No. Tourists can now book all aspects of their travel to and within Bhutan independently. 

However, we recommend booking travel through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, who can arrange visas and accommodations, guided tours, and cultural activities. This is to ensure that your visit to Bhutan is both enjoyable and sustainable and that you have the support you need to make the most of your time in this unique and beautiful country.

The charge is Nu. 4,500 per car per day. A guide is also mandatory and will be at an additional charge.

If guests want to bring their car, the cars must meet the requirements of Bhutan’s Roads Safety and Transport Authority and have a valid driver’s licence, insurance documentation, pollution control documentation, an entry permit, and a vehicle in reasonable condition. A valid Indian driver’s licence is accepted for self-driving within Bhutan.

If you are not the owner of the vehicle you are travelling into Bhutan, you will need an authorization letter. For more information on this, please contact us. 

To plan a trip to Bhutan, consider the following steps:

1. Determine travel dates: Decide when you want to travel to Bhutan, and check if there are any peak season or festival dates to avoid or plan around.
2. Choose a tour operator: Bhutan requires all tourists to book their trips through licensed tour operators. Choose a reputable operator who can help you plan your itinerary and handle all the necessary logistics.
3. Decide on the itinerary: Bhutan has a lot to offer, from cultural sites and monasteries to outdoor adventures. Plan your itinerary based on your interests and the length of your trip.
4. Obtain a visa: You will need to obtain a visa before travelling to Bhutan. Your tour operator can assist with the visa process.
5. Book accommodations: Bhutan offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to traditional guesthouses. Choose the option that best suits your budget and preferences.
6. Transportation plan: Depending on your itinerary, you may need to arrange for flights, car rentals, and other forms of transportation. Your tour operator can help you with this.
7. Pack appropriately: Bhutan has a range of climates, so be sure to pack clothing and gear suitable for both warm and cool weather.

Following these steps, you can plan an unforgettable trip to Bhutan that meets your travel preferences and interests. 

Our team is also on hand to help provide you with information as you plan your journey.

To reach Bhutan, you have the following options:

1. Fly: Two airlines fly into Bhutan, Bhutan Air, and Druk Airlines. These flights typically arrive and depart from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodhgaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, and Singapore. However, it is also possible to fly into Bhutan using a private jet or charter after obtaining the relevant approvals.

There are also domestic airports in Yonphula in eastern Bhutan, Bumthang in central Bhutan, and Gelephu in south-central Bhutan.

1. Overland: You can enter Bhutan by land from India through one of four border crossings: Phuentsholing, Samdrup Jongkhar, Gelephu, and Samtse.

As of now, guests are no longer required to wear face masks at any venue or time in Bhutan except in hospitals and health centres. However, guests may choose to wear face masks at their convenience if they wish. 

Additionally, the government may mandate that face masks be worn in the future if the number of COVID-19 cases increases. Therefore, it is recommended that guests always travel with a face mask in their luggage as a precaution.

Although we recommend all visitors stay up to date with vaccinations against the covid-19 virus, there are now no vaccination requirements for adults or children to enter Bhutan. There is no quarantine period either.

All individuals (12 years and above) entering Bhutan may be subjected to random RT-PCR testing at entry points or at the worksite to maintain covid-19 surveillance for new variants. The RT-PCR testing for surveillance is free of charge.

If guests test positive for covid-19 during their stay in Bhutan, they will be required to quarantine in their hotel until they test negative. The guest shall bear the cost for the additional quarantine nights and PCR tests. The Sustainable Development Fee will be waived during the quarantine period. 

There will be no covid-19 protocols to leave Bhutan unless the guest’s destination requires them.

Two ways to get to your destination from the airport are by taxi or organized airport transfer. You can take a taxi from outside the airport, and your hotel or tour operator can help you arrange an airport transfer. This is the only public transport available at the airport.

The most convenient way to travel in Bhutan is to hire a vehicle and driver from a tourism service provider. It is not possible to hire a self-drive vehicle in Bhutan. You can book transport using the Druk Ride app. 

If you are travelling with a tour operator, they will arrange your transport.

Travelling by domestic flight is often the quickest way to get around Bhutan, with flights to and from Yonphula in the east, Bumthang in the centre, and Gelephu in south-central Bhutan.

If you’re looking to add extra excitement to your trip, special itineraries that include helicopter services can be arranged. For more information about helicopter services, do let us know.

No. Independent hiking or trekking is not allowed in Bhutan. All travellers must be accompanied by a licensed guide and book their travel through a registered tour operator.

This is because the country has implemented strict tourism policies to preserve its unique culture and natural environment. The government wants to maintain the country’s traditional way of life and prevent over-tourism, which can negatively impact the environment and local communities.

Yes. A guide is required for all travelers in Bhutan, and a route permit is necessary for certain areas. Having a guide accompany you on any journey or trek beyond Thimphu and Paro is mandatory. This also applies to visitors who enter Bhutan via our land borders and plan to travel beyond the border towns.

Guests no longer require a Route permit to travel around the country if they’re accompanied by a guide certified by the Department of Tourism. You can contact us or the Department of Tourism’s list of approved tourism services.

We recommend that visitors book a guided tour when visiting temples, local places of interest, and other similar experiences. While guides aren’t required for every experience, they can be very helpful in providing context and ensuring that you get all the important information. 

For instance, it is mandatory to have a guide when visiting monuments such as dzongs (fortress). Guides will enlighten you with the history and descriptions of the place while exploring.

If you are on a package holiday or itinerary in which your travel company arranges the excursions, you will not need to book a guide; the company will provide one.

Accommodation in Bhutan ranges from traditional Bhutanese-style guesthouses to high-end luxury hotels. The most common types of accommodations in Bhutan are:

1. Bhutanese-style guesthouses (known as “homestays”)
2. Mid-range hotels and lodges
3. Luxury resorts and hotels

Homestays offer a unique cultural experience, while mid-range hotels and lodges provide comfortable and clean accommodations. Luxury resorts and hotels offer more amenities and higher-end services. 

Accommodations in Bhutan are often basic, but clean and comfortable, and are well-suited for adventure travelers and trekkers. It’s important to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, as availability can be limited. 

No. Private homes and camping are not permitted for tourists in Bhutan. This is to protect the country’s natural resources and maintain its traditional way of life. 

However, you may stay in accommodations or campsites approved by the Department of Tourism. We have some amazing lodges for your stay in Bhutan. 

Yes. Bhutan is generally considered a safe destination for travellers. Crime rates are low, and the Bhutanese people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. However, like any destination, it’s important to take normal safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and protecting your valuables.

In some areas, you may encounter stray dogs-please be cautious around them, as they are not domesticated and may be aggressive. 

Bhutan is a remote and isolated country, so it’s important to be prepared for travel in the mountainous terrain. Visitors should also be aware of the country’s strict laws, which include restrictions on independent travel and requirements for a guide and permits in certain areas.

In terms of natural disasters, Bhutan is prone to earthquakes and flash floods, so it’s important to stay informed of any weather-related warnings and be prepared to adjust your travel plans as needed.

Overall, Bhutan is a safe and welcoming destination, and visitors are encouraged to follow the advice of their tour operator and guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Check with your hotel or tour operator regarding possible disruptions.