Thinking about traveling to Bhutan? Here’s what you should know before you go. Bhutan is for travelers who are looking for the Road Less Traveled. Still untouched by mass tourism, this Himalayan kingdom offers no fast food chains or over-touristed landmarks. Instead, you’ll discover humble homestays, majestic mountain passes, and people who welcome you with genuine warmth.
Is Bhutan Safe to Travel?
The short answer: Yes, Bhutan is exceptionally safe. The kingdom consistently ranks among the world’s safest travel destinations, with virtually no violent crime, terrorism, or civil unrest. Political stability, strong Buddhist values of non-violence, and effective governance create an environment where travelers can explore with confidence.
Mountain-specific risks to consider: While crime isn’t a concern, Bhutan’s mountainous terrain presents natural challenges:
A few things to know for a safe trip in the mountains:
- Altitude sickness can kick in above 2,500m. Take it slow, give your body time to adjust, and drink plenty of water.
- Mountain weather changes fast. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re in a cloud. Always pack layers and rain gear.
- Trekking here isn’t a walk in the park. You’ll need proper prep, the right gear, and an experienced guide.
Independent Travel or Guided Experience?
Here’s the reality: there’s no such thing as truly independent travel in Bhutan. With a mandatory local guide by your side, Bhutan ensures unparalleled safety for all types of adventurers.
But this isn’t the restrictive experience you might imagine. Your guide becomes your cultural interpreter, logistics coordinator, and often, a genuine friend. They handle permits, navigate cultural nuances, and unlock experiences you’d never access alone.
How Do I Get to Bhutan?
Bhutan has one international airport, and it’s tucked into the stunning valley of Paro. This is where your flight adventure begins or ends. Drukair and Bhutan Airlines operate flights from cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodhgaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, and even Singapore.
There are also a few domestic airports if you’re heading deeper into the country. You’ll find them in Yonphula (east), Bumthang (central), and Gelephu (south-central).
Visas & Entry Requirements
All visitors require a visa before travelling to Bhutan (except those from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives). The visa itself costs US$40 and will be bundled with the overall tour price.
Key requirements:
- A passport with at least six months of validity, a flight itinerary, and a visa clearance letter provided by us are required
- It may take up to 5 days to process a correctly filed visa application, and you cannot buy airplane tickets to Bhutan without visa clearance
- The mandatory requirement for travel insurance was lifted in 2024 but it’s still highly recommended
Indian citizens: Visitors from India need a permit and are required to hold an Indian passport or voter ID card.
You can apply online for a visa here, or if you’re travelling with a tour operator, they may apply on your behalf.
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
A fifty percent discount is granted on the prevailing SDF of USD 200 for US Dollar paying tourists visiting Bhutan. The effective SDF with the discount is USD 100 per person per day.This fee funds free healthcare, education, and environmental conservation — you’re literally contributing to the world’s only carbon-negative country.
What should you wear?
Dress neatly and modestly (covered arms, no shorts or short skirts) and do not wear a hat in the precincts of Dzongs or religious complexes.
Practical dress code:
- Everyone: Cover shoulders and knees
- Dzongs and temples: Remove hats, dress extra conservatively
- Casual daily wear: Comfortable, modest clothing works fine
The Bhutanese take pride in their traditional attire — men wear the “gho,” and women wear the “kira”, which you’ll see as formal dress in government buildings and ceremonies.
Culture & Experience
Must-try dishes:
- Ema Datshi: National dish of chilies with cheese
- Momos: Tibetan-style dumplings (beef, pork, or vegetable)
- Red Rice: Nutty, wholesome staple served with most meals
- Suja: Butter tea that’s surprisingly addictive
- Ara: Local rice wine for special occasions
Cultural Essentials
- Always accept tea when offered — it’s not just hospitality, it’s inclusion in Bhutanese social fabric
- Respect prayer flags and chortens — walk clockwise around religious structures
- Remove shoes before entering homes and temples
- Don’t point feet toward people or religious objects
When to Visit Bhutan: Seasons, Festivals & Cultural Richness
Bhutan’s charm extends far beyond its temples and trails — it lies in its changing skies, blooming valleys, and deeply spiritual festivals.
Climate & Regions
Bhutan’s climate is as varied as its terrain:
- Southern Bhutan enjoys a subtropical climate — warm and lush, especially in summer, with abundant rainfall feeding dense forests.
- Central Bhutan experiences a mild, temperate climate, combining forested hills, historical towns, and cooler evenings.
- Northern Bhutan is distinctly alpine, with crisp mountain air and snowy winters — a gateway to high-altitude beauty.
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March to May): This is Bhutan at its most colorful — blooming rhododendrons, pleasant temperatures, and clear skies for Himalayan views. It’s an ideal time for trekking, wildlife spotting, and nature photography.
Autumn (September to November): With dry, cool weather and striking mountain visibility, autumn is equally popular. It’s also Bhutan’s peak festival season, hosting iconic Tshechus like the Paro Tshechu and Thimphu Tshechu — vibrant celebrations of dance, spirituality, and national identity.
Special Highlight — Jambay Lhakhang Festival: Held in Central Bhutan’s Bumthang region, this ancient festival showcases sacred mask dances, fire rituals, and healing ceremonies. It offers a rare, authentic cultural experience away from the usual tourist paths. By the way, we are going there in November.
Money & Practical Tips
Currency
The official currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian Rupees are also widely accepted (except for ₹2,000 notes, which may be refused).
- Cash is king in most areas outside of major towns. Bring sufficient cash in USD or INR.
- ATMs are available in cities like Thimphu and Paro but are not always reliable for foreign cards.
- Credit & debit cards are accepted only in select hotels and shops — don’t rely on them exclusively.
Connectivity, SIM Cards & Internet Access
Mobile Coverage
Mobile networks in Bhutan are provided mainly by B-Mobile (Bhutan Telecom) and TashiCell.
- Both offer good coverage in towns and many trekking areas.
- Remote valleys and high-altitude regions may have limited or no signal.
SIM Cards
Foreigners can buy local SIM cards upon arrival at the airport or in city shops. You’ll need your passport.
- Recommended: TashiCell or B-Mobile tourist SIM
- Plans are affordable (e.g., 5–10 USD for a basic data package)
Internet Access
- Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and guesthouses in urban areas.
- In rural regions and during treks, expect limited or no internet access — part of the charm of Bhutan’s digital minimalism.
- Local data is cheap and can be a good backup if you need to stay connected.
Tip: Download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps or Maps.me) and translation tools in advance, especially if you’re heading into the countryside.
That Happiness Isn’t Measured in Possessions or Popularity.
Bhutan’s national philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH) reminds you that success isn’t about GDP, status, or social media likes. It’s about wellbeing, balance, and community. For a traveler used to fast-paced cities and over-scheduled trips, Bhutan invites a slower, more intentional way of experiencing the world.
Join our upcoming Jambay Lhakhang Festival tour and witness one of Bhutan’s most sacred celebrations, complete with fire rituals and ancient mask dances.
Many travelers choose to combine their trip to Bhutan with a journey through the vibrant culture and landscapes of Bangladesh, explore the options here.