Discover the Enchanting Land of Bhutan: A Journey Through Druk Yul
Bhutan is a land of pristine natural environments, existing as a biodiversity hotspot. Free of pollution and crime, it’s guided by an official policy known as Gross National Happiness. Known to its people as Druk Yul (meaning ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’), Bhutan sits in the remote Himalayan Mountains with India and China as its only neighbours.
The scenic majesty of its soaring mountains and green valleys, coupled with the vibrancy of its cultural life, makes Bhutan one of the last thoroughly explored destinations; an adventure to feed the soul and enrich the senses.
Bhutan’s iconic sight is the Tiger’s Nest, a monastery built into a cliff face 2,950 feet (900m) above the ground in the Paro Valley. Another key attraction is Trongsa Dzong fortress, the ancestral home of the royal family. Trekking and mountain biking are popular attractions too, as are the many Buddhist festivals that bring out the extroverted side of these famously friendly people.
It is at times a wonderfully strange place: all new structures must follow the ancient style and people are obliged by law to wear traditional dress in public. Monks have broadband access, while cigarette sales are illegal. Uniquely, 70 percent of the land is owned by women as inheritance is matrilineal.
Bhutan remained closed to the outside world until the 1960s when its borders slowly began opening. Tourism is based on a high value, low volume principle in a bid to avoid the destructive effects of mass tourism suffered by Nepal and India. Visitors must spend a minimum of USD 250 per day on a predetermined itinerary, something to take note of for budget travellers. Because of this, travelling Bhutan is much easier through a registered tour operator.
Under the guidance of the current monarch, Bhutan is slowly changing as its economy matures and its fledgling government engages more with the world. Improved communications and widespread internet access is affecting the younger generation and exposing them to the world beyond the borders of this, the last Shangri-La.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Dzongkha is the official language, and various Tibetan dialects are spoken. English has recently become the language of instruction in schools but is only spoken fluently by guides and tourist industry professionals.
- Passport/Visa:
Bhutan has an unusual but fairly simple process for admitting visitors: Bhutanese embassies abroad cannot issue visas; instead travellers must apply for their visa in advance through a registered tour operator. The visa should be applied for at least 12 weeks before intended travel, at which time the tour operator will confirm with travellers directly with a faxed or emailed copy of the successful application. The actual visa is then stamped into their passport on arrival. This must be accompanied by at least two passport photographs. A visa allows for a stay of a maximum of 15 days.
The Government of Bhutan refuses entry to people wishing to visit the country for mountaineering, publicity, and other research activities. All visitors are required to book with a registered tour operator in Bhutan, which can be done directly through a travel agent abroad. All visitors must hold confirmed return or onward tickets, all documents required for next destination, and USD 200 per day of stay.
- Currency:
The local currency is the ngultrum, subdivided into 100 chetrum. The currency is pegged to the Indian rupee on scale of 1:1. The ngultrum was only introduced in 1974, before which the country had no currency, relying on a system of bartering to acquire goods. US dollars can be exchanged at banks and large hotels. Visa and Mastercard are not widely accepted but visitors can use them at major hotels.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts (50Hz). European round pin attachment plugs and three-pin rectangular plugs are in use.
Climate in Bhutan
Bhutan’s climate is as varied as its landscape. In the southern plains, the climate is tropical while the central valleys are cool. The Himalayas have severe winters and mild summers. The monsoon season is from June to August. In general, the best time to visit is spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to late November) when there are many Buddhist festivals.
Health Notes when travelling to Bhutan
Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance that includes the facility for emergency repatriation. The most significant health risks for travellers are water-borne parasites from unclean drinking water and altitude sickness resulting from exposure to high altitudes. Healthcare standards are relatively high. For locals all health services are free, and both western and traditional medicine is practiced side by side. Hospitals and clinics are located throughout the country, with excellent facilities available in the capital, Thimphu.
Safety Notes when travelling to Bhutan
Bhutan is one of the safest destinations on the planet, with theft and violent crime at extremely low levels.
Customs in Bhutan
Bhutan is a traditional Buddhist society. Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites, avoid public displays of affection and never climb or sit on a statue. Do not take photographs within temples unless permission has been granted to do so.
