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Here is a sneak peek into the FAQ on Bhutan. For those visiting the beautiful country of Bhutan for the first time, we hope the FAQ below is helpful. If what you are seeking is not answered, you can always contact us. Do not restrain yourself! There is so much to do while in the country apart from activities offered by conventional itineraries! Check out below the most FAQ asked on Bhutan
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Bhutan
1. Where is Bhutan?
Bhutan is a landlocked country located in the Eastern Himalayas, bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west.
2. Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?
Yes, most visitors require a visa to enter Bhutan, except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives.
3. What are the documents required to process the visa?
You need a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a confirmed travel itinerary.
4. How much is the visa fee and how long does it take to issue?
The visa fee is $40, and it usually takes about 5-7 working days to process.
5. What are the documents required to process the permit (for Indian guests)?
Indian guests need a valid passport or voter ID card, two passport-sized photos, and a completed application form.
6. How can I purchase insurance if I don’t have any?
You can purchase travel insurance through your tour operator or online before your trip.
7. How much is the SDF and where do the funds go?
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is $100 per day per person. The funds are used for infrastructure, education, and healthcare in Bhutan.
8. How can the SDF payment be made?
The SDF payment can be made online through the official Bhutan tourism website or via your tour operator.
9. Will day visitors be levied SDF?
Yes, day visitors are also required to pay the SDF.
10. Is there a refund on SDF if the trip is cancelled or shortened?
Refunds for SDF are generally not provided if the trip is cancelled or shortened, but exceptions may apply in certain cases.
11. What is the best way to get to Bhutan?
The best way to get to Bhutan is by air, with flights available to Paro International Airport from cities like Delhi, Kathmandu, and Bangkok.
12. How can the tour payments be made?
Tour payments can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or through your tour operator.
13. How long can a visitor stay in Bhutan on a visitor visa or permit?
Visitors can stay for a maximum of 30 days on a tourist visa, which can be extended for an additional fee.
14. How can I extend a visa or permit while in Bhutan?
You can extend your visa or permit by visiting the Department of Immigration in Thimphu and paying the required fee.
15. How long does it take to extend the visa or permit?
Visa or permit extensions usually take 1-2 working days to process.
16. How does one make SDF payment for visa or permit extension while in Bhutan?
SDF payments for extensions can be made online or at the Department of Immigration in Thimphu.
17. Can visitors go trekking on their own?
No, visitors must be accompanied by a licensed guide for trekking in Bhutan.
18. Do visitors need a guide?
Yes, all visitors must have a licensed guide for the duration of their stay in Bhutan.
19. How can visitors find the best guide for their trip?
Visitors can find licensed guides through their tour operator or the Bhutan Tourism Council.
20. What types of accommodation are available in Bhutan?
Accommodation options range from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and traditional homestays.
21. Where can I find information about accommodation?
You can find information about accommodation on the Bhutan Tourism Council website or through your tour operator.
22. Can the visitors stay in a private home or camp at campsite areas?
Yes, visitors can stay in private homes or camp at designated campsites, but they must obtain the necessary permits.
COVID-19 Protocols
1. Is there a vaccination requirement to visit Bhutan?
As of now, there is no vaccination requirement to visit Bhutan, but it is recommended to check the latest guidelines before traveling.
2. Can unvaccinated guests enter Bhutan? If so, what is the procedure?
Unvaccinated guests can enter Bhutan but may need to follow additional health protocols, such as testing or quarantine.
3. If someone gets COVID-19 while traveling in Bhutan, what happens?
If someone tests positive for COVID-19 while in Bhutan, they will be required to quarantine at a designated facility until they recover.
4. Will there be any COVID-19 protocols for leaving Bhutan?
Travelers may need to follow COVID-19 protocols, such as testing, depending on the requirements of their destination country.
5. Is Bhutan a safe destination to visit?
Yes, Bhutan is considered a safe destination with low crime rates and a strong focus on sustainable tourism.
6. Are there any visitor information centers at the airports and land entry points?
Yes, there are visitor information centers at Paro International Airport and major land entry points.
7. What currency is used in Bhutan?
The currency used in Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR).
8. Is there a limit on the number of tourists that can enter Bhutan each year?
No, there is no strict limit, but Bhutan follows a "High Value, Low Impact" tourism policy to ensure sustainability.
9. What's the food like in Bhutan?
Bhutanese cuisine is known for its spiciness, with dishes like Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew) and Red Rice being staples.
10. Which is the best time to do a Bhutan trekking tour?
The best time for trekking in Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.
11. Which are the Bhutan Festivals to be witnessed?
Popular festivals include the Paro Tsechu, Thimphu Tsechu, and Punakha Drubchen.
12. What is the best trek in Bhutan?
The Snowman Trek is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Bhutan.
13. What to expect while visiting Bhutan during the Paro festival?
The Paro festival features traditional mask dances, religious ceremonies, and vibrant cultural displays.
14. How to find the Bhutan festival calendar?
The Bhutan festival calendar can be found on the Bhutan Tourism Council website or through your tour operator.
15. When is the best time to visit Bhutan?
The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant and festivals are in full swing.