Where is Bhutan?
Bhutan is a small, 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.
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 counterpart agents.
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 license Bhutanese Tour Operator or one of their international
partners. Visa clearance must be obtained through your tour operator prior to travel. For
Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives
may obtain a visa on entry.
How much does the visa cost?
International tourist visa fee is USD $40 per person per trip. This can be paid in advance
to your travel agent. For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and
persons from the Maldives there is no cost incurred.
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 and Singapore.). 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. All travel
arrangements to Bhutan must be made through a local tour operator.
What does the $250 per day minimum daily package include?
The $250 per day package includes a minimum of 3 star accommodations, three meals a
day, an experienced guide and transportation (with driver) within the country. Also,
included in the price is a $65 per day royalty that goes towards free education, free
healthcare and poverty alleviation. All of these services will be arranged by your tour
operator.
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.
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. In order
to protect our culture, traditions and natural environment the government has adopted
a strict policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism”. 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.
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 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.