Travel Documents
Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a Bhutan visa or permit, and travel insurance. Make copies of these documents and keep them in a separate place as a precaution.
Sustainable and Responsible Items
As a mindful and responsible visitor, it is essential to minimize your environmental impact. Consider packing reusable water bottles and water purification tablets to avoid single-use plastic bottles. A good-quality, eco-friendly sunscreen and insect repellent are also important to protect yourself and the environment.
Health and Safety
Prioritize your well-being by consulting with your doctor before your departure. Your doctor can offer advice on necessary immunizations and medications. Don’t forget to pack a basic first-aid kit with essential medications, band-aids, and any prescribed drugs. Given Bhutan’s high altitude, consult your doctor about altitude sickness prevention and bring appropriate medications. Additionally, carry hand sanitizers and wet wipes for personal hygiene.
While Bhutan offers basic healthcare free of charge to all, including foreign visitors, it’s prudent to secure comprehensive medical and travel insurance, including emergency medical evacuation. This safeguard ensures adequate support in the event of unforeseen health issues during your stay. Consider packing enough of any long-term medication, as certain medications might not be readily available in Bhutan.
Tobacco Restrictions
Bhutan is the only country globally where tobacco sales are legally prohibited. Visitors can bring limited amounts of tobacco for personal use, with restrictions on quantities. Foreign visitors are allowed either 200 cigarettes/bