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Bhutan Holiday Trips
Preparing for a journey through Bhutan

Bhutan Travel Guide

Bhutan Travel Guide

Everything you need to know to prepare for your Bhutan journey and travel with confidence.

Overview

Everything You Need for Your Bhutan Journey

Planning a trip to Bhutan is easier when you know what to expect. From entry requirements and accommodation to local cuisine, transportation, weather, cultural etiquette, and everyday essentials, this guide brings together the practical information you need for a smooth and rewarding journey.

Whether you’re preparing for your first visit or simply want to understand Bhutan better, you’ll find useful insights to help you travel with confidence, respect local traditions, and make the most of your time in the Kingdom of Happiness.

Travellers arriving on the tarmac at Paro International Airport beside a Drukair aircraft

Travel Entry and Visa Formalities

Citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives can obtain an entry permit upon arrival with a valid passport. Indian citizens may also use a valid Voter Identity Card (EPIC).

Travelers of other nationalities must obtain a Bhutan tourist visa before arrival. If you travel with Bhutan Holiday Trips, we handle the visa application process for you. Simply provide a clear copy of your passport photo page, valid for at least six months from your date of entry.

Once approved, we will send your Visa Approval Letter, which you present to immigration upon arrival.

That's it—we take care of the formalities so you can focus on your journey.

Bhutan Visa & Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) – 2026

Most international travelers require a Bhutan tourist visa and pay a US$40 visa fee. The SDF is:

International Travelers

  • US$100 per adult/night
  • US$50 per child (6–12)/night
  • Under 6: Free

Indian travelers need an entry permit, with an SDF of:

Indian Travelers

  • INR 1,200 per adult/night
  • INR 600 per child (6–12)/night
  • Under 6: Free

Visa fees and SDF are included in our tour packages.

A comfortable stay in Bhutan

Your Stay in Bhutan

From comfortable government-approved hotels and boutique lodges to luxury resorts, Bhutan offers accommodation for different travel styles. We carefully select stays based on your comfort, preferences, and budget.

International visitors are required to stay in government-approved 3-star hotels or higher. For a more luxurious experience, we can arrange properties such as COMO Uma, Zhiwa Ling, Pemako, Amankora, Le Méridien, and Six Senses at an additional cost.

For a more authentic stay, choose a traditional farmhouse, heritage home, or eco-lodge. Trekking journeys include comfortable camping arrangements and essential equipment.

Packing for Bhutan's changing seasons

Bhutan's Weather & What to Pack – Be Ready for Every Season

Bhutan's weather varies with the season and altitude, so packing layers is essential. From October to March, bring warm layers, a down jacket, thermals, gloves, and a hat. From April to September, pack lightweight clothing, a rain jacket, and waterproof footwear, especially during the monsoon season.

Higher elevations can remain cool throughout the year, so a light sweater or jacket is useful. We'll also provide a practical packing list tailored to your season and itinerary, helping you travel comfortably and prepared.

Traditional Bhutanese dress

Dress Code & Cultural Etiquette

Dress comfortably and modestly when traveling in Bhutan, especially in rural areas and around religious sites. When visiting dzongs, temples, and monasteries, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and remove hats or shoes where required.

Respect local customs by greeting people politely, asking before taking photographs, and avoiding photography inside sacred buildings where prohibited. Walk clockwise around stupas, temples, and prayer wheels.

For a cultural experience or special occasion, you can also wear traditional Bhutanese dress—the gho for men and kira for women.

Travel vehicles in Bhutan

Getting Around Bhutan – Travel Comfortably

Travel through Bhutan in safe, comfortable, and well-maintained vehicles, suited to your group size. We provide:

  • 1–2 travelers: 4WD SUVs such as Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Hyundai Santa Fe, or Tucson
  • 3–5 travelers: Hyundai H-1 or Toyota HiAce vans
  • Larger groups: Air-conditioned Toyota Coaster buses

Our vehicles cover airport transfers, sightseeing, cultural excursions, and your journey throughout Bhutan.

For longer distances, domestic flights to Bumthang, Yonphula, and Gelephu are available. Helicopter charters can also be arranged for scenic aerial experiences.

Staying Connected in Bhutan – Seamless Communication

Staying connected in Bhutan is easy, with mobile coverage available in most towns and popular tourist areas. Signal may be limited in remote valleys and trekking regions.

Local SIM cards and eSIMs are available at the airport and in major towns, with affordable data and call packages. Bhutan Holiday Trips can assist with choosing and setting up the best option for your device.

Most hotels also offer Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected with family, friends, and work throughout your journey.

Currency & Payments

Bhutan's official currency is the Ngultrum (Nu.), pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR), which is also widely accepted. Cash is recommended, especially in rural areas and smaller towns.

Foreign currencies such as US dollars can be exchanged at banks, the airport, and authorized exchange counters. Credit and debit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, particularly in Thimphu and Paro, though a small transaction fee may apply.

ATMs are available in major towns, but international card acceptance can vary. Any remaining Ngultrum should be spent or exchanged before leaving Bhutan.

Power Supply & Plug Type

Bhutan uses 230V electricity at 50Hz. Power outlets commonly support three-round-pin, two-round-pin, and flat two-pin plugs with grounding.

We recommend bringing a universal travel adapter for convenience, especially when visiting remote areas. Adapters are also available at shops in major towns such as Thimphu and Paro, although carrying your own is the safest option.

Traditional Bhutanese cuisine

Flavours of Bhutan – A Culinary Experience

Bhutanese cuisine is known for its bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and wholesome mountain produce. Traditional meals often feature rice, seasonal vegetables, and locally sourced meats.

Be sure to try Ema Datshi, Bhutan's famous chilli-and-cheese dish, along with local favourites such as Phaksha Paa, Jasha Maroo, and traditional buckwheat dishes from Bumthang. Fresh trout is also available in selected regions.

During treks, our camp chefs prepare fresh, hearty meals in fully equipped mobile kitchens. Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Indian, Chinese, and international cuisine is also widely available.

Language & Local Phrases

Dzongkha is Bhutan's official language, while English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and among younger generations. Learning a few Dzongkha phrases is a simple and meaningful way to connect with locals.

  • Hello — Kuzu Zangpo
  • Thank you — Kadrinche La
  • Good luck / Wishing you well — Tashi Delek
  • How are you? — Chhoe ga de be yue?
  • What is your name? — Chhoe gi ming gachi mo?

A few words in the local language can go a long way in creating a warm connection with the people you meet.

Health & Wellbeing

No vaccinations are mandatory for travel to Bhutan, but ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date and consult your healthcare provider before departure.

Medical facilities are available across the country. We recommend drinking bottled or boiled water and choosing freshly prepared food.

Most popular destinations are below 3,000 metres, but higher-altitude treks require additional care. Take time to acclimatize and seek help if you feel unwell.

Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trekking, and adventure activities is strongly recommended.

Ready to Experience Bhutan?

With the essentials covered, it’s time to turn your plans into an unforgettable journey through Bhutan.