Bhutan Travel Information

Currency

Bhutan's currency, the Ngultrum (Nu.), is equal to the Indian Rupee and widely accepted across the country. However, ₹2,000 notes may not be accepted everywhere. ATMs are available in major towns, but availability is limited in rural areas. While many hotels and large shops accept credit cards and digital payments, travellers venturing to remote regions are advised to carry sufficient cash for all transactions.

Sustainable Development Fee

All visitors must pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which directly supports public services like education, healthcare, infrastructure, and conservation. International visitors pay USD 100 per person per night, Indian nationals pay ₹1,200 per person per night, children aged 5-12 receive a 50% discount, and children under 6 are exempt from the fee. This ensures that tourism supports local communities and protects Bhutan's natural environment for generations.

Visa & Formalities

The visa process is made easier by SP Tours and Travels. International travelers only need to provide a clear copy of their passport; SP Tours and Travels will take care of the processing, and the actual visa will be stamped when they arrive at Paro International Airport. Conversely, Travelers from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives do not require a pre-arranged visa; they can enter with a passport or a government-issued voter ID, and an entry permission is granted upon arrival.

Gross National Happiness

Bhutan has a unique development strategy known as Gross National Happiness (GNH), a concept that places people’s well-being, cultural preservation, good governance, and environmental conservation at the centre of national growth. Bhutan adopts a balanced strategy where pleasure, harmony, and sustainability inform all choices rather than concentrating solely on economic advancement.

Tourism Philosophy

Bhutan uses a unique "High Value, Low Volume" tourism model that prioritizes quality over quantity to ensure sustainable and beneficial travel; this philosophy focuses on maintaining peaceful, meaningful experiences, protecting the country's cultural heritage and authentic traditions, assisting the environment in remaining carbon-negative, and empowering local communities by ensuring tourism income directly benefits families and artisans. The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which directly finances Bhutan's key public services like healthcare, education, and conservation initiatives, further supports this strategy.

Things to Do in Bhutan

With SP Tours and Travels, tourists may explore Bhutan’s top cultural, spiritual, and natural attractions:

• Hike to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery): Bhutan’s famed cliffside temple.
• Visit Punakha Dzong: A masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture.
• Discover the vibrant mask dances and spiritual blessings of Tshechu festivities.
• Visit local markets, particularly the Thimphu Weekend Market to see handcrafted goods.
• Try a traditional hot stone bath: Relaxing and healing.
• Observe seasonal Black-Necked Cranes at Phobjikha Valley.
• Adventure activities: Trekking, mountain biking, day hikes, and archery, Bhutan’s national sport.

Facts About Bhutan

Here are some key observations that assist visitors better comprehend the nation:

• Language : Dzongkha is the national language, however English is commonly spoken, especially in towns.
• Security : Bhutan has extremely low crime rates, making it one of the safest nations in the world.
• Culture : A fundamental aspect of Bhutanese culture is respect for religion, elders, and customs.
• Food : Bhutanese foods are warm, spicy, and comforting ema datshi, red rice, and Suja are must-try delicacies.
• Climate : Layers are advised for every season because mountain weather can change rapidly.
• Internet : In distant settlements, connectivity is poor; in metropolitan regions, it is good.

Dos and Don'ts

Bhutanese people are hospitable and firmly committed to their spiritual and cultural beliefs. Respecting these traditions ensures a meaningful and pleasurable visit.

Dos

• Greet locals with a grin.
• When attending places of worship, dress modestly.
• Remove caps and shoes inside temples.
• Stroll around prayer wheels and stupas in a clockwise direction.
• Before taking pictures of individuals or places of worship, get permission.
• When offering or receiving objects, use your right hand.
• Prevent littering and maintain a clean environment.

Don'ts

• Holy artifacts should not be touched or moved.
• Don't point your foot at holy objects or monks.
• Smoking in public is prohibited.
• Never take pictures inside temples without authorization.
• Avoid stepping over religious books or prayer flags.
• Don't make jokes about the royal family or religion.

Best Time to Visit Bhutan

Autumn (September to November) is regarded as the best overall experience due to its clear skies, crisp weather, excellent Himalayan visibility, and major cultural events such as the Thimphu Tshechu, while Spring (March to May) is a close second, offering mild weather and beautiful rhododendron blooms, as well as festivals such as the Paro Tshechu. If you prefer quieter travel, Winter (December to February) gives beautiful valley vistas and fewer tourists despite freezing nights, and Summer (June to August) features rich green scenery but is characterized by intermittent monsoon downpour.