Bhutan Travel Guide

Although Bhutan is open to tourism, there are numerous things that you may need to consider before coming to Bhutan. Below are some important aspects to keep in mind.

Travel/Medical Insurance

The Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan offers a travel and medical plan for tourists. Contact your travel agent in Bhutan for details or visit www.ricb.com.bt.

Customs

Exporting antiques, plants, or animal products is strictly forbidden. Personal electronic devices, cameras, and video cameras must be declared upon arrival and will be inspected upon departure.

Duty-Free Allowances:

  • Personal belongings for personal use
  • 1-liter bottle of wine or spirits
  • 200 cigarettes (200% tax applies)
  • Workplace appliances or equipment
  • Personal electronic devices

Items listed above must be declared and may be subject to customs duties if sold or gifted in Bhutan.

Import/Export Restrictions

  • Weapons, ammunition, and explosives
  • Drugs and narcotics (except prescribed medicines)
  • Wildlife products, particularly of endangered species
  • Antique items

Quarantine regulations apply to plants, soil, and other imports. Be cautious when purchasing antiques, as they require a clearance certificate for export.

Clothing

Pack layered clothing suitable for varying temperatures. Avoid tight or revealing clothes. Shorts and hats should not be worn in monasteries, Dzongs, and places of worship.

Currency

Bhutan's currency is the Ngultrum (Nu), valued at approximately 86.43 Nu per USD. Accepted foreign currencies include:

  • US Dollar
  • Pound Sterling
  • Euro
  • Japanese Yen
  • Swiss Franc
  • Hong Kong Dollar
  • Canadian Dollar
  • Singapore Dollar

Credit Cards

Some stores accept VISA and American Express. Traveler’s checks (Visa, Thomas Cook, Citibank, Barclays) are also accepted with a 1% bank fee.

Accommodation

Hotels and lodges in major towns offer traditional Bhutanese architecture, modern amenities, and cultural experiences.

Cuisine

Enjoy Bhutanese cuisine, including Ema Datshi (chili cheese stew), red rice, momo dumplings, and butter tea. Chinese, Indian, and Continental dishes are also available.

Photography

Bhutan’s landscapes are a dream for photographers. Bring all necessary camera supplies as they are not readily available locally.

Shopping

Shop for traditional jewelry, textiles, baskets, masks, wood carvings, and paintings that reflect Bhutanese craftsmanship.

Telephone & Communication

GSM 900 phones work in Bhutan. Local SIM cards are available. Internet cafes and hotels provide email and Wi-Fi services.

Postal Services

Postcards and packages can be sent from Bhutan Post offices in every town. Western Union and DHL services are available in Thimphu.

Media

Newspapers:

  • Kuensel – English/Dzongkha
  • Bhutan Times
  • Bhutan Observer
  • The Journalist
  • Bhutan Today

Radio:

Bhutan Broadcasting Service and Kuzoo FM 90 operate from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Television:

Bhutan Broadcasting Service airs programs daily, and cable TV offers international channels such as CNN, BBC, HBO, and Star Sports.

Electricity

Bhutan uses 220/240-volt electricity with two-pin and three-pin power outlets.

Tour/Trek Booking

Cultural Tours:

  • Regular season (Jan, June, July): Book at least 4 weeks in advance.
  • Peak season (Feb-May, Aug-Dec): Book at least 6 weeks in advance.

Trekking:

Treks should be booked at least 8 weeks in advance.

Must-Carry Items

For Cultural Tours:

  • Good walking shoes
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm
  • Headgear for sunny days
  • Compact umbrella or rain jacket

For Trekking Tours:

  • Warm jacket and hiking boots
  • Walking poles
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm
  • Headgear and raincoat
  • Flashlight/torch
  • Sleeping bag
  • Insect repellent
  • Swimwear (for hot spring treks)
  • Camera

Note: Trekking load limit is 25 kg.

What We Provide

  • Two-person tents with foam mattresses
  • Eating utensils and kitchen equipment
  • First aid kit (carry personal medical needs)

Design Your Bhutan Journey