Glimpse Of Bhutan - 6 Days

Duration:

Glimpse of Bhutan tour is a 6-day program in western Bhutan the heart and soul of Bhutan. 2 nights in Thimphu, 1 night in Punakha and 2 nights in Paro Valley.

Who Can Undertake the Glimpse of Bhutan Tour:

Anyone who are interested to experience Mahayana Buddhism, to see those beautiful Dzongs, witness vibrant festivals and to be in pristine natural landscape with zero carbon can participate in this tour. Also, since Glimpse of Bhutan tour involves bit of uphill hiking one needs to be physically good and should be able to hike for around 2 hours one way.

Visa Information:

• All nationalities (except Indian citizens) require a visa.
• Visa is arranged through a tour agent after full payment of the tour package.
• Required documents:
• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Digital passport-size photo
• Proof of occupation
• Contact details
• Travel insurance (recommended)
• Visa clearance and air ticket are issued prior to departure.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF):

• A daily levy supporting Bhutan’s development, included in the package.

Ideal Time to Undertake Glimpse of Bhutan Tour:

• Spring (March-May): Another great time for this tour when the valleys bloom with rhododendrons.
• Autumn (October-November): This is a best time to undertake this tour – you have clear skies, pleasant weather excellent for sightseeing and trekking.

Getting There & Away: There are only two ways to enter Bhutan – by air and by road.

Getting to Bhutan via Air:

Bhutan’s national carrier, Druk Air, and Bhutan Airlines both provide international flights into Bhutan’s international airport located in Paro, about one and a half hours drive from Thimphu.

Druk Air has a fleet of modern Airbus A-319 and ATR planes. Druk Air flies in and out of Bhutan from:

• Bangkok (BKK – Thailand)
• Delhi (DEL – India)
• Mumbai (BOM – India)
• Kolkata (CCU – India)
• Bagdogra (IXB – India)
• Gaya (GAY – India)
• Guwahati (GAU – India)
• Kathmandu (KTM – Nepal)
• Dhaka (DAC – Bangladesh)
• Changi (SIN – Singapore)

Bhutan Airlines began its international operations in October 2013. It’s sectors to Bhutan include:

• Bangkok (BKK – Thailand)
• Delhi (DEL – India)
• Kolkata (CCU – India)
• Kathmandu (KTM – Nepal)

Entering by Road

There are currently three authorised entry & exit points by road for foreign tourists.

The first is at Phuntsholing in southwest Bhutan, from West Bengal in Northern India. The adjacent Indian town is called Jaigaon. We strongly recommend vistors entering or departing at Phuntsholing spend the first night there on the Bhutan side. Jaigaon is chaotic and only offers low standards of accommodation.

The second entry/exit point is at Samdrup Jongkhar in the far southeast of Bhutan. This option, bordering the Indian State of Assam, is useful for visitors who travel to the more remote eastern side of Bhutan.  It is 3 hour drive from Samdrup Jongkhar to the Indian airport of Guwahati which will connect you by air to your onward destination.

The third entry/exit point is Gelephu in central southern Bhutan for those on specialized itineraries.

Important Note: Driving in Bhutan, the roads are narrow and the driving speed in Bhutan is generally 35-60 kms per hour, courtesy of the high number of bends per kilometre (up to 10 or more bends per km in some areas and especially in eastern Bhutan).

Accommodation:

Bhutan offers a diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious five-star hotels to cozy homestays in traditional village settings. Our pricing is based on a government-approved 3-star category hotel. If you prefer higher-end properties, please let us know.

Accommodations in the outskirts of Thimphu are somewhat limited, but you can still find luxury, mid-range hotels, as well as homestays and farmhouses.

 Food & Restaurants:

• All meals are included in the trip cost (except for those taken at high-end resorts and hotels).
• Meals are typically served buffet-style, offering Bhutanese, Indian, and vegetarian options. In larger towns, you may also find Western and Chinese cuisine.
• Bhutanese cuisine is heavily spiced with red chilies. If you’re adventurous, try local specialties like Emma Datse, a cheese and chili dish.
• Drink only bottled mineral water and avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes.
• Eat only thoroughly cooked food. Peel raw fruits and vegetables yourself.
• Avoid fresh salads unless washed with purified water and refrain from consuming unpasteurized dairy products.
• Most restaurants and hotel buffets are clean and reliable.

