PRE DEPARTURE INFORMATION

PRE DEPARTURE INFORMATION
TRAVEL TO BHUTAN
Guides Of Bhutan handles the whole booking process on behalf of our guests, including flights
and visa applications but it is advisable to book well in advance to secure hotel
accommodation and seats on Bhutan’s national airline, Druk Air. We hope the following
practical guide to travel to Bhutan answers most questions but please do email us for further
clarification and the latest information at [email protected]
DRUK AIR operates two Airbus319s between Bhutan and Bangkok (via Calcutta or Dhaka
and Bodhgaya) and between Bhutan and Delhi (via Kathmandu). On receipt of payment for
the full fare, our guests will be sent a copy of their E-ticket via email. Druk Air’s policies apply
and Guides Of Bhutan cannot refund tickets purchased on behalf of our guests. For up to date
flight schedules and rates please refer to the Druk Air website www.drukair.net
PASSPORTS GOVERNMENT FEES & VISAS For any visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan all arrangements (itinerary, flights and visa)
must be made through a licensed local tour operator such as Guides Of Bhutan. It normally takes 2 to 3 weeks to process visas but
under some circumstances, we can accelerate the process.
To secure your booking we require the following :
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A scanned copy of the photo page of each guest’s passport (valid for 6 months)
A completed copy of the visa form (available for download from our website www.guidesofbhutan.com)
Full payment is required no less than one month prior to the date of travel (your monies are held by the Tourism Council of
Bhutan www.tourism.gov.net until the trip has been completed). Payment is fully refundable if written cancellation is
received 45 days prior to arrival date.
For details the most efficient method of payment and/or a copy of the visa form please email us at [email protected]
The Government of the Kingdom of Bhutan requires that every foreign national (except Indian nationals) pay a Daily Government
Royalty of US$65 dollars per person per day (except in July and August when it is US$55 per person per day), an FIT (Free
Independent Traveler) surcharge of US$30 per person per day is levied for two people, which rises to US$40 per day for single
travelers, however for parties of 3 or more this fee is waived. (Please note that these are DAILY fees).
It is highly recommended to bring friends and family (rather than travel as a single person or a couple) or to join a group departure
to dramatically reduce the trip price per person and avoid the FIT surcharge.
Additionally, foreign nationals (except Indian nationals) are required to pay a Visa Fee (non refundable) of US$20 per application
(one name per application), and a US$10 per person Tourism Development Fund Fee (which is used to aid Bhutan’s infrastructure).
PLEASE NOTE All the above Government Fees & Royalties are included in the price of your all-inclusive Adventure Package with
Guides Of Bhutan.
TIPS FOR DRUK AIR PASSENGERS
On check-in at the airport request a seat on the left hand side of the plane for the best mountain views and vice versa on departure.
Guests Flying via Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport The Druk Air check-in desk at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International airport is
at Row W at the far end of the concourse, to save time ask your driver to drop you at that end.
Guests Flying via India All passengers flying to and from Bhutan via Calcutta or Delhi must apply for an Indian Visa prior to their
departure if they intend to stay overnight – if they remain in transit no Indian visa is required.
As Paro airport is “daylight restricted” and totally dependent on weather, flights can sometimes be delayed. To be prepared for such
an event passengers should keep at least 24 hours transit time for connecting flights out of Paro and it is advised to carry essential
personal items like medicines, cash, documents etc. in your hand baggage.
Guides Of Bhutan - Inspiring & Uplifting Adventures in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
Website www.guidesofbhutan.com
Email [email protected]
Phone +44 20 7193 5239
Hand Baggage Allowance Druk Air requests that passengers limit their hand baggage to one piece, the size not exceeding
45+35+20 cm (17 ½ +13 ½ +8 inches) and the weight not exceeding 5 kg (11lbs).
