Plan your trip

Travel information

Essential information for planning your Bhutan adventure

Getting to Bhutan

  • By Air: Paro International Airport (PBH) from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Singapore, and more
  • DrukAir and Bhutan Airlines operate international flights
  • By Land: Phuntsholing (from India), Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar border crossings
  • Road travel from India requires valid entry permits

Visa & Permits

  • Visa required for all nationalities (we arrange for you)
  • Apply at least 30 days before travel with passport copy and photo
  • SIM (Restricted Area Permit) included for most destinations
  • Special permits needed for some eastern regions

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Mar-May): Pleasant weather, rhododendrons blooming
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Monsoon season, lush landscapes
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Clear skies, festival season
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Cold but sunny, great for low-altitude tours

Currency & Payments

  • Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) = Indian Rupee (INR)
  • USD/EUR accepted for tour payments
  • Credit cards limited to major hotels
  • Carry cash for local markets and small purchases

Communication

  • Local SIM cards available in major towns
  • International roaming works in most areas
  • WiFi available in hotels and urban areas
  • Limited connectivity in remote mountain regions

Getting Around

  • Private vehicle with driver included in tours
  • Comfortable SUVs for road travel
  • Domestic flights: Paro-Bumthang, Paro-Yangphula
  • No trains in Bhutan

What to bring

Essential items

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Layers for changing temperatures
  • Rain jacket or umbrella

Recommended

  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • Modest clothing for temples
  • Camera with extra batteries
  • Personal medications
  • Small backpack for day trips

Health & safety tips

Altitude considerations

Allow time to acclimatize, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol initially. Most tourist areas are at moderate altitudes (2,000–2,500m).

Medical facilities

Basic medical care available in major towns. For serious conditions, evacuation may be required. Comprehensive insurance is essential.

Ready to plan your trip?

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