Do you need a tour guide for Bhutan?

The Bhutanese government has been very deliberate in their tourism policies since opening up to foreigners in the 1960s. One of these policies requires all visitors (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) be accompanied by a Bhutanese guide and driver.

How long do you need in Bhutan?

Generally speaking, one should consider at least 2 nights at each of the key cities to allow for road travel, three nights if you want to drive to Bumthang or the eastern parts, practically reachable by air as driving could take several days. Another thing to consider when you plan your duration is the altitude.

When should I visit Bhutan?

October to December is the ideal time to visit Bhutan as the air is clear and fresh with sunny skies. January and February are colder, but from then until April the climate remains dry and pleasant and in late spring the famous rhododendrons bloom spectacularly, flooding the valleys with colour.

Can you visit Bhutan independently?

Independent travel to Bhutan is opening up but it’s not something the government encourages. Generally, visitors to Bhutan must either be tourists, or guests of the government. The only other options for visiting the country are to receive an invitation by “a citizen of some standing” or a volunteer organization.

Can I travel Bhutan without passport?

Yes. Indian travellers wishing to visit Bhutan need to carry either their passport, having a validity of minimum 6 months or a voter identity card, issued by Election Commission of India. For Children travelers it is advisable to carry Birth Certificate or Academic School ID Card.

When should I go to Bhutan?

What are the best places to visit in Bhutan?

The dzongs or the castle-like monasteries are the most attractive part of Bhutan, and there are a number of them. The Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) is the most popular tourist destination both for its sacredness, as well as its cultural significance.

How to reach Bhutan from India?

You will have to reach Kolkata in order to embark a train which will take you further towards Bhutan. If you are traveling from North India, you can consider reaching Delhi, Kanpur or Ranchi. In addition, there are direct flights from Kolkata to Paro (Bhutan). Hence, you will have more options from Kolkata to reach Bhutan.

How to visit Phuntsholing in Bhutan?

At night, you can visit the border town, Phuntsholing, in Bhutan. Simply walk through the streets and lookout for shops where you can purchase anything local. You do not need a permit to enter Phuntsholing. Just cross the gate and explore the Bhutanese town.

What documents do I need to travel to Bhutan?

For Indian Nationals only the ORIGINAL passport or the ORIGINAL Voters ID Card is acceptable as the identity documents to visit Bhutan. The flight into Bhutan takes you the great Himalayas, offering you the most scintillating scenery of the world’s highest glacial peaks.