BHUTAN FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (BHUTAN FAQS) - FAQ'S ABOUT BHUTAN TRAVEL
Where is Bhutan
Bhutan is a small, landlocked nation located in the eastern Himalayas between India and China. Its landscape ranges from subtropical plains and forests in the South to subalpine forests and snowy mountains in the North. Bhutan is a predominantly Buddhist country and is known as the Last Sangrila.
Do I need to use a tour operator to book my travel?
It is a government regulation that you must use a license Bhutanese Tour Operator to book your travel to Bhutan or one of their international partners.
Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?
All International tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa which must be pre-arranged through a license Bhutanese Tour Operator or one of their international partners. Visa clearance must be obtained through your tour operator prior to travel. For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives may obtain a visa on entry.
How much does the visa cost?
International tourist visas a cost of USD $40 applies. This can be paid in advance to you tour operator or travel agent. For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives there is no cost incurred.
How do I get to Bhutan?
There are a number of airports where you can fly into Bhutan from (Bangkok,Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore and Mumbai.). At present two carriers operate to Bhutan, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Also, there are three land border crossings which you can travel into the kingdom overland. All crossings are along the Indian border only – Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar. All travel arrangements to Bhutan must be made through a local tour operator. A list of tour companies operating in Bhutan is available on this website. Your selected tour operator will make all the necessary arrangements.
What does the $200/$250 per day minimum daily package include?
The $200 per day (low season) and $250 per day (high season) package includes a minimum of 3 star accommodations, costs for food, an experienced guide and transportation (with driver) within the country. Also included in the price is a $65 per day royalty that goes towards free education, free healthcare and poverty alleviation. All of these services will be arranged by your tour operator.
What currency is used in Bhutan?
Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum. Its value is tied to the Indian Rupee which is also accepted as legal tender. However Indian notes in 500 and 1000 denominations are not acceptable.
Is there a limit on the number of tourists that can enter Bhutan each year?
There is no limit on the number of tourists admitted into the country each year. In order to protect our culture, traditions and natural environment the government has adopted a strict policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism”. This policy is aimed at attracting discerning tourists that will respect the unique culture and values of the Bhutanese people while also providing the visitors with an unforgettable one of a kind experience.
What’s the food like in Bhutan?
The most distinctive characteristic of Bhutanese cuisine is its spiciness. Chillis are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that was not spicy.
Rice forms the main body of most Bhutanese meals. It is accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken are the meats that are eaten most often. A wide selection of western and Indian food is also available in many of the restaurants around the country.
How do I start if I wish to visit Bhutan?
If you know the trip that suits you, you can book online, e-mail request, call us. If you need a customized trip, you need to first decide on the approximate duration you wish to spend in Bhutan, then check the Druk Air flight schedule to make your entry and departure dates; the duration of stay in Bhutan will determine your package costs.
Which are the best seasons to visit Bhutan?
Visit Bhutan anytime – you won’t be disappointed. However If you are prepared to travel outside of the peak season periods (APR-MAY and mid SEP-NOV ) there are fewer tourist visitors & you will enjoy a more rewarding experience. We especially recommend June – July (Summer) and December-March (Winter/Spring).
Other side If you are trekking you will need to generally travel in the peak season months for suitable conditions.
Bhutan has four distinct season, spring, monsoon, autumn and winter. Spring and autumn is the best time to visit Bhutan i.e. end of Febraury till end of March and September to November. If you love flowers, you will get plenty of them in May, June and July. November, December, January and February will be blessed with breath taking mountain views, sunny days and the morning/evening chills.
While Visit Bhutan what are the major tourist attraction?
It has many colourful attractions to see. It is country of diverse altitudes, climates, vegetation and scenery. The culture of Bhutan is pretty much intact. Bhutanese are warm and welcoming with sweet smile.
While Visit Bhutan what are the major tourist attraction?
There are many number of active Buddhist temples and monasteries, many of which date prior to 17th century and they are very interesting to see. The architectures of Bhutan is unique, colorful and well maintained. Bhutanese people wear different clothing. There are many colorful festivals with ancient mask dances. Bhutan is haven for trekkers, providing mountain views and travel through virgin forests, remote villages, with almost no other tourists around.
