Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling to Bhutan

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) usually bring the clearest views and the major festivals. Winter is cold but bright, and is the season for black-necked cranes in Phobjikha. Summer is the monsoon season. See our guide to the best time to visit.

Six or seven days is a good first visit to the western valleys, including a full day for the Tiger’s Nest hike. Allow nine to twelve days or more to include Phobjikha, central or eastern Bhutan, or a trek.

Yes. Our Signature Travels are starting points. We can change the pace, the hotels, the length and the places you visit. Tell us what you have in mind.

Our journeys are planned for you and your travelling companions, with your own guide and driver. Tell us your group size when you enquire.

Yes. Australian citizens need a visa, applied for online before travel, with the Sustainable Development Fee paid as part of the application. See entry requirements for Australian travellers and always confirm current rules on the official sources.

A government fee paid for each night you stay in Bhutan, which funds environmental, cultural and social projects. The official Bhutan Travel visa page lists US$100 per adult per night, with concessions for children (checked 20 October 2026). Rates can change. See our visa and SDF guide.

You can apply through the Department of Immigration’s online services, or your tour operator or hotel can apply for you. We explain the process and can prepare the application with you.

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation cover, and trekking cover if you plan to trek. Check whether insurance is a current condition of entry when you apply for your visa.

Yes. Your journey is planned with a licensed Bhutanese guide and a driver. Your written proposal confirms the arrangements.

Roads are narrow and winding, crossing high passes. Drives that look short on a map can take several hours. We plan long drives as travel days with stops. See getting around Bhutan.

Most visitors fly into Paro International Airport on Bhutan’s national carriers from regional hubs. There are also land entry points on the border with India. See flights and arrival planning.

Most of our western Bhutan journeys include a full day for the hike, with a night in Paro before and after. Where it is not included, we can add it.

You should be comfortable walking uphill for several hours on uneven paths and steps. The return walk usually takes around four to five hours, and you can go at your own pace.

Paro and Thimphu sit at roughly 2,200 to 2,400 metres, and passes and treks go higher. Most people adjust well with an easy first day and plenty of water. Tell your guide if you feel unwell, and speak to your doctor before travel if you have a medical condition.

For day walks, no. For multi-day treks such as the Druk Path, you need good fitness. Demanding high-altitude treks such as Jomolhari suit experienced hikers.

Many places involve steps and uneven ground, but a slower, carefully planned itinerary can work for many travellers. Tell us about your needs and we will be honest about what is practical.

We recommend hotels, lodges and, where possible, farmhouse stays to match your comfort level and budget. Specific properties are confirmed in your written proposal, subject to availability.

Bhutanese food is built around red rice, vegetables, cheese and chilli. Hotels usually offer milder dishes too. Tell us about allergies, vegetarian or other diets when you enquire.

Cards are accepted in many hotels and larger shops, but carry some cash for markets and small purchases. The currency is the ngultrum. See money and connectivity.

Start with an enquiry. We reply with questions and a written proposal. Your trip is only confirmed once you have accepted the proposal and its terms in writing.

Deposit, payment and cancellation terms are set out in full in your written proposal before you commit to anything. Please ask us if you would like to see them early.

Usually, yes, depending on availability and on visa and supplier arrangements. Some changes may have costs, which we always explain before making them.