Himalayan Footsteps

Which immunisations do I need for travelling to Bhutan?
This list is a guide only, please seek advice of your doctor!

Recommended:

• Diphtheria
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A and B
• Tetanus
• Polio
• Malaria
• Yellow fever – when coming from a country (even only transit) where yellow fever is present

To be considered:

• Rabies
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Cholera
• Tuberculosis

Do people speak English?
Yes, most people in Bhutan speak good English and of course so will your guide!

Is there sufficient medical care in case of emergencies?
All towns in Bhutan have hospitals in which travellers in need of medical attention are treated for free. The best facilities are offered in the Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National Referral Hospital in Thimphu. For serious illnesses or injuries you should consider evacuation to the excellent medical facilities in Bangkok.

Is Bhutan a safe country?
Bhutan is a very safe country to travel. Begging and theft is – unlike other parts of Asia – not very common. There is little crime and it is a very safe country even for women and solo travellers.

What about money?
Your destination do not accept Scottish Pound Notes – take only English notes.

The currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (Nu), which is subdivided into 100 Chetrums (Ch.).. The Ngultrum is at an approximate rate of Nu 73.3= £1.

Wellknown Traveller Cheques can be cashed at all banks, most hotels and at the airport. There’s a fee of 1% for encashment

ATMS: Can at this point not yet be used with foreign cards.

For big purchases you might want to pay in US$. Most shops will accept those for larger sums and it will safe you the hassle of exchanging.

Use of credit cards is not advised. They can be used in some tourist facilities, but the charges are very high and transaction takes long.

Why is it so expensive to travel to Bhutan?
The government in Bhutan wants to keep impacts of tourism low and target high end tourism in limited numbers instead of mass tourism. Therefore they charge a fee of around 200 US$ per person per day for visitors.

What’s the food like?
Spicy. Traditional Bhutanese food contains lots of chilli. However, you’ll easily be able to find food to suit your stomach, including Indian and continental food.

What is the time zone of Bhutan?
Bhutan is 6 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+6 GMT)

Do I need a Visa to travel to Bhutan?
Yes, you do. All foreigners except for Indian nationals are required to obtain a visa when travelling to Bhutan.