1. Visa Requirements
- All travelers (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) must obtain a visa before arriving in Bhutan.
- Visas must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
- The visa fee is USD 40 and is processed only after full payment of the tour package.
2. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Visitors must pay an SDF of USD 100 per person per night (for most international travelers).
- Indian citizens pay INR 1200 per person per night.
3. Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Best for trekking, rhododendron blooms, and cultural festivals.
- Autumn (September-November): Ideal weather with clear views of the Himalayas.
- Winter (December-February): Great for bird watching and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June-August): Monsoon season, but lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
4. How to Reach Bhutan
By Air:
- Paro International Airport (PBH) is the only international airport in Bhutan.
- Major airlines: Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines.
- Direct flights are available from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Bangkok, Kathmandu, and Singapore.
By Road:
- Entry points from India:
- Phuentsholing (West Bhutan) – from Jaigaon, West Bengal
- Gelephu (Central Bhutan) – from Assam
- Samdrup Jongkhar (East Bhutan) – from Assam
5. Currency and Payments
- Currency: Ngultrum (BTN) (1 BTN = 1 INR).
- Indian Rupees (except ₹2000 notes) are widely accepted.
- ATMs and card payments are available in major cities, but cash is preferred in rural areas.
6. Accommodation
- Bhutan has hotels ranging from budget lodges to luxury resorts (Amankora, COMO Uma, Six Senses).
- Homestays are also available for cultural experiences.
7. Local Transportation
- Taxis are available but not metered—fares should be negotiated in advance.
- Tour operators provide comfortable transport as part of their packages.
8. Food & Dining
- Staple Cuisine: Rice (red/white) with vegetables, meat, and chili-based dishes.
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Ema Datshi (Chili & Cheese Stew)
- Momo (Dumplings)
- Suja (Butter Tea)
- Vegetarian Food: Widely available.