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Tourism Policy

Official Tourism Policy & Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Welcome to the Kingdom of Bhutan. In compliance with national tourism standards, this page provides all the essential information and policies required for your journey to the last Vajrayana Buddhist kingdom. We invite you to “tread lightly” on our soil and respect the sacred sites that form our cultural tapestry.

1. Visa and Entry Procedures

  • Simplified Digital Process: Obtaining a visa for Bhutan is a straightforward, digital process that takes only a few minutes to complete.
  • Passport Validity: All international travelers must possess a passport with a minimum validity of six months from their date of entry.
  • Documentation: For security and identification, guests are advised to keep their passports with them at all times while traveling within the country.

2. Getting to Bhutan

  • By Air: Bhutan is served by two national airlines: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Direct flights connect Paro International Airport with Bangladesh (Dhaka), India (Bagdogra, Guwahati, Kolkata, and New Delhi), Nepal (Kathmandu), Singapore, and Thailand (Bangkok).
  • By Road: There are four official road entry points from India: Samtse and Phuentsholing in western Bhutan, Gelephu in central Bhutan, and Samdrup Jongkhar in eastern Bhutan.

3. In-Country Transportation & Logistics

  • No Self-Drive Vehicles: It is not possible to hire a self-drive vehicle in Bhutan.
  • Transport Options: Visitors may hire a vehicle and professional driver through car rental companies, tourism service providers, or their hotel. Available transport includes SUVs, domestic buses, motorbikes, and even yaks for specific treks.
  • Domestic Aviation: Four airports connect the western, central, southern, and eastern regions.
    • Reliability Note: Due to the unique topography and micro-climates, flights can be sporadically delayed or cancelled. Specifically, Yonphula airport in the east is prone to unpredictable weather in summer.
    • Baggage Allowance: The check-in limit for domestic flights is 30kg for business class and 20kg for economy class.
  • Helicopter Services: Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services Limited (RBHSL) offers private hire for heli-hiking and aerial views. Flights are strictly dependent on clear and calm weather conditions.

4. “Mindful Travel” & Cultural Etiquette

As the world’s last Vajrayana Buddhist country, Bhutan holds its religious sites in the highest regard.

  • Sacred Site Protocol: When visiting stupas, temples, monasteries, or nunneries, please maintain silence.
  • Dress Code: Visitors must wear long sleeves and clothing that covers the legs when entering a temple.
  • Respectful Conduct:
    • Remove shoes, caps, and hats before entering sacred sites or meeting elders.
    • If seated on the floor with a monk, nun, or elder, it is advisable to sit cross-legged.
    • Do not sit on sacred thrones or touch any religious items or paintings inside temples.
  • Photography:
    • Photography is strictly prohibited inside sacred sites.
    • When outside, be mindful not to stand between religious observers and an altar.
    • Always ask for permission before taking a photo of a Bhutanese citizen.

5. Environmental Responsibility and Safety

  • Conservation: Bhutan is home to one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. Visitors must leave the wilderness exactly as they find it.
  • Prohibited Activities: Hunting and fishing are illegal in most parts of the country.
  • Wilderness Safety: Do not venture into the wild or go on hikes without an accredited guide. Encounters with wild predators, while increasingly rare, can occur even a short distance from cities.

6. Local Interaction and Support

  • Social Customs: The Bhutanese people are known for their hospitality and frequent smiles; guests are encouraged to smile back.
  • Key Phrases: Use “Kuzu zangpo la” for hello and “Kadrin chey la” for thank you.
  • Complimentary Host Service: A national team of hosts is available to field any queries or provide information before and during your trip.
Planning your trip?

See the latest rules, fees and visa details on Bhutan’s official tourism portal. https://bhutan.travel/visit