Avoid pointing at people or religious icons with your finger as it’s considered very rude. Betel nut is chewed throughout the day by young and old alike, becoming an integral part of Bhutanese society.
The royal family is revered and deeply respected so avoid any disparaging remarks or gestures about them. Mountains are considered to be the abode of the gods and hence any recreational activities therein are disallowed.
Duty Free in Bhutan
Travellers to Bhutan may bring with them up to 200 cigarettes, one litre of liquor, and goods for personal use. It’s illegal to sell tobacco in Bhutan, but import of tobacco is subject to 100 percent tax. Guns and ammunition, narcotics, antiques, and wildlife products are prohibited.
Doing Business in Bhutan
The business community in Bhutan is young and friendly, yet formal and traditional to the core. Many of the businessmen wear traditional attire, though a lightweight suit or shirt and tie are acceptable in the south. In the capital, a full suit and tie are recommended.
Communication in Bhutan
The international dialling code for Bhutan is +975. There is extensive mobile phone coverage, which is more reliable and widespread than the landline network. WiFi is usually available in all main towns and hotels.
Tipping in Bhutan
Tipping is not expected in restaurants as visitors’ meals would have been prepaid by their tour agency. On treks, it is usual to tip the cook, his assistant and any porters. Visitors should ask their guide for advice. If they hire a driver, they should tip him at the end of their trip. Bhutanese tradition is that one typically refuses a tip the first time it is offered but accepts it the second time. Tips for guides may range around USD 15 a day and around USD 10 a day for drivers.
Passport/Visa Note
Bhutan has an unusual but fairly simple process for admitting visitors: Bhutanese embassies abroad cannot issue visas; instead travellers must apply for their visa in advance through a registered tour operator. The visa should be applied for at least 12 weeks before intended travel, at which time the tour operator will confirm with travellers directly with a faxed or emailed copy of the successful application. The actual visa is then stamped into their passport on arrival. This must be accompanied by at least two passport photographs. A visa allows for a stay of a maximum of 15 days.
The Government of Bhutan refuses entry to people wishing to visit the country for mountaineering, publicity, and other research activities. All visitors are required to book with a registered tour operator in Bhutan, which can be done directly through a travel agent abroad. All visitors must hold confirmed return or onward tickets, all documents required for next destination, and USD 200 per day of stay.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
United States citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond arrival. A visa is required and must be applied for in advance through a tour operator.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadians must hold a passport valid six months beyond arrival date. A visa is required and must be applied for in advance through a tour operator.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British nationals must have a passport valid six months beyond arrival date. A visa is required and must be applied for in advance through a tour operator.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australians must have a passport valid six months beyond arrival date. A visa is required and must be applied for in advance through a tour operator.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals must have a passport valid six months beyond arrival date. A visa is required and must be applied for in advance through a tour operator.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals must have a passport valid six months beyond arrival date. A visa is required and must be applied for in advance through a tour operator.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans must have a passport valid six months beyond arrival date. A visa is required and must be applied for in advance through a tour operator.
Tourist Offices
Tourism Council of Bhutan, PO Box 126, Thimphu,Tel: (2) 323 251 or [email protected]
Bhutan Embassies
- In the United States:
Bhutan Embassy, New York City, United States: +1 (202) 682 2268/2312.
- In Canada:
Bhutan Honoray Consulate, Toronto: (416) 960 3552
- In the United Kingdom:
Bhutanese Honorary Consulate, London: (+44) 1483 538 189
- In Australia:
Bhutan Consulate, Sydney: (61) 2 9394 3113
Foreign Embassies in Bhutan
- American Embassy
US Embassy, New Delhi, India (also responsible for Bhutan): 91 11 2419 8000
- Canadian Embassy
High Commission of Canada, New Delhi, India (also responsible for Bhutan): +91 11 4178 2000
- British Embassy
British High Commission, New Delhi, India (also responsible for Bhutan): +91 11 2419 2100
- Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, New Delhi, India (also responsible for Bhutan): +91 111 4139 9900
- Irish Embassy
Embassy of Ireland, New Delhi, India (also responsible for Bhutan): +91 114940 3200
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand High Commission, New Delhi, India (also responsible for Bhutan): +91 11 468 83170
- South African Embassy
South African High Commission, New Delhi, India (also responsible for Bhutan): +91 112 614 9411
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