Health & Immunizations:

• Some immunizations are recommended but not mandatory for entry.
• Suggested vaccinations include polio, tetanus, typhoid, MMR, hepatitis A & B.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from an infected country.
• Consult your physician or a travel health service for independent medical advice.

Altitude Sickness:

Note: The information below is provided for awareness and is not meant to alarm travelers. Most people experience few or no symptoms.

• Altitude sickness can occur due to a rapid ascent from low to high elevations. Mild symptoms include headaches, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, mild nausea, and fatigue.
• Upon arrival at high altitude, take it easy for the first couple of days. Drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol, eat regularly, and get enough rest.
• Severe symptoms require immediate descent to a lower altitude. Most cases are mild and improve with rest and hydration.
• Consult your doctor about medications like Acetazolamide (Diamox) to help acclimatization.

 Emergency Services:

• Medical treatment is available in Thimphu and other major towns, but facilities in rural areas are limited.
• Emergency helicopter evacuation is generally not an option, so prevention is key.
• Your guide will assist in case of urgent medical needs.
• Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Time Zone:

• Bhutan follows GMT +6 hours.
• Timekeeping in Bhutan is relaxed. Please expect occasional delays, as schedules may vary.

 Photography:

• Bhutan offers incredible photography opportunities, so bring ample memory cards, batteries, and backup equipment. Photo supplies are not widely available.
• Photography inside shrine rooms, monasteries, and religious institutions is prohibited.
• Always ask for permission before photographing people.

 Restroom Facilities:

• Carry a small supply of toilet paper.
• In urban areas, flush toilets usually have a wastebasket beside them. Do not flush toilet paper, as plumbing systems are delicate.
• Public restrooms may not meet the hygiene standards you are accustomed to.

Electricity:

• Bhutan operates on 220–240 Volts, 50 Hz.
• Electricity can be unreliable in remote areas.
• Power outlets accommodate C, D, & G type plugs—an adapter may be necessary.

 Shopping:

• Popular souvenirs include Thangka paintings, wooden masks, silver & metal crafts, textiles, and stamps.
• Bargaining is not common in Bhutan but may be possible at markets and select stores—ask your guide for advice.

 Money, ATMs & Exchange Facilities:

• Bhutan’s currency is Ngultrum (Nu.), with an exchange rate of 1 USD ≈ 86.27 Nu.
• You can exchange cash at Paro Airport and banks in major towns, particularly in Paro and Thimphu.
• Accepted currencies include USD, GBP, EUR, JPY, CHF, HKD, CAD, DKK, AUD, and SGD.
• Larger USD denominations ($50 & $100) receive a better exchange rate.
• Only Visa and MasterCard are accepted at select high-end hotels and handicraft stores in Thimphu.
• ATMs are unreliable, so carrying sufficient cash (preferably in USD) is advisable.
• Keep your passport handy for currency exchange.
• We recommend bringing USD $30–50 per person per day for additional expenses.
• Ensure your cash is in good condition (no rips, marks, folds, or holes).

Staying Connected – SIM Cards:

• You can buy a local SIM card from Bhutan Telecom or TashiCell.
• eSIMs and mini-SIMs are not available.

Safety:

• Crime is rare in Bhutan, but basic precautions should be taken.
• Keep your wallet and passport concealed and secure.
• Use accommodation safes for valuables.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
• Avoid carrying items that are difficult to replace.

Arrival & Entry:

• Our local representatives will greet you upon arrival at Paro Airport.
• Visitors must complete a Customs Declaration Form and an immigration form upon arrival.
• Personal-use electronic items (cameras, binoculars, etc.) must be registered with customs upon entry.
• Prohibited imports and exports include arms, explosives, narcotics, antiques, and wildlife products from endangered species.

 Tobacco Restrictions:

• Bhutan enforces a strict smoking ban.
• You may bring up to 200 cigarettes but must pay heavy import duties.
• Smoking is allowed only in designated areas.
• Violations can result in hefty fines or imprisonment.

Tipping:

• Tipping is optional but appreciated in Bhutan’s tourism industry.
• Recommended tipping rates:
• Guides: $8–10 per person/day.
• Drivers: $6–8 per person/day.
• Group travelers may pool tips and present them at the end of the trip.

 Bhutan Tour Dates:

• All Bhutan tours are customized, private, and scheduled at your convenience.
• If you’d like to tailor your itinerary, feel free to share your preferences, and we will craft the ideal program for you.