Do you think Bhutan is an expensive Country?
We think this question is not to be answer to any travel lover, because to see the beauty of Bhutan is priceless. You can’t negotiate with money. In other hand , Lets put this myth to sleep straight away! Because the Bhutanese Government has imposed an ‘all inclusive’ nightly tariff structure a Bhutan tour can ‘appear’ to be expensive. In our experiences with Bhutan we regularly receive comments from returning visitors on how great the ‘value for money’ genuinely is. Considering every visitor has access to a private guide, driver, private vehicle and a land package including all meals, accommodation, sightseeing, entry fees, transfers, taxes, Govt Royalties & visa fees it is indeed excellent value for money. (Not applicable for INDIAN TRAVELER)
Do I have to follow a fixed tour plan to visit Bhutan? Or I can make my own plan to visit Bhutan?
You can decide on what you want to see in Bhutan and how you want to see it. You do not have to follow a planned tour strictly unless you are part of a group tour with a fixed itinerary. You will be provided with a planned tour itinerary, but once you reach Bhutan you can have some flexibility with your guide.
How can I book a Holiday Package for visit Bhutan?
Its so easy to get us. Like Browse (www.BhutanHolidayPackages.com) select the Tour Program which ever you prefer & send us a query. We will try to place you in a group of a minimum of three persons and a maximum of twenty-two persons if you don’t already belong to a group. For groups of less than 3 persons, there is a surcharge over and above the daily tariff. (For Foreign Travellers like other than INDIAN / BANGLADESHI / MALDIVES)
What does the program cost generally include?
Cost includes all listed activities, ground transportation for programmed events, lodging and specified meals. Please note prices are subject to change due to increases in taxes, security fees, and fuel surcharges. Cost does not include personal excursions, airfare, alcoholic beverages, foods not listed in the prepared menu, optional or free time activities, passport fees, airport arrival and departure taxes, excess baggage charges, laundry, telephone, medical expenses, gratuities, or insurance. Although gratuities are not imposed on any of our programs, there are circumstances where a modest tip is both appropriate and appreciated. It is left up to you to decide whether or not to offer gratuities for special services rendered.
Why we are so different from other tour operators?
You won’t find mass-produced, cookie cutter tours at “Bhutan Holiday Packages”. We hand pick destinations that offer both entertainment and cultural value, Exotic destinations, with extra facilities which other don’t have. Our guides have the background and expertise to provide unique and insightful excursions and presentations. Their knowledge of local people, culture, food, traditions and history is second to none and ensures a genuine cultural adventure. We at “Bhutan Holiday Packages” feel that travel is an important part of life.
For us travelling is a quest to understand the world and our place in it. And it’s is not just about checking sites off a list. Exploring new ideas, examining diverse cultures, and meeting different people leads to a deeper education that enriches your life. Only through travel and exploring the unknown do we truly open our eyes, hearts, and minds to the beauty the world has to offer.
What is the procedure to enter Bhutan? Do I need a VISA? (Other than Indian / Bangladeshi / Maldives Travellers)
A visa is needed to enter Bhutan but it is not issued abroad. Visas will be stamped in your passport upon arrival in Paro, cost $40 US and are included in your tour payment. “Bhutan Holiday Packages” will obtain your visa for you.
During your payment you have to apply for VISA.
We are Indian citizens and wish to travel to Bhutan. Do we need a visa and be a part of the organized tour?
If you are an Indian National holding valid Indian passport or Valid Voter ID Card & travel document, with Full Payment slip then Visa is not required. The permit to travel within Thimphu and Paro can be obtained at Paro airport, upon arrival by flight. And you need to process permits for travel to interior Bhutan, while in Thimphu. If you are arriving by overland, you will need to process travel permit through Indian Embassy’s Liaison Office in Phuntsholing at the border, along with the Bhutan Immigration Office there. It is not mandatory for Indians to be part of a tour organised by travel agency or tour operator. However if your trip is pre-planned with us, we will take care for book hotels, organize the permits required for the trip, arrange transport and Guide as necessary and save lots of your time and frustrations. There is no fee for permits and generally speaking, most drivers can speak Hindi and English. If you travel independently without pre-planned and per-booked trip, you could run into having to find your hotel, pay higher rates and spend lots of time, running around to obtain permits. So, even if you have to pay a bit extra, it is worth the hassles to organize your trip through “Bhutan Holiday Packages”.
