Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bhutan?

Spring (March-May) - Best for flowers, pleasant weather, and rhododendrons blooming. Ideal for trekking.

Autumn (September-November) - Peak season with clear skies, great mountain views, and many festivals. Best time for cultural tours.

Winter (December-February) - Cold but sunny. Great for low-altitude cultural tours. Less crowded.

Summer (June-August) - Monsoon season with lush greenery but frequent rain. Fewer tourists, lower prices.

Our recommendation: March-May or September-November for the best experience.

How much does a Bhutan tour cost?

Daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF):

• International visitors: $100 per person per night
• Indian nationals: 1,200 per person per night
• Children under 5: Free
• Children 6-12: 50% discount

This fee includes: accommodation, meals, transport, guide services, and internal taxes. Our tour packages combine the SDF with our services for all-inclusive pricing.

A 7-day cultural tour typically ranges from $700-1,500+ per person depending on hotel tier and activities.

Do I need a visa for Bhutan?

International Visitors: Yes, you need a visa. We process this for you - just send your passport copy and photo. Your visa is issued electronically and clearance is sent before travel.

Indian Nationals: No visa required. You can enter with a valid passport or voter ID card. We'll process your entry permit.

SAARC Countries (except India): Visa-free entry available, but entry permit required.

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

What's included in the tour price?

Our tour prices include:

• Accommodation (3-5 star hotels as selected)
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Private transport with professional driver
• English-speaking guide
• Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
• Permits & fees for monasteries, museums, dzongs
• Internal taxes

Not included:

• International flights to/from Bhutan
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Personal expenses, souvenirs, tips

How do I get to Bhutan?

By Air (Recommended):

Paro International Airport (PBH) is served by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines from:

• India (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Guwahati)
• Nepal (Kathmandu)
• Bangladesh (Dhaka)
• Singapore
• Thailand (Bangkok)

By Land (Indian Border):

Enter via Phuentsholing (from West Bengal), Gelephu (from Assam), or Samdrup Jongkhar (from Assam). Requires Indian visa to transit.

We can arrange your flights - just ask when booking!

Is Bhutan safe for tourists?

Yes, Bhutan is one of the safest travel destinations!

• Very low crime rate - Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare
• Politically stable - Peaceful country with no civil unrest
• Friendly locals - Bhutanese people are warm and welcoming
• Safe for solo travelers - Including solo female travelers
• Professional guides - Accompanied by licensed guides who ensure your safety

Standard precautions apply (guard valuables, follow guide instructions), but you can feel very safe in Bhutan.

What's the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a daily tax levied by the Bhutan government on all tourists:

• International visitors: $100 per person per night
• Indian nationals: 1,200 per person per night

This fee supports:

• Free healthcare and education for Bhutanese citizens
• Infrastructure development
• Environmental conservation
• Cultural preservation

The fee is included in our tour prices - no separate payment needed!

Can I customize my itinerary?

Absolutely! We specialize in customized Bhutan experiences.

Whether you want to:

• Add extra days for trekking or meditation
• Focus on specific interests (photography, birdwatching, textiles, spirituality)
• Upgrade to luxury hotels or eco-lodges
• Plan around a festival date
• Create a family-friendly itinerary

Tell us your preferences, travel dates, group size, and budget - we'll create a personalized itinerary just for you!

What's the food like in Bhutan?

Bhutanese cuisine is delicious and unique! Popular dishes include:

• Ema Datshi - Spicy chili and cheese (national dish)
• Momo - Tibetan-style dumplings
• Phaksha Paa - Pork with spicy red chilies
• Red rice - Nutritious local staple
• Suja - Butter tea (salted)

Hotels serve a mix of Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. Vegetarian options are widely available.

We can accommodate dietary restrictions - just let us know when booking!

What should I pack for Bhutan?

Essential items:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm layers (sweater/fleece) - even in summer, mountain nights are cold
• Waterproof jacket (especially in monsoon)
• Modest clothing for temples (cover shoulders and knees)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Personal medications + basic first aid
• Power adapter (Type D, F, or G - 230V)
• Cash (Nu. Bhutanese currency) for small purchases

For trekking: Hiking boots, warm sleeping bag, backpack, headlamp, trekking poles.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for all visitors to Bhutan.

Your insurance must cover:

• Medical emergencies and hospitalization
• Emergency evacuation (helicopter if needed)
• Trip cancellation and interruption
• Lost or stolen baggage
• Flight delays and cancellations

You'll need to provide proof of insurance before we process your visa. We can recommend insurance providers if needed.

How do I book a tour?

Booking with Silverpine Bhutan is easy:

1. Contact us via WhatsApp, email, or our website form
2. Tell us your preferences: tour type, dates, group size, budget
3. Receive custom itinerary and detailed quote
4. Pay 30% deposit to confirm booking (bank transfer or card)
5. Send passport copy & photo for visa processing
6. Receive visa clearance before travel
7. Pay remaining balance 30 days before arrival
8. Arrive in Bhutan! - We'll meet you at the airport

Ready to start? Contact us now or WhatsApp: +975 7777 3737

Is Bhutan safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Bhutan is exceptionally safe for solo female travelers. Many women travel alone to Bhutan every year without any issues.

Why it's safe:

• Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare
• Bhutanese culture respects women
• You'll have a licensed guide with you at all times
• Hotels and restaurants are safe and welcoming

Tips for solo female travelers:

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
• Follow your guide's advice
• Inform your guide if you feel uncomfortable anywhere
• Keep emergency contacts handy

What medical facilities are available in Bhutan?

