Your Practical Guide
Plan YourBhutan
Journey
Visa requirements, best seasons, packing tips, and everything you need before stepping into the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Entry Requirements
Visa Process
Sustainable Development Fee for Bhutan:
Tourists can book a package holiday to Bhutan through both International and Bhutanese local tour operators. The Royal Government of Bhutan sets minimum selling prices for packages to Bhutan and this must be paid in US dollars prior to arrival in Bhutan.
Visa Formalities:
Other than Indian, all visitors to Bhutan require a visa; all visas are issued from Thimphu; visas are only issued to tourists booked with a local licensed tour operator (Glimpses Bhutan), directly or through a foreign travel agent. Applications for tourist visas are submitted by the tour operator. Visa clearance from Thimphu must be obtained before coming to Bhutan. Visa clearance takes at least 5 days to process. Air tickets to Bhutan cannot be purchased without visa clearance.
Bhutan Cultural & Traditional
While Bhutan is definitely one of the smallest countries in the world, yet the cultural diversity and its richness are profound. As such strong emphasis is laid on the promotion and preservation of its rich cultural diversity. It is believed that ensuring protection and preservation of our unique culture would assist in protecting the sovereignty of the nation
parks & wildlife sanctuaries
Besides others that Bhutan can offer to the world, is its pristine environment that is almost intact. Our ecosystem is rich and diverse, because of its location, great geographical and climatic variations. Bhutan’s high, rugged mountains and valleys boast of spectacular biodiversity, earning it a name as one of the world’s ten most important biodiversity hotspots.
When to Visit
Climate Guide
Spring (Mar–May) brings blooming rhododendrons and clear skies. Autumn (Sep–Nov) offers crisp weather and vibrant festival season.
Jan
0– 12°C
Low
rainfall
Feb
2–14°C
Low
rainfall
Mar
5–18°C
Low
rainfall
Apr
8–22°C
MED
rainfall
May
12–24°C
MED
rainfall
Jun
15–26°C
HIGH
rainfall
Jul
16–27°C
0– 12°C
HIGH
rainfall
Aug
16–26°C
HIGH
rainfall
Sep
14–24°C
MED
rainfall
Oct
8–22°C
LOW
rainfall
Nov
3–17°C
Low
rainfall
Dec
0–13°C
Low
rainfall
Common Questions
FAQ
Have a question not listed here? Reach out anytime — we’re happy to help you plan the perfect Bhutan experience.
Do I need a guide to visit Bhutan?
Yes. All international tourists (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) must book through a licensed tour operator with a certified guide and planned itinerary.
Is Bhutan expensive to visit?
The daily SDF of USD $100 may seem high, but it covers your contribution to sustainable development. Tour packages separately cover accommodation, meals, transport, and guide fees — offering excellent value.
Can I travel independently in Bhutan?
Independent travel is not permitted for most international tourists. However, your itinerary can be fully customized. Indian nationals can travel independently.
What is the best time to visit?
Spring (March–May) offers blooming rhododendrons and clear skies. Autumn (September–November) provides crisp weather and festival season. Winter is cold but uncrowded; summer is lush but wet.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
If your itinerary stays below 3,000 m (most cultural tours), altitude sickness is unlikely. For high-altitude treks, gradual acclimatization is built into the itinerary.
Can I use my phone and internet?
Local SIM cards (TashiCell, B-Mobile) are available at Paro Airport. 3G/4G/5G coverage exists in towns. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, though speeds can be slow in remote areas.