How do you process your visa? (For Foreign Traveller)
Decide the number of days you want to spend in Bhutan according to your interest. Decide the date and the port of entry (You can fly into Bhutan from one of these cities: Bangkok, Kathmandu, New Delhi, Kolkata and Dhaka) into Bhutan.
Fill up the visa application form at the time of full payment. It is government rule that total tour payment must be remitted without which the government will not issue the visa.
Once we have confirmed dates, port of entry, dully filled visa application form, and money received, we will process your visa.
Is it possible to get VISA on arrival?
Except for travellers from India, Bangladesh and Maldives, all visitors to Bhutan are required to obtain visa approval prior to their arrival, which will be processed by us.
Why do remit the full payment in advance for foreign traveller?
It is government rule that total tour payment must be remitted without which the government will not issue the visa.
What type of clothing should traveller bring?
Generally, cotton clothing is recommended for summer days, light woollen clothes for evenings and heavy woollens for winter. Keep in mind that even in the summer, evenings can be cool. Days can be quite warm, especially in the lowlands of Punakha and Phuentsholing. It is best to use the layering system, starting with thermal underwear and adding a shirt, jacket or parka as necessary. Good walking shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen are items you should also bring. Shorts for hiking and walking around town are fine. Out of respect, it is best to dress modestly meaning no tank tops, short skirts, shorts (except when hiking) or revealing clothing. Please don’t wear shorts in public buildings or monasteries. Have a pair of long pants or longer skirt for these locations.
If your trip coincides with a festival, you may want to bring some semi-formal clothes (jacket and tie for men, dresses for women) as it is a social function.
What are the accommodations like for our Guests?
We have carefully selected government approved accommodations with the best location, service, ambience and cuisine. Our standard range of hotels is clean, comfortable, simply furnished and generally rated tourist class or about 3-star. Most of these hotels and lodges are built in Bhutan’s traditional architectural style. Most of the hotels offer internet access and all have hot water and private baths. See individual program descriptions for details.
For a person applying alone, we will do its best to find a roommate, if you request one. However, if no roommate can be found, the participant will be subject to any supplemental room charges applicable.
For those travelers who prefer to experience Bhutan in luxury we offer a boutique range of luxurious lodges and resorts such as Uma Paro, Zhiwa Ling Resort and the Aman Kora. Some of these include spa and yoga facilities. We can mix and match your accommodation to suit your itinerary and complement your style of travel. It is important to note that during festival time hotels/lodges are in high demand and can be difficult to secure. Thats why we always advice travellers to book the hotel at least 3 months before.
For treks, we will provide roomy waterproof tents, but you are asked to bring your own sleeping bag. Which cost around US$ 85 per night extra.
What will the food be like?
Tourist hotels generally present meals in a buffet selection, and provide a choice of Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese, Japanese and Continental food. Most meals are served with rice, either white or the wholesome local red variety and dal. Although traditional Bhutanese food is heavily seasoned with red chilies and can be quite hot, dishes at hotels are tempered to tourist’s tastes.
Will I be able to do laundry?
It is usually possible to have clothes washed and ironed in one day with extra penny. Dry cleaning is possible with every lodge and hotel that has been approved by the Department of Tourism.
Do the travellers need a plug converter?
In Bhutan Officially 220 volts is supplied by the Department of Power. But the power supply can fluctuate. Some hotels and lodges don’t have American plug points or converters, so it is recommended that you bring a converter with you.
What is the time difference from GMT?
Bhutan is 6 hours ahead of G.M.T. and half an hour ahead of India.
Can we get Local Govt. Authorized guide who can speak my language?
