Pre-departure Guide

Months ahead

• Check your passport has 6+ months left
• Send documents for your visa
• Medical check-up
• Buy travel insurance

2–3 weeks before

• Confirm all reservations
• Get cash for spending money
• Finish shopping and start packing

1 week before

• Label your luggage
• Start shifting your sleep schedule
• Photograph important documents

The day before

• Pay bills and pause deliveries
• Empty the fridge
• Re-check flight times

Health & insurance

No vaccinations required

Malaria risk exists only in the southern foothills around Phuentsholing, Samdrup Jongkhar and Gelephu. Travel insurance is not required, but we strongly recommend medical, emergency and evacuation cover.

Altitude

Passes over 3,000 m

Serious altitude sickness is uncommon on tours, as roads drop back into the valleys soon after each pass. Our itineraries start gently and build up.

Money

Bring cash

The ngultrum is pegged to the Indian rupee. Cards work only at international hotels and some shops. ATMs are available but not always reliable, so bring enough cash. Budget US$20–50 a day for extras beyond your included meals.

Power

230V, 50Hz

Plug types C, D and M. Bring an adapter, and a converter and surge protector for sensitive electronics.

Phone & internet

Wi-Fi at most hotels

Slower than at home but fine for calls and posts. Local SIM cards with data are cheap. Expect little signal in remote areas.

Hotels & food

3-star where available

Bhutan’s star ratings don’t match international ones; rural stays are simpler. Meals are mostly buffets with rice and vegetables always on offer, so vegetarians eat well.