Traveling to Bhutan: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Preservation of culture, importance of national happiness, and stunning landscapes, traveling to Bhutan is an unparalleled vacation.  The country has a population of around 800,000, and 60% of the country is preserved land space and so that makes for some stunning scenery with the Himalayan Mountains as a backdrop.  Traveling to Bhutan at first glance appears to be difficult, but it is worth the little bit of effort and research to plan the perfect trip.

Until the mid 1970’s, Bhutan was isolated from the world.  Cars weren’t introduced until the 50’s, TV’s in the 90’s.  Although the country has embraced technology in the last few decades, there is every intention to preserve tradition.  National identity is important to the Bhutanese people, that is what makes your visit to the kingdom so special.  I’ve put together a few things to help you organize a trip if you’re thinking of traveling to Bhutan.

High Value Low Impact Tourism 

Is Bhutan a sustainable travel destination?  The answer is a resounding YES.  Their motivation for a daily tourist rate is to help ensure they keep their culture thriving and intact, as well as a method to prevent over-tourism.  Conservation and sustainability are one of the pillars of their government.  The country is committed to protecting it’s environment and wildlife so for a responsible traveler, it’s a dream trip.

Because there are restrictions on travel into the country, many people have a few misconceptions about cost & accessibility.  There is a minimum fee of $250 a day as a tourist in the country with a $50 visa charge & a $65 sustainability fee that goes towards education, healthcare & environmental issues.  The daily rate will increase if you have a single supplement, on a private tour or stay in a more luxury accommodation.  This number may seem high at first, especially if the trip is 10 or 14 days, but this cost covers your guide, hotel, food and transportation.  If you think about what you get for the price, it is more reasonable.

How do I get there?

So, first thing is first.  How do I even get to Bhutan?  You may notice you will have some issues looking for flights from London or New York to Paro.

The next questions usually concerns visa requirements.  Unless you have an Indian, Maldives or Bangladesh passport, you are required to obtain a visa to enter the country.  Traveling to Bhutan with a visa means you have to travel with a government approved tour company.  Is there any exception to this rule?  Unless you are invited by the government personally, are working with a volunteer organization or are a guest of a citizen with “standing” there is no other way than to be with a group trip or solo organized tour.

Booking Flights 

The tour operator will most likely secure a ticket for you on one of the two airlines that fly into the country, Drukair or Bhutan Airlines.  I flew Drukair and was able to check online for cheaper days to fly and ultimately determined my schedule based on the fact that by one day my flight was $100 cheaper.  The major international airport for the country is in Paro.  Flights to Paro only arrive from about a dozen airports, Bangkok, Kathmandu, Delhi and Singapore being the major destinations.  There are only a few land crossings, all coming from the Indian border.

Money Matters 

Another next question I’m usually asked is, “Isn’t Bhutan expensive?”.  The answer is a little more complicated than a yes or no response.  As I mention earlier, there is a daily rate of $250 which can increase depending on where you stay and if you are traveling alone.  Is Bhutan a budget destination?  I’d probably say no.  I would argue that you could easily spend the same amount on a guided tour of a country, staying in 3 or 4 star hotels and paying for excursions and food in addition to lodging.  In that regard, it’s worth the price.

The country’s currency is the Ngultrum or in short, the “Nu”.  Because of their proximity to India, occasionally you may also get change in Rupees and you can use those as well while in the country.  I also used US dollars, but I prefer to use the local currency if possible.

Cash withdrawal & using your credit & debit cards

Basically, cash is king in this kingdom.  You can use your credit cards but only in limited stores and hotels.  There are ATM’s available in larger cities and villages, but do not rely on them solely.  I had an issue with taking money out at the capital, but then I didn’t have a problem the rest of the trip.  Because your trip has already been paid in full before you arrive, aside from some souvenirs and tips, you really only need a little spending money for snacks and drinks.  Temples take donations as offerings, so depending on if you feel comfortable, remember to bring a few dollars when visiting a dzong.

Mind your Manners

Bhutan is a more conservative country, but just because they have chosen to maintain their culture in no way means they are not accustomed to being exposed to the “western world”.  Modest dress is preferred, a vast majority of the locals wear traditional dress, so you’ll already stand out wearing your normal street clothes.  Men wear a Gho & women wear a Kira, the Bhutanese people are proud to wear their traditional clothing so you’ll see beautiful patterns and designs.  Wearing unique fabric is one way to express your own unique style while still adhering to the traditional attire.

So, what to pack? 

You’ll likely be visiting several temples, or Dzongs and there is a dress code when entering a temple or monastery.  Remember, you need to have your shoulders and legs above the knees covered when entering temples & monasteries.  Itineraries consist of trekking in rural villages as well as city tours, it’s best to bring hiking gear and casual wear.  I packed layers, in the higher altitudes it was cold in the evening as soon as the sun went down.

Bhutanese Food & Drink 

If you had to describe traditional Bhutanese food with one word, it would be spicy.  The Bhutanese like their food with chilis, lots of chilis so be prepared for the heat!  It was my experience that during high season, most places you stay have buffet style for meals.  They have a tendency to be on the blander side for tourists, to accommodate all types of guests.  If you aren’t a picky eater or if you don’t mind a little repetition, this isn’t a bad way to get a decent meal.  I was a little tired of not having a choice after awhile, so I did some research and went out for a few lunches and dinners on my own towards the end of the trip.  Keep in mind that most of the country is rural, so food is plain but filling and nourishing.

Rice is the main part of the meal, along with a vegetable side and meat main course.  For religious regions, all meats and fish are killed and purchased from their neighboring country of India, so if you are vegetarian or vegan you’ll have ample options for meals.  I wouldn’t say Bhutan is a culinary destination, you’re there for the scenery and culture, not the food.

Although most practicing Buddhists don’t drink alcohol, Bhutan does have a local rice wine called Ara.  If you are at a homestay or get to know some families better, you’ll most likely be offered a shot as a gesture of hospitality.  You’ll also be able to purchase wine, beer or liquor at your hotel with meals.

Speaking my Language 

Bhutan’s official language is Dzongkha.  Like many other countries, dialects can vary widely by region.  English is widely spoken, so when traveling to Bhutan you won’t need to be nervous about communicating with the locals.  I was impressed that my guide knew Dzongkha, English, Hindi, Nepali, and some Mandarin.

Technology 

Your phone will most likely NOT work in Bhutan unless you purchase a local SIM.  Prices for SIM cards and data were reasonable, and I had cell reception almost everywhere during the two weeks in the country.  Wifi is readily available in cafes in town and at most hotels.  Connectivity can be slow so don’t accept any fast streaming or downloading.  Many hotels only have wifi in their lobbies, if you are looking for internet access in your room, be sure to specify that with your travel company prior to booking.  Traveling to Bhutan is a great excuse to take a break from technology and absorb the culture around you.  Use the remoteness of the region as an excuse to turn your phone & email off!

Weather 

Bhutan has two major tourist seasons, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).  There is a monsoon season that begins in June but like any country, the climate varies based on region.  Sub-tropical style weather is in the south and high altitude alpine climate is in the north.  There are seasons for bird watching, different famous festivals, or when rhododendrons are in bloom so check with your tour operator to find out when the best time to visit depending on your interests.

There are dozens of tour operators that you can chose from and you may not have someone with personal experience for a recommendation.  I used Bhutan Travel and was beyond satisfied with my experience.  They are one of the longest running tour operators and they took exactly what I was looking for to help me create the most memorable trip.