Our guides speak several local dialects in addition to English, German, Spanish and French.(For That the cost may differ)
What is the transportation like?
We provide dependable imported cars for private tours of 1-3 individuals and large buses for bigger groups. For information about internal air travel, please call or Mail us.
In Bhutan telephone and internet service is available?
Telephone and fax services are available in all towns in Bhutan. International connections are excellent. You can also buy a mobile phone kit (SIM card and phone number) from numerous outlets. Internet and e-mail facilities are widely available in most towns and in some case your hotel. You can also send postal mail reliably from hotels and post offices.
Do you have information about immunizations?
Because the required immunizations change over time, please consult your personal physician to get the most updated information.
How should I pay when I book my tour from Bhutan Holiday Packages?
The best way to transfer money is through bank transfer to the AXIX Bank in Kolkata Office OR Siliguri Office OR other Nationalized Bank. “Bhutan Holiday Packages” will provide you with full instructions on how to transfer your payment once you confirm you tour.
Are medical facilities available in Bhutan?
Every district in Bhutan is equipped with a general hospital, but only in Thimphu will you find modern facilities and pharmacies. Come well prepared with all necessary medicines like sleeping pills (high altitude can hinder your sleeping), anti-nausea pills, anti-diarrhea pills, water purifying tablets (if you are trekking), oral dehydration packets, eye drops, antibiotic ointment and anti-histamine ointment. Every District has hospitals staffed with competent doctors and offer basic services.
How do I exchange money?
The national currency of Bhutan is Ngultrum (Nu). 100 Chetrum = 1 Nu. Exchange rate is approximately $1US = 45 Nu (subject to change). You may view current exchange rates Indian Rupees circulate at par. If you plan to make a large purchase of items such as textiles or artwork, most outlets dealing in these goods accept US dollars as well as credit cards (other than limited Handicraft stores and large Thimphu hotels, credit card acceptance is very limited).
Alternatively, you can change currency (preferably US dollars, UK Pounds and the Euro) or cash traveler’s cheques at most hotels, the currency exchange counter at Paro International Airport and the Thimphu branch of the Bhutan National Bank. As your trip to Bhutan is fully-prepaid, you should not need much money other than to pay for drinks, laundry, souvenirs and tips.
For more Please let us know while booking Tour
All the Banks in Bhutan accept the following currency:
US dollar / Euro / Pound Sterling / Canadian dollar / Hong Kong dollar / Singaporean dollar / Australian dollar / Japanese Yen / Swiss Francs / Danish Kroner / Norwegian Kroner / Swedish Kroner / Traveller’s cheques
Are they accepting credit cards?
If you plan to make a large purchase of items such as textiles or artwork, most outlets dealing in these goods accept US dollars as well as credit cards (other than limited Handicraft stores and large Thimphu hotels, credit card acceptance is very limited). VISA is the credit card that is most widely accepted.
Provision & rules about when you can take pictures?
You can take pictures just about anywhere and you’ll find that locals love to pose for pictures, but it is best to ask permission first. After you take a picture, many people will give you their address so that you can forward them a copy of the photo. To be safe, ask your guide before taking pictures in Museums or Public Buildings. There are some places that are off limits to photography for religious and security reasons.
It is recommended that you bring plenty of film, memory cards and batteries as photo outlets in Bhutan do not sell equipment or accessories of high quality.
Should travellers have to be concerned about altitude sickness?
Acute mountain sickness is caused by a lack of oxygen when traveling to higher elevations. This usually occurs in individuals exposed to an altitude over 7,000 feet (2,100 m) who have not had a chance to acclimate to the altitude before engaging in physical activities. While individual tolerance varies, symptoms usually appear in several hours, with those in poor physical condition being most susceptible. Headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, and poor appetite occur initially. Inability to sleep is also frequently reported. In more severe cases thinking and judgment may become impaired. An uncommon but potentially fatal complication called high altitude pulmonary edema, caused by fluid build-up in the lungs, can also occur.
How do I prevent altitude sickness?
