Yes, you can drink alcohol in Bhutan. Alcohol is available and can be purchased legally at bars,
restaurants, hotels, and licensed liquor stores. There are a few local alcoholic beverages you might
want to try, such as Ara (a traditional Bhutanese rice wine) and Red Panda beer (a locally brewed
beer).
1. Legal Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in Bhutan is 18 years old.
2. Public Consumption: While drinking in licensed establishments is acceptable, drinking alcohol in
public places, such as streets or parks, is generally frowned upon.
3. Cultural Respect: Bhutan is a country that values its cultural and religious traditions. Being
respectful and mindful of local customs, especially around religious sites and during festivals, is
important.
4. Availability: Some areas, particularly remote or rural regions, may have limited availability of
alcohol.
By being aware of these points and respecting local norms, you can enjoy alcohol responsibly during
your stay in Bhutan.
Public displays of affection (PDA) are generally frowned upon in Bhutan due to the country's
conservative culture and traditional values. While holding hands and light gestures of affection,
such as a brief hug, may be acceptable, more overt displays like kissing or cuddling in public are
considered inappropriate and may attract disapproval from locals.
Here are some points to consider:
1. To ensure you respect local customs and avoid uncomfortable situations, it's best to keep public
displays of affection to a minimum while in Bhutan.
Bhutan experiences colder weather during the winter months, from November to February. During this
period:
1. Temperatures: In the higher altitudes, temperatures can drop significantly, often below freezing
at night. In lower regions like Thimphu and Paro, daytime temperatures can range from 5°C to 15°C
(41°F to 59°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F).
2. Snowfall: Higher elevations, such as those found in the northern parts of the country, may
experience snowfall, making these areas quite cold and sometimes inaccessible.
3. Festivals: Despite the cold, winter is a popular time for festivals, such as the Punakha Drubchen
and the Paro Tshechu, attracting visitors who enjoy the cultural events and the crisp weather.
If you prefer milder weather, the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal
times to visit Bhutan, offering pleasant temperatures and clear skies.
Yes, there are several things prohibited in Bhutan to maintain its cultural integrity and
environmental conservation efforts. Here are some key prohibitions:
1. Tobacco: The sale of tobacco products is banned. Visitors are allowed to bring in a limited
amount for personal use but must declare and pay high duties at customs. Smoking is restricted in
public places.
2. Plastic Bags: Plastic bags are banned in Bhutan to protect the environment. Use eco-friendly
alternatives provided by shops and businesses.
3. Drugs: Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited and carries severe
penalties, including imprisonment.
4. Public Displays of Affection (PDA): As mentioned, PDA is generally frowned upon. Keep displays of
affection private to respect local customs.
5. Hunting and Fishing: Hunting is illegal, and fishing requires a permit. Certain species of fish
are protected.
6. Religious and Cultural Sites: Disrespecting religious sites and artifacts is prohibited. Always
follow local customs, such as removing shoes before entering temples and dressing modestly.
7. Taking Artifacts: Removing religious or cultural artifacts from the country is illegal.
8. Defamation and Criticism: Defaming or insulting the King or government can result in legal
consequences under Bhutanese law.
By respecting these prohibitions and local customs, you can ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit
to Bhutan.
The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha.
To book cabs in Bhutan, you can:
1. Hotel or Guesthouse: Ask your hotel or guesthouse to arrange a taxi for you. Most accommodations
have contacts with reliable taxi services.
2. Taxi Stands: Go to designated taxi stands, which are common in towns and cities. You can find
taxis waiting for passengers.
Phone Booking: Call a local taxi service. In Thimphu, for example, you can contact the Thimphu
City Bus Service at +975-2-322 787 for taxi services.
4. Online Services: Use local ride-hailing apps or websites if available, although they might not be
as prevalent as in larger cities globally.
When booking a taxi, it's a good idea to agree on the fare beforehand, as taxis in Bhutan might not
always have meters.
Yes, there are dress codes in Bhutan, especially when visiting religious sites, government offices,
and during formal occasions. Here are the guidelines:
1.General Guidelines:For everyday activities, casual and comfortable clothing is acceptable.
However, dress modestly to respect local customs.Avoid overly revealing clothing. Men and women
should cover their shoulders and knees, particularly in rural areas.
2.Visiting Religious Sites:Both men and women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and
knees. Long sleeves and long pants or skirts are recommended.Always remove your shoes before
entering temples and monasteries.Wearing traditional Bhutanese attire (Gho for men and Kira for
women) is highly respectful and sometimes required. Visitors are often encouraged to wear these when
visiting important religious sites.
3.Formal Occasions:Bhutanese nationals wear traditional dress (Gho and Kira) for formal occasions,
work, and school. Visitors may be required or encouraged to wear traditional attire during specific
formal events or ceremonies.
By adhering to these dress codes, you show respect for Bhutanese culture and traditions, ensuring a
more welcoming and positive experience.
If you find yourself in trouble in Bhutan, here are the steps you should take:
1. Stay Calm: Try to remain calm and assess the situation clearly.
2. Contact Local Authorities:
Police: Dial 113 for police assistance.
Ambulance/Medical Emergency: Dial 112 for medical emergencies.
3. Reach Out to Your Embassy:Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Bhutan for assistance.
They can provide help with legal issues, medical emergencies, or lost documents.
