If you are someone who wants to experience some peace, culture and wonderful natural landscapes, Bhutan is place for you. If you are planning to visit Bhutan alone, there are a lot of things you might need to know and get a hang of. Such as- getting a permit, SDF, entering Bhutan, crossing borders, hiring guides, etc.
IN this blog, I will share everything that I came to know on my solo trip to Bhutan. Everything that I learned from small tips and tricks, I will note down below.
Table of Contents
Why You Should Not Visit Bhutan Alone!?-
Basically, SDF and guides are quite expensive here and could be heavy on budget on a solo traveler, especially if you are looking for a budget trip! There is less to no information available online to clear the air about all the customs are norms that Bhutan Govt has implied on tourists. Going with a tour management compnay can be convenient and cost-effective option for you.
Apart from that, Bhutan has no drawbacks. Great landscapes, great air to breathe, nice hotels. It is a sight for the sore eyes. If you still want to visit this country alone, here are a few things you will need to keep in mind. I will explain these further in the blog!
Visit Bhutan ALONE!
1. Visa to Visit Bhutan Alone –
This official website of Bhutan Govt has every detail of the visa requirement and the types of visa offered. If you are an Indian traveling to Bhutan alone, you do not need a visa. If you are from Maldives or Bangladesh, you do not need a visa to enter Bhutan.
Nationals of Thailand and Switzerland with official or diplomatic passports can get Visa On Arrival which they can extend to 90 days.
Nationals of Thailand and Switzerland with ordinary passports need to apply in advance for the visa. Same goes for any other country nationals that I had not mentioned before need to apply for the visa in advance.
There is a one time visa application fee that is $40 payable along with the SDF Sustainable Development Fee which is $100 per day, per person.
For the nationals of India, Maldives and Bangladesh, SDF is Nu 1200 per day per person.
You can apply for the visa online here. It should take upto 5 working days for you to get your visa. If you are traveling through a tour operator in Bhutan, then you do not need to worry about anything. Just pay the fee and they will take care of everything.
I have written a whole separate blog for getting a permit and paying SDF for indian nationals here. You will get to know what documents you need for the same and the entire process of the same.
2. Itinerary to Visit Bhutan Alone
Let me burst that solo trip bubble for you. There is nothing called as solo trip in Bhutan. By law, it is mandatory to hire a guide and hence a vehicle for sightseeing in Bhutan. If you are caught without a guide, you will be heavily charged. So, if you think you can go backpacking here, well, you cannot!
In the above blog itself, I have explained how expensive it is to hire a guide and a vehicle for a single person in Bhutan. If you hire a vehicle in Bhutan or even get your own vehicle there,you will have to pay Nu 4500 per day per vehicle. Plus, the guide fee which is no lesser than Nu 3500 per day per guide.
If you go there with a group, all these charges will be split and you can enjoy your budget trip. Know that this is only suggestion, because I always give tips for budget traveling and live by my Mantra– Spend Less, Travel More! If you have a good spending budget, feel free to pack that backpack and visit this beautiful, fresh and peaceful country alone!
When you hire a guide, they create the itinerary for you, and belive me they do the best job. You just tell them what you want to experience and they will do it for you.
Want to go hiking, or a relaxing spa, or a cultural tour? You name it and they will plan that for you.
I ended up visiting Phuentsholing, Thimphu and Paro on my trip. But there are so many other places to visit in Bhutan like Punakha, Khoma Village, Gangtey Valley, Bumthang Valley, Haa Valley, etc.
Create a rough itinerary that suits the best to your interests.
Make sure your itinerary lets you relax properly. For this, start your day early and end it around 6 pm. Most of the sights close by the sunset. So if you are someone who wakes up late, you need to make some amendments in your habits.
3. Where to Book Hotels if Traveling to Bhutan Alone?
I will suggest you to book your hotels in advance. My trick for this is- No last minute planning! Sometimes last minute deals benefit you budget-wise, but mostly they don’t!
Why risk it! Just a little R&D can save you a lot! I chose hotels which were centrally located. So that it can save time of transportation. But let me tell you- almost all the hotels are located centrally only. Only a few homestays might be located somewhere far. Bhutan hotels are one of a kind. Their architecture is GORGEOUS!
