Pre-Arrival Information for Travelers to Bhutan

Welcome to Bhutan! Before you embark on your journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, here are some useful pre-arrival information you need to know to ensure a smooth and memorable experience.

1. Clothing & Packing Essentials

For travel in Bhutan, comfortable clothing and sturdy, soft-soled shoes are essential. Due to varying altitudes and temperatures, layered clothing is recommended:

• Cold seasons: Warm clothing, down jackets, and woolen sweaters.
• Summer: Heavy cottons and lightweight woolens.

Recommended Packing List

• Clothing suited to the season
• Accessories: Sunglasses, hat, umbrella, camera & accessories
• Essentials: Casual shoes, insect repellent, hand cream, small sewing kit, safety pins, torch/flashlight with spare batteries, mirror, scissors
• Health & Skincare: Suncream, lip balm, antiseptic & anti-histamine cream, anti-diarrhea pills, sunburn relief

2. Cultural Etiquette for Clothing:

When visiting sacred sites such as monasteries (lhakhangs) and fortresses (dzongs), it is essential to dress modestly:

• Dress conservatively: Slacks for men, long skirts for women.
• Cover shoulders when inside religious buildings.
• Shoes must be removed; carrying socks is advised.

• Wear full-length clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
• Avoid wearing hats or caps inside religious sites.

3. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Bhutan follows a “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy to preserve its culture and environment. All tourists must pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per person per night:

• International tourists: $100 per night (after a 50% discount, valid until August 31, 2027). Previously, the fee was $200.
• Children: Below 5 years – Free | Ages 6-12 – 50% discount ($50 per night).
• Regional tourists (India): ₹1,200 ($15) per night, with no discounts.

The revised SDF aims to upgrade infrastructure, enhance the visitor experience, and maintain carbon-neutral tourism.

4. Visa Application :

• A visa is required before traveling to Bhutan. Submit passport details, travel itinerary, and payment confirmation for approval.

To process your visa, we require:

• A scanned copy of the passport’s photo page (valid for at least 6 months from travel date).
• Full tour payment, including SDF.
• Travel insurance for the trip duration.
• A recent digital passport-size photo.

5. Tour Booking & Payment Policy

Tour Payment Terms:

• A 50% advance payment is required to confirm your booking.
• The remaining balance must be settled at least 30 days before arrival.
• Payments should be made via bank transfer to an authorized tour operator’s account.

Booking Cancellation Policy:

• 30+ days before arrival: Full refund minus processing fees.
• 15–29 days before arrival: 50% cancellation fee.
• 7–14 days before arrival: 75% cancellation fee.
• Less than 7 days or no-show: No refund.

5. Internet connectivity, Mobile and Accessories
6. Mobile Network & SIM Cards:

• Local SIM cards (TashiCell and B-Mobile) can be purchased at Paro International Airport and major towns.
• Ensure your phone is unlocked for international SIM cards.

1. Gadgets to Bring:

• Power bank to keep devices charged during long journeys.
• Camera or smartphone to capture Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes.
• Hiking gear if planning outdoor activities.
• Flashlight for remote areas with limited electricity.

iii.  Internet & Wi-Fi:

• Most hotels provide Wi-Fi, though speeds may be slow in rural areas.
• Consider purchasing a local data plan for reliable internet access

6. Restricted & Prohibited Items

Prohibited Items:

• Tobacco products (allowed in limited quantities with high duties).
• Narcotics & psychotropic substances.
• Weapons, explosives, and ammunition.
• Pornographic materials.

Restricted Items:

• Drones require prior approval from the Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority.
• Religious artifacts must be declared upon departure to avoid confiscation.

6. Flights to Bhutan

Flights to Bhutan are operated by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, connecting to major cities like:

• Bangkok
• Delhi
• Kathmandu
• Singapore
• Dhaka

For the latest flight schedules, check:

• Drukair: www.drukair.com.bt
• Bhutan Airlines: www.bhutanairlines.bt

7. Best Time to Visit Bhutan

Bhutan is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on your preferences:

• Spring (March – May): Lush landscapes, rhododendron blooms, and pleasant weather.
• Autumn (September – November): Crisp air, clear skies, and major festivals.
• Winter (December – February): Ideal for fewer crowds, snow in highlands, and unique winter festivals.
• Monsoon (June – August): Green landscapes but occasional heavy rains.

9. Customs & Immigration Information

Duty-Free Allowances:

• Alcohol: 1 liter per person.
• Tobacco: Allowed in limited quantities with high import duties.

Import Declaration:

• Expensive electronic items (e.g., cameras, laptops) should be declared at customs to avoid issues during departure.

Entry Points:

• Paro International Airport (main entry for international visitors).
• Phuentsholing (land entry point from India).

Immigration Requirements:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months.
• Visa approval letter (for non-Indian travelers).
• Proof of SDF payment.

10. General Travel Information

• Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR), which is widely accepted.
• Language: Dzongkha (national language), but English is commonly spoken.
• Time Zone: Bhutan Standard Time (BST) – GMT +6.

2. Electronics & Connectivity

Power & Charging:

• Bhutan uses Type D, F, and G power sockets (230V, 50Hz).
• Carry a universal travel adapter for convenience.

Emergency Contacts:

• Police: 113
• Medical Emergency: 112
• Fire Services: 110

• Festival Calendar 2025