Frequently Asked Questions

If you are an international tourist, it is a government regulation that you must use a licensed Bhutanese tour operator to book your travel to Bhutan or one of their international partners.

Regional tourists are tourists from India, Maldives and Bangladesh.

All international tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa, which must be pre-arranged through a licensed Bhutanese Tour Operator. Visa clearance must be obtained through your tour operator prior to travel.

For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and citizens of Maldives may obtain a visa at port of entry.

For international tourist visas, a cost of USD 40 is applicable. This can be paid in advance to your tour operator or travel agent.

For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi and nationals of Maldives, there is no cost incurred.

There are a number of airports where you can fly into Bhutan from: Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore and Mumbai.

At present two carriers operate to Bhutan: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines.

All travel arrangements to Bhutan must be made through a local tour operator.

Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum. Its value is tied to the Indian Rupee, which is widely accepted in the country.

The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring months of March to May when the valleys come alive with flowers in bloom.

The Himalayan peaks are at their most visible with the clear skies of October and this is the best time for trekking though temperatures will be on the cold side.

June to August is considered the low season due to the rains, which makes trekking less of an option. However, travelling in low and shoulder seasons will warrant lower hotel rates.

As per the government's regulation, an individual can import tobacco and tobacco products for personal consumption only.

However, these need to be declared at the customs by paying 200 percent sales tax and custom duty at the entry point.