Visa & Entry
All international visitors, with the exception of Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals, are required to obtain a visa before entering Bhutan. The visa application process is handled entirely online through your registered tour operator and must be approved prior to travel.
Travellers must book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner. Once the tour is confirmed and payment is received, the operator submits the visa application on your behalf. Approval typically takes a few working days, and the visa clearance letter is issued electronically.
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport or at a land border entry point, the visa is stamped into your passport. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Bhutan.
Best Time to Visit
Bhutan is a year-round destination, but the most popular seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring transforms the valleys with blooming rhododendrons, magnolias, and wildflowers, while autumn delivers crystal-clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks.
Autumn is also festival season, when vibrant Tshechu celebrations take place across the country. These religious festivals feature masked dances, traditional music, and colourful gatherings that offer a rare window into Bhutanese spiritual life.
Winter (December to February) is cold but dry, with fewer tourists and discounted rates. Summer (June to August) brings monsoon rains, lush green landscapes, and a quieter, more intimate travel experience.
Currency & Payments
The official currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged at par with the Indian Rupee. Indian Rupees (except 500 and 2000 denominations) are widely accepted throughout the country.
Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and some handicraft shops in Thimphu and Paro. However, most smaller establishments, local markets, and rural areas operate on a cash-only basis, so it is advisable to carry sufficient local currency.
ATMs are available in major towns like Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha, though they may occasionally run out of cash. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and at banks in Thimphu.
Weather & Packing
Bhutan's climate varies dramatically with altitude. The southern foothills are subtropical, the central valleys enjoy a temperate climate, and the northern highlands are alpine with harsh winters. Even within a single day, temperatures can shift significantly between morning, afternoon, and evening.
Layered clothing is essential regardless of the season. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for temple visits, dzong explorations, and hikes such as the iconic trek to Tiger's Nest Monastery. A waterproof jacket is recommended, especially during the monsoon months from June to August.
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are advisable year-round due to the high altitude. If you plan to visit higher elevations or trek in the mountains, pack warm thermal layers and a sturdy pair of hiking boots.
Getting There
Paro International Airport is Bhutan's only international airport and one of the most dramatic landings in the world, nestled in a deep valley surrounded by towering peaks. Only two airlines — Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) and Bhutan Airlines — operate international flights into Paro.
Direct flights are available from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Singapore, Dhaka, and Guwahati. Flight schedules are seasonal and subject to weather conditions, so booking well in advance is recommended.
Overland entry is possible through the border town of Phuentsholing in the south, which connects to the Indian state of West Bengal. This route offers a scenic road journey through the foothills and is a popular alternative for travellers coming from India.
Culture & Etiquette
Bhutan is a deeply Buddhist nation where spirituality is woven into everyday life. Monasteries, prayer flags, and sacred stupas dot the landscape, and religious customs are observed with quiet reverence by locals and visitors alike.
When visiting temples and dzongs, dress modestly — long sleeves and trousers or skirts that cover the knees are expected. Remove your shoes before entering prayer halls, and always walk clockwise around religious monuments, prayer wheels, and stupas.
Photography may be restricted inside certain temples and during religious ceremonies. Always ask permission before photographing monks or local people. Bhutanese people are warm and hospitable, and a respectful attitude goes a long way in making your experience richer and more meaningful.
Food & Cuisine
Bhutanese cuisine is hearty, flavourful, and centred around chillies, cheese, and red rice. The national dish, Ema Datshi, is a spicy stew of chillies and local cheese that accompanies almost every meal. Other staples include Phaksha Paa (pork with red chillies), Jasha Maru (spiced minced chicken), and Momos (steamed dumplings).
Most tour packages include all meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — featuring a mix of traditional Bhutanese dishes and continental options. Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice to your tour operator.
Butter tea (Suja) is a traditional Bhutanese beverage made with yak butter and salt, often served as a welcoming drink. Ara, a locally brewed rice wine, is another popular choice among locals during celebrations and gatherings.
Health & Safety
Bhutan is one of the safest countries in the world, with exceptionally low crime rates and a welcoming local population. There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry, though it is advisable to be up to date on routine immunisations.
Travel insurance is highly recommended and should cover medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation. Medical facilities in Thimphu and Paro are adequate for basic needs, but specialised treatment may require evacuation to a neighbouring country.
Altitude sickness can affect travellers at elevations above 3,000 metres, particularly during treks to higher passes. Stay hydrated, ascend gradually, and consult your doctor before travelling if you have any pre-existing health conditions.