Before planning to Visit Bhutan Know 50 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Bhutan travel and tour:
#1. Where is Bhutan?
Bhutan lies in the foothills of Himalayas sandwiched between India and China.
#2. What is Bhutan known for?
Bhutan is known for its unharmed nature and intact cultural heritage preserved by a tourism policy as unique as its traditions.
#3. Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?
Yes like any other country, except citizens from India, Bangladesh and Maldives, all other visitors require a visa to enter Bhutan.
#4. How can I obtain a visa for Bhutan?
Your visa will be managed by us. We will need a clear scanned copy of your passport photo page.
#5. How much does a visa cost?
A visa costs $40 for the visitor which is already included in your package cost. Extra charges are applied for the extension of visa.
#6. How do I get into Bhutan?
The easiest way to get into Bhutan is to get a flight. Bhutan has flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kathmandu, Delhi and some cities in India. For people from India, there are three border crossings.
#7. What is the best time to visit Bhutan?
The best time to visit Bhutan is between September to November when the days are clear and the weather is also pleasant. Another good time is from March to May due to the blooming flowers between the green forests.
#8. What documents will you provide that I have to take with me to Bhutan?
Your passport to get the visa stamped on Paro Airport and a printed copy of visa confirmation letter which you need to show at the airport.
#9. What is the weight limit for luggage on Druk Air?
Druk Air allows 20 kilos of checked baggage. Only one piece of hand baggage is allowed as these planes are quite small. Excess baggage charges will be applied if the baggage exceeds 20 kilos.
#10. What is included in tour packages?
Your package includes 3 star accommodation, food, a travel guide, permits and taxes, transportation within the country and a sustainable development fee of $65 for free education and health service of people.
#11. Can I have a private tour?
Yes, you can have a private tour. We arrange private tours on the basis of your demands.
#12. Can I customize my itinerary/tour?
Yes, you can customize your tour or itinerary but make sure to inform your guide beforehand so that they can manage everything for you.
#13. What kind of vehicle does your company use?
We use comfortable, clean and well maintained 4WD car or Hiace. If you’re not comfortable with your vehicle, you can ask us to change it.
#14. How far in advance do I have to book for your tour?
It’s better to book as early as you can so that you can get more options on the departure dates. For more advantages, book as fast as you can.
#15. What will be the food?
You can have the local meals of Bhutan. Restaurants in Bhutan also serve Indian, Chinese and Continental food. The local food is usually spicy.
#16. Is it safe to drink tap water in Bhutan?
We generally advise you not to drink tap water and whenever you want to drink tap water, make sure to bring water purifier with you.
#17. Do I have to worry about altitude sickness in Bhutan?
Yes, you can get altitude sickness regardless your age or fitness. It’s better to stay hydrated and acclimatize whenever your body needs.
#18. What type of Vaccinations is required before arriving to Bhutan?
No special vaccination is required in Bhutan but just make sure you’re up-to-date with your regular vaccination.
#19. What is the currency in Bhutan?
Bhutanese currency is Ngultrum (Nu). They also accept Indian rupees lesser than 500. American dollars are also accepted.
#20. Can I use my credit cards in Bhutan?
Cards are accepted in few major handicraft shops and large hotels in Thimphu. You’re levied 5% to 7% charge.
#21. Are there ATM counter in Bhutan?
ATMs in Bhutan use magnetic strips rather than digital chips. Some foreign banks do not allow withdrawal from ATM and government periodically bans it to control fraud.
#22. Is the country safe to travel?
Yes, Bhutan is a safe country even for solo female travelers and families with kids.
#23. What are the accommodations like?
Hotels in Bhutan provide you adequate facilities. There a 3 star, 4 star and 5 star hotels having private bathroom and hot water.
#24. What is the electricity supply in Bhutan and what plugs are used?
The standard voltage is 230 V and frequency is 50 Hz. The plugs that can be used are Type D, F and G.
#25. Are there internet facilities for foreign travelers?
The hotels provide Wi-Fi while there are few internet cafes.
#26. What is the limitation on baggage weight in trek?
