- Quick Facts
- Capital: Thimphu
- Official Language: Dzongkha
- Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), Indian Rupee also widely accepted
- Time Zone: UTC +6
- Entry Requirements
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond entry.
- All visitors (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) require a visa.
- Visas are processed through licensed Bhutanese tour operators and issued upon arrival with prior approval.
- A Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per night applies for international visitors.
- Health & Immunizations
- Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and routine immunizations (MMR, Tdap, Polio).
- Rabies vaccine advised for rural travel or long stays.
- Malaria risk is low, but precautions may be needed in southern regions.
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended due to limited advanced medical facilities.
- Climate & Temperatures
Season Months Avg. Temp (°C/°F) Notes Winter Dec – Feb -2°C to 12°C (28°F to 54°F) Cold, especially in higher altitudes Spring Mar – May 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) Pleasant, blooming rhododendrons Summer Jun – Aug 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) Warm with monsoon rains Autumn Sep – Nov 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) Clear skies, best trekking season - Packing List
- Layered clothing for varying altitudes and climates.
- Warm jackets for evenings and higher elevations.
- Comfortable hiking boots for treks.
- Rain gear during monsoon season.
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
- Power adapter (Type D, F, and G plugs, 230V).
- Basic first aid kit and personal medications.
- Transportation
- International flights arrive at Paro International Airport.
- Domestic flights connect to Bumthang and Gelephu.
- Road travel is common but can be slow due to mountainous terrain.
- Electricity
- Voltage: 230V, Frequency: 50Hz
- Plug types: Type D, F, and G
- Universal adapters recommended.
- Recommended Tipping
- Restaurants: 5–10% if not included.
- Guides: $10–15 per person/day.
- Drivers: $5–10 per person/day.
- Hotels: Small tips for porters and housekeeping appreciated.
- Food
- Bhutanese cuisine is known for its spiciness and use of chili peppers.
- National dish: Ema Datshi (chilies and cheese).
- Red rice and buckwheat are staples in highland areas.
- Suja (butter tea) is commonly served.
- Vegetarian options are widely available, especially in monasteries.
- Culture & Behavior Tips
- Bhutanese culture is rooted in Buddhism; respect monasteries and religious sites.
- Dress modestly; long pants and covered shoulders recommended.
- Always remove shoes before entering temples.
- Public displays of affection are discouraged.
- Avoid pointing feet at religious objects or people.
- Practical Tips
- Internet and mobile coverage improving, but limited in rural areas.
- Cash is preferred outside major towns; ATMs available in Thimphu and Paro.
- English is widely spoken and used in schools.