Things to Know Before Visiting Bhutan

Bhutan at a Glance!

Bhutan is a popular destination among trekkers. Peaks like the 7,326-metre Jomolhari draw many adventurers. In 2023, out of 3.04 lakh tourists in Bhutan, 72,659 were Indians, compared to 2.30 lakh of 3.15 lakh in 2019. The numbers remain below pre-COVID levels due to the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of INR1,200 per day for Indians, while others pay INR 8,406 daily.

A few things to know before travelling to Bhutan when planning a trip to Bhutan are visa requirements, major airports, and primary travel conditions. Here's a quick reference table covering everything you should know before travelling to Bhutan.

*Please note that the costs are subject to change as per the current rate of conversions

Bhutan Visa Requirements for Indian Nationals

Due to the strong ties between the two countries, Indians can visit Bhutan easily without a visa. Indian travellers must get an entry permit from the Immigration Office at Phuentsholing, the main land border point. This permit is valid for 7 days from entry and can be extended if necessary. To obtain the permit.

Indian tourists must provide a voter ID card or a passport with at least 6 months of validity. If travelling with children under 18, they should accompany them as legal guardians or submit the child's birth certificate or passport. Additionally, two passport-sized photos are required, along with proof of accommodation approved by Bhutan's Department of Tourism.

10 Things to Know About Bhutan

Before packing your bags and heading to Bhutan, read these 10 crucial things to know before visiting Bhutan. These tips will help you understand Bhutanese customs and avoid unexpected issues during your trip.

1. Bhutan is Smoke-Free

   Bhutan aims to be the world's first smoke-free nation, banning the sale of tobacco and smoking in public places like parks, entertainment venues, sports fields, restaurants, hospitals, schools, markets, airports, and public transport.

   Tourists can bring limited tobacco for personal use with a 100% tax: 200 cigarettes, 400 bidis, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. Smoking is allowed only in designated areas, and excess quantities will be confiscated.

2. Dressing at Religious Places

   When visiting monasteries, dzongs, temples, and festivals in Bhutan, it's essential to dress modestly to respect local traditions. Avoid revealing clothes, and ensure your attire covers the knees. Women's dresses should be longer than knee-length. Shirts without collars must have long sleeves, but collared shirts can have short sleeves. Hats and umbrellas are not allowed inside religious sites, and flip-flops should be avoided in favour of proper shoes, especially during festivals.

3. Immunizations

   While there are no mandatory vaccinations for entering Bhutan, the government recommends travellers get vaccines for typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A and B, Japanese encephalitis, measles, and mumps before visiting. If you've already received these vaccinations, you should consult your doctor to see if you need booster shots.

4. Tipping Culture in Bhutan

   Tipping in Bhutan is not compulsory but is appreciated, especially by guides, drivers, and trekking crews, who often depend on it. For Indian tourists, tips for guides typically range from INR 200 to INR 500 per day, and for drivers, it's INR 150 to INR 300 per day. Hotels and restaurants generally include a 10% service charge in the bill, which the staff shares. However, additional tips are welcomed based on the quality of service.

5. Power Plugs and Voltage

   Bhutan uses a power supply of 230V, and its socket types are mostly C, D, and G. Most Indian plugs (types C and D) would fit, but if you come from different countries, you should carry appropriate adapters. Bringing the universal power adapter makes sense if you travel with many gadgets. Hotels will typically provide some basic charging facilities. Still, the electricity may be less stable for the most distant locations, and a power bank would be convenient to carry on hand as an emergency precaution.

6. Drinking Water

   Tap water is unsafe to drink in Bhutan, at any rate for visitors. In towns like Thimphu, good sense dictates that tourists buy bottled water or boil the tap water before drinking it. Most hotels and restaurants can provide safe, boiled water if ordered. You need to drink a lot of liquid during trekking or other outdoor activities; however, ensure your water source is safe from germs and bacteria.

7. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

   Indian tourists visiting Bhutan must also pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), set at INR 1,200 per person per night. Children aged 6 to 12 receive a 50% discount, and those under 5 are exempt. This fee supports Bhutan's “high-value, low-volume” tourism policy, designed to protect the country's culture and environment from the negative impacts of over-tourism. The SDF encourages responsible travel by attracting visitors willing to explore Bhutan with a meaningful contribution. The funds collected are used to support the government's education, healthcare, and tourism development initiatives.

