FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers to the things most travellers want to know before visiting Bhutan.
Planning & Booking
Do I need to book through a tour operator to visit Bhutan?
Independent travel is now possible in Bhutan, but most visitors still prefer to travel with a trusted Bhutan specialist. Bhutan's regulations, geography, festivals, flight connections and cultural protocols can be difficult to navigate without local support. With Simply Bhutan, we arrange your itinerary, guide, driver, accommodation, internal logistics and visa support, so your journey feels seamless from the moment you arrive.
What makes Simply Bhutan different?
Simply Bhutan is a Bhutanese travel company based in the UK and Bhutan. We specialise in private, bespoke journeys rather than fixed group departures. Every itinerary is designed around your interests, pace and dates — whether you are travelling as a couple, a family, a small group, or for a special occasion.
Are your tours private?
Yes. Our journeys are private unless clearly stated otherwise. You will not be placed on a shared coach tour or added to a group of strangers. Your guide, driver and itinerary are arranged for you.
Can you tailor the itinerary to us?
Yes. Bhutan is best experienced at the right pace. We can adapt the journey around your interests — culture, monasteries, walking, festivals, photography, family travel, wellness, nature, textiles, food, art, or a special celebration.
How far in advance should we book?
For spring and autumn travel, especially around major festivals, we recommend booking several months in advance. Flights and the best hotels can fill up quickly. For quieter months, shorter notice may be possible, but Bhutan is not a destination to leave entirely to the last minute.
Visas & Entry
Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?
Most international visitors need a visa before travelling to Bhutan. Visitors from India follow a permit process, while visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives have separate arrangements.
Do you arrange the visa for us?
Yes. Once your journey is confirmed and we have the necessary documents, we assist with the visa process. We will advise you on the required information and keep you informed before travel.
What documents are needed for the Bhutan visa?
You will normally need a clear digital copy of your passport, a recent digital passport photograph, your arrival and departure dates, and payment details for the visa and Sustainable Development Fee if paid through the official portal.
How long does the Bhutan visa take?
A correctly completed visa application can take up to five working days to process. We recommend allowing extra time, especially during busy travel periods.
How much is the visa fee?
The visa application fee is currently US$40 per person and is non-refundable. This is separate from the Sustainable Development Fee.
What is the Sustainable Development Fee?
The Sustainable Development Fee, often called the SDF, is Bhutan's daily tourism levy. It supports Bhutan's long-term development, including free healthcare, education, infrastructure, conservation, cultural preservation and community initiatives. Bhutan uses this model to protect the quality of the visitor experience and the wellbeing of the country.
How much is the SDF?
The SDF is currently US$100 per adult per night for international visitors from countries other than India. Children aged 6 to under 12 pay US$50 per night, and children under 6 are exempt. Indian nationals pay Nu./INR 1,200 per person per night, with reduced rates for children.
Is the SDF included in my Simply Bhutan quote?
Yes, where applicable, we will clearly show whether the SDF is included in your quotation. Our aim is to keep pricing transparent so you understand what is covered before you travel.
Does my passport need to be valid for a certain period?
Yes. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after the date you plan to leave Bhutan. Travellers of other nationalities should check the rules that apply to their passport before booking.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Mandatory travel insurance was lifted in April 2024, but travel insurance is still strongly recommended. We recommend comprehensive cover that includes medical treatment, cancellation, delays, baggage, trekking if relevant, and emergency evacuation.
Flights & Getting There
How do I get to Bhutan?
Bhutan's only international airport is in Paro. Flights are operated by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, with connections through regional gateways such as Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Dhaka, Bagdogra, Guwahati, Gaya, Singapore and Dubai. Routes and schedules can change, so we will confirm the best flight options for your dates.
Can I fly directly from the UK, Europe or the US to Bhutan?
There are currently no direct scheduled flights from the UK, Europe or the US to Bhutan. Most travellers connect through cities such as Delhi, Bangkok, Kathmandu or Singapore, depending on their starting point and itinerary.
Can you help arrange flights?
Yes. We can help book flights into and out of Bhutan on Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. We do not arrange international flights beyond Bhutan's borders, but we will advise on the best connection points and coordinate your itinerary around your flight schedule.
Can I enter Bhutan by road?
Yes, entry by road is possible through selected land border points, most commonly via Phuentsholing in southern Bhutan. This can work well for travellers combining Bhutan with parts of India such as Sikkim, Darjeeling or Assam. We will advise whether this makes sense for your itinerary.
