Travel Information
Everything you need to know for planning your Bhutan trip
Visa Requirements
Bhutan has a unique tourism policy that requires all international visitors to book through a licensed tour operator. This ensures sustainable tourism and quality experiences for all visitors.
- All visitors (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian citizens) require a visa
- Visas are processed through licensed tour operators like Bhutan Wilderness
- You must have a confirmed tour booking before visa application
- Visa processing takes 7-10 working days
- Visa is stamped on arrival at Paro Airport or land entry points
- Required: Passport valid for 6+ months, passport photo, completed application
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
All international visitors pay a daily SDF that directly supports Bhutan's free healthcare, education, and environmental conservation programs.
Note: Tour packages typically include visa processing and SDF. Contact us for complete pricing.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (Mar-May)
Rhododendrons bloom, clear skies, moderate temperatures. Ideal for trekking and general touring.
- Mild temperatures and clear skies
- Valleys bloom with rhododendrons, wildflowers, and magnolias
- Great for trekking, sightseeing, and festivals
Sunny, 15-25°C in valleys
Summer/Monsoon (Jun-Aug)
Rainy season with lush green landscapes. Fewer tourists, occasional road disruptions.
- Warm Temperatures
- Frequent rain, especially in the south
- Lush landscapes and fewer tourists
Rainy, 20-30°C in valleys
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Crystal clear skies, stunning mountain views. Peak festival season. Most popular time.
- Crisp air and clear mountain views
- Best visibility of the Himalayas
- Home to major Tshechus like Thimphu and Paro
Clear, 10-20°C in valleys
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Cold but clear. Lower valleys pleasant, snow possible at altitude. Fewer tourists.
- Cold Temperatures
- Snow in higher regions
- Clear skies and fewer crowds
Cold, 0-15°C in valleys
Getting to Bhutan
By Air
Paro International Airport is Bhutan's main entry point. Airlines serving Bhutan:
- • Druk Air - National carrier with routes from Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Singapore, and more
- • Bhutan Airlines - Services from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu
The flight into Paro offers stunning Himalayan views and one of the world's most scenic landings.
By Land
Land entry is available from India at designated border points:
- • Phuentsholing - Main entry point from West Bengal, India
- • Gelephu - Southern entry from Assam, India
- • Samdrup Jongkhar - Eastern entry from Assam, India
Why Bhutan is Worth the Long Flight
Bhutan isn't close and that's exactly why it's special. For travelers, the journey leads to a place untouched by mass tourism, where ancient traditions are still part of every day life. There are no crowds or rush here --- only quiet mountain valleys, cliffside monasteries, and a culture built on balance and wellbeing.The final fligt into Paro International Airport, one of the world's most dramatic landings, marks the moment you leave the familiar behind.
Bhutan isn't about seeing more. Its about feeling more.
And for those willing to travel a little further, the reward is a journey that truly stays with you.
Practical Information
Currency
Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). ATMs in major towns. US Dollars ($) accepted at some hotels.
Language
Dzongkha is the national language. English is widely spoken in tourism and educated circles.
Electricity
230V, 50Hz. Round pin plugs (Type D, similar to India). Bring universal adapter.
Internet & Phone
WiFi available at most hotels. Local SIM cards available for tourists. Mobile coverage in towns and valleys.
Health
No required vaccinations. Altitude sickness possible above 3,000m. Travel insurance strongly recommended.
Time Zone
Bhutan Time (BTT) is UTC+6. No daylight saving time.
What to Pack
Clothing
- • Layered clothing for variable temperatures
- • Warm jacket or fleece
- • Rain jacket/poncho
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Modest clothing for temple visits
- • Sun hat and sunglasses
Essentials
- • Passport with 6+ months validity
- • Travel insurance documents
- • Sunscreen (high SPF)
- • Personal medications
- • Universal power adapter
- • Camera with extra batteries
Cultural Etiquette
Temple & Dzong Visits
Remove shoes and hats before entering. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). Photography may be restricted inside. Walk clockwise around religious structures.
Greetings
"Kuzuzangpo" is a common greeting. Bhutanese are generally reserved but friendly. A slight bow with hands together is appropriate for monks.
Photography
Always ask permission before photographing people. Some religious sites prohibit photography. Drone use is restricted and requires special permits.
Environment
Bhutan takes environmental protection seriously. Don't litter, and avoid single-use plastics. Smoking is restricted in public places.
Money Matters
Currency
The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is the official currency. 1 Australian Dollar (AUD) is approximately 58 BTN.
ATMs & Credit Cards
Carrying cash is highly recommended as not all shops will accept bank cards and credit cards, and sometimes those cards do not work. We recommend bringing AUD to change into our local currency at the airport upon arrival and your guide can assist with that.
Meals and Logistics
As all meals and expenses are covered, do not change so much Ngultrum at one go.
Why book with Us?
- Based in Australia
- Direct Partnerships in Bhutan
- Local Bhutanese Knowledge
- No Third-Party Middlemen
- Transparent Pricing
- Personal support before and during travel
FAQs: Your Bhutan Travel Questions Answered
Why is Bhutan more expensive than other destinations?
Bhutan follows a unique “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy designed to protect its culture, environment and way of life. All international visitors pay a government-mandated Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which supports free healthcare, education, conservation and infrastructure within the country.
What is the Sustainable Development Fee?
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a government-mandated daily fee required for international visitors to Bhutan. It supports free healthcare and education, environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and infrastructure — helping Bhutan maintain its “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy and remain one of the world’s only carbon-negative countries. What does “carbon negative” mean? Carbon negative means a country removes more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it produces. Bhutan absorbs large amounts of carbon through its protected forests — which cover over 70% of the country — and its strong environmental policies. As a result, it offsets more emissions than it generates, making it one of the few carbon-negative countries in the world.
Is Bhutan safe?
Yes. Bhutan is one of the safest countries in the world for travellers, with very low crime rates, friendly locals, and well-organised tourism infrastructure.
Can I travel solo?
Absolutely! Solo travellers are welcome in Bhutan. Most visitors hire a private guide and driver, ensuring safety, local support, and an immersive experience throughout the trip.
What fitness level is required?
Most Bhutan experiences are suitable for moderate fitness — walking, sightseeing, and short hikes. For trekking or high-altitude journeys, a higher fitness level is recommended, but your guide will tailor the pace to your abilities.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 3–6 months in advance to secure your preferred dates, accommodations, and permits. For peak seasons or festival trips, booking 6–12 months ahead is ideal.
Have More Questions?
Our team is happy to answer any questions about traveling to Bhutan. We'll help you plan the perfect trip.