FAQ

1. Where is Bhutan?

Bhutan is a tiny landlocked nation located in the eastern Himalayas between India and China. Its landscape ranges from subtropical plains and forests in the South to subalpine forests and snowy mountains in the North. Bhutan is a predominantly Buddhist country and is known as the last stronghold of Mahayana Buddhism or the Last Shangrila.

2. Do I need to use a tour operator to book my travel?

It is a government regulation that you must use a licensed Bhutanese Tour Operator to book your travel to Bhutan or one of their international partners.

3. Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?

All International tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa which must be pre-arranged through a licensed Bhutanese Tour Operator or one of their international partners. Visa clearance must be obtained through a tour operator prior to traveling. For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals, and tourists from the Maldives may obtain a visa on entry.

4. How much does the visa cost?

International tourist visas cost USD $40 it can be paid in advance to your tour operator or travel agent. Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals, and the tourists from the Maldives, the visa cost is not incurred.

5. 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 only two carriers (Drukair and Bhutan Airlines) operate in Bhutan. Also, there are three land border crossings which you can travel into the kingdom overland, Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar. All travel arrangements to Bhutan must be made through a government licensed local tour operator. A list of tour companies operating in Bhutan is available on this website. Your selected tour operator will make all the necessary arrangements.

6. What do the $200/$250 per day minimum daily package include?

The $200 per day (low season) and $250 per day (high season) package includes a minimum of 3-star accommodations, meals, an experienced guide, and in-country transportation (with a professional driver). Also included in the price is $65 per day royalty fee that goes towards free education, free healthcare, and poverty alleviation. All of these services will be arranged by your tour operator.

7. What currency is used in Bhutan?

Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum. Its value is tied to the Indian Rupee which is also accepted as legal tender. However, Indian notes more than 500 denominations are not acceptable

8. Is there a limit on the number of tourists that can enter Bhutan each year?

There is no limit on the number of tourists admitted into the country each year. The government has adopted a strict policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism” in order to protect our culture, traditions and the natural environment. This policy is aimed at attracting discerning tourists that will respect the unique culture and values of the Bhutanese people while also providing the visitors with an unforgettable one of a kind experience unique to Bhutan.

9. What’s the food like in Bhutan?

The most distinctive characteristic of Bhutanese cuisine is its spiciness. Chilies are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that is not spicy enough.

Rice forms the main body of most Bhutanese meals. It is accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Usual meat such as Pork, beef, and chicken are preferred most often. A wide selection of western and Indian food is also available in many of the restaurants around the country.