Checked Baggage Allowance:
Economy Class: 20 kg (44 lbs)
Business Class: 30 kg (66 lbs)
HEALTH & SAFETY
THE EFFECTS OF ALTITUDE Though we are in the Himalaya, our itinerary stays below the altitude where Acute Mountain
Sickness (AMS) might affect people. However it is still important to :
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Get in the best possible shape you can before the trip
Begin your adventure in good health
Drink lots of water - more than you feel you need to
Eating is important - diet should be high in carbohydrates and protein
Understand the concept of altitude acclimatization - take it easy for the first few days and try not to overexert
Recognize and never ignore the symptoms of altitude illness - ask your guide for more details
All our itineraries are designed with easy days at the start with some becoming more challenging towards the end, after
acclimatization has occurred.
HEALTH & VACCINATIONS There are no statutory requirements unless you are arriving from an area designated as infected by
cholera or yellow fever. Please consult your doctor for up to date information and if you are on any prescribed medication ensure
that you bring a sufficient supply with you. As Bhutan is a remote country we advise that all guests over the age of 60 years or with
a pre-existing condition consult their doctor about their travel plans.
TRAVEL INSURANCE It is a condition for entering Bhutan that you carry proof of travel insurance to cover medical and personal
accident risks (including repatriation costs, air ambulance and helicopter rescue services) and that you also take out cancellation
insurance. Please note that some policies restrict coverage or do not cover travel to Bhutan and may not cover activities such as
trekking and mountain biking.
MONEY MATTERS
The Bhutanese unit of currency is the Ngultrum and 1Nu = 100 Chetrum. The Ngultrum is pegged to the value of the Indian Rupee
and on 25/10/2011 was worth the following :
1 $US = 49.78 Nu
1 UK£ = 79.57 Nu
1 Euro = 69.37 Nu
1 $Sing = 39.35 Nu
1 Jap Yen = 0.65 Nu
Increasingly businesses in Bhutan accept credit cards and there are foreign currency exchange services at some hotels and banks
plus there are now ATMs for visitors’ use in Paro and Thimpu. It is recommended that for incidentals, drinks and souvenirs, beyond
the capital that guests carry a combination of cash or travelers cheques in US Dollars and a credit card (AMEX card holders can
experience difficulties).
EXTRA EXPENSES & SPENDING MONEY As Guides Of Bhutan offers all-inclusive packages, apart from extra activities, drinks,
tips, essential items and souvenirs, there is little else to spend your money on. The choice of souvenirs is improving and includes
textiles, wooden handicrafts, paintings, prayer flags, prayer wheels, prayer beads and very colorful stamps. Paro Market day is
every Sunday and Thimpu Market (with its extensive handicraft and artifact section) opens on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Visitors
are advised to be cautious when purchasing old and used items. Customs authorities will not allow any old/used items to be taken
out of the country if they have not been certified as non-antique. If you are unsure please ask your guide for advice.
GRATUITIES This is a purely personal matter as there is no tradition of tipping in Bhutan but of course any gratuities in the form of
cash or outdoor clothing or gear are always very well-received – providing, of course, the level of service you receive is worthy of
some additional reward.
USEFUL INFO
BUSINESS HOURS Saturday is the weekly day off for all Government Offices and some shops are closed however in the private
sector the day off is Sunday. Please note that the National Museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
TOBACCO Bhutan has become the first nation in the world to ban the sale and consumption (in public) of tobacco. While visitors
can still bring in cigarettes for their own use the items will attract a duty of 200%. Smoking in public should be avoided.
Guides Of Bhutan - Inspiring & Uplifting Adventures in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
Website www.guidesofbhutan.com
Email [email protected]
Phone +44 20 7193 5239
INTERNET ACCESS Bhutan’s connectivity is improving by the day, with most smart phones working and wireless connections
available in Tourist Class hotels however this diminishes as you move eastwards beyond Punakha.
ELECTRICITY 220 volts AC from clean Hydro Electric plants. Please pack a universal plug adapter as the type of electrical sockets
varies across the country.
LOCAL TIME Bhutan is 10 hours ahead of New York, 6 hours ahead of Greenwich Meantime with no daylight saving, 30 minutes
ahead of India, 1 hour behind Thailand and 2 hours behind Tokyo.