Each trekker is limited to 15 kg of baggage as a horse/yak can carry only 30 kgs. Baggage of two people is to be carried by 1 horse/yak.
#27. What equipment we need to bring for Bhutan Tour and trekking?
#28. What is the time Zone in Bhutan?
Bhutan has the same time zone throughout the country. It is 6 hours ahead of GMT, 30 minutes ahead India and 15 minutes ahead of Nepal. It is 14 hours ahead of Pacific Time.
#29. Can we smoke in Bhutan?
You can carry up to 200 pieces after paying duties for it but still you can only light cigarettes in private zones like room or residence. Smoking in public places or offices may cost you 3 months of jail as it is a crime in Bhutan.
#30. Do I need to use a tour operator to book my travel?
It is a government regulation that you need to book your tour before arrival through a licensed tour operator certified by Tourism Council of Bhutan.
#31. Is there a limit on the number of tourists that can enter Bhutan each year?
There is no limit on the number of tourists that can enter Bhutan each year.
#32. Do Bhutanese speak English?
Yes, English is spoken in Bhutan being the medium of instructions in schools. Government letters and road signs are written both in English and Dzongkha.
#33. How much does it cost to go to Bhutan?
Visitors are required to buy a daily minimum package of $200 during low season and $250 during high season.
#34. How many tourists visit Bhutan annually?
Bhutan has visited 274,097 visitors in 2018 with a growth rate of 7.61%.
#35. Why is Bhutan so expensive?
Bhutan has ‘High Value, Low Impact’ tourism policy to preserve its cultural heritages and environment. Thus, with a high rate, it welcomes responsible travelers and few visitors. That’s why Bhutan is expensive.
#36. Is Bhutan visa free for Indian?
Yes, Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Bhutan.
#37. How can I go to Bhutan from India?
You can take a flight from Bagdogra, Delhi or Kolkata. You can also travel in a car to one of the border crossings. They are Phuentsholing, Samdrup Jongkhar, and Gelephu.
#38. How can I go to Bhutan from Nepal?
You can take a direct flight from Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu to Paro Airport.
#39. Is Bhutan is a part of India?
No, Bhutan is not a part of India. Bhutan is a landlocked country between India and China but not under India.
#40. Is there a US embassy in Bhutan?
No, there is no US embassy in Bhutan as there is no formal diplomatic relation established between the two countries. Still, they enjoy a nice and warm relation through the US embassy in Delhi.
#41. How can I get Bhutan visa online?
You are required to send a clear scanned copy of your passport photo page to your tour operator and pay the amount for a visa. You’ll be sent a visa confirmation letter which is to be shown at Paro Airport.
#42. Is it hard to visit Bhutan?
It surely might be more expensive than other South Asian country but it isn’t hard to visit Bhutan. Even if you question the price of Bhutan, we’re sure you’ll realize that Bhutan is worth it after visiting.
#43. Is Bhutan rich?
Bhutan’s economy is the smallest in the world but to your great surprise, it has the second- fastest growing economy of the world.
#44. Is Bhutan part of Nepal?
As told before, Bhutan is an independent country headed by the King and obviously not a part of Nepal.
#45. What does my tariff pay for?
Your tariff includes 3-star accommodation, food, transportation in Bhutan and guide. It also pays for free education and health service to the people.
#46. How long does it take to get my Bhutan Visa?
Expect your Bhutan visa only 10 to 3 days prior to your arrival in Bhutan. Print it out so that you can present it at the airport.
#47. What is the Duty-Free Allowance into Bhutan?
Spirit: 1 liter. Cigarettes- 200 sticks or cigar-30 sticks. (This stuff are subjected to 100% sales tax and 100% customs duty.)
#48. What are the major festivals celebrated in Bhutan?
The most celebrated Tshechus (festivals) in Bhutan are Paro Tshechu, Thimphu Tshechu, Punakha Tshechu, etc. Other festivals include Black-necked crane festival and Rhododendron Festival.
#49. Who heads the kingdom of Bhutan?
Present king His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck heads the kingdom of Bhutan with his son Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck as his heir apparent.
#50. What is the population of Bhutan?
The population of Bhutan as of 2019 is 826,814.
See also Frequently Asked Questions
