Bhutan Travel Guide
The essentials for a trip to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, in one place. Each topic links to a full page when you want the detail.
Visa
US$40
One-time visa fee. We apply for you; allow up to five days and book about a month ahead.
Sustainable Development Fee
US$100 / night
Per adult. Children 6–12 pay US$50; under 6 is free. It funds health, education and conservation.
Best time to go
Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Clear skies, mild days and the big tsechus, such as Paro and Thimphu.
Getting there
Fly into Paro
Bhutan's only international airport, served by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. Land borders from India too.
Money
Ngultrum (Nu.)
Pegged to the Indian rupee. Cards only at larger hotels and some shops, so carry cash.
Travel insurance
Recommended
Not required for your visa, but we advise medical, emergency and evacuation cover.
What to wear
Cover up
Long sleeves and long trousers or skirts for dzongs and temples. No shorts inside.
Power & phone
230V · C, D, M
Free Wi-Fi at most hotels; local SIM cards are cheap. Remote valleys have little signal.
Bhutan at a glance
| Local name | Druk Yul |
| Capital | Thimphu, 2,200 m |
| Area | 47,000 sq km |
| Population | About 780,000 |
| Language | Dzongkha; English widely spoken |
| Paro to Thimphu | 55 km |
Ready to plan?
Tell us your dates and interests and we will shape a Bhutan trip around them.
Travel with us
Bhutan trips
Bhutan Festival Tour
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Highlights of Bhutan Tour
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Bhutan Country Walks
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Druk Path Trek – A Scenic Highland Trek Journey Between Paro and Thimphu
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Find a trip by style: Culture Festivals Walking Trekking Village Wildlife & Birding Cycling Multi-activity Pilgrimage