+1 612 869 4949Bhutan Travel Packing Checklist Guide
(For Cultural Tours & Sightseeing – Non-Trekking)
Essential Documents & Money
☐ Visa Clearance Letter
Printed copy. Digital versions may not always be accepted at airline check-in.
☐ Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival.
☐ Travel Insurance
Not compulsory but suggested with medical coverage, including emergency evacuation.
☐ Crisp USD Cash (if carrying foreign currency)
Bills should be printed after 2006, with no tears, marks, or writing. Bhutanese banks and exchange counters are very selective.
Clothing
Bhutan is conservative, especially at religious sites. Layering helps with changing temperatures.
☐ Shirts (2–3)
Collared shirts with sleeves required for entry into Dzongs and monasteries. Polo shirts or button-downs work well. Sleeveless tanks are often not allowed.
☐ Long Trousers / Pants
Full-length trousers are mandatory for visiting religious and government buildings.
☐ Long Skirt (Optional)
Ankle-length skirts are a comfortable and respectful option for women.
☐ Lightweight Down or Insulated Jacket
Essential for cool evenings, even during summer months.
☐ Thermal Base Layer (November–March)
Recommended for winter travel and cold mornings.
☐ Modesty Scarf or Pashmina
Useful for covering shoulders at temples or staying warm in drafty interiors.
Footwear
☐ Slip-On Shoes or Loafers (optional)
Convenient for temples and monasteries where shoes must be removed frequently.
☐ Comfortable Walking Shoes / Sneakers
Ideal for city walks, museum visits, and sightseeing.
☐ Warm Wool Socks
Helpful on cold stone floors inside monasteries and Dzongs.
☐ Hiking Shoes
While sturdy sneakers with good tread can work, proper hiking shoes with good ankle support are strongly recommended for the hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) and other day hikes. Make sure they are well broken-in before your trip to avoid discomfort or blisters.
Electronics & Personal Care
☐ Universal Power Adapter
Bhutan uses Type D, F, and G power sockets.
☐ High-SPF Sunscreen & Lip Balm
Essential due to strong high-altitude UV exposure, even on cool or cloudy days.
☐ Motion Sickness Medication
Highly recommended for Bhutan’s winding mountain roads, especially on longer drives.
Day Essentials
☐ Day Pack (Small Backpack)
For carrying water, camera, jacket layers, sunscreen, and personal items during daily excursions.
☐ Hat (Sun or Warm Hat)
A sun hat is useful year-round; a warm hat is recommended for winter mornings and evenings.
Layered clothing is essential in Bhutan.
You can travel from warm valleys to cold mountain passes in a single day, and temperatures often drop quickly after sunset—even in summer. Dressing in layers lets you adjust easily to changes in altitude, sun, shade, and time of day, keeping you comfortable throughout your journey.
When visiting Dzongs and certain temples, No shorts or short skirts — legs must be covered to the ankle. No sleeveless tops — shoulders must be covered. Collared shirts are preferred — T-shirts are fine for street wear, but collared shirts or light jackets are recommended for temples and Dzongs.
The Footwear Rule: You must remove your shoes and hats before entering the inner sanctum of a temple. Tip: Wear “Temple Socks”—thick, warm socks—to keep your feet comfortable on cold stone floors.