When to Visit
When is the best time to visit Bhutan?
Bhutan can be visited year-round, but spring and autumn are generally the most popular seasons. Spring brings flowers, rhododendron forests and major festivals, while autumn offers clear skies, comfortable temperatures and excellent trekking conditions.
What is Bhutan like in spring?
Spring, from March to May, is one of the most beautiful times to visit. Valleys are green, flowers are in bloom, and the weather is generally pleasant. It is a particularly good season for cultural touring, photography, nature and moderate walks.
What is Bhutan like in autumn?
Autumn, from September to November, is another excellent season. The skies are often clear, the light is beautiful, and many festivals take place during this period. It is also one of the best times for trekking.
Is summer a bad time to visit Bhutan?
Not necessarily. Summer, from June to August, is the monsoon period, so you should expect some rain, especially in the afternoons and in southern areas. However, the countryside is lush and green, there are fewer visitors, and some itineraries can still work very well.
Is winter a good time to visit Bhutan?
Yes, winter can be wonderful if you are comfortable with colder mornings and evenings. Skies are often clear, the mountain views can be excellent, and popular sites are quieter. Lower valleys such as Punakha are generally more temperate than higher areas.
Your Journey
Will we have a guide?
Yes. We arrange a licensed Bhutanese guide for your journey. A good guide is central to the Bhutan experience — helping you understand the culture, enter religious sites respectfully, adjust the pace, and make sense of what you are seeing. A guide is mandatory at all times in Bhutan and is required for monuments and dzongs.
Will we have a private driver?
Yes. For private journeys, we arrange a private vehicle and driver. Travel in Bhutan is scenic but road journeys can be slow because of the mountain terrain, so we plan each day carefully to avoid rushing.
Are road journeys in Bhutan difficult?
Roads in Bhutan pass through valleys, mountain passes and rural settlements. Distances can look short on a map but take longer than expected. The reward is that the journey itself is often beautiful, with changing landscapes, prayer flags, villages and mountain views.
Can we self-drive in Bhutan?
Visitors cannot simply hire a self-drive vehicle in Bhutan in the way they might in many other countries. The most convenient way to travel is with a vehicle and driver arranged through a tourism service provider, and self-drive vehicle hire is not possible in Bhutan.
Are domestic flights available within Bhutan?
Yes. Bhutan has domestic airports in places including Bumthang, Yonphula and Gelephu. Domestic flights can be useful for longer itineraries, but they are weather-dependent and schedules may be limited.
Accommodation & Food
What are hotels like in Bhutan?
Bhutan has a range of accommodation, from comfortable locally run hotels to luxury lodges and traditional-style stays. Standards vary by region, so we recommend properties carefully based on your comfort expectations, route and budget.
Can we stay in luxury hotels?
Yes. Bhutan has excellent luxury lodges in key valleys such as Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang. We can design high-end itineraries using premium properties, or combine luxury stays with more characterful local hotels where appropriate.
What is Bhutanese food like?
Bhutanese food is hearty, warming and often spicy. Chilli and cheese are common ingredients, and rice, vegetables, dumplings, noodles, soups and stews are widely eaten. Most hotels can also provide milder dishes and international options.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes. Please tell us in advance about vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergy-related or medical dietary requirements. Bhutan can usually accommodate common dietary needs, but advance notice is important, especially outside the main towns.
Money & Connectivity
What currency is used in Bhutan?
Bhutan's currency is the ngultrum, usually written as Nu. It is pegged one-to-one with the Indian rupee, and Indian rupees are widely accepted in Bhutan.
Can I use credit cards in Bhutan?
Cards are increasingly accepted in towns, hotels and larger shops, but cash is still useful, especially in smaller settlements, local markets and for small purchases. Visa and Mastercard are accepted by ATMs and banks, and international cards are widely used in urban areas, though availability may be limited elsewhere.
Should I bring cash?
Yes, we recommend bringing some cash in US dollars, Indian rupees or another major currency that can be exchanged. You can exchange money at Paro International Airport, banks, larger hotels and authorised exchange businesses in Thimphu.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Most hotels offer Wi-Fi, but speeds can vary. If you need reliable access, we recommend getting a local SIM card on arrival. SIM cards can be purchased at Paro International Airport or from Bhutan Telecom, TashiCell and authorised agents in towns.
Will my mobile phone work in Bhutan?
International roaming may work depending on your provider, but it can be expensive. A local SIM is usually more practical if you need regular data access.