Avoid alcohol, sleeping pills or narcotics. They may decrease ventilation, intensify hypoxemia and make symptoms worse. Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid heavy exercise; mild exercise is okay. Your guides are well versed in how to help if you do feel the effects of high altitude. Be sure to let a staff member know as soon as you feel symptoms.
Is there any immunizations traveller should have before visiting Bhutan?
There are no vaccination requirements for entering the country. You may, however, wish to talk to your doctor about receiving immunizations against certain preventable diseases. The US Center for Disease Control has up-to-date travel information about which diseases you may want to immunize yourself against when traveling to Bhutan.
Is there ATM facility in Bhutan?
Yes, if you have visa, masters and Maestro with a pin code, you can encash money from all the banks in Bhutan.
How secure is my advance payment for my tour?
Your payment is secured as it goes directly to a government account. Tour operators receive their payments after the tour is completed. (For Foreign Traveller)
How & What do I need to do to apply for a VISA?
Bhutan Holiday Packages will arrange your visas. We will send you a visa form where your personal particulars and passport details are required. Simply fill it in and return to “Bhutan Holiday Packages” along with your payment for the tour you have booked.
What are the procedures for my visa application to be approved?
After we receive your full payments for the tour, the government takes about 3-4 working days to clear the visa applications. This approval is sent automatically to the respective Druk Air stations where your flight is booked for travel into Bhutan. A copy of it will also be sent to you. Your Bhutan visa is stamped on your passport only arrival at Paro airport. All visitors should carry their visa approval letter with them to be shown at the Druk Air check-in counter and for immigration on arrival.
What is the flight schedule for get into Bhutan?
There are main Bhutan’s national airline, Druk Air operates daily flights from several destinations. Click here for the Druk Air flight schedule.
How do I book my flights into Bhutan?
“Bhutan Holiday Packages ” can arrange your airline tickets on Druk Air flights into Bhutan. There is no extra commission fee for this service.
What is the baggage limit for single traveller on Druk Air?
Druk Air provides the standard baggage allowance of 20 kg for economy class travelers and 30 kg in business class. The allowance for carry-on bags is 5 kg.
How will I receive my Druk Air tickets?
For you information Drukair does not issue paper tickets any more. “Bhutan Holiday Packages ” will buy your e- tickets and send it to you through email prior to your scheduled visit. This is a legal travel document, which carries the same function as the paper tickets and you will have no problem in boarding Drukair.
What kind of foods / meals is available in Bhutan?
A variety of meals are available in most hotels – the most popular being Indian, Chinese, and the more common continental food.
Are most dishes in Bhutan vegetarian?
Non vegetarian dishes are generally available in most parts of Bhutan – pork, beef, chicken, and fish. The best advice is to ask the hotel and restaurant to recommend what is fresh and in season.
What kind of vehicles will we travel through Bhutan in?
Bhutan Holiday Packages provides comfortable passenger coaster buses for groups of seven visitors or more. You will also be travelling comfortably throughout the country in six seater Japanese hi-ace buses. Smaller groups of one to two passengers will discover the country in comfortable 4WD Toyota Prodo and Korean cars like Tucson, Santa Fe and Terracan with minimum extra charges.
Being a traveller what is the dress code in Bhutan?
Visitors are advised to dress comfortably as Bhutan is generally a formal place. Shorts, skirts and revealing tight clothing are to be avoided.
What is the best way to greet people, and what are some basic etiquette that a traveller should be aware of?
Bhutanese people have a distinct manner of greeting people, sometimes with a slight nodding of the head or bowing slightly if we meet older, senior people. Guests are encouraged to observe the local etiquette and not to talk too loudly when meeting Bhutanese. A nod of the head is also appreciated when meeting people, particularly in villages and towns outside Thimphu. Intimacy in public is generally not appreciated.
Where can I leave my belongings that are not required on trek?
After you have packed for your trek, you can leave the rest of your belongings with “Bhutan Holiday Packages “Team. We are just a family. We will take care your every small problems with a BIG smile.
Submit your question!
DID NOT FIND THE RIGHT ANSWER FOR YOUR QUESTION? PLEASE CONTACT US AND OUR BHUTAN EXPERT WILL REPLY YOU SHORTLY!