Charming Bhutan

Consistently voted the happiest country in the world, the little nation of Bhutan is set at the far eastern end of the Himalayas, between India and China. Bhutan only began to open its doors to outsiders in the 1970s and still has a strict sustainability policy regarding tourism. As a result, it has retained a deep cultural authenticity and has preserved its environment admirably, making it one of Asia’s most beguiling and unforgettable destinations. Highlights include incredible forts and temples perched on sheer mountain cliffs, a rich (predominantly Buddhist) culture, and spectacular scenery – ranging from temperate sub-tropical plains and valleys cloaked with dense forest to lofty sub-Alpine mountains capped with snow.

Currency

Local currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum 

Symbol: Nu. 

ISO code: BTN 

Subunit: Chhertum 

Banknotes: Nu.1, Nu.5, Nu.10, Nu.20, Nu.50, Nu.100, Nu.500, Nu.1000 

Coins: Ch.5, Ch.10, Nu.25, Nu.50

Banking

Card Transactions: Limited 

ATMs: Yes 

Mastercard: Limited acceptance 

Visa: Limited acceptance 

American Express: Limited acceptance 

Diner’s club: Limited acceptance

Banking Hours: 

Weekdays: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm 

Weekends: Limited 

Public Holidays: Limited 

Foreign exchange services: Limited

Air: 

Main airlines: Druk Air, Bhutan Airlines 

International Airports: Paro International Airport (PBH) 

Domestic Airports: None

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 

Tar roads: Yes 

Gravel roads: Limited 

Valid International Driver's License needed: No 

Car hire available: Limited 

Taxis: Yes 

E-hailing services: No

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 

Local city bus networks: Limited

Rail: 

Railway system: No 

Subway System: No

Water: 

Ferries: No 

Water taxis: No 

Leisure cruises: No

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 

Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 

Ice: Use bottled or purified water 

Meat: Yes, but prefer well-cooked 

Street food: Exercise caution

Local cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is characterized by spicy flavors and typically includes dishes like Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew), Phaksha Paa (pork cooked with chilies), and Momos (dumplings). Butter tea (suja) is a popular local drink.

Drinks: Butter tea (suja), Ara (locally brewed rice wine) 

Tipping: Tipping is not expected but appreciated.

Annual rainfall: Varies by region

Average temperature: 10°C to 25°C

Summer:

Average highs: 24°C to 28°C

Average lows: 15°C to 18°C

Winter:

Average highs: 12°C to 16°C

Average lows: -1°C to 5°C

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear, offering ideal conditions for trekking and sightseeing.

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 

Lightweight warm clothes: Yes

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 

Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 

Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 

Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes (for hot springs) 

Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 

Walking shoes: Yes 

Casual: Yes 

Smart-casual attire: Yes

Internet cafes: Limited 

Accommodation options: Yes 

Restaurants: Yes 

Cafes: Yes 

Shopping malls: No 

Public parks: Yes 

Libraries: Limited