Exotic Destinations :: for unforgettable holidays

Other than Indian nationals, all visitors to Bhutan require a visa; all visas are issued from Thimphu; visas are only issued to tourists booked with a local licensed tour operator, directly or through a foreign travel agent. The cost of visa fee is USD 20 per person which is prepaid along with the tour payment. Applications for tourist visas are submitted by the tour operator upon receiving the scan copy of the Passport and a Passport size picture in JEPEG format through email. The approved visa letter is then intimated to the overseas agent/visitor who is required to carry a copy of it while travelling to Bhutan. The actual visa will be stamped on your passport on arrival at the Paro international airport or at the point of entry.

The Bhutanese authorities strictly prohibit the export of any religious antiquity or antiques of any type from the country. Cameras, Personal video cameras, computers and personal electronic equipment may be brought into the country but must be listed on the arrival on the customs declaration form (yellow paper) as it may be checked on departure.

A reasonable quantity of alcohol and cigarettes and may be imported into the country. However, the cigarettes must be declared to the customs and 100% duty should be paid. Please note, all public places are non-smoking area.

The Bhutanese currency is the Ngultrum (Nu). The exchange rate of USD to Ngultrum is 1 USD : 45 Nu. The Ngultrum is linked to the Indian Rupee which is at par. Visitors can use the Indian Rupee in Bhutan. However, visitors are advised not to bring in the Indian Rupee denominations of 500 and 1000 as it is not accepted within Bhutan.

Dollars or travelers cheques are accepted in large hotels and tourist shops. Ngultrum will be needed for small purchases and expenses in other smaller shops. Local currency can be bought at the airport on arrival, Banks in Thimphu and at all of the bigger hotels in Thimphu and Paro.

Druk Air

Maybe the smallest national carrier in the world, Druk Air has a fleet of two A319 air bus. An international flight crew and hostesses trained by Thai Airways International give the airline the credibility and charm.

Druk Air is the only airline that serves Paro so all visitors to Bhutan are initiated into the Kingdom in its care. The flight into Paro is one of the most spectacular in the world. Whether flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over the foothills from Calcutta, Delhi and Bangkok, each flight is a mesmerizing aeronautical feat and offers an exciting descent into the Kingdom. Delays do occur on account of the changeable Himalayan weather so travelers are advised to build an extra day onto the end of their trips in case on hold-ups.

Druk Air bookings should be made at the same time as you book your trips to Bhutan. The airline schedules change between the summer and the winter.

Practicalities