Formalities and Visa

All foreign travellers must have a visa in order to enter Bhutan, with the exception of natives of Bangladesh, India, and the Maldives. Applicants must apply via a Bhutanese travel operator with a license or one of their foreign partners. On arrival, citizens of Bangladesh and the Maldives can get a six-month visa. Indian nationals must get an entry permit at the Paro International Airport or the Immigration Office in Phuentsholing; they do not need a visa.

Sustainable Development Fee

A Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is required of all tourists in Bhutan as part of its "High Value, Low Impact" tourism policy. The fee is set at USD $100 per person per night for foreign visitors and ₹1200 per person per night for Indian citizens, is collected during the application process for a permit or visa and goes directly toward funding Bhutan's environmental protection, healthcare, and education programs. The SDF not only helps to improve the

Currency

Due to close economic links between Indian and Bhutan, the Bhutanese Ngultrum (Nu), the country's official currency of Bhutan has similar rate of exchange to that of the Indian Rupee (INR), due to which the INR notes widely accepted across the nation. While major currencies like EUR and GBP can also be converted at Paro Airport and major bank branches, the US dollar is the most easily exchanged foreign currency, especially for the obligatory Sustainable Development Fee. However, due to lack of sufficient amount of ATMs, it is advised to carry cash and make your purchase at the major towns of Bhutan.

Best time to Travel Bhutan

Despite being known for its diverse climatic conditions, Bhutan is one of such counties that can be explored all around the year. However, it is better to have a brief idea regarding the climatic conditions in each month which can help to plan your tour accordingly. Here are some of the best months to travel Bhutan.

• October-December: Beautiful weather for tourism, lively festivals, and clear skies, mostly popular among people traveling with family.
• January-February: Popular for snowy and serene views, winters offers a great experience for travelling Bhutan, also the crowd are lower during this season.
• March-May: This time of year is perfect for treks and nature excursions because there are a lot of greens and rhododendrons in blossom.
• June-August: In addition to creating beautiful landscape, the monsoon rains may have an effect on road traffic.

Do's and Don'ts

Bhutan places a great focus on environmental sustainability and cultural preservation, making travel there an immersive experience. Visitors must be aware of local customs and laws in order to guarantee a peaceful stay and adhere to the country's "High Value, Low Impact" tourism policy. Following certain "dos and don'ts" will improve your trip and contribute to preserving Bhutan's pristine environment and treasured customs.

Dos:

• Wear modest clothing, particularly while you're at a place of worship.
• Respect regional traditions and religious beliefs.
• Keep enough cash on hand for isolated locations (where access to ATMs may be restricted).
• For cultural understanding, hire a qualified local guide.
• Sample regional cuisine such as Suja (butter tea) and Ema Datshi.
• Before snapping pictures of individuals or holy places, get permission.
• Keep things tidy—Bhutan takes pride in its immaculate surroundings.

Don'ts

• It is strictly forbidden to smoke in public.
• Avoid touching prayer flags or religious items.
• Stay quiet around monasteries and dzongs.
• Use bottled water instead of tap water.
• Honking and littering are discouraged.
• Don't disregard regional customs or clothing.

Travel Advice

• The Indian Rupee is also commonly used as currency, as is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN).
• The official language is Dzongkha, however most people speak English.
• Connectivity: Most hotels provide Wi-Fi, and tourists can use SIM cards.
• Time Zone: GMT+6 and Bhutan Standard Time (BST)
• Bhutan is known for its high-altitude regions, therefore it is recommended to carry necessary mediations.
• Bhutan takes pride on their culture so you have to learn the basic etiquettes during your visit.