Bhutan – General Information

Bhutan has four seasons. The best seasons are Spring: March to May, and Autumn: September to November. Autumn is the best to enjoy the view of mountains and surrounding landscapes. Summer: June to August, the monsoon (rainy season). Winter: December to February. Heavy snowfall is expected in winter.​

The Bhutan’s only international airport at Paro, is located at a height of 7300 ft above sea level and surrounded by mountains and hills as high as 16,000 feet. Druk Air is the national air operating with three A319.  It flies to destinations that include Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bodh Gaya, Dacca, Kathmandu and Guwahati in Assam.

The flight between Paro and Kathmandu is one of the most exciting ones as the aircraft passes over 4 of the 5 highest mountains in the world. In fine weather, as you soar higher up, you can enjoy the spectacular display of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu und Kangchenjunga at their best.

All visitors must obtain Visa Clearance Number prior to travelling. Visa application must be submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Bhutan through a recognized travel agent and pay at least US$200 for each day they spend in Bhutan. There is no such thing as “Visa On Arrival” and basically no airlines will issue you ticket into Bhutan without showing Visa Clearance Number. Actual Visa is stamped on your passport upon arrival in Bhutan. Foreigners (apart from Indian nationals) may enter the country only at Phuntsoling (by road) or Paro (by air). Certain areas may only be visited with a special permit. Prior authority is also required to visit some of the religious and administrative buildings (Dzongs).

Requirement:
To be sent full details of passport (atleast, copy of 6-months valid passport and 2 passport size photographs confirming a trip) atleast 1 month prior to planned date of entry to Bhutan. No Embassies, Consulates and Missions of Bhutan are authorized to issue visa.

Extension:
A visa fee will be charged upon arrival at the port of entry for 15 days. Extension of visa can be obtained for period not exceeding 6 months on payment.

Policy:
Manipulation of approved daily package rates and offering tour programs at reduced rates to clients is strictly prohibited. This is in view of serious negative implications which could underline the policy of the Royal Government to promote quality tourism in the kingdom. The rates mentioned are net payable to us including our service-charges to organize such package tours and treks. All tours and treks rates are fixed by the Government.

Diplomat:
Diplomats from foreign embassies, missions accredited to Bhutan shall be given 25% discount on land cost regarding a tour or trekking trip in Bhutan.

Student:
Full time students below the age of 25 years holding valid identity cards from their academic institutions shall given a 25% discount.

Children:
There shall be no charge for children up to the age of 5 years. However, those between the age of 6 to 12 years accompanied by elders/guardians shall be given 50% discount on the rate.