LANGUAGE Dzongkha is Bhutan’s official language and there are countless dialects. Thanks to his Majesty the 4th King’s
education policy, English is widely spoken in shops and hotels.
FOOD Bhutanese dishes are rich and spicy with plenty of cheese and chili. Do try the national dish called Ema Datse whose
spiciness can be reduced to visitors’ tastes. Most guests stick to the Chinese, continental or Indian cuisine that is served in
restaurants and hotels. There are always vegetarian options plus momos (Tibetan dumplings) and mushrooms are served in
abundance (Bhutan is famous for delicious matsutake and chanterelle mushrooms).
CULTURAL ETIQUETTE All Bhutanese have a deep respect for religion, their elders and the monarchy. Their customs are
complex and not easily understood in a short visit to the country but a good rule of thumb is to follow appropriate Western standards
of courtesy. Here are some points to remember :
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If you would like to photograph a Bhutanese person, please ask them first
It is considered a sign of respect to use the word ‘la’ at the end of a sentence
The head is regarded as the most sacred part of the body, patting someone on the head is a bad omen
The feet are considered impure, you should never have your feet extended in front of you when seated
Do not point at people or beckon with your hand facing up, it is thought to be the height of rudeness
VISITING TEMPLES, MONASTERIES AND SACRED SITES
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Please dress conservatively in long skirts or trousers and tops with sleeves and remove headgear
Photography is strictly prohibited inside monasteries and temples but you are free to take photos everywhere else
Remove shoes upon entering important rooms of a temple, following the example of escorts and monks
Inside temples, always move in a clockwise direction and do not speak loudly
Most lakes are the abode of gods or spirits – do not swim or throw stones
FESTIVALS Or tsechus take place in the courtyard of dzongs. Please remember that these are religious observances and that you
should behave accordingly.
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When taking photographs, avoid the use of flash
Do not intrude on the dance ground (sanctified space) and if you do end up in the front row, please remain seated
When attending a festival (tshechu), dress up (the Bhutanese don their finest attire). Many foreigners like to purchase the
national dress of a gho or kira for the occasion
DRIVING DISTANCES AND TIMES
From
To
Distance
Drive Time
Bagdogra (India)
Phuentsoling
170km
4hrs 30min
Phuentsoling
Paro
111km
5hrs 30min
Paro
Thimpu
65km
50min
Thimpu
Punakha
77km
3hrs 30min
Punakha
Wangdi Phodrang
13km
45min
Wangdi Phodrang
Trongsa
129km
4hrs 30min
Wangdi Phodrang
Gangte
65km
2hrs 30min
Trongsa
Bumthang
68km
2hrs 30min
Bumthang
Mongar
198km
7 hrs
Mongar
Lhuntshi
76km
3 hrs
Mongar
Trashigang
90km
4hrs
Trashigang
Chorten Kora
52km
1hr 30min
Trashigang
Samdrup Jongkhar
180km
6hrs 30min
Guides Of Bhutan - Inspiring & Uplifting Adventures in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
Website www.guidesofbhutan.com
Email [email protected]
Phone +44 20 7193 5239
LOCAL WEATHER
Bhutan lies at the same latitude as Miami in the US so expect plenty of sunshine - indeed Bhutan is truly a year round destination
for visitors. The varying altitudes of the valleys in the Kingdom make for different microclimates eg. the low Punakha valley (1,200m)
enjoys a sub tropical climate whereas the higher Gangte valley (2,900m) experiences freezing temperatures throughout the winter.
