiking shoes are essential for treks.
  • Navigation: Your guide and driver handle navigation. For short trips in Thimphu, use taxis ($3-$5).
  • Peak Season: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are busy due to festivals—book tours early, as Bhutan limits tourist numbers.