FAQs
Yes, all international tourists (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) require a visa to enter Bhutan. Visas are processed by licensed Bhutanese tour operators or their international partners after your trip is booked.
The SDF is a daily fee levied by the Bhutanese government to support tourism sustainability. As of 2025:
USD 100 per person per night for most international tourists.
INR 1,200 per person per night for Indian nationals.
Bhutan has one international airport in Paro (PBH). You can fly with:
Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines from cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore, and Dhaka.
Alternatively, Indian tourists can enter by road through Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar.
The best months are:
Spring (March–May) – Ideal for trekking and rhododendron blooms.
Autumn (September–November) – Clear skies and major festivals like Thimphu Tshechu.
Winter and monsoon seasons are less popular but offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
Yes, for international tourists. All trips must be booked through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or their partner abroad. Independent travel is not allowed.
Popular itineraries range from 5 to 10 days, depending on interests. A 7-day trip can cover Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and possibly Bumthang.
Bhutan offers a range of accommodation:
Standard 3-star hotels (included in most tour packages)
Luxury hotels (Aman, COMO, Six Senses, etc.)
Homestays and farm stays for cultural immersion
Yes, Bhutan offers treks for all levels. Popular ones include:
Druk Path Trek (moderate, 5–6 days)
Jomolhari Trek (challenging, high altitude)
All treks are guided and supported with cooks, porters, and camping equipment.
Bhutanese food is generally spicy, with red rice, chilies, and cheese as staples. Try:
Ema Datshi (chilies and cheese)
Phaksha Paa (pork with radish/chilies)
Momos (dumplings)
Layers for changing temperatures
Comfortable walking/trekking shoes
Warm jacket (especially Oct–March)
Modest clothing (for temple visits)
Rain gear (if visiting during summer)
Yes. You can photograph landscapes, dzongs, and monasteries from the outside. Photography inside temples and shrines is not allowed unless specifically permitted.
Ngultrum (BTN) is the local currency.
Indian Rupee (INR) is widely accepted (except ₹2,000 notes).
Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and shops, but cash is preferable in rural areas.
Yes, Bhutan is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime is extremely low. Still, travelers should follow basic safety and health precautions.
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for all international travelers visiting Bhutan. It should cover emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and trip cancellation.
Yes. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes. You can also buy a local SIM card (TashiCell or B-Mobile) for mobile data.