SPRING & AUTUMN (March to May & September to November)
Warm days & cool nights (max 24ºC : min 2ºC), some chance of rain - Camping Trek Seasons (freezing temps at high camps)
SUMMER (June to August)
Hot days & balmy nights (max 26ºC : min 14ºC), chance of rain - Best Time for Flowers and Birdlife
WINTER (December to February)
Crisp, clear sunny days and cold dry nights (max 20ºC : min -4ºC) some chance of snow – Best Time for Mountain Views
PREPARATION & PACKING
EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING As you can see the weather in Bhutan is not as extreme as one might think, even in winter. In addition
to your normal daily clothes, for our regular adventures (please see the packing lists for overnight treks and full biking tours on the
itineraries), may we suggest the following items to bring with you :
Essential small backpack; warm jacket; strong boots or shoes with good soles; waterproof jacket; sunglasses; warm hat; sunhat;
sunscreen; universal plug adaptor; water bottle.
Recommended shorts for cycling and walking; torch; insect repellent; lip balm; wet wipes; inflatable pillow for flights and car
journeys; iPod or similar; earplugs; personal first aid kit and a sufficient supply of any medication you are taking. It is also advisable
to pack some treats from home like muesli bars, gloves and perhaps thermal underwear for winter evenings and a spare battery for
your camera. Photographs or postcards of your town, home and family to show guides and locals always go down well.
WALKING CONDITIONS Our walks and treks are mostly on established pilgrimage and village trails used by locals and monks,
and there are no particularly difficult sections, although some of the trails are steep and rocky and can be muddy and slippery after
rain. Boots with ankle support are recommended and Guides Of Bhutan can supply walking sticks. Any reasonably fit person will
thoroughly enjoy the walks we have developed plus riding ponies can sometimes be hired for certain tougher hikes. Your guide
carries extra mineral water, snacks and a comprehensive mountain first aid kit at all times.
BIKING CONDITIONS Guides Of Bhutan offer a range of both on-road sightseeing and off-road biking trips to suit all interests,
abilities and time constraints. Our team has pioneered many bike routes encompassing anything from freewheeling down quiet
country lanes and wide farm tracks for an afternoon, to epic multi day single-track challenges. We have a range of KONA and Trek
mountain bikes, helmets and gloves so if you are interested in biking with us please advise us of your height as soon as possible to
secure a bike of your size. Your guide carries extra mineral water, snacks, toolkit, important spares and a comprehensive mountain
first aid kit at all times and vehicle support is provided wherever possible.
TRANSPORT & ROAD CONDITIONS Depending on the size of your party, for transfers and tours we use small private minibuses
and 4 x 4 vehicles such as Land Cruisers always with a designated, experienced driver. There is not a single traffic light in the entire
country and in general the well-traveled roads around Paro and Thimpu are in good condition - there is even a double lane highway
into the capital now. Away from the main roads in the west you can expect up to 17 bends per kilometer reducing average speeds to
between 30 and 50 kmh with deteriorating road surfaces.
PACKAGE INCLUSIONS
All Guides Of Bhutan Adventure Packages include the following elements in the price :
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Bhutanese Government Visa Fees
Bhutanese Government Taxes and Royalties
Inclusive of 10% Government sales tax & service charge at hotels
Accommodation on a full board basis throughout (excluding beverages)
The exclusive services of an experienced, English-speaking, Government-licensed, Buddhist, Guide of Bhutan
Entry permits and fees to all temples, museums & monasteries listed in the itinerary
Private transport throughout including airport transfers
All privately guided tours and activities featured in your itinerary (unless an additional charge is stated)
Complimentary mineral water on all days out
Guides Of Bhutan - Inspiring & Uplifting Adventures in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
Website www.guidesofbhutan.com
Email [email protected]
Phone +44 20 7193 5239
PACKAGE PRICE Guides Of Bhutan offers all-inclusive packages to suit a range of budgets and standards of accommodation with
standard group rates starting from US$275 (approx UK£170) per person per day to exclusive tailor made luxury adventures from
US$550 (approx UK£345) per person per day.
PERSONAL PREFERENCES
ACCOMMODATION For our standard adventures Guides Of Bhutan have selected well located, comfortable, somewhat rustic but
charming tourist class hotels and can also arrange a night in a village house in certain locations. For the luxury option we use the
excellent Uma Paro, Uma Punakha, Taj and Aman five star hotels and are able to mix and match standards of accommodation to
suit, for example some guests prefer to splash out on a bit of luxury for their last night or two..
