Tips while traveling to Bhutan

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 10-17 degrees Celsius during clear days and drops well below freezing point during the night. The fluctuations are not so great during the summer and the daytime temperature rises to 20s Celsius.

Clothes:
From May to September, cotton clothes 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. Mountain boots are not necessary unless you are trekking.

Food:
Bhutanese delicacies are rich with spicy chilly and cheese but are normally tempered to the taste of the visitors. All our hotels and Restaurants offer delicious Indian, Chinese, Continental and Bhutanese cuisine. Hotels normally serve a mixture of vegetarian and non-vegetarian items on buffet system; however pure vegetarian and Jain meals are also served on request and prior information. We know very well about the food habits of our Indian guests especially from Jain community.

Currency:
The Bhutanese currency is called Ngultrum (Nu.) and is at par with Indian Rupee. Major Credit cards like Master Card and Visa are accepted by most of the hotel and business establishments. ATM cards of SBI, Punjab National Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank and few other Banks can be used as well. Indian Rupee is acceptable all over Bhutan

Note: However it is also advisable not to carry Rs 1,000/- 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 most Bhutanese.

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.

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 ask verbally or by gesture. Also while photographing Dzongs (fortresses), monasteries and temples; please check with your guide.

The Bhutanese authorities strictly monitor export of any religious antiquities of any kind from the kingdom. Personal electronic devices and reasonable amount of cigarettes and alcohol are permitted into the kingdom.