FAQ's

Yes, Bhutan is one of the safest countries in the world. 

The altitude and climate of Bhutan is a little moderate compared to other Himalayan Weather is overall not as extreme; hence we see a great number of senior citizens enjoying their vacation in Bhutan. Those above 70 or under 10 years are perfectly capable of visiting Bhutan provided they are physically fit and not suffering from any illness which requires constant medical supervision.

Bargaining is generally NOT practiced or exercised but Customers generally request and NOT demand discount.

-Littering is strictly NOT allowed, and is punishable by a hefty fine.

-Photography of religious artifacts and important personalities need discretion, sometimes permission.

-Forbidden areas must NOT be intruded as it may be places of worship and sensitivity.

-Maintain silence in heritage and religious sites and monuments.

-If seated on the floor with a monk, nun, elder or host, it’s advisable to sit cross-legged.

-Finger pointing is NOT regarded or appreciated.

-Speak at a time, raising voice is considered rude as most of the Bhutanese are soft spoken. English is widely spoken and understood, Bhutanese are multi-lingual and can speak and understand languages of the neighboring countries.

-Bhutanese respect privacy, if spoken to, Bhutanese will answer, if approached, service will be given.

-Refrain from feeding animals on highways, parks and in other places.

-Be responsible for your own waste and dispose them in designated areas.

Sleeveless clothes and shorts are not allowed at sensitive places such as places of worship, fortresses, monasteries etc. As a sign of respect, remove caps and hats when visiting such sites. Shoes are not allowed inside private homes and temples.

In Bhutan ATMs are available all over the country where you can withdraw in local currency ‘ngultrum’ (short code BTN) using your debit card. Look out for Bhutan National Bank, Bank of Bhutan and Druk PNB ATMs. In Thimphu, Paro and Phuentsholing there are a lot of ATMs in and around town. Your driver would direct you to those ATMs. In other remote places, ATMs would be few and far between and often not reliable.

VISA cards have more chance of working than MasterCard. If you find that your debit card is not working, try a different ATM. Generally, we get lucky after trying in 2-3 ATMs. If still not successful, try to withdraw small amounts (10,000 or less) at a time. This is the max limit in most ATMs. So, for 30,000 you have to withdraw 3 times at least.

BTN is pegged to INR as 1:1 in conversion. Hence, they are of same value. If out of BTN, you can use 100 and 500 INR notes in Bhutan – they are accepted everywhere. Other denominations are not accepted.

-USD is also accepted in some places.

-Card Payment are also accepted by some Bhutanese Vendors.

Indian tourists are allowed to bring up to INR 100,000 into the country. Foreign tourists are allowed up to $10,000.

During peak tourist travel months, Mar/Apr/May & Sep/Oct/Nov, we recommend booking at least 6-12 months ahead. We suggest booking 4-6 months in advance if travelling in Jun/Jul/Aug & Dec/Jan/Feb.

Bhutan is generally considered very safe for solo travelers, including women. Bhutan’s low crime rates and the fact that all international tourists (except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must travel with a licensed guide and driver contribute to this perception of safety. Bhutan’s culture also emphasizes respect and kindness, further enhancing the feeling of security for solo travelers.

The mandatory guide requirement provides valuable cultural insights and ensures safety for solo female travelers.

When you travel to Bhutan, a unique and deeply enriching experience awaits, thanks in large part to the specialized services provided by our certified guides and drivers. They will not only be your gateway to exploring Bhutan’s majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage but they will also play an integral role in ensuring your journey is comfortable, personalized, and safe. Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect from our guides and drivers during your visit to Bhutan:

Professional Certification and Expertise

In Bhutan, the profession of a travel guide is taken very seriously by the Department Of Tourism. Every guide is required to undergo rigorous training and pass a comprehensive examination to earn their certification. This ensures that all guides have a deep understanding of Bhutanese culture, history, and geography, and are equipped with the skills necessary to provide high-quality, knowledgeable service to tourists. The certification process underscores Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its environment and cultural heritage while providing an informative and respectful experience for visitors.

Round-the-Clock Availability

From the moment your guide and driver greet you at the airport until they bid you farewell, your guide and driver will be available to you 24/7. No matter what time of day or night, if you need assistance, advice, or emergency support, your guide and driver are just a call away. We hope that the round-the-clock availability will provides you with peace of mind, knowing that you have reliable support throughout your stay in Bhutan.

 Personalized Service with Attention to Detail

Upon your arrival, your guide will take the initiative to learn about your personal interests, any dietary restrictions you may have, and any specific desires you have for your trip. This initial conversation allows your guide to tailor your journey to your preferences, ensuring that your experience in Bhutan is as close to your interests as possible. Additionally, your guide will provide you with essential information and practical advice to navigate the cultural and logistical aspects of traveling in Bhutan, making your stay both enjoyable and respectful of local customs.

Comprehensive Daily Support

Each day, your guide and driver will manage the logistics of your tour, from picking you up in the morning to ensuring you are comfortably settled in your hotel at night. If you wish to dine out, they will recommend local restaurants that cater to your tastes and dietary needs, accompany you there, and ensure your safe return to your hotel. This level of service extends to checking you into your hotel, suggesting activities based on your interests, and adjusting plans as needed to accommodate your preferences or any unforeseen circumstances.

Respect for Your Independence

While your guide and driver are always at your service, they will understand and respect your need for independence and personal space. Should you feel the need to explore a location on your own or wish for some solitude, they will happily accommodate your wishes. They will maintain a fine balance between being attentive and giving you the freedom to explore, ensuring that your experience is both guided and personal.

Local Companionship and Cultural Insight

Last but not the least, beyond the logistics and daily planning, the most invaluable aspect of having a guide and driver in Bhutan is the local insight and companionship they offer. They will be your window to understanding the deeper nuances of Bhutanese culture, traditions, and the everyday lives of its people. Through stories, anecdotes, and personal interactions, your guide and driver will become more than just a service provider; they will be your local friends, enriching your journey with warmth, authenticity, and a personal connection to Bhutan.

Tashi Delek!!