Specially my hotel in Thimphu and Paro were wooden made and located just off the road. There were no obstructions in the view from windows. And yes, there are scenic views literally everywhere, so you might want to spend a bit more for those crazy views.
If you have not booked your trip with a tour operator, then also you can ask your guide for this and they will arrange your stay according to your budget.
4. Transportation
To reach Bhutan, you can either take a flight or reach by road. There is only single international airport in Bhutan which is Paro. It is one of the most dangerous airports to land in the world. It is well connected to various countries and can also cost a bit higher. There are lesser flights available connecting directly to this airport and with less frequency.
Watching airplanes land or take off is a point of sightseeing itself.
Another way to reach here is by land. Nearest airport to Bhutan from India is Bagdogra. From Bagdogra you can hire a cab or take a bus that runs once in a day at 1300 from Bagdogra. It can take around 3-4 hours and the ticket fare is INR 120 one way.
To get around Bhutan you will need to hire a vehicle. There are public transportation options available such as buses and cabs, but they are primarily for the locals. Plus when you hire a guide, you are more likely to hire a vehicle only because it allows flexibility in traveling. Before pandemic, Indians were allowed to travel through Bhutan without a guide and could use public transportation with ease, but not anymore!
Reason, why you should not travel to Bhutan ALONE!
Cultural Etiquette and Respect
I cannot tell this enough- Bhutan is a highly culturally indulged country and please oh please respect their mannerisms and etiquettets when it comes to dressing and behaviors.
5. Dress Code
It is a safe country, no doubt and you can wear whatever the hell you want and no one will give you weird looks or look at you in bad way. But be sure you are following their dress code while visiting the religious sites.
Bhutan follows Buddhism and 90 percent of the sightseeing involves visiting monasteries and temples. So pack your bags with the clothes that cover your knees and shoulders.
These rules are not just for the ladies but also for men. If you are in towns like Phuentsholing, you can wear anything cozy. But when it comes to monasteries, you will need to dress modestly. Remember, it is not a party country.
Their citizens do not even demand travelers to wear their ethenic clothes or something. Just conver your body and you are good to go.
Bhutanese people wear traditional attire, the Gho for men and Kira for women. While you’re not expected to wear traditional clothing, dressing respectfully shows appreciation for their culture.
When I was visiting Paro Taktsang- the world-famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, I saw many people wearing vests and shorts. It is highly frowned upon. Such places are of utmost religious importance and the least they expect from their visitors is MODESTY!
What to pack for visiting Bhutan alone-
- Trousers
- shirts
- skirts
- blouses with long sleeves
- scarves
- stols
6. Local Customs and Traditions
- Ensure you remove shoes while entering a temple or a monastery.
- While doing a Parikrama, (walking around the temple deity for blessings) always walk clockwise. It is a religious thing and your guide will explain the whys and hows.
- Photography inside the temples is prohibited. Always listen to your guide. They will tell you where to click pictures and where to keep your cameras inside your bags. Do not argue, just follow!
- While not mandatory, it is customory to offer something while visiting temples. It is NOT mandatory but is appreciated.
- A gentle bow with palms pressed together is a traditional greeting. Avoid shaking hands, which is normal but again, bowing and folding hands is considered modest and polite.
- Avoid a display of affection in public. This is generally frowned upon and you may get weird gazes.
- Avoid pointing with your fingers. Instead, use your whole hand.
- It’s considered disrespectful to touch someone’s head.
- Smoking is PROHIBITED in the public areas.
- Littering garbage is STRICTLY prohibited in the public areas. Carry a garbage bag and collect your wrappers and garbage in the bag itself. You will not see piles of garbage anywhere in the country and it is a beautiful, clean country. Leave nothing but your footprints behind.
- Alcohol consumption is generally discouraged, especially in public places.
- Always ask permission before photographing people, especially monks and nuns.
7. Religious Sensitivity:
Bhutan is a predominantly Buddhist country, and religious sites hold immense significance for its people. When visiting monasteries and temples, it’s crucial to adhere to certain etiquette to show respect for the sacred spaces and practices.
- Refrain from touching sacred objects, scriptures, or prayer wheels.