4. Seek Help from Locals: Bhutanese people are generally friendly and helpful. Don't hesitate to ask
for assistance from locals or staff at your accommodation.
5. Inform Your Accommodation: If you’re staying at a hotel or guesthouse, inform the staff about
your situation. They can offer assistance and advice.
6. Contact Travel Insurance Provider: If you have travel insurance, contact your provider as soon as
possible. They can offer support and guidance on what to do next.
7. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Always have a list of emergency contacts, including local
emergency numbers, your embassy, and your accommodation.
8. Follow Legal Procedures: If you're dealing with legal issues, cooperate with local authorities
and follow the legal procedures.
By taking these steps, you can effectively manage and mitigate trouble while in Bhutan.
If you need immediate medical assistance in Bhutan, follow these steps:
1. Call Emergency Services: Dial 112 for medical emergencies. This number will connect you to
emergency medical services, including ambulances.
2. Visit the Nearest Hospital or Clinic: In major towns like Thimphu, Paro, and Phuentsholing, you
will find hospitals and clinics that can provide medical care. The Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National
Referral Hospital in Thimphu is the largest and most well-equipped hospital in Bhutan.
If you're in a rural area, head to the nearest Basic Health Unit (BHU) or health center.
3. Inform Your Accommodation: If you’re staying at a hotel or guesthouse, inform the staff about
your medical emergency. They can assist in contacting medical services and providing transportation
if needed.
4. Contact Your Embassy: If your condition is serious, consider contacting your embassy or consulate
in Bhutan. They can provide support and assistance, including coordinating with local medical
services and your travel insurance provider.
5. Use Your Travel Insurance: If you have travel insurance, contact your insurance provider as soon
as possible. They can help with medical expenses, arranging care, and potentially organizing
evacuation if necessary.
6. Keep Important Documents Handy: Have your passport, insurance details, and emergency contact
information ready when seeking medical assistance.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you receive the necessary medical assistance promptly
while in Bhutan.
If you find yourself cheated or robbed in Bhutan, here are the steps you should take:
1. Stay Calm: Try to stay calm and assess the situation objectively.
2. Contact Local Authorities: Dial 113 to report the incident to the police. Provide them with as
much detail as possible about what happened, including descriptions of the perpetrators and any
relevant information.
3. Seek Medical Attention if Necessary: If you've been injured during the incident, seek medical
attention immediately. You can call 112 for medical emergencies.
4. Contact Your Embassy or Consulate: If you're a foreign national, inform your country's embassy or
consulate in Bhutan about the incident. They can provide assistance, such as helping with legal
matters or replacing lost travel documents.
5. Document the Incident: Take notes of what happened, including the time, location, and any
relevant details. If possible, take photos or videos of the scene and any damages or injuries.
6. Cancel Stolen Cards or Documents: If your credit cards, passport, or other important documents
were stolen, contact your bank and relevant authorities to cancel or report them missing.
7. Inform Your Accommodation: If you're staying at a hotel or guesthouse, inform the staff about the
incident. They may be able to offer assistance or provide guidance on what to do next.
8.Stay Safe and Secure: Take steps to ensure your safety and security following the incident. Avoid
traveling alone in unfamiliar or unsafe areas, and be vigilant of your surroundings.
By taking these steps, you can navigate the situation effectively and seek the necessary assistance
if you've been cheated or robbed in Bhutan.
To connect with the Indian embassy or consulate in Bhutan, you can use the following contact
information:
1. Embassy of India in Thimphu, Bhutan:
2. Consulate General of India in Phuentsholing, Bhutan:
To stay safe on the roads in Bhutan and follow driving rules:
1. Drive on the Left: Bhutan follows left-hand driving.
2. Speed Limits: Adhere to posted speed limits.
3. Wear Seatbelts: Mandatory for all occupants.
4. Obey Traffic Signs: Follow all traffic signs and signals.
5. Avoid Drinking and Driving: It's illegal and dangerous.
6.Cautious Overtaking: Only overtake when safe and legal.
7. Use Horns Sparingly: Only when necessary.
8. Be Prepared for Mountain Roads: Drive cautiously on narrow, winding roads.
9. Watch for Animals: Be alert for livestock on roads.
10. Check Weather Conditions: Drive carefully in fog, rain, or snow.
11. Rest Regularly: Take breaks on long journeys to avoid fatigue.
12.Consider Public Transport: Use buses or taxis if uncomfortable driving.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safer driving experience in Bhutan.
Bhutan is a landlocked country with no sea or ocean coastline, so there is no need to be concerned
about sea safety in Bhutan. Instead, if you are planning to visit Bhutan, focus on safety related to
its mountainous terrain, rivers, and cultural sites.
1. Stay Hydrated: Altitude can cause dehydration, so drink plenty of water.
2. Acclimate to Altitude: Give yourself time to adjust to the high altitudes to prevent altitude
sickness.
3. Dress Appropriately: Wear layers to adjust to varying temperatures, and bring rain gear during
the monsoon season.
4. Hiking Safety: Stick to marked trails, inform someone of your plans, and carry a map and
supplies.
5.Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and be respectful at religious sites.
6. River Safety: If engaging in activities near rivers, be cautious of strong currents and avoid
swimming in unfamiliar areas.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable visit to Bhutan.
