Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Bhutan.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html
US Embassy/Consulate
None; frequent informal contact is maintained via the US embassy in New Delhi (India) and Bhutan's Permanent Mission to the UN; US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444 for emergencies; alternate contact is the US Embassy in India [91] (11) 2419-8000; US Embassy in New Delhi, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021, India
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
975
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 110; Fire: 112; Police: 113
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Bhutan: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, and COVID-19.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Varies; tropical in southern plains; cool winters and hot summers in central valleys; severe winters and cool summers in Himalayas
Currency (Code)
Ngultrum (BTN)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, D, G
Major Languages
Sharchhopka, Dzongkha, Lhotshamkha
Major Religions
Lamaistic Buddhist, Indian-and Nepali-influenced Hinduism, other
Time Difference
UTC+6 (11 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Rinpung Dzong; Chele La Pass; Buddha Dordenma Statue; Dochu La Pass; Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest); Phobjikha Valley
Major Sports
Archery, digor (resembles shot put and horseshoe throwing)
Cultural Practices
Shaking hands is not Bhutanese custom but is becoming more widely accepted in larger towns. A formal greeting would be to bow with our hands stretched out in front of you open with your palms facing up. Cover up - dress modestly.
Tipping Guidelines
A 10% tip is common at restaurants and bars unless a 10% service charge is already added. If hiring a taxi for the day, a tip of 300-500 ngultrums is common. It is also common to tip porters $1-2 (USD) per bag and to tip tour staff $50-80 (USD) at the end of a tour.
Souvenirs
Carved wooden masks, Thangkas art, woven woolen cloth and native garments, prayer flags, handmade paper
Traditional Cuisine
Ema datshi — hot chili peppers and cheese curd made from cow or yak's milk; often served with rice
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Thursday, May 09, 2024