8. Cultural Etiquette

   Bhutan places excellent value on respecting one's own rich culture and tradition. Tourists against the Bhutanese monarchy or the country's traditions should say nothing. There is much worship of the king and anything spoken against the royal family or Bhutanese tradition is said to be offensive. Bhutanese are warm and embracing but, by nature, are very reserved. Photograph the people of Bhutan, especially the monks, only after proper permission and awareness of the local culture during interaction with the Bhutanese nationals.

9. Gross National Happiness Policy

   Bhutan is quite different from other nations, as this country governs with a focus on the happiness of its people because of its Gross National Happiness policy. This philosophy reveals that the nation's success is not in the economy produced by its people but in the happiness they have and live through. Some of the principles of GNH include cultural preservation, sustainability, and conservation of the environment. You will see that many of Bhutan's policies and practices are based on these ideas, like keeping tourists from exhausting Bhutan's resources and managing tourism as responsible tourism so it is eco-friendly.

10. Travel Insurance is Optional

    One of the most essential things to do before going to Bhutan is to secure travel insurance. It is not required but is highly recommended. Bhutan might provide extreme conditions that may suddenly be unleashed; it can have mountain sickness or weather change anytime. This travelling may have total cover-up over medical emergencies, trip cancellation, delay, and even some adventurous sports like trekking and hiking. You'll be able to relax and enjoy your trip, knowing you're prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise.

Travel Tips for Bhutan

Preparing for the peaceful pace of life requires you to follow these things to know before going to Bhutan. Familiarise yourself with travel tips to help you navigate Bhutan smoothly and fully appreciate its rich culture and natural beauty.

1. Currency

   ATMs and banks in Bhutan accept Visa and Mastercard, including international credit cards, mainly in cities. For Indian tourists, Bhutanese ngultrum is on par with Indian rupees (except INR 500 and INR 2000 notes, which aren't accepted), so carrying some cash is recommended. Digital wallet apps like goBoB (Bank of Bhutan) and MyPay (Bhutan National Bank) are widely used. They can link to international credit cards, including Indian cards, for convenient transactions across Bhutan with a local SIM card.

2. Internet and Connectivity

   Internet services are available in Bhutan, but they are neither efficient nor reliable compared with most other parts of the world. While internet connectivity in most hotels and guesthouses is possible, it is erratic or slow in villages or remote places. If you must be online for a long time, acquire a local SIM card and a data package when you arrive. Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell also offer prepaid SIM cards, but such cards will significantly improve your stay and travel in Bhutan.

3. Emergency Numbers

   Travellers to Bhutan need to have emergency contact numbers. For police services, dial 113; for fire services, dial 110. These numbers should be saved on your phone for quick access in emergencies.

4. Prepare for the Weather

   Given Bhutan's diverse landscapes and changing altitudes, proper clothing is essential. Layering is crucial as temperatures can vary throughout the day.

   Things to do before visiting Bhutan:

   • Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes,
   • Sturdy hiking boots and warm clothing, especially when trekking or hiking in the mountains.
   • To fully enjoy your vacation, follow Bhutan travel tips and stay fit and healthy.

5. Time Zone

   Bhutan follows Bhutan Time (BTT), 30 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time (IST). Ensure your devices are synced to IST when planning your trip to avoid confusion.

6. Language

   Dzongkha, Bhutan's national language, comes from "Dzong" (fortress) and "kha" (language). Dzongs, created in the 17th century, served as religious and administrative centres. Indian tourists may find phrases like "Kuzoozangpo La" (hello), "Joen pa Leg So" (welcome), and "Kadinchhey La" (thank you) helpful. Asking "Ga Day Bay Zhu Yoe Ga?" means "How are you?" and responding with "Nga Leg shom Bay Rang Yoey" means "I'm fine." "Tashidelek!" is used to convey good wishes.

7. Public Transport

   Hire a vehicle with a driver through a car rental company or a tourism service provider. Self-drive rentals are not available in Bhutan. You can arrange transportation from companies such as Heavenly Bhutan or Bhutan Tours and Travels, who offer drivers familiar with local routes. Local drivers can be booked for trips like visiting Punakha Dzong or Tiger's Nest. You can also arrange these services with hotels and tour operators for a seamless experience.

*Disclaimer: All costs are approximate and are subject to change at the time of travel.