Celebrated for its mountainous charm and peaceful surroundings, Bhutan is one of the most preferred destinations among travellers. This Himalayan kingdom is adorned with ancient monasteries, serene valleys, and authentic villages, providing travellers with a healing abode for a few days. Travelling to Bhutan often feels like finding one’s own self while getting lost in the scenic trails and breathing the crisp Himalayan air. When planning a visit to Bhutan, understanding its culture, the country's rules and regulations, and the estimated costs of travel can enhance your travel experience. With some crucial Bhutan travel tips regarding the cultural standards, regulations, and expenses before visiting Bhutan, you can plan an informed and sustainable travel itinerary. In this blog, you can get some travel tips and an estimated budget for travelling to Bhutan.
Also Read: How to Travel with Kids in Bhutan Safely?
Quick Facts About Bhutan
Bhutan is situated in the Eastern Himalayas, a landlocked country also known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon”. Known for the breathtaking landscapes surrounded by the Himalayan mountains, ancient monasteries, and a strong cultural sense with Buddhism, this country feels nothing short of a paradise at high altitude. Additionally, the local people with a warm and amiable nature welcome the visitors, giving them a precious memory of their hospitality.
- Capital: The largest city and capital of Bhutan, Thimphu has various attractive places and serves as a famous tourist destination in the country. This is a distinctive small town featuring Buddhist culture and modern development, ancient monasteries like Tshichho Dzong, and the giant Buddha Dordenma statue amidst the mountains.
- Accessibility: Travellers can reach Bhutan via road by crossing the Bhutan Gate in Jaigaon, situated on the border of the country. This country has only one international airport, which is Paro International Airport situated in Paro. However, this country has limited public transport. Booking a private cab can be convenient when planning to explore the country.
- Tourism:This country values tourism and ensures sustainable tourism with certain environmental regulations. The government of Bhutan has mandated eco-friendly travel for travellers, such as vehicles with limited carbon emission cleanliness. Choosing a local driver with knowledge of these restrictions can be helpful for travellers.
- Best Time to Visit:Bhutan is always beautiful, no matter what the season is. However, the most ideal time to visit this country is during Spring from March to May and Autumn from September to November. The weather remains pleasant during these months with clear skies, nature in full bloom with magnolias and rhododendrons offering picturesque views of the towns, ideal for photography and cultural festivals. During deep winter and monsoon, the tourist count remains lower with weather challenges for trekking and enjoying views.
Travel Permits in Bhutan
To enter Bhutan, travellers need to abide by the visa and entry rules of this country, depending on the nationality of the travellers, such as:
- Visa: For international tourists, excluding India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, they must apply for a visa in advance, which requires 6 months' validity. For Indians, a visa is not required; carrying a voter id can be sufficient.
- Special Permits: To obtain entry permits for travelling beyond Phuentsholling, Samdrup Jhonkhar, and Gelephu is mandatory for all tourists. Indian tourists can avail these permits from Paro Airport.
- SDF: For Indians, SDF can be approx 1200 INR, and for foreigners, approximately USD 100 per person per night. These figures are subject to variation.
Understanding SDF (Sustainable Development Fee)
When travelling to Bhutan, tourists are charged a fee per person for staying per night in this country, which is known as the Sustainable Development Fee(SDF), and it is mandatory for Indian and foreign travellers. This is a revenue amount deducted from the tourists with the purpose of supporting sustainable tourism, carbon-neutral activities, infrastructure improvements, and maintaining healthcare and education for the locals. Children aged 6-12 are exempt from this fee, but adults need to pay in advance through the online visa portal or on arrival.
Bhutan’s Culture and Etiquettes
Bhutan’s culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, and it emphasises respect, modesty, and environmental harmony along with traditional etiquette. Make sure you show respect to their culture and local people to avoid breaching their faith. Here are some tips:
- Dress Modestly: Ensure you dress in a modest way, covering arms and legs properly when visiting temples and monasteries. Make sure to remove shoes, sunglasses, andhats before entering the sacred sites.
- Interactions: Gently communicate with the locals, avoiding pointing fingers, touching people on the head, and pointing feet at people or religious items. You can bow slightly with a sile, which is a traditional way of greeting known as Kuzuzangpo.
- Photography:Photography is prohibited inside the sanctum. Make sure you ask for permission before taking pictures of locals and certain religious places.
- Environmental Norms: Refrain from smoking and drinking in public, which is banned in Bhutan, and littering is strongly discourages and remember to show respect towards nature, as they prioritise environmental protection.
- Engage with Locals: Interacting with local people can be an insightful experience, knowing about the country, culture, history and more.
Estimated Cost of a 7-Day Trip to Bhutan
The cost of a Bhutan trip depends on various factors such as travel timing, booking sources, transport, accommodation, nu and seasonal demands. A 7-day trip to Bhutan can cost from 50,000 to 70,000 per person, depending on the aforementioned factors. Here is the charges breakdown for one person :
- SDF:In Bhutan, SDF is charged approximately 1200 INR per person per day; in 7 days, it can cost 84,000 INR.
- Accommodation & Transport: The total cost largely depends on the accommodation and vehicle types you book. Especially when you are choosing a 3-star hotel, the total cost can range from 25,000 to 40,000 INR.
- Meals: The total charge can range from 7000 INR to 10,000 INR; however, some hotels include complementary breakfast, which can vary the charges.
- Visa and Permits: Often, permits are included in the tour packages, but the site entry fee can range from 400INR to 1200 INR per site.
- Flights: If you are travelling by flight, it will be more expensive, and the flight fares will vary the overall costing.
Note: Please note that these are estimated charges, and this cost is subject to change.
Some Tips To Save
- Travel in Group: You can travel in a group with shared costs of private vehicles to reduce per person cost.
- Hire Local Tour Operator: Prefer booking through local tour operators for cheaper options.
- Avoid Peak Season: Rates of hotels and transport remain cheaper during off-seasons (Winter, Monsoon), and travelling this time can save you on budget.
- Book in Advance: Pre-booking your services can be beneficial in saving money and avoiding sudden extra charges.
Some Practical Points to Note
When planning a trip to Bhutan, make sure you follow some steps, such as:
- Pack Smartly: Bhutan’s weather changes rapidly, so carry sufficient warm clothes, boots, comforters, and socks to combat the biting cold.
- Carry Essentials: Do not forget to carry rain gear, sunscreen, water-resistant jackets, trekking-friendly boots, a power ban,k and regular medicines.
- Carry Cash: Bhutan has limited ATMs in remote areas, so make sure you carry enough cash. Bhutan accepts Indian Rupees.
Conclusion,
Planning a Bhutan trip by keeping their culture, necessary permits, and travel expenses in mind can make your trip smooth and memorable. You can contact Vacation Adda, a renowned tour operator providing customised and budget-friendly Bhutan itineraries along with local guides. Make your plan for the Bhutan trip now to experience the Himalayan charm and unique culture, traditions, and festivals.
