Season for Jomolhari Trek
The best times to visit are in March to June and September to December, with the later months being particularly pleasant as rainfall is lower and the views tend to be clearer.
January to February sees snowfall in many areas but it can be a beautiful time to visit the snow covering the mountainous landscape.
Bhutan experiences monsoonal weather between July and August and consequently is not a particularly pleasant time to make Bhutan Tour.
Travel to Bhutan: Safe
Travel to Bhutan is very safe. The crime rate in Bhutan is low although petty crime does happen. Travelers’ should be alert and keep an eye on their belongings, particularly in crowded or well-touristic areas.
If you are visiting high-altitude areas, be sure to discuss altitude sickness with a doctor and plan accordingly. Flooding and landslides occur during the monsoon (June–September) so follow local advice and check with your tour operator for disruptions.
Passport and Visa
All nationalities require a visa for Bhutan. The travelers can only enter as part of a group visa on a tour. Independent visas are not issued and the cost of the visa is included in your tour.
Visas are generally issued within 5 days of departure and as close as 48 hours prior to travel into the country. We will send your group visa to your travelling email address. Please print this visa and carry with you as you will need it at the time of boarding your Bhutan flight.
You must show the copy of your Bhutan group visa at the check-in for your flight to Bhutan and on arrival at immigration in Bhutan where you will have a Bhutan entry stamp placed into your passport.
Tipping in Bhutan
Tipping isn’t compulsory in Bhutan, but many people who work in tourism are accustomed to receiving tips so it’s wise to set aside a small amount to show your appreciation for drivers and guide. Most hotels and restaurants will include a service fee in the final bill.
The internet access in Bhutan
Most tourist hotels will have free wifi, as will many restaurants or cafes in Bhutan’s larger cities. It’s possible to buy a local SIM though internet access will be limited in the remote and mountainous regions.
Mobile Phone while in Bhutan?
If you plan on using your mobile phone in Bhutan be sure to activate global roaming and check charges with your provider before you leave home. If your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a local SIM on arrival. The best coverage is with B-Mobile, while Tashi Cell has similar costs but more limited coverage. Please note that coverage will be limited in more remote areas.
The toilets like in Bhutan?
You will have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation while in Bhutan. Squat toilets are the norm across the country, which may take some getting used to, though Western-style, flushable toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas.
Drinking water in Bhutan
Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Bhutan. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your guide where filtered water can be found. It’s also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.
Credit cards widely accepted in Bhutan
Credit cards are accepted are large hotels and the bigger stores but a heavy surcharge often applies. Keep in mind that tours in Bhutan are fully prepaid and include all meals and transport, so your only spending money should be for souvenirs, snacks and drinks. It’s best to bring and use US dollars for large purchases.
ATM access in Bhutan
There are ATMs available in Bhutan’s larger cities though they won’t accept some foreign cards. If you are travelling outside of the main cities be sure to carry cash to cover small purchases.
The weather in Bhutan
Bhutan’s weather varies depending on your location and the time of year. In the capital, Thimphu, the temperature averages from 5°C (41°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in the summertime. The summer period, from June–August, also sees the monsoonal rains arrive. The nearby city of Paro experiences a similar climate.
The city of Punakha, which is located at 1300 meters (4250 feet), has a warmer climate than Thimphu. The average temperature ranges from 11°C (75°F) in winter to 24°C (75°F) in the summertime. Because of the mountainous terrain, the rains here generally affect the southern side while the valleys experience less intense rainfall.
Clothing for Chomolhari Trek
During winter, if travelling to high altitude areas, you’ll need cold-weather gear, thermals, good waterproof boots and a warm/windproof jacket. If you’re not taking on an alpine trek, however, warm clothes are necessary for the evening but a fleece and windbreaker should suffice during the day.
In the summer time, lightweight clothing is best along with a raincoat, as well as a jumper for the evening. You may add warmer clothes if heading into the higher reaches of the Himalaya, including a beanie, gloves, scarf and down jacket.
Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes for outdoor activities and light hikes.
Sandals or comfortable shoes for leisure and relaxation.
Lightweight and breathable clothing for daytime activities.
Layers for cooler evenings and higher altitudes.
Rain jacket or poncho, especially if traveling during the monsoon season.
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Socks and underwear for the duration of the trip.
Sleepwear and comfortable loungewear.
Travel Essentials
The passport at least six months of validity beyond your departure date.
Bhutanese visa (processed by us).
Travel insurance covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
Prescribed medications and a basic first aid kit.
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.).
Sunscreen and insect repellent.
Power bank and chargers for electronic devices.
Lightweight daypack for daily excursions.
Documents and Money
Printed and digital copies of your travel itinerary.
Local currency (Bhutanese Ngultrum) for purchases in more remote areas.
Credit/debit cards for transactions in major towns.
Emergency contact information and a list of important phone numbers.
Electronics
Camera or smartphone for capturing memorable moments.
Adapters and chargers for electronic devices.
Portable power bank for on-the-go charging.
Cultural and Outdoor Exploration:
Modest clothing to visit religious sites (long pants/skirts, covered shoulders).
Lightweight shawl or scarf for temple visits.
Comfortable daypack for carrying essentials during outdoor activities.
Binoculars for wildlife and scenic viewing.
Guidebooks or travel journals for reference and documentation.
Miscellaneous
Reusable water bottle for staying hydrated.
Snacks for energy during outdoor activities.
Travel-sized laundry detergent for longer stays.
Ziploc bags for organizing and protecting belongings.
Travel-sized umbrella for unexpected rain.
Travel insurance
Absolutely. All passengers are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your guide on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
Accommodation in Bhutan Trek
Accommodation ranges from comfortable 3-star to luxury 5-star hotels and resorts, depending on your package. They are typically clean, and comfortable, and offer a good standard of service.
Bhutan Customize Trek
We offer customize tour where you can adjust the itinerary, accommodations, and activities to suit your preferences.
Bhutan Trek-Meals
You will find a variety of meals like typically Bhutanese, Indian, and Continental dishes. Meals are usually buffet-style with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Please inform us in advance if you any dietary restrictions.
Language in Bhutan
Dzongkha is the national language, and learning a few basic phrases can enhance your travel experience. English is widely spoken in Bhutan, especially by those involved in tourism. Your guide speaks English.
Bhutan Package Cost
The tour price ranges from USD 330 to USD 380 per night for international tourists visiting Bhutan. That includes sustainable development fee (SDF) / Government tax of US $ 100 per person per night. The SDF applies to all individuals above the age of 12 years.
No, SDF charge for the children up to 5 years old.
The children between 6 to 11 years accompanied by guardians, 50 % discount will given on SDF fee.
Tour Payment
All tour payment must be settled one month in advance of commencement of tour to clear the Bhutan visa. The payment should be made in US Dollars. The tour booking will be confirmed only after we receive 50 % of the tour payment.
Tipping
It is customary to tip your guide and driver for outstanding service provided during your trip. You are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your guide on your trip. Tips are greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for their professionalism and leadership during your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline,$10 USD-$15 USD per person (in a currency relevant for your destination) per day can be used.
Tour Guide
Bhutan tour guide speak English fluently. Your guide will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to local people.
Group Size on Bhutan Tour
We do organize both private and group tour. There will be 1 to 16 people in the groups. The groups are consisting of Children above 12 year, adults and seniors, boys and girls from different parts of the world. You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on Bhutan tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
