Bhutan Travel Information
"Bhutanese embassies abroad cannot issue Visas to Bhutan."
Visa to Bhutan
The process for obtaining a Bhutanese visa may seem complex initially, but it follows a straightforward system once you comprehend it. Unlike most countries that issue visas from their embassies abroad and stamp them in your passport, Bhutan operates differently. Bhutanese embassies abroad cannot directly issue visas for visits to Bhutan. To secure a visa, you must apply in advance through a tour operator such as Book Bhutan Tour. Approval is granted once the full payment of your holiday, including a $40 visa fee, has been wire transferred and received in the bank account. The Immigration Department and Department of Tourism Bhutan (DoT) in Thimphu review these applications, granting visas for entry into Bhutan or for boarding Druk Air flights and Bhutan Airlines.
Upon arrival in the country, the actual visa is stamped on your passport, either at Paro airport or, if entering by road, at Phuentsholing. Details required for the visa application include your name, permanent address, occupation, nationality, Travel insurance, Passport size helf photograph, date and place of birth, passport number, valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, as well as its date and place of issue, and date of expiration. Ensure that the information provided matches your passport details precisely. Any discrepancies upon arrival in Bhutan may cause delays and complications.
It’s important to note that except for visitors from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, all other visitors to Bhutan require an E-visa.
Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals can obtain a visa or entry permit at the port of entry by presenting a valid passport with a minimum of 6-month validity (Indian nationals may also use their Voter’s Identity Card (VIC)).
Swiss And Bhutan Official Can Travel Without Visa 90 Days
It’s impressive to see the strong diplomatic ties between Bhutan and Switzerland, especially highlighted by the visa exemption agreement signed in 2014. This agreement signifies a remarkable level of trust and solidarity between the two nations. It’s also interesting to note that this exemption specifically benefits officials and diplomats, allowing them to travel freely without the need for a visa for up to 90 days.
However, it’s important to clarify that the visa exemption doesn’t extend to business travelers or tourists. For Swiss tourists visiting Bhutan, the usual tourist visa and royalty requirements apply.
The history of their diplomatic relations, dating back to 1985, showcases a longstanding friendship that has evolved into substantial development cooperation over the years, starting as early as the 1960s. This collaboration demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting Bhutan’s growth and development.
The unique partnership between Bhutan and Switzerland is indeed notable, especially given Switzerland’s status as the first country outside the region to enter into such an agreement with Bhutan. This bond seems to go beyond mere diplomatic formalities, reflecting a genuine desire to strengthen friendly relations and facilitate essential official exchanges between the two nations.
Bhutan Tour packages Tariff
The minimum daily tour price is fixed by the Royal Government of Bhutan.
Rates for groups (3 persons minimum):
minimum daily tour price
- peak season USD 385 per person per night.
- off-season USD 335 per person per night.
Rates for 2 persons:
minimum daily tour price
- peak season USD 415 per person per night.
- off-season USD 365 person per night.
Rates for individuals:
minimum daily tour price
- peak season USD 430 per person per night.
- off-season USD 375 per person per night.
Surcharges:
For surcharges please visit http://www.tourism.gov.bt/about-bhutan/surcharges
For groups of less than three, the Royal Government of Bhutan imposes surcharges. In the figure above, surcharges are separated from minimum daily tour prices.
The minimum daily package covers the following services.
- A minimum of 3-star accommodation (4 & 5 stars may require an additional premium).
- All meals
- A licensed Bhutanese tour guide for the extent of your stay
- All internal transport (excluding internal flights)
Camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours also include:
- All internal taxes and charges
- A sustainable development fee of $200.
This sustainable development fee goes towards free education, free healthcare, poverty alleviation, along with the building of infrastructure.
Please feel free to contact us: bookbhutatour@gmail.com
Sustainable Development Fee
A regional Leisure tourist shall be liable to pay concessional tourism levy of Nu: 1,200/ (one thousand two hundred only) per night halt as Sustainable Development Fee.
Regional Leisure Tourist means Nationals of.
- India.
- Bangladesh
- Maldives.
However, it will not include those who come for business, construction work and employment as per existing rules.
This sustainable development fee goes towards free education, free healthcare, poverty alleviation, along with the building of infrastructure.
This Act comes into force on the 11th Day of the 5th Month of the Iron Male Rat Year corresponding to the 1st July 2020.
Please feel free to contact us: bookbhutatour@gmail.com.
Bhutan Travel / Medical Insurance
The Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan has initiated a travel and medical plan solely for our visitors. Travel insurance can be provided through your Bhutanese tour operator or international partner. You may also visit the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan website at www.ricb.com.bt for more information.