- Speak softly and avoid loud conversations, especially during prayer times.
- Avoid offering food or other items without explicit guidance.
- Watch rituals and ceremonies silently and respectfully.
- Avoid pointing at sacred objects or people.
- While this may sound crazy, but, refrain from sitting on religious texts or sacred items.
- Avoid interrupting or disturbing the proceedings.
8. Safety and Security While Visiting Bhutan Alone
Bhutan is the safest country in all aspects as far as where I have traveled. You can hang around without any fear. But, it’s always wise to take necessary precautions, especially when traveling solo. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip-
- This is very basic, but share your itinerary with your family and friends with point of contacts.
- Register your trip with your embassy or consulate in Bhutan.
- Stay updated on any local advisories or travel restrictions.
- Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.
- Keep your belongings secure, especially passports, wallets, and other valuables. Use secure locks and safes in your accommodation.
- Keep emergency numbers handy, including your embassy, local police, and medical services.
- AND If something feels off, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation.
9. Budgeting and Finances
If you are still planning a solo trip to Bhutan and want to save a bit more, consider all the expenses beforehand. Right from visa fees, SDF and guide fees to hotels and food.
Hotels are not that expensive. I could not find any hostel in Bhutan so I stayed in the hotels only. Food is also not expensive. INR 200 should be enough for one meal. You can go to any roadside restaurants or cafes and you will find some great food at reasonable prices.
Accommodation: Costs vary depending on the type of accommodation (hotels, guesthouses, homestays). Budget accordingly.
Food: While Bhutanese cuisine is delicious and affordable, dining at high-end restaurants can be costly.
Transportation: Domestic flights and road trips can be expensive, especially during peak seasons. Consider budget-friendly options like public buses.
10. Currency Exchange:
- Bhutanese Ngultrum (Nu): The official currency of Bhutan.
- Indian Rupee: Widely accepted in many places, especially in border areas.
- Foreign Currency: It’s best to exchange foreign currency at authorized exchange bureaus in Bhutan.
- Credit Cards: Major credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but not universally.
- ATM: ATMs are limited, so it’s advisable to carry sufficient cash.
Carry enough cash with you. They have scan and pay option available exclusively for Bank of Bhutan users. Apart from this you can opt for bank transfer or carry cash for hassle-free transactions.
11. Tipping Etiquette:
Tipping is not a strict custom in Bhutan. A small tip is appreciated for exceptional service, but it’s not mandatory.
12. Packing Essentials
- Warm Clothing: Layers are essential, especially for higher altitudes.
- Rain Gear: Pack a waterproof jacket and umbrella.
- Comfortable Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes are a must.
- Modest Attire: Respect local customs by dressing modestly.
- Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months.
- Visa: Obtain a Bhutanese visa before your trip.
- Travel Insurance: Essential for medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
- Medication: Pack any necessary medications, including prescription drugs.
- First-Aid Kit: A basic first-aid kit is recommended.
- Power Adapter: A universal adapter is necessary for charging devices.
- Portable Charger: A portable charger can be handy for staying connected.
- Camera: Capture the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences.
13. Language
Basic Dzongkha Phrases: While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic Dzongkha phrases can be a thoughtful gesture. Some useful phrases include:
“Kuzu Zangpo” (Hello)
“Tashi Delek” (Good luck)
“Kadrinchey La” (Thank you)
“Migma” (Goodbye)
English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas and hotels. However, basic Dzongkha phrases can enhance your interactions with locals. If you are an indian, you can speak hindi, bengali too in Bhutan!
14. Local Cuisine
Bhutanese Cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, influenced by Tibetan and Indian culinary traditions.
Must-tries: Ema Datshi (chilli pepper and cheese), Momos (dumplings), and Thukpa (noodle soup).
Dietary Restrictions: While vegetarian options are available, vegan options may be limited. Inform your hosts or restaurant staff about your dietary preferences.
15. Souvenirs
Textiles: Bhutan is renowned for its beautiful textiles, including handwoven fabrics, traditional attire, and intricate thangka paintings.
Handicrafts: Look for unique handicrafts like wood carvings, metalwork, and paper products.
Local Products: Consider purchasing local products like honey, tea, and spices.