Key Tips for a Smooth trip to Bhutan
Remember that as a traveler, you play a role in representing your home country. We suggest embracing this opportunity to showcase its positive aspects.
Documents Required For Immigration
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For Adults: A Passport with at least 6 months of validity or an Original Voter ID Card with a Hologram (any one of these).
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For Minors (below 18 years): A Passport with at least 6 months of validity or an Original Birth Certificate issued by the local municipal authority.
Note: Original Documents will be required at the time of Immigration.
Currency in Bhutan
Online payment methods such as UPI, debit cards, and credit cards are not widely accepted in Bhutan
Indian Rupee is commonly accepted in Bhutan, eliminating the need for currency exchange. However, it's important to note that Rs 500 notes are officially not valid in Bhutan, although they are generally accepted by individuals and local shops. Government institutions or monuments may not honor them. It's recommended to carry a mix of 500/200/100 denominations for convenience.
It is advisable to bring an approx. 15,000/- per person cash.
Tipping: Tipping in Bhutan is not mandatory but recommended for hotel staff, guides, and drivers at the end of the tour.
Network Connectivity
Your Indian network will work until Phuentsholing, afterwards, we'll provide a new tourist SIM card before leaving for Thimphu.
You will get a tourist Sim Card with 100 Minutes Talk Time. You can do a Rs 100 recharge at a local shop for 1 GB Internet.
Weather
| Place | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Phuentsholing | 19°C to 29°C |
| Thimphu & Paro | 10°C to 20°C |
| Punakha | 15°C to 25°C |
Clothes
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April marks the beginning of Spring season in Bhutan and the weather will be very pleasant in the month of April in Bhutan. It's advisable to bring a mix of lightweight clothing for daytime and some warmer layers for the evenings. A light jacket can be handy.
Note: Stay informed about weather changes; check closer to your travel date for accurate forecasts, as conditions may vary.
Avoid wearing shorts during sightseeing, you can't go inside any temple or monasteries then. Please take off your hats and sunglasses while going inside any religious place.
Meals
- Delicious Breakfast & Buffet Dinner will be provided as per the Chef's special of the day!!
- In Bhutan, dinner is typically served around 8:00 PM since the majority of restaurants in the country close by that time.
Bhutanese Cuisine
- Ema Datshi – (Chilies and Cheese) - Veg
- Kewa Datshi- (Potato and Cheese) - Veg
- Red Rice - Veg
- Suja- Salty Butter Tea
- Ara- Traditional Fermented Alcohol
Indian cuisine is generally available in Bhutan, whether you're at a roadside restaurant or in the hotel where you are staying.
Meals:
| Meals | Approx. Cost |
| Lunch / Dinner | Rs 350/- Per Meal |
Expenses Guide
| S.No | Monuments |
Entry Fee |
| 1. |
Buddha Dordenma Statue |
NIL |
| 2. | National Memorial Chorten Stupas |
Rs 500/- |
| 3. |
Takin Zoo |
Rs 300/- |
| 4. |
Changangkha Lhakhang |
Rs 500/- |
| 5. |
Simply Bhutan Museum |
Rs 1000/- |
| 6. |
Dochula-Pass |
NIL |
| 7. |
Punakha Dzong |
Rs 500/- |
| 8. |
Punakha Suspension Bridge |
NIL |
| 9. |
Tiger’s Nest Monastery |
Rs 1000/- |
| 10. | Rinpung Dzong |
NIL |
Note: 50% exemption of fee for age 6 years to below 18 years. No Fees for below 5 years.
|
Activities |
Approx. Cost |
| River Rafting in Punakha | Rs 2000/- |
| Hot Stone Bath |
Rs 2000/- |
Note: All monuments and activities are not necessary to visit, you can visit only the places you are interested in. It's just a rough guide on possible expenses.
Tips for tiger’s nest
- The monastery is at 900m above the base camp.
- It's an easy to moderate hike. Anyone with average level of fitness can do it comfortably.Duration: 3 to 5 hours
- For those who prefer not to hike, horse rentals are available at the base camp.
- Take a break at the cafeteria around the halfway point, where you can also appreciate a closer view of the entire monastery.
- Trekking shoes aren't essential; a sturdy pair of sports shoes with good grip will do.
- Carry some snacks and energy bars, not available at base camp
- You can rent/purchase walking pole from the base camp.
- Carry a small day bag and a water bottle.
Basic Traveling Tips
Be on Time: In group travel, being punctual is crucial. Arrive on time for breakfast and all planned locations to avoid disrupting the group's schedule.
- Bhutan time is 30 mins ahead of India Time e.g. at 7:00 PM IST = 7:30 PM BST
- Bhutan's power outlets are similar to those in India.
- Please cooperate with the tour coordinator, as he/she will always want to make your trip memorable.
- The complimentary tourist sim card will be provided after immigration formalities.
- The vehicle will be used for sightseeing from 9 AM to 5 PM as per itinerary. Any extra usage of the vehicle shall be chargeable by the driver.
- Smoking is not allowed in public places in Bhutan; however, it is allowed in private spaces.
- Refrain from passing negative comments on religion, the royal family and chief abbot.
- Use Zebra Crossing while crossing the roads. otherwise, the police will trouble you.
- Respect other cultures and learn about local customs. Locals are very sensitive, you may not want to sound rude.
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Always ask for permission if you are photographing a person.
Clothes & Accessories
- Long Pants
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen Lotion
- Toothpaste & Toothbrush
- Carrying umbrella is advisable
- Lip Balm & Moisturiser
- Body Spray
- Power Bank & Bluetooth Speaker
Basic Greeting
Bhutan's official language is Dzongkha (Zongkha). English is widely spoken.
Hello - Kuzo Zangpo
Thank You- Kadrin Chhe
