Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Bhutan. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
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
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
975
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 110; Fire: 112; Police: 113
Vaccinations
An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
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 75.3%, Indian-and Nepali-influenced Hinduism 22.1%, other 2.6%
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
The Bhutanese follow a structure of etiquette called "driglam namzha." This code of conduct governs how to send and receive gifts, speak to those in authority, serve and eat food at public occasions, and dress.
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: Friday, June 23, 2023
