Visa & Sustainable Development Fee
Except for passport holders from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives, all international travelers require a pre-approved visa clearance to enter Bhutan. The process is simple and handled entirely by Trikaya Travel as part of your tour package.
Visa Process
We only need a scanned copy of the photo-page of your passport (minimum 6 months validity). Once cleared, we email you the Visa Clearance Letter. The actual visa stamp is issued on arrival at Paro International Airport.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
The daily SDF supports Bhutan's commitment to carbon-neutral tourism, free healthcare, education, and environmental preservation. It is included in your tour package pricing.
Quick Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from travel date
- Recent passport-sized color photograph (digital)
- Travel insurance documentation
- Tour package booking confirmation with Trikaya Travel
Processing Time
3-5 business daysExemptions
India, Bangladesh, MaldivesIncluded In
All tour packagesFlights & Ground Transport
Paro International Airport is Bhutan's only international gateway, renowned for its challenging approach through mountain peaks. Two national carriers operate flights:
- Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) – The national flag carrier
- Bhutan Airlines – Private carrier offering competitive services
Gateway Hubs
Regular connections from Bangkok (BKK), Singapore (SIN), Kathmandu (KTM), Delhi (DEL), and Dhaka (DAC). We recommend arriving at your gateway hub at least one day before your flight to Bhutan.
Ground Transport:
- Vehicles: Comfortable Toyota Land Cruiser, Hyundai H-1, and Toyota Coaster buses for groups
- Domestic Flights: Drukair operates flights to Bumthang, Yonphula, and Gelephu
- Trekking: Full camping support with porters and cooks for wilderness treks
Currency & Payments
Bhutan's currency is the Ngultrum (Nu), pegged 1:1 to the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian rupees in denominations up to ₹500 are widely accepted.
Money Tips
ATMs are available in major towns but may not always work with international cards. We recommend bringing USD cash to exchange at the airport or banks. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and handicraft stores (3-5% fee applies).
Important Notes:
- Exchange excess Ngultrum before departure – it has no value outside Bhutan
- Carry small denominations for daily expenses and tips
- Major cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express
- Traveller's cheques can be cashed at banks and the airport
Currency
Ngultrum (Nu) / INRCards Accepted
Major hotels & storesATMs
Available in townsAccommodation Options
Bhutan offers a diverse range of accommodations, from traditional farmhouses to world-class luxury resorts. Government regulations require all tariff-paying tourists to stay in 3-star or above hotels.
Luxury & Boutique
Premium options include Amankora, COMO Uma, Taj Tashi, Le Meridien, Six Senses, and Zhiwa Ling. These require a supplement on top of the standard tariff.
Alternative Stays:
- Eco-lodges: Family-run, sustainable options
- Heritage lodges: Converted traditional Bhutanese houses
- Farmhouses: Authentic rural living experiences
- Trekking camps: Full camping setups with hot meals and equipment
Eastern Bhutan has simpler accommodation than the western regions due to fewer tourists.
Culture & Etiquette
Bhutan is a deeply spiritual society rooted in Vajrayana Buddhism. Respectful behavior ensures a harmonious and meaningful experience.
Greetings
Say "Kuzuzangpo" (hello) to everyone. For elders, add "La" – "Kuzuzangpo La" – as a sign of respect. Handshakes are now common, especially in urban areas.
Temple & Dzong Etiquette:
- Wear long pants or skirts below the knee
- Shirts must have full sleeves covering shoulders
- Remove hats and shoes before entering
- No photography inside active temples
- Always circumambulate clockwise around chortens, stupas, and prayer wheels
Photography Rules
Ask permission before photographing individuals. Never photograph members of the Royal Family even if they are present at festivals or gatherings.
- Dress Code: Casual wear is fine for general touring, but avoid shorts, skirts, and revealing clothing
- Behavior: Pointing feet at people or sacred objects is considered disrespectful
Weather & Packing Essentials
Bhutan experiences dramatic elevation changes, so temperatures can vary significantly within a single day. Layering is the key to comfort.
Climate Overview
Cold months: October–March (mornings and evenings are chilly). Warm months: April–September. Monsoon rains hit in June–August – bring rain gear.
Packing Checklist:
- Clothing: Wind-resistant jacket, fleece layers, long-sleeved shirts, long pants
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip (for trails and temple visits)
- Sun protection: Polarized sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat
- Health: Motion sickness medication (for mountain passes), altitude adjustment aids
- Electronics: Universal travel adapter (230V, 50Hz – accepts round and flat pins)
- Other: Reusable water bottle, daypack, and cash for tips
Cold Season
Oct–Mar: 0°C to 15°CWarm Season
Apr–Sep: 15°C to 30°CMonsoon
Jun–Aug: Rain gear essentialHealth & Safety
No mandatory vaccinations, but ensure tetanus, diphtheria, and polio are up to date. Drink bottled/boiled water, avoid ice, and eat cooked food. Free healthcare is available for everyone, including tourists.