Things To Do
in Bhutan

A lively market where farmers sell vegetables, cheese, dried chilies and snacks; great for tasting local produce and mingling with locals.

Smaller craft and food stalls; try local sweets, momos and home-made preserves here.

Remove shoes and hats when entering temples, walk clockwise around chortens and mani walls, and avoid touching sacred objects or murals. Ask before photographing monks or people engaged in religious activity.

Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees) and avoid public displays of affection. Speak softly in public spaces and show deference to elders and monastics.

Polite phrases and small gestures are valued; present and accept items with both hands when appropriate. Bargaining is uncommon in markets—prices are generally fixed and haggling can be seen as disrespectful.

Avoid political discussion about monarchy or sensitive national topics; follow local guidance during festivals and observe seating or gender-specific norms in religious contexts.

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small tips to guides, drivers and guesthouse staff are customary—often given directly in cash. High-end hotels may include service charges; check your bill.

The Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN) is the currency and is pegged to the Indian rupee; Indian rupees are widely accepted. Credit cards and ATMs are available in Thimphu and Paro but rare in rural areas—carry sufficient cash for remote travel. Exchange USD or INR at banks and major hotels; bring small denominations for tips and markets.

One of the best times to visit: mild temperatures, rhododendron and cherry blossoms, clearer skies and many festivals. Trails are usually accessible and visibility to the high peaks is high.

Warm and wet—roads can be disrupted by landslides and some high passes close; lowland humidity increases but valleys are lush and fewer tourists mean more solitude.

Another prime season with clear skies, stable weather and major festivals (tshechus). Peak trekking and photography conditions make this a favorite period.

Cold, especially in high valleys where snow can close passes; lowland areas like Punakha are milder. Ideal for cultural visits and lower rates but limited access to remote high-altitude treks.

Bhutan’s main international airport with flights to select cities (e.g., Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu and Kolkata); spectacular but challenging approach—most international travelers arrive here.

Domestic airport serving central Bhutan (Bumthang) with limited scheduled flights; useful for accessing cultural valley and trek starting points.

Eastern Bhutan domestic airport with limited service linking eastern districts; helpful for regional travel when flights operate.

Serves the southern region and border area; flights are seasonal and planned according to demand.

Primarily in western and central Bhutan; culturally influential group associated with the historical spread of Tibetan Buddhism and administrative life.

Eastern Bhutanese people with distinct dialects and customs; dominant in the east and associated with certain agricultural traditions.

People of Nepali origin who primarily live in the southern regions and contribute to Bhutan’s cultural diversity.

A significant portion of the population participates in monastic life; monasteries and monks play central roles in cultural and social life.