Medical facilities in Bhutan:

• Thimphu: Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (modern facilities)
• Paro: Paro District Hospital (good for basic care)
• Major towns: District hospitals with basic facilities

Important notes:

• For serious conditions, evacuation to India or Thailand may be needed
• Carry any personal medications with prescriptions
• Travel insurance with medical evacuation is mandatory
• Pharmacies are available in towns for basic medicines

Your guide will assist with any medical needs during your trip.

Can I use my phone in Bhutan?

Yes, staying connected in Bhutan is easy!

SIM Cards:

• Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell are the main providers
• Buy SIM at airport on arrival (bring passport photos)
• Cost: ~300 Nu. for tourist SIM with data
• 4G coverage in most towns and along major roads

WiFi:

• Available in all hotels (free, usually decent speed)
• Available in many restaurants and cafes in towns
• Limited or no WiFi in remote areas/trekking routes

International roaming works in Bhutan but can be expensive. Buying a local SIM is recommended.

What power plugs/voltage does Bhutan use?

• Voltage: 230V
• Frequency: 50Hz
• Power Plugs: Type D (Indian-style), Type F (European-style), Type G (UK-style)

Recommendations:

• Bring a universal travel adapter
• Check if your devices support 220-240V (most modern devices do)
• For devices from 110V countries (US, Canada), you may need a voltage converter

Hotels usually provide adapters, but bringing your own is recommended.

What should I wear when visiting temples?

Modest dress is required when visiting religious sites in Bhutan.

For both men and women:

• Cover shoulders and knees
• Avoid shorts, short skirts, sleeveless tops
• Remove hats/caps before entering shrines
• Remove shoes before entering temples (lockable storage available)

Additional guidelines:

• Don't point at statues or religious objects with your finger (use your palm up)
• Walk clockwise around chortens and stupas
• Ask permission before taking photos inside temples
• Speak softly and respectfully

Your guide will brief you on proper etiquette before each visit.

Are there photography restrictions in Bhutan?

Photography is generally allowed and encouraged in Bhutan! However, there are some restrictions:

Where photography is NOT allowed:

• Inside the main sanctum of most temples
• Military installations and government buildings
• Some museum exhibits

Photography tips:

• Always ask permission before photographing people
• Respect no-photography signs
• Some temples charge a small camera fee (100-300 Nu.)
• Drones require special permit from tourism authorities

Bhutan is incredibly photogenic - bring extra memory cards and batteries!

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Our cancellation policy:

• 30+ days before arrival: Full refund (minus bank transfer fees)
• 15-29 days before arrival: 75% refund
• 7-14 days before arrival: 50% refund
• Less than 7 days: No refund

Visa fees and SDF payments are non-refundable once processed by the government.

In case of force majeure (natural disasters, political unrest, etc.), we'll work with you to reschedule your trip at no additional cost.

We recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.

Do you offer family-friendly tours?

Yes! We specialize in family-friendly Bhutan tours. Bhutan is a wonderful destination for families with children.

Child discounts:

• Children under 5: Free (only pay SDF)
• Children 6-12: 50% discount on daily fee (SDF still applies)

Family tour features:

• Flexible itineraries with downtime for kids
• Fun activities: archery lessons, hot stone baths, traditional games
• Easier hiking options suitable for children
• Family-friendly accommodations
• Kid-friendly meals (less spicy options available)

Many families return home saying it was their most meaningful vacation together!

Is Bhutan accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Bhutan has limited accessibility infrastructure, but we can accommodate many travelers with disabilities.

What's available:

• Some newer hotels have wheelchair-accessible rooms
• Major dzongs have wheelchair ramps
• Paro and Thimphu have mostly paved areas

Challenges:

• Many temples require climbing stairs
• Sidewalks are uneven or non-existent in areas
• Trekking routes are not wheelchair accessible
• Limited accessible transportation options

Contact us directly to discuss your specific needs. We'll create a customized itinerary that works for you.

How do I choose the right tour for me?

Choosing the right Bhutan tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and travel style.

• For first-timers: Cultural Essence Tour (7-10 days) - covers highlights without being too strenuous
• For adventure seekers: Jomolhari Trek or Snowman Trek (challenging, spectacular mountain views)
• For spiritual seekers: Pilgrimage Journey focusing on sacred sites and meditation
• For families: Family Adventure with easier activities and kid-friendly experiences
• For festival lovers: Time your visit during Paro/Thimphu Tshechu (spring/autumn)

Still unsure? Contact us and we'll recommend the perfect tour based on your preferences!

Are there ATMs in Bhutan?

Yes, ATMs are available in major towns:

• Thimphu (many options)
• Paro
• Punakha
• Bumthang (limited)

Important notes:

• Only Visa and Mastercard accepted (no Amex)
• ATMs may not work with foreign cards
• Limited in remote areas
• Carry cash as backup

Indian Rupees are accepted everywhere in Bhutan (at par).

What's the currency in Bhutan?

Bhutanese Ngultrum (Nu.) is the official currency, pegged 1:1 to Indian Rupee.

Indian Rupees (INR) are widely accepted everywhere:

• Accepted at 1:1 exchange rate (100 INR = 100 Nu.)
• Accepted notes: INR 100, 200, 500, and 2000
• Coins are NOT accepted in Bhutan
• All shops, hotels, restaurants accept INR

Other currencies: USD, EUR, and other major currencies can be exchanged at banks and hotels in Thimphu and Paro.

For Indian travelers: Just bring Indian Rupees - no currency exchange needed!

Can I use Indian Rupees in Bhutan?

Yes! Indian Rupees (INR) are accepted everywhere in Bhutan at 1:1 with Ngultrum.

This is very convenient for Indian travelers - no currency exchange needed!

Accepted INR notes: 100, 200, 500, and 2000 rupee notes

NOT accepted: INR coins (Bhutan doesn't use coins)

Bonus: Indian travelers can enter Bhutan visa-free with just a passport or voter ID!