Bhutan Travel – FAQ
Where is Bhutan?
Bhutan is a located in the eastern Himalayas between India and China. Bhutan is a small land locked country and is a predominantly Buddhist country known as the last stronghold of Mahayana Buddhism.
Is it necessary to book a Bhutan tour through a tour operator?
Travelers can travel on their own (Following the travel regulations) or book a tour through a licensed Bhutanese Tour operator or one of their international partners. All trekking should be booked through a tour operator.
What is the Visa requirements and process to travel to Bhutan?
All travelers require a visa/ permit to travel in Bhutan. The visa/permit can be either availed by the guests from the Department of Immigration Website or through a Tour operator after the payment of SDF and visa Fee as may be required.
A valid passport is required for travel to Bhutan and the validity of the passport should be minimum 6 months. Please refer the link here for detailed document required.
The visa fee is USD 40 (International Travelers only)
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.
Can I pay my tour payment through my credit card?
Payment through Credit card shall depend. Kindly check at the time of application of Permit or visa.
What currency is used in Bhutan, do we have exchange facilities?
Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum. Its value is tied to the Indian Rupee which is also accepted as legal tender. A few shops accept USD and other foreign currencies; however you can exchange them in Banks.
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.
Is it a problem in food for strict vegetarians to travel in Bhutan?
We have a few pure vegetarian restaurants in Thimphu, however on prior information we arrange for pure vegetarian food for our guests.
What electrical fittings and voltage do I expect in Bhutan?
The common electrical outlets in Bhutan accept three types of plugs; three round pins arranged in a triangle, two round pins and two parallel flat pins with ground pin. The electricity voltage in Bhutan is 230 volts, alternating 50 cycles per second. If your device does not support this voltage, you may need a separate voltage converter.
Can I reserve window seats in my flight to and out of Bhutan?
The seats are allocated randomly and it cannot be assured during the time of reservation. However you can check in early and ask for window seats.
Are there any restrictions for gay and lesbian travelers?
All travelers can travel equally.
Are any kinds of vaccinations necessary before traveling to Bhutan?
As of now, vaccines are not compulsory, however it is generally recommended that your tetanus, diphtheria and polio boosters are up to date.
Can I use cell phone service in Bhutan?
If you have international roaming you can use the facility. You could also get a local sim in discussion with your guide on arrival.
Is it legal to buy antiques in Bhutan?
You can buy antiques, however you should ensure that it has a government seal.