Electricity of Bhutan
All major towns are well connected with electricity that runs on 220/240 volts with round hole two-pin and three-pin power outlets.
It is recommended that you bring flat-to-round pin converters for your electronics if necessary, however, most hotels offer multi-plug sockets. Bhutan is a carbon-neutral destination. Our energy is clean and green generated by hydropower.
Photography in Bhutan
“Bhutan presents abundant opportunities for photography, particularly during outdoor sightseeing excursions. It’s crucial, however, to consult your guide before photographing or filming inside Dzongs, temples, monasteries, or religious institutions, as some places prohibit photography.
Feel free to capture images of the landscape, panoramic mountain views, rural life, flora and fauna, unique Bhutanese architecture, and the exteriors of Dzongs and Chortens.”
Clothes & Other Paraphernalia
“With significant altitudinal variations, Bhutan experiences varied weather conditions. Prepare to encounter unforeseen weather changes.
Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting monasteries, Dzongs, and other religious institutions. Attire such as long pants and long-sleeved tops is recommended for these locations. As a sign of respect, kindly remove hats, caps, etc., upon entering religious and administrative premises, institutions, and any area where the national flag is raised.”
Precautions in Bhutan
“Bhutan stands as one of the safest countries globally; however, exercising caution during your visit is advised. Secure your belongings, including passports, cameras, wallets, and purses. Avoid leaving such items within sight or in locked vehicles while sightseeing.
It’s recommended to refrain from consuming tap water that hasn’t been boiled and using ice cubes in drinks, as most water sources in Bhutan are untreated. Treated and bottled water is readily available at reasonable prices.
Bhutan prioritizes safeguarding its citizens from drugs and tobacco products, seeking cooperation from visitors. If requested, kindly cooperate and refrain from carrying tobacco goods beyond the specified limit when entering the country.”
Average Temperatures in Bhutan.
“Regarding average temperatures in Bhutan, it’s important to note that these figures are typically recorded from valley floors. However, significant divergences from these recorded figures can occur based on elevation.”
Bhutan money
Bhutan’s currency is the Ngultrum (Nu.) It is at par with the Indian rupee which is widely accepted in the country.
In addition, POS (Point of Sale) services are available nationwide, meaning visitors can pay by credit card at most hotels and handicrafts stores.
Bhutan Banking
Financial institutions in Bhutan have been greatly enhanced and today we have a number of banks that cater to the needs of the people.
Some of the banks that you can avail of while in Bhutan are the Bank of Bhutan Limited, the Bhutan National Bank, the Druk PNB and the Tashi Bank. Traveller’s cheque can be easily withdrawn and exchanged for local currency. Many of these banks provide internet banking facilities.
Shopping in Bhutan
Some popular handicraft items available for purchase are hand-woven textiles of raw silk or silk, carved masks of various animals, woven baskets of cane and bamboo, wooden bowls are known as Dapas, handmade paper products, or finely crafted goods of silver. Other items you may be interested in are the exquisite Buddhist thangkha paintings or Bhutan’s wide array of colorful and creative postage stamps. You can come across these items in the many handicraft shops in and around Thimphu and in other major towns. Please remember that buying and selling antiques is strictly forbidden in Bhutan.
Communications in Bhutan
The country has a good network of telecommunication facilities. Most hotels and cafes offer Wi-Fi internet access. Bhutan has a comprehensive mobile (cell) phone network with global roaming also accessible.
Measures, Weight & Time
Bhutan ascribes to the metric system and most weights are measured in gram (g) and kilogram (kg). The standard time is 6 hours ahead of GMT.
Health Inoculations
Before embarking on a trip to Bhutan, please seek advice from your doctor with regard to vaccinations and appropriate medication you should have prior to your travels. As a minimum you should have tetanus, typhoid and hepatitis A inoculations.
Public Holidays in Bhutan
Public holidays are observed throughout the nation. However, each Dzongkhag has its own list of regional holidays that are observed especially during the annual Tshechus (Religious festivals). For such a list, please contact your service provider or travel agent.
Gratuities
Tipping is a purely personal matter. We leave it up to you as to whether you want to give a gratuity to your guides and drivers. However, if doing so, we recommend that you place the gratuity in an envelope.
Weather and Climate of Bhutan
Gold Price in Bhutan
All tourists can buy 20 grams of gold if they fulfill the following requirements:
1. Pay Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
2. Produce a receipt for spending a minimum of one night in a Department of Tourism-certified hotel.
3. Pay in USD
4. Produce visa/permit copy. Or SDF payment receipt issued by the Department of Revenue and Customs
5. Submit a photocopy of the passport and voter identity card also accepted for Indians.