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Climate
There are four distinct seasons similiar in their divisions to
those of Western Europe. The Monsoon occurs between June and August
when the temperature is normally between 8° and 21°C (46°-70°F).
Temperatures drop dramatically with increases in altitude. Days
are usually very pleasant (average about 10°C/50°F) with
clear skies and sunshine. Nights are cold and require heavy woollen
clothing, particularly in winter. Generally October, November
and April to mid-June are the best times to visit – rainfall
is at a minimum and temperatures are conducive to active days
of sightseeing. The foothills are also very pleasant during the
winter.
Required
clothing
Lightweight cottons in the foothills, also linens and waterproof
gear, light sweaters and jackets for the evenings. Upland areas:
woollens for evenings, particularly during the winter months.
Food
& drink
All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated.
Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have
first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised
and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and
is advised, but make sure that it is reconstituted with pure water.
Avoid all dairy products. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish,
preferably served hot. Pork, salad and mayonnaise may carry increased
risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.
Other
risks
Hepatitis A and E occur; hepatitis B is endemic. Giardiasis is
common. Meningitis is a sporadic risk and vaccination is advised.
TB exists. Visceral leishmaniasis is prevalent and a small risk
of Japanese encephalitis exists in southern lowland areas. Altitude
sickness may be a problem.
Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination should
be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without
delay. For more information consult the Health appendix.
Health care
There is no reciprocal health agreement with the UK. Full medical
insurance is strongly advised. Medical facilities are good but
scarce.
Currency
1 Ngultrum (NU) = 100 chetrum (Ch). The Ngultrum is pegged to
the Indian Rupee (which is also acccepted as legal tender). Notes
are in denominations of NU500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins
are in denominations of NU1, and 100, 50, 25, 10 and 5 chetrum.
US Dollars are also widely accepted throughout the kingdom.
Currency exchange
Leading foreign currencies are accepted but travellers cheques
are preferred and receive a better exchange rate. Major hotels
in Thimphu and Phuntsholing, and the Olathang Hotel in Paro, will
also exchange foreign currency.
Credit & debit cards
American Express and Diners Club have very limited acceptability.
Check with your credit, or debit, card company for details of
merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Travellers cheques
These can be exchanged in any branch of the Bank of Bhutan or
at all BTCL hotels. Travellers are advised to take travellers
cheques in US Dollars.
Currency restrictions
None, but foreign currency must be declared on arrival.
Banking hours
Mon-Fri 0900-1300. Some smaller branches may be open Saturday
or Sunday for currency exchange.
Restricted entry
Tourists to Bhutan are obliged to use Druk Air (the only airline
serving Bhutan) either on entering or leaving the country).
PASSPORTS
Valid passport required by all.
VISAS
Required by all.
Validity
Visas are initially granted for stays of up to 15 days. The Bhutan
Tourism Corporation Limited (BTCL) can apply for an extension
of tourist visas for an additional fee per person.
Note:
(a) There are two ways of entering Bhutan: by air to Paro Airport
or by road to the Bhutanese border town of Phuntosholing. All
travellers entering the country by road must ensure that they
have the necessary documentation for transiting through that part
of India to Phuntsholing. Consult the Passport/Visa section for
India. Visitors are also advised to contact the Government of
India Tourist Office to check exactly what special permits or
other documents may be necessary as these regulations are subject
to change at short notice.
(b) Visitors are required to book with a registered tour operator
in Bhutan which can be done directly through an affiliated travel
agent abroad.
(c) A yellow fever certificate is required by all if arriving
within 6 days from an infected area.
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