Bhutan is in between India and the Tibetan region of China. Bhutan was known as ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ is one of the most exotic destinations in the world, and is often also referred to as the last Shangri-la. Bhutan is blessed with outstanding landscapes, majestic snow-capped peaks, and a rich cultural heritage.
Bhutan is popular for its age-old living culture, clean environment- almost no pollution and colorful festivals with spectacular landscapes and impressive landmarks. Also called the Last Shangri-la, religion, and nature is in harmony working their magic in this mystical land. Religion is deeply rooted in Bhutan and is the only Buddhist Kingdom in the world. It’s also called the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
The ideal time for Bhutan travel is during the autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May) seasons. Many colorful festivals are celebrated during these periods with the weather being warm and skies clearer.
A Bhutan visa is required for every foreign traveler to enter Bhutan. Visa has to be processed by a local tour operator and no foreign embassy abroad grants a tourist visa. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after you leave Bhutan. The visa cost is US$40 per person.
The baggage allowance by Druk Air is 20 kg in economy class and 30 kg in business class. An extra 5 kg is allowed for storing in the overhead baggage bin or under the passenger’s seat.
The tour package includes all meals, the government-approved hotels on a twin sharing basis, airport pick-ups/dropping, ground transports, experienced English-speaking guides, all city tours with permits and entrance fees, all government taxes.
Of course, you can and we have been operating private tours as per the requirements and customizing the program according to our client’s interest and traveling time frame.
Of course, you can. There is no problem to travel alone with our responsible guide and driver and we guaranteed your safety.
Indian, Chinese, and more common continental meals are popular in Bhutan. ‘Ema Datshi’ spicy chilies mixed with a cheese sauce is the national food of Bhutan. Bhutanese eat chilies as vegetables rather than spices. Red and white rice makes the main meals with non-vegetarian dishes – pork, beef, chicken, and fish are available in most parts of Bhutan. Vegetarian foods are also available as per season.
Mineral water is readily available throughout the country (but make sure the seal isn’t broken). Kindly go for a trusted brand rather than picking up the local brands. Tap water is not safe to drink.
At present, no vaccinations are required for Bhutan. But vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid Fever are recommended or to be up to date. Malaria is prevalent in some rural areas of southern Bhutan. You might need to consult your doctor about taking antimalarial pills only if your trip goes through southern parts of Bhutan.
The currency of Bhutan is Ngultrum. As it is pegged at par with the Indian rupee, ngultrum is also accepted in Bhutan. You cannot buy ngultrum prior to arriving in Bhutan, but you can purchase it at the Paro International Airport, Bhutan National Bank, Bank of Bhutan, and at major hotels in Thimpu and Paro, all of them accepts traveler’s cheque, US dollars, and various other currencies. However, while visiting the smaller town you should have ngultrum to purchase, as it is not possible to exchange your currency.
Presently, credit Cards are being more widely accepted in Bhutan. Most hotels and many handicraft shops (except in central/eastern Bhutan) accepts Visa & MasterCard and in some cases Amex. Please do note merchant fee surcharges on credit card purchases can be as high as 7% so it is wise to check this first before you use your card.
Bhutan has many ATM facilities installed in almost all parts of Bhutan.
No doubt, Bhutan is safe for traveler (women, family with children and for solo travelers). There is little crime in Bhutan but women are advised to follow the same universal precautions when they are in crowded entertainment places at night, mainly when in discos or bars.
The government has approved and classified hotels in Bhutan as grade A, B, and C which is equivalent to 3-4 star hotels worldwide. Western Bhutan (Paro, Thimphu, Wangdue, Punakha) has some of the best hotels but towards the eastern and central regions, the quality goes a little bit down.
240 volts AC – Flat round 2-pin plugs are most common and a universal adapter is an important travel item. Power cuts are quite frequent in central and eastern Bhutan while western Bhutan has a stable power supply.
Most of the standard tourist class hotels now have Wi-Fi with a business center where you can use the hotel PCs. All of the luxury resorts & lodges offer a wireless internet facility however not necessarily in guest rooms. But purchasing a SIM card at the Paro Airport and using mobile data can also be done if you require internet frequently.
It is forbidden to sell or purchase cigarettes or tobacco products in Bhutan. It is however NOT forbidden to smoke in appropriate areas and you may carry a small supply for personal use. Please note a 100% duty applies to all imported tobacco products and you must show a valid receipt of purchase to avoid confiscation.
Your smartphone will work well although you may need to switch between local telcom providers. A local Bhutan sim card with prepaid call credits can easily be purchased on arrival and is perfect for use whilst in the Kingdom and great for iPads.
Bhutan, an ultimate destination for those yearning for a break away from the hectic and stressful everyday life seeking the serenities and tranquility of life.
Nangyzer Tours and Expedition covers a wide range of tour activities and packages for every traveler types. Pick one of our sample tour itineraries or read our Places & Attraction and send us your travel ideas. We will respond back to you with a beautiful idea for you to explore and try.
