Traveling to Bhutan is an exciting journey into the past. While many things have been updated recently, many things in Bhutan are very different from the Western world. Below is some general information about traveling in Bhutan.

Climate

Bhutan has a wide variety of temperatures from place to place and season to season. Southern Bhutan is tropical and the Eastern part of the country is warmer than the central part. The mountains are cooler, and in the winter they generally stay below zero.

Winter lasts from mid-November to mid-March and it is generally dry and sunny.Spring is from mid-March to mid-June and is a great time to come to Bhutan. Mid-June enters in the monsoon season, which lasts until mid-September. Fall, which lasts from mid-September until mid-November is another great time to visit Bhutan and is particularly great season for trekking!

Health

There are no vaccinations required to travel to Bhutan. However, those coming from an area with yellow fever or cholera are strongly urged to get vaccinated for these diseases. Those who will be travelling in rural areas bordering India are recommended to receive anti-maria medication.

Currency:

The Bhutanese currency is called Ngultrum equals that of an India Rupee. The Rupee is also accepted currency in Bhutan

1 Ngultrum = 1 rupee

44 Ngultrum = US $1

Currency can be exchanged at the airport and the banks in Bhutan.

Credit Cards:

In the larger places such as Paro and Timphu, major credit cars are accepted. However, in the smaller districts most places only accept cash.

Electricity:

You will need to bring adapter plugs for anything electrical that you bring. In Bhutan, electricity runs on 220/240 volts, with two hole and three hole outlets. Shops in Thimphu will carry adapters, but they are not likely to be available anywhere else.

Communication:

You will be able to make international phone calls from many towns while in Bhutan. Internet is also available in most of the hotels. Internet cafes are also available in the western region of the country. While on a trek, your wilderness guide will carry a satellite phone in case of emergency.

Clothing:

Because of the wide range of temperatures, you should be prepared to dress in layers. Breathable, cotton clothing is recommended. You should also be sure to dress modestly while in Bhutan. The Bhutanese will find it offensive if you wear clothing that is too tight or too short. Short should not be worn by anyone and women should not wear skirts that do not fall below the knee. Caps should not be worn while in the temples, monasteries or Dzongs.

What to Pack:

• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Sunglasses/spare glasses
• Casual shoes
• Hat
• Umbrella
• Camera and accessories*
• Bug Spray
• Lotion
• Small sewing kit
• Flashlight
• Mirror
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Antiseptic cream
• Any prescription medications you may need
• Pain reliever, anti-histamine, anti-diarrhea medications

*Bring about twice as much film and batteries as you think you will need because there items are unlikely to be available where you are.

Photography

While photography is generally not permitted in the shrine rooms of the dzongs or monasteries, photography is welcome in most other places. This is a photographers dream vacation as the scenery, architecture and local culture cannot be found elsewhere. Please check with your guide before taking any photographs.

Shopping

There are many stores and open-air markets within Bhutan to purchase souvenirs such as textiles, masks, baskets, crafts, and paintings.