Complete Guide to Planning Your Bhutan Trip
Everything you need to know about visiting the Land of the Thunder Dragon
All visitors except Indian nationals require a visa. Visa fee is $40 and must be arranged through a licensed tour operator.
All international visitors pay a daily SDF of $100 USD to support Bhutan's sustainable tourism model and preserve its environment and culture.
Bhutan offers unique experiences year-round. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) feature pleasant weather and clear mountain views.
Paro International Airport is Bhutan's only international airport. Flights are available from Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and other major Asian cities.
All Bhutan tour packages are comprehensive, covering accommodation, meals, transport, licensed guide, and entrance fees.
Bhutan's altitude ranges from 200m to 7,500m. Thimphu (2,400m) and Paro (2,250m) have mild climates. Pack layers for varying temperatures.
DOs and DON'Ts in Bhutan
- ✓Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (cover shoulders and legs)
- ✓Remove shoes and hats before entering temples and monasteries
- ✓Walk clockwise around religious monuments (chortens and<bos>)
- ✓Ask permission before taking photos of people or inside temples
- ✓Try the local cuisine including ema datshi (chili and cheese)
- ✓Respect prayer flags, wheels, and religious symbols
- ✗Don't smoke in public (Bhutan has strict tobacco laws)
- ✗Don't point your feet at religious objects or people
- ✗Don't touch or climb on sacred objects like chortens
- ✗Don't wear revealing clothing in religious or public places
- ✗Don't litter or damage the environment (Bhutan is carbon-negative)
- ✗Don't buy or sell tobacco products
Must-Visit Attractions in Bhutan
From sacred monasteries to pristine valleys, explore the most iconic destinations
Tiger's Nest Monastery
Iconic cliffside monastery and Bhutan's most famous landmark
Punakha Dzong
Majestic fortress at the confluence of two rivers
Buddha Dordenma
Giant golden Buddha statue overlooking Thimphu valley
Dochula Pass
Mountain pass with 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views
Phobjikha Valley
Glacial valley and winter home to black-necked cranes
Bumthang Valley
Spiritual heartland with ancient temples and monasteries