All You Need to Know About the Kingdom of Bhutan
Tucked away in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a peaceful and unique country where Vajrayana Buddhism is a part of daily life. Often called “The Last Shangri-La,” Bhutan offers a perfect escape from the busy, stressful modern world.
Known as the happiest country on Earth, Bhutan follows the philosophy of Gross National Happiness, focusing more on well-being than material wealth. This makes it one of the best destinations for travelers looking for peace, nature, and cultural richness.
From the breathtaking Himalayan mountains to lush green valleys filled with rice fields, Bhutan is a visual and spiritual delight. Its ancient monasteries, traditional Bhutanese houses, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit place for every explorer.
Main Cities in Bhutan:
Thimphu – The capital city and the heart of Bhutan’s government and culture.
Paro – Home to Bhutan’s only international airport and famous for the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Phuentsholing – A key border town near India and one of the main land entry points into Bhutan.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, spirituality, or a peaceful retreat, Bhutan is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Bestseller In Bhutan
Bhutan: Location and Key Facts
Bhutan is a small Himalayan kingdom in South Asia, nestled in the eastern Himalayas.
It shares its northern border with China (Tibet) and is surrounded by the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, and West Bengal on the east, west, and south.
Total Area: 38,398 square kilometers
Elevation Range: From 180 meters to 7,550 meters above sea level
Population: Around 800,000 people
Capital City: Thimphu
Time Zone: GMT +6 hours | IST +30 minutes
Main Religions: Mahayana Buddhism (dominant) and Hinduism
Planning your trip across Bhutan? Here’s a helpful guide to distances and travel times between major cities and towns:
From Paro
From ParoParo to Thimphu: 65 km – Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
Paro to Haa: 75 km – Approx. 3 hours
Paro to Phuentsholing: 200 km – Approx. 7 hours
From Thimphu
Thimphu to Phuentsholing: 176 km – Approx. 5 hours
Thimphu to Wangdue Phodrang: 70 km – Approx. 2 hours
Thimphu to Punakha: 77 km – Approx. 2 hours 15 minutes
From Punakha
Punakha to Wangdue Phodrang: 21 km – Approx. 30 minutes
Punakha to Paro: 140 km – Approx. 5 hours
Punakha to Bumthang: 212 km – Approx. 8 hours
Punakha to Trongsa: 136 km – Approx. 4 hours 30 minutes
Punakha to Gangtey: 70 km – Approx. 3 hours
From Bumthang
Bumthang to Trongsa: 68 km – Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
From Phuentsholing (Bhutan–India Border)
To Bagdogra (India): 170 km – Approx. 5 hours
To Jaldapara (India): 35 km – Approx. 1 hour
To Lataguri (India): 110 km – Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
To Hasimara (India): 25 km – Approx. 45 minutes
To Darjeeling (India): 240 km – Approx. 7 hours
To Kalimpong (India): 185 km – Approx. 5 hours
To Gangtok (India): 255 km – Approx. 8 hours
Bhutan Entry Permit Guidelines for Indian Nationals – 2025
Good news! Indian citizens do not need a visa to visit Bhutan. However, an Entry Permit is required to travel within Bhutan.
📄 Documents Required for Bhutan Entry Permit
For Adults (18 years & above):
Valid Indian Passport (minimum 6 months validity from return date)
ORValid Voter ID Card (any one is mandatory)
For Children:
Below 5 years:
Original Birth Certificate (in English)
Between 6 to 17 years:
School ID Card
Birth Certificate
Additional Requirements (All Travelers):
Passport size photographs
Travel insurance (with proper stamp and signature from the insurer)
✅ Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
INR 1,200 per person per night (payable by all Indian travelers)
Children aged 6 to 12 years: 50% discount on SDF
Children aged 5 years & below: No SDF charged
When visiting Bhutan, it’s important to respect the local customs, religious sites, and cultural practices. Here are some important travel guidelines:
📸 Photography Guidelines
✅ Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, religious events, or objects.
❌ Photography is not allowed inside temples, dzongs (fortresses), or monasteries.
✅ You can take photos in courtyards only unless otherwise instructed by your guide.
🕉️ Religious Artifacts & Antiques
❌ Do not touch any religious artifacts, antiques, or statues.
❌ Buying or exporting antiques and religious items is strictly prohibited.
❌ Never climb, sit on, or show disrespect to Buddhist artifacts — regardless of their size or condition. All are considered sacred.
👕 Dress Code for Religious Sites
❌ Remove hats or caps before entering any temple, dzong, or monastery.
❌ Shorts, sleeveless tops, slippers or flip-flops are not allowed inside these religious places.
✅ Wear full-sleeve shirts or T-shirts with collars when visiting sacred places. Dress modestly and respectfully.
📵 Communication Etiquette
❌ Switch off or silence mobile phones before entering temples, dzongs, or monasteries.
✅ Speak softly and maintain a peaceful environment within religious areas.
Respecting Bhutan’s culture is an essential part of your journey. These small gestures ensure a more meaningful experience for you and a respectful one for the locals.
The Bhutanese Way – Cultural Etiquette & Travel Tips
Traveling to Bhutan offers a deeply spiritual and culturally rich experience. To respect the traditions and ensure a safe, meaningful journey, please follow these important local customs and rules.
🧭 Cultural & Religious Etiquette
🔁 Walk clockwise around temples, stupas, and other religious structures.
✋ When pointing at sacred places or objects, use an open, upturned palm, not a single finger.
🚮 Dispose of litter only in designated bins. Keep Bhutan clean.
🖼️ Do not touch ritual objects, religious murals, or paintings.
❌ Avoid stepping on clothes, books, or any items lying on the floor, especially in temples.
🚭 Do not smoke or drink alcohol in or near religious places.
❓ If unsure about customs or rules, always ask your guide or a local before acting.
🌊 Be cautious around lakes or rivers. Stay at a safe distance to avoid accidents.
🚬 Tobacco & Smoking Rules
❌ Tobacco is strictly restricted in Bhutan.
✅ You may carry up to 200 imported cigarettes (10 packs) for personal use.
💸 A 200% duty applies on imported tobacco and 100% on Indian brands.
🚭 Smoking in public is prohibited.
💰 Currency & Payments
✅ Indian currency of ₹100 or below is accepted in Bhutan.
❌ ₹500, ₹2000 notes are not legal tender in Bhutan.
🏧 ATMs are limited to Thimphu and Paro – check with your bank about international use.
💳 Credit cards are not widely accepted – carry enough cash for small shops and local use.
By following these cultural norms and regulations, you’ll not only show respect for the Bhutanese way of life but also enrich your travel experience.