Bhutan Bhutan is best known to the world today as the last Shangri-La. The few visitors who make the rare journey into this extraordinary kingdom will discover that there is no other destination like this land of pure and exotic mysticism. In this country known as Druk-Yel, or the ‘Land of the Peaceful Dragon’, the fortunate visitors will find a rare combination of harmony and accord, amidst a landscape of incredible natural beauty.
The Royal Government of Bhutan recognizes that tourism is a worldwide phenomenon and an important means of achieving social-economic development particularly for developing countries like Bhutan. It also recognizes that tourism, in affording the opportunity to travel, can help in promoting understanding among peoples and building closer ties of friendship based on appreciation and respect for different cultures and lifestyle.
Towards achieving this objective, the Royal Government, since inception of tourism in the year 1974, has adopted a very cautious approach of growth and development of the tourism. The Bhutanese tourism industry is based on principle of sustainability that is ‘tourism must be environmentally and ecologically friendly, socially and culturally acceptable and economically viable’.
------------------------------------------ Accessibility Entry into Bhutan can be made either by land or by air. Druk Air, the National Air Carrier ot the kingdom, operates regular fights to /from Paro to Delhi, Kolkatta, Kathmandu, Bangkok, Dhaka and Gaya. By surface, entry into Bhutan is possible through southern border town of Phuntsholing. This frontier town is about 6 hours drive from Thimphu and Paro, 4 hours drive from Bagdogra and 7 hours drive from Darjeeling and Gangtok. ------------------------------------------ Climate Bhutan’s climate is quite unpredictable. The weather can vary dramatically from place to place and day to day. In Thimphu and Paro valleys, the winter daytime temperature averages 16 degrees Celsius during clear days and drops well below freezing point the night. The fluctuations are not so great during the summer and the daytime temperature rises to mid-twenties Celsius. ------------------------------------------ Clothing From May to September, cotton clothes are sufficient, plus a woolen sweater or light jacket. From November to the end April, however, you will need very warm clothes. Comfortable sports shoe are also recommended. Mountain boots are not necessary unless you are trekking. ------------------------------------------ Food Bhutanese delicacies are rich with spicy chilies and cheese but are normally tempered to the taste of the visitors. All the hotels and lodges offer delicious Indian, Chinese, continental and Bhutanese cuisine. Hotels normally serve a mixture of vegetarian and non-vegetarian items in buffet style however pure vegetarian meals also served on request and prior information. ------------------------------------------ Currency The Bhutanese currency is called Ngultrum (Nu.) and is at par with Indian Rupee. Indian Rupee is acceptable all over Bhutan however it is also advisable not to carry Rs 1000/ and Rs 500/ denomination currency notes. ------------------------------------------ Language The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha and a large number of dialects are spoken. English has been the language of educational instruction since 1964 and is widely spoken. Also locals at popular tourist destinations understand and speak Hindi. ------------------------------------------ Religion Mahayana Buddhism is the state religion and the majority of Bhutanese people follow Drukpa School of the Kagyupa sect. ------------------------------------------ Security Bhutan is very safe destination with lowest crime rate in the world. In general you will find Bhutanese people vary warm, hospitable, helpful and friendly. ------------------------------------------ Telephones Telecommunication is well developed and efficient in Bhutan. The country code is +975. If you wish to bring your own mobile phone please contact your manufacturer/ supplier to obtain up-to-date information. ------------------------------------------ Internet The facility is available at most of the popular destinations and in towns through ‘Druknet’. ------------------------------------------ Photography You can photograph almost everywhere in Bhutan. The people are highly photogenic and everyone seems to wear a smile. However, very often the Bhutanese are camera shy so use your discretion at all times and when in doubt at verbally or by gesture. Also while photographing Dzongs, monasteries and temples, please check with your guide. ------------------------------------------ Shopping Shops are normally open between 0900- 2000 Monday to Sunday. Markets are held regularly and are a rich source of local clothing and jewelry. ------------------------------------------ Smoking Bhutan is non-smoking country and it is banned at all public places. However tourist can smoke inside their hotel room or at a private place. ------------------------------------------ Customs The Bhutanese authorities strictly monitor export of any religious antiquities of any kind from kingdom. Personal electronic devices and reasonable amount of cigarettes and alcohol are permitted into the kingdom. ------------------------------------------ Time Bhutan is half an hour ahead of IST (Indian Standard Time). ------------------------------------------ Electricity The voltage supply in the Bhutan is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. Standard round pins sockets are normally used at all places. ------------------------------------------ Gratuities Tipping is not included in our tour prices and its at your discretion. The bottom line in determining this is how much individual contributed to make your trip successful and enjoyable. ------------------------------------------ Departure Tax While departing from Paro airport, Airport Departure Tax is included in ticket price. ------------------------------------------ Credit Cards and ATM Cards are accepted by very limited establishment. It is advisable to carry cash /traveler’s cheque for your personal expenses. ------------------------------------------ Laundry Laundry service is available in most of the hotels at main destinations. However, it is advisable to check the hostel’s individual laundry return policy and pricing schedule before choosing to have laundry done at a hotel. ------------------------------------------
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