Travel Information
Facts for the travelers
Visiting Bhutan, the legendary, forbidden land of lost Shangrila is the dream of many Westerners.
Getting There :
Until 1964 The government of Bhutan was accessible only by foot through the high passes of Tibet. The construction of a road from Phuentsoling on the Indian border to Thimphu and Paro made travel by car and bus possible. In the 1980's an international airport was constructed in Paro, 55 km from the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu.
Travelling by Air
Today, Bhutan's national flag carrier, Druk Air, operates several flights per week from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata and Kathmandu to Paro. The modern Airbus A-319 carries passengers through one of the most spectacular flight paths in the world. A particular highlight is the stretch between Kathmandu and Bhutan, where one passes 4 of the 5 highest mountains in the world. Weather permitting passengers will be treated to breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Kangchenjunga.
Current flight schedules for Druk Air are available at www.drukair.com.bt
Flights are booked through tour operators who will also arrange visas.
Travelling by Land
The town of Phuentsoling in southwestern Bhutan is currently the only land border access open for international tourists. Phuentsoling lies approximately 170 km east of the Indian national airport Bagdogra. From here begins a mountain journey of unbelievable beauty. The road leads from the northern Indian tea plantations through endless turns, hair-pin bends and daring stretches carved into the mountain rock via Chhuka to Thimphu. The travel time for the 175 km stretch can be more than 7 hours.
A combination of overland and air travel is also possible. All overland travel requires an Indian visa
By Air: Paro International Airport is the only airport in Bhutan. Bhutan's national airline, Druk Air, is the only airline that provides services to Paro. Druk Air flies regularly between Bhutan and the following countries: India (Kolkata, Delhi); Nepal (Kathmandu); Thailand (Bangkok)
Important Note: During monsoons, unpredictable weather can delay flights and travelers are advised to include an extra day in their itinerary to ensure they are able to reach their connecting flight.
CUSTOMS
Export of unlicensed antiques, plants or animal products are strictly prohibited. Cameras, video cameras, computers and personal electronic equipment must be declared on arrival and will be checked upon departure.
CLIMATE
It is difficult to accurately generalize the climate of Bhutan because of the variations in elevations and seasons. Southern Bhutan has a tropical climate with hot humid monsoons. Spring in the higher valleys (mid-March to May) has warm days (20°C, 68°F) and cool nights. June marks the beginning of summer when day temperatures warm up to (27 - 29°C, or 80° F - 84°F). By July, the rainy season starts and continues till mid-September. The autumn months of September to November are ideal for trekking with clear skies and mild weather. In December temperatures fall, but the days are warm and the clear, azure winter skies serving as a striking background to the snow-capped peaks. On a sunny day, temperatures reach about 16-18 ° C,(61 to 64° F). The nights, however, are cold with temperatures falling below freezing.
CLOTHING
Cottons and light woolens in summer (June-Sep). Heavy woolens and jackets the rest of the year. Rain gear for the monsoons and comfortable shoes. Trekking requires hiking boots and adequate clothing.
ELECTRICITY
230 - 240 volts, 50 cycles A.C. The current is variable.
CURRENCY
The national currency is the Ngultrum (Nu). 100 Chetrum = 1 Nu. The exchange rate is approximately US$ 1 = Nu. 47. Indian Rupees.
CREDIT CARDS
American Express and VISA credit cards are accepted in a few shops. Travellers cheques are also accepted in many shops.
TIME DIFFERENCE
Bhutan standard time is 6 hours ahead of GMT.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Comfortable hotels and lodges built in the traditional architectural style are available in the major towns.
CUISINE
Tourist hotels have a choice of Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese and Continental food.
COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
Reliable telephone and fax services are available in all towns in Bhutan. International connections are excellent.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Carry plenty of films and batteries. Photo shops in Bhutan do not sell equipment or accessories.
LANGUAGE
Dzongkha, the language of the western region, is the national language. English is the medium of instruction and is spoken by all government officials and businessmen. Nepali is prevalent in the south while Bumthangkha, Khyengkha and Sharchopkha are common dialects.
INSURANCE
To protect against unforeseen accidents and mishaps, we advise you to have travel insurance policy from your country. It should adequately cover helicopter evacuation and medical assistance. We regret the unavailability of such policies in Bhutan.
SAFETY
The crime rate in Bhutan is very low.
SHOPPING
Traditional handicrafts, textiles, jewellery, baskets and ceremonial masks are fantastic items to purchase. Paintings and woodcarvings are good buys.
