FAQ

How can we confirm our Bhutan visa and tour?

Your Bhutan visa and Bhutan tour will be 100% confirmed once the company receives your full payment. You will receive your Bhutan visa and confirmed tickets within 24-48 hours after you transfer us the full tour payment.

When is the best time to travel to Bhutan?

We can visit western Bhutan (Thimphu, Paro, Punakha and Wangduephordang) anytime of the year. Avoid central and eastern Bhutan during the monsoon months of July and august when the weather is sometimes a little wet for sightseeing.

Would we need travel insurance?

All the visitor in Bhutan are advised to get their insurance coverage from their own country.

Is tipping a standard practice?

Yes, tipping is the standard practice in Bhutan and it is part of Bhutanese culture. All your service staff such as guide, driver, hotel staff will expect tips from you at the end of the service.

What kind of travel guides can we expect?

Licensed Bhutanese travel guide will introduce you to the many facets of this interesting country. The English speaking guides undergo regular training and, where required, specialized guide will lead you on birdwatching, botany and other special tours.

What is Bhutan’s electricity like? Can I use appliances in the hotels?

Bhutan uses a 240V system. Electricity supply is generally good, but can be less stable in smaller town outside the capital, Thimphu. If you are using computers and other sensitive equipment’s, be prepared for fluctuations and power surges. Many rural areas are without electricity. Although some farms have solar electrification.

Are there internet café in Bhutan?

Yes, almost all the towns have internet café.

What type of electric plug is used in Bhutan?

Bhutan uses the Indian round pin sockets. You can find adapters in many of the hardware shops.

Are cigarettes available in Bhutan?

There is the ban on the sale of cigarettes in Bhutan. Smoking is prohibited in public places.

Can we buy antiques in Bhutan?

The export of antiques is prohibited by law.  Tourist should buy only artifacts that have been certified for sale and export. The government provides an official seal to certify that artifacts can be taken from Bhutan.

Who we are?

We are a government registered tours operator based in Bhutan. Pawo Tours and Treks is the best trusted and top travel company in Bhutan.

What is the difference between booking a trip directly through Bhutan travelers and agents abroad?

We are a local operator in Bhutan, and you save a good deal of a money by booking your trip directly through us. The abroad agents are commissioned agents and you will have to pay commission on top of daily tariff, and hence the cost goes up. Even if you book your trip through anyone of abroad agents, they ultimately need to deal with local operators in Bhutan, because tourist visa can be arranged by a local operator.

Are there any tips for taking pictures in Bhutan?

Bhutan is perhaps one of the most photogenic places in the world. The landscape, nature, architecture and the people make it a photographer’s paradise. People are generally happy to pose for pictures, but do ask before you do so if you are focusing on one person. Photography is not permitted inside dzongs, monasteries and temples as they are considered living institute.

Can I get films and other photographic needs in Bhutan?

It is advisable to bring your own photographic equipment and needs. Films and camera batteries available generally in major. Slide film is generally is not available so bring plenty of slide rolls if you are shooting slides.

What does it cost to Bhutan?

The tourist tariff is set by the Royal Government of Bhutan and is valid for all-inclusive packages. The tariff is divided into high and low season rate. The rates are same for cultural tours, treks or any other special interest tours.

For groups of three persons or more, the rates are as follows

• High season tariff: US $ 250/- per person/night in March, April, May, September, October, and November.
• Low season tariff: US $ 200/- per person per night in January, February, June, July, August, and December.

For a group of less than three persons, there is a surcharges to the daily tariff.

• Single individual – US$ 40 per night
• Group of 2 persons only – US$ 30 per person per night

When should I pay for my tour?

It is best to pay for your tour at least four weeks before the date of arrival. This will give enough time for the Royal Government of Bhutan to clear your visa formalities (which is done only after the payment is received). For visits during the peak season in March, April, May, September, October, and November, it is advisable to make your payment twelve weeks in advance. This is to enable us to make a confirmed booking for you on the airline, since seats are in high demand during this month.

How should I pay for my tour?

The best way to transfer is through wire or bank transfer to Bhutan National Bank in Thimphu, Bhutan. We will provide you with full instruction on how to transfer your payment once you confirm your tour.

Can I use credit card in Bhutan?

Credits cards are accepted in few hotels and shops in capital and towns. All credit card transaction takes extra time.

Is there ATM facilities in Bhutan?

Yes, if you have visa, masters, and maestro with a pin code you can withdraw money in Bhutan.

TCB FAQ source: https://www.bhutan.travel/page/frequently-asked-questions

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is Bhutan?

Bhutan is a small, landlocked nation located in the eastern Himalayas between India and China. Its landscape ranges from subtropical plains and forests in the South to subalpine forests and snowy mountains in the North. Bhutan is a predominantly Buddhist country and is known as the last stronghold of Mahayana Buddhism.  

2. Do I need to use a tour operator to book my travel?

It is a government regulation that you must use a licensed Bhutanese tour operator to book your travel to Bhutan or one of their international partners.  

3. Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?

All International tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa which must be pre-arranged through a license Bhutanese Tour Operator or one of their international partners. Visa clearance must be obtained through your tour operator prior to travel. For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives may obtain a visa on entry.   

4. How much does the visa cost?

For International tourist visas, a cost of USD 40 is applicable. This can be paid in advance to your tour operator or travel agent. For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives, there is no cost incurred.   

5. How do I get to Bhutan?

There are a number of airports where you can fly into Bhutan from (Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore and Mumbai.). At present two carriers operate to Bhutan, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Also, there are three land border crossings which you can travel into the kingdom overland. All crossings are along the Indian border only – Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar. All travel arrangements to Bhutan must be made through a local tour operator. A list of tour companies operating in Bhutan is available on this website. Your selected tour operator will make all the necessary arrangements.  

6. What does the $200/$250 per day minimum daily package include?

The $200 per day (January, February, June, July, August) and $250 per day (March, April, May, September, October, November) package includes a minimum of 3 star accommodations, costs for food, an experienced guide and transportation within the country. Also included in the price is a $65 per day Sustainable Development Fee that goes towards free education, free healthcare and poverty alleviation. All of these services will be arranged by your tour operator.  

7. What currency is used in Bhutan?

Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum. Its value is tied to the Indian Rupee which is widely accepted in the country. 

8. Is there a limit on the number of tourists that can enter Bhutan each year?

There is no limit on the number of tourists allowed to visit in a year. In order to protect our culture, traditions and natural environment, the government has adopted a unique policy of “High Value, Low Impact ”. This policy is aimed at attracting discerning tourists that will respect the unique culture and values of the Bhutanese people while also providing the visitors with an unforgettable one of a kind experience.  

9. What’s the food like in Bhutan?

The most distinctive characteristic of Bhutanese cuisine is its spiciness. Chillies are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that is not spicy.  

Rice forms staple Bhutanese diet. It is accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken are consumed most often. A wide selection of western and Indian food is also available in many of the restaurants around the country.