Entry/Route Permit:
Indian, Bangladeshis and Maldivian nationals can obtain a visa at the port of entry on producing a valid passport with a minimum of 6 month validity
It is required for those travelling to restricted areas beyond Dochula pass. The Route Permit is processed & issued in Thimphu, only after arrival in Bhutan and on production of the entry permit. Two copies of passport size photos required while processing Route Permit. Also this permit can be processed only during working days (Mon-Fri) and applications are accepted from 9-11 a.m and permit granted on same day from 3-5 p.m in summer and 3-4 p.m in winter.
Climate
Bhutan’s climate is quite unpredictable. The weather can vary dramatically change 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 drop well below freezing point during the night. The fluctuations are not so great during the summer and the daytime temperature rises to mid-twenties Celsius.
Cloths
From May to September, cotton cloths are sufficient, plus a woolen sweater or light jacket. From November to the end of April, however, you will need very warm clothes. Comfortable sports shoes are also recommended. Mountains boots are not necessary unless you are trekking.
Food
Bhutanese delicacies are rich with spicy chillies and cheese but are normally tempered to the taste of the visitors. All our hotels and lodges offer delicious Indian, Chinese, Continental and Bhutanese cuisine. Hotels normally serve a mixture of vegetarian and non-vegetarian items on 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. Credit cards ( Visa cards) are accepted by only few limited establishments and no ATM centers are available. 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.
Time
Bhutan is half an hour ahead of IST (Indian Standard Time).or BST
Security
Bhutan is very safe destination with lowest crime rate in the world. In general you will find Bhutanese people very warm, hospitable, helpful and friendly.
Important Notes
Ta Dzong (National Museum): Paro
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 9 a.m-4 p.m & Sunday: 11a.m-4p.m
Closed on Mondays & National Holidays
School of Arts & Crafts: Thimphu
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday: 2p.m-4p.m & Saturday: 9a.m-12a.m
Closed on Sundays, National Holidays and Winter Holidays (20 December-10 March)
National Library: Thimphu
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday: 9a.m-5p.m (summer) & 9a.m-4p.m (winter)
Closed on Saturdays, Sunday & National Holidays
National Textile Museum: Thimphu
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 9a.m-4p.m, Saturday: 1 p.m-4p.m, Sunday: 10a.m-3p.m
Closed on Mondays & National Holidays
Punakha Dzong: closed in winter months when the monk body is in Punakha
All visits to Dzongs and Monasteries limited till courtyard only
Visit to Trashichhodzong permitted only after office hours (after 4p.m) in winter months when the monk body is not in Thimphu.
All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately in their own national dress, leave shoes/scandals/caps at the entrance of temple and other appropriate personal decorum should be followed.
Distance & Driving Time between Places of Tourist Interest
All mode of transport with in Bhutan is by road and there are no domestic airlines and trains. The motor able roads are well maintained and connect most of the places. However the mountainous terrain and winding road restrict the average driving speed of vehicle to about 35 km per hours
