What is Bhutan known for?
Bhutan has a perfect environment, almost no pollution, and a living culture where festivals steal the heart of world travelers with its breathtaking scenery, stunning architecture and welcoming atmosphere. This hidden treasure is often called “The Last Shangri-La” and in this region it seems that religion and nature have come together in harmony to work their magic upon the face of the land. Also known as The Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan is a deeply religious land and is the only Buddhist kingdom in the world. For adventurers looking to experience the Himalayas firsthand, Bhutan would be the ideal destination.
When is the best time to visit Bhutan?
Every season has its own charm. But, the most popular times to visit Bhutan are autumn and spring seasons which fall in the months from September -November and March- May respectively. The weather is warmer and skies are clearer during these times and many of the dramatic festivals fall during these periods.
Do I need a visa for Bhutan? How can I obtain a visa for Bhutan?
A Bhutan Visa is essential for every foreigner who is planning to enter Bhutan. The visa has to be processed by local tour operators such as Himalaya Heart. No foreign mission or embassy abroad grants tourist visas. For the visa, a passport is required which must be valid for at least 6 months after you leave Bhutan. Druk Air allows boarding only if it has got your visa clearance from the Bhutan Government.
What documents will you provide that I have to take with me to Bhutan?
A Visa confirmation letter: We will organize your visa for Bhutan prior to the start of your trip. For the visa procedure, you have to send us two passport size color photographs and a color copy of your passport.
Itinerary: Please take a copy of your tour itinerary with you.
How to enter Bhutan?
By air: Foreigners can visit Bhutan only through a Tour Company. The best way to enter Bhutan is by Druk Air. There are also online tickets available for Druk Air nowadays. You can check the tickets with Druk Air yourself online at http://www.drukair.com.bt/.
By land: There are two overland entry/exit points. One is from the Indian state of West Bengal into Phuntsholing in southwest Bhutan. Four hours drive from Phuntsholing will take you to Bagdogra in the state of West Bengal (India) which is the nearest airport from Phuntsholings. The drive from Phuntsholing to Thimphu takes six hours. The other point is Samdrup Jongkhar in the southeast, 110 km from Guwahati, India. An Inner Line Permit to enter Assam will also be required to enter/exit through Guwahati. Tashigang is six hours’ drive from Samdrup Jongkhar.
What is the weight limit for luggage on Druk Air?
The baggage allowance on Druk Air is 20 kg in economy class and 30 kg in business class. An extra 5 kg allowed for storing in the overhead baggage bin or under the passenger’s seat is also allowed.
What is included in tour packages?
The tour package includes all meals, tea & snacks, government-approved A & B category hotels on twin sharing basis, airport pick up and drop, ground transport in the comfortable private vehicle, experienced English speaking guides and local staff, all city tours with permits and entrance fees for museums and monuments, all government taxes, Bhutan Visa fee.
Can I have a private tour?
Yes, we can arrange you a private tour, you will find us flexible and in the vast majority of cases, this is not a problem. Please feel free to customize your tour and schedule. We will help you plan your itinerary based on your interest and time frame and we will manage accordingly.
What kind of vehicle does your company use?
We use comfortable, well maintained 4WD cars and jeeps and Hiace.
How far in advance do I have to book for your tour?
The earlier you book your trip, the better the selection of available departure dates you will have.
What type of Vaccinations are required before arriving in Bhutan?
Currently, there is no vaccination required for entry into Bhutan. However it is generally recommended that your tetanus, diphtheria and polio boosters be up to date. Malaria is prevalent in some rural areas of southern Bhutan. Most of our tours run through western, central and eastern Bhutan. Thus, you might need to consult your doctor about taking anti-malarial pills only if your trip goes through southern parts of Bhutan. For further information, visit the corporate website of the US Centers for Disease Control
Can I use my credit cards in Bhutan?Credit cards are not accepted in Bhutan generally. But, there are some handicraft shops which accept credit cards while purchasing goods.
Are there ATM s counters in Bhutan?
An ATM facility has recently been opened in Bhutan, but it is available for local people only for the time being.
What is the accommodation like?
Hotels in Bhutan are approved and classified by the government as grade A, B and C. These government approved hotels are equivalent to 3-4 star hotels located throughout the globe. Western Bhutan (Thimpu, Paro,Wangdue and Punakha) have the best hotels but as you head to the eastern and central regions, the quality decreases a little. All the hotels/lodges/guest houses in western Bhutan have pretty good electrical heating systems. While the hotels in the central and eastern part of Bhutan have wood-stoves for heating.
What is the electricity supply in Bhutan and what plugs are used?
240 volts AC – Flat round 2-pin plugs are most common and a universal adapter is an important travel item. Power cuts are quite frequent in central and eastern Bhutan while western Bhutan has a stable power supply.
Are there internet facilities for foreign travelers?
Bhutan’s main and only Internet Service Provider (ISP) is Druknet, owned by Bhutan Telecom. It provides a dial-up service, at a reasonable cost. There are several internet cafes and communication centers in the Thimphu and other various parts of the country. E-mail and Internet services are also offered by hotels.
Can we smoke in Bhutan?
The sale of tobacco products is banned throughout the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. However, smoking in Bhutan is not banned but acting without an import receipt issued by the Department of Revenue and Customs is banned. Therefore, if you wish to smoke in Bhutan you can carry cigarettes up to 200 pieces with you but a duty has to be paid for them and also you can only smoke only in private zones like your room or residence. if you smoke in prohibited areas like public places and offices you may even have to go jail for 3months.
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