Welcome to Bhutan

A Himalayan kingdom where the state of the nation is measured in Gross National Happiness, Bhutan is a magical, mysterious place. Surprisingly modern when it needs to be, Bhutan never forgets its Buddhist culture. Nowhere is this more evident than the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, clinging to a cliff face high above the Paro Valley, well worth the half-day hike to get there.

Foreign visitors to Bhutan pay a minimum daily tariff for the privilege of touring this relatively expensive destination, a fee that includes accommodation, food, transportation and guides.

This all-inclusive manner of visiting ensures the best experience – perhaps attending one of the country’s boisterous archery competitions or a tsechus dance festival, entering a dzong or monastery, searching for yetis and snow leopards in Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary and trekking along the ancient trade routes traversing Jigme Dorji National Park. We promise, you’ll return home with some of that iconic Bhutanese happiness in your heart.

Unique Facts

• Take a deep breath of the clean, fresh air. Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative country. In fact, there are specific constitutional obligations for the Bhutanese people to protect the environment.
• Bhutan was isolated from the rest of the world until 1974, at which time the media were allowed to come in to cover the new king’s coronation.
• There is not a single traffic light in Bhutan, so driving can be quite an adventure. That being said, the residents typically drive carefully and slowly, stopping often for animals to cross the road and to greet other drivers.
• As opposed to GDP to indicate economic growth and development, Bhutan has introduced Gross National Happiness, measured against sustainable development, preservation and promotion of cultural values, good governance and a healthy environment.
• The Paro Airport is known as one of the world’s most dangerous for landing. Fewer than two dozen pilots are certified to make the manual, daylight-only landing approach into the valley. The runway is short, at 7,431 long and you can only see it moments before landing.

Language

Bhutan’s official language is Dzongkha.

When To Go

The best time to visit Bhutan is from October to December. If you go in January or February, expect colder temperatures. From February through April, expect dry weather. Springtime brings the blooming of the famous rhododendrons.

Airports

Paro International Airport

Note: The Paro International Airport is famously dangerous for landing, as it is located in a deep valley on the bank of the Paro Chhu River, surrounded by 18,000-foot mountains.

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months past date of arrival.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC suggests the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Bhutan: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Depending where you are going and how long you are staying, it may also be suggested that you receive Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies and Malaria vaccinations.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types D, F and G. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Bhutan’s official currency is the Ngultrum.

Getting Around

Rural road conditions are poor and emergency services generally are not available. Roads tend to have steep drop-offs and blind curves.

Driver’s License

Bhutan requires tourists to arrange their trips through registered tour operators and travel in groups with experienced drivers, so it is unlikely you will be driving yourself.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy New Delhi
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi – 110021
India
Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000
Emergency Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000
Fax: +(91) (11) 2419-8407
acsnd@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tourism Council of Bhutan
Post Box: 126
Thimphu, Bhutan
Tel: +975-2-323251/323252
Fax: +975-2-323695
info@tourism.gov.bt

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 113
Ambulance: 112

Safety and Security

The crime rate in Bhutan is low. Take standard precautions when visiting major towns and, in particular, when going out at night.