PERSONAL INFORMATION If you have any special dietary requests, pre-existing medical conditions or phobias plus any special
interests or important celebrations while you are with us please let us know at time of booking.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES Throughout your stay you have the option to participate in a range of extra outdoor activities (white
water rafting, biking, hot stone bath etc) at an additional charge. Guides Of Bhutan also offers a full, professional and informed
bespoke service for groups or individuals in order to tailor an adventure to their special interests, abilities, wishes and needs.
FINAL CHECKLIST
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Air Tickets
Passport
Visa for Bhutan
Copy of Travel Insurance document
Cash and/or Travelers’ Cheques
Guides Of Bhutan local office telephone number is +975 772 42425 and London office number is +44 (0) 207 193 5239
SUGGESTED READING LIST
Memoirs
Treasures of the Thunder Dragon : A Portrait of Bhutan by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, Queen of Bhutan
A captivating blend of personal memoir, history, folklore and travelogue
Beyond the Sky and the Earth : A Journey into Bhutan by Jamie Zeppa
Zeppa’s fascinating account of her time as a volunteer schoolteacher in Bhutan
The Blessings of Bhutan (A Latitude 20 Book) by Russ and Blyth Carpenter
A personal and fascinating compilation of essays about the authors’ experiences and understanding of Bhutanese life
Married to Bhutan by Linda Leaming www.marriedtobhutan.com
As one of the few Americans to have lived in Bhutan, Leaming offers a rare glimpse into the quirky mountain kingdom
Reference
Facts About Bhutan : The Land of the Thunder Dragon by Lily Wangchhuk A comprehensive guide to Bhutan published to mark
the centenary of the Bhutanese monarchy
Lonely Planet Bhutan 4th edition (March 2011) A general travel guide to Bhutan including trekking, information about Bhutan's
ancient Buddhist culture
Raven Crown : Origins of the Buddhist Monarchy in Bhutan by Michael Aris
Birds of Bhutan : Field Guide (Helm Field Guides)
Coffee Table
Bhutan: A Visual Odyssey Across the Last Himalayan Kingdom 212 pages and over a hundred photographs of the Kingdom
Bhutan: Kingdom of the Dragon by Robert Dompnie 140 color photographs show the landscapes, monasteries, dwellings,
people, and craftwork of this remote and seldom visited country
Guides Of Bhutan - Inspiring & Uplifting Adventures in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
Website www.guidesofbhutan.com
Email [email protected]
Phone +44 20 7193 5239
Other Media
National Newspapers Online : www.kuenselonline.com
www.bhutanobserver.bt
www.bhutantimes.bt
Travelers and Magicians : A wonderfully evocative Bhutanese made film by Lama Khyentse Norbu – shot entirely in Bhutan
Little Buddha : Some scenes for this Hollywood film were shot in and around Paro by the award winning Lama Khyentse Norbu
Milarepa : Directed by Neten Chokling, a Lama from Western Bhutan who has previously worked with Khyentse Norbu the film is
about the adventurous formative years of the legendary Buddhist mystic and Tibetan saint, Milarepa (1052-1135)
Kuzoo FM : radio station started by the crown prince for the young people of Bhutan – listen online here www.kuzoo.net
IMPORTANT NOTE
The information in these notes is given in good faith, and covers the average range of conditions likely to be found on this trip. In
remote destinations abnormal conditions can prevail at any time, and all adventurous holidays can therefore be subject to
unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them we request that you be prepared to be flexible where necessary.
For more information about Guides Of Bhutan including the full range of adventures and services we offer (privately guided luxury or
standard trips, tailor-made adventures and special interest group departures) or to Book an Adventure please refer to the website
www.guidesofbhutan.com or email us at [email protected]
Guides Of Bhutan - Inspiring & Uplifting Adventures in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
Website www.guidesofbhutan.com
Email [email protected]
Phone +44 20 7193 5239