Health & Safety
Is Bhutan safe?
Bhutan is generally considered a very safe destination for visitors, with low levels of crime. Normal travel precautions still apply: look after valuables, follow your guide's advice, and take care on steps, trails and uneven ground.
Do I need vaccinations?
Vaccination advice depends on your nationality, medical history and travel route. You should consult your doctor or travel clinic before departure.
Is altitude a concern?
Some parts of Bhutan are at significant altitude. Paro and Thimphu are above 2,000 metres, and high passes can exceed 3,000 metres. Most cultural itineraries allow gradual adjustment, but you should tell us about any heart, lung or mobility conditions before travel.
Is Tiger's Nest Monastery suitable for everyone?
Tiger's Nest, or Paro Taktsang, is one of Bhutan's most iconic sights, but the walk is steep and can take several hours. Many travellers complete it comfortably with an early start and steady pace, but it is not compulsory. We can advise whether it is suitable for you and suggest alternatives if needed.
Culture & Etiquette
What should I wear in Bhutan?
Comfortable, layered clothing is best. Bhutan's weather changes by altitude and season, so it is useful to bring warm layers even outside winter. For temples, monasteries and dzongs, dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
Do I need to remove my shoes in temples?
Yes, shoes are usually removed before entering temples and sacred interiors. Your guide will advise you at each site.
Can I take photographs inside temples?
Photography is restricted in many temple interiors. Always ask your guide before taking photographs, especially inside religious buildings, near monks, or during rituals.
How should I behave around religious sites?
Walk clockwise around stupas, prayer wheels and sacred structures. Avoid touching religious objects unless invited. Speak quietly inside temples and follow your guide's instructions. Respectful behaviour is deeply appreciated.
Are festivals suitable for visitors?
Yes. Bhutanese festivals are among the most memorable experiences in the country. They are religious and community occasions, not performances staged for tourists, so visitors should attend respectfully. We can plan your journey around a festival if your dates allow.
Packing & Practicalities
What should I pack for Bhutan?
Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for religious sites, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, personal medication, a reusable water bottle, and a waterproof jacket if travelling in summer or trekking. In winter, bring warm clothing for mornings and evenings.
What plug adaptor do I need?
Bhutan uses several plug types, including British-style type G, European-style type C and Indian-style type D sockets. It is sensible to bring a universal travel adaptor.
Can I bring a drone?
Drone use in Bhutan requires advance permission. Do not bring or fly a drone without checking the rules first. A permit is required for recreational or commercial drone use.
Are there restrictions on taking antiques or religious items out of Bhutan?
Yes. Bhutan protects cultural heritage carefully. Antiques and certain cultural, religious or historic objects may not be taken out of the country without the correct clearance. If you buy older-looking artefacts, your guide can help you check whether an export permit is required.
Families & Specialist Interests
Is Bhutan suitable for families?
Yes, Bhutan can be a wonderful destination for families, especially those who enjoy nature, culture, gentle walks and meaningful experiences. We adjust the pace for children and can include shorter drives, downtime and activities suited to the age of your family.
Is Bhutan suitable for older travellers?
Yes, with the right itinerary. We can design a slower-paced journey with comfortable hotels, shorter walks and careful routing. Please tell us about mobility concerns or medical considerations before booking.
Can you arrange trekking?
Yes. We can arrange treks such as the Druk Path Trek as well as shorter day walks. All treks require proper logistics, guide support and safety planning. All treks must be undertaken with an accredited tour operator or guide.
Can you arrange specialist trips?
Yes. We can design specialist journeys around culture, textiles, art, birdwatching, nature, photography, festivals, wellness, walking, family travel or deeper regional exploration.
Support During Travel
What happens when we arrive in Bhutan?
You will be met on arrival by your guide and driver. They will accompany you throughout your journey, manage the daily logistics and help you settle into the rhythm of Bhutan.
Who do we contact if something goes wrong?
You will have local support through your guide, driver and our Bhutan office. For serious emergencies, Bhutan's emergency numbers are 110 for fire, 112 for ambulance and 113 for police.
Will we have free time?
Yes, where the itinerary allows. We design journeys with a balance of guided experiences and breathing space. Bhutan is not a country to rush, and some of the best moments come from quiet time in a valley, a village, a courtyard or a mountain pass.
How do we start planning?
The best way to begin is to tell us your preferred travel dates, number of travellers, interests, budget range and any special requirements. We will then suggest a route, pace and journey style that fits you.
Still have questions? We are happy to help.