1. Where is Bhutan?
Bhutan is a small, landlocked nation located in the eastern Himalayas between India and China. Its landscape ranges from subtropical plains and forests in the South to subalpine forests and snowy mountains in the North. Bhutan is a predominantly Buddhist country and is known as the last stronghold of Mahayana Buddhism.
2. Do I need to use a tour operator to book my travel?
It is a government regulation that you must use a licensed Bhutanese Tour Operator to book your travel to Bhutan or one of their international partners.
3. Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?
All International tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa which must be arranged prior to visiting Bhutan. For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives may obtain a visa on entry.
4. How much does the visa cost?
International tourist Visa fee is USD $40. This can be paid in advance to us. For India, Bangladesh, Maldives nationality there is no Visa fee.
5. How do I get to Bhutan?
There are number of airports where you can fly into Bhutan from (Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore, and Mumbai.). At present two carriers operate to Bhutan viz. Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Also, there are three land border crossings from where you can enter the kingdom overland. All crossings are along the Indian border – Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar. Travel arrangements to Bhutan must be made through a local tour operator.
6. What does the $200/$250 per day minimum daily package include?
The $200 per day (low season) and $250 per day (high season) package includes a minimum of 3 star accommodation on twin sharing, meals, guide, entrance fee to monuments and transportation. In the event, you avail domestic air travel it will be charged as per actual’s.
7. What currency is used in Bhutan?
Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum. It’s value is at par with Indian Rupee which is also accepted as legal tender in Bhutan. However Indian notes in 500, 1000 and 2000 denominations are not accepted.
8. Is there a limit on the number of tourists that can enter Bhutan each year?
There is no limit on the number of tourists admitted into the country each year. In order to protect our culture, traditions and natural environment the government has adopted a strict policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism”. This policy is aimed at attracting discerning tourists that will respect the unique culture and values of the Bhutanese people while also providing the visitors with an unforgettable one of a kind experience.
9. What’s the food like in Bhutan?
The most distinctive characteristic of Bhutanese cuisine is its spiciness. Chillis are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that is not spicy. Rice constitutes the staple diet for all Bhutanese meals. It is usually served with one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. A wide selection of western and Indian food is also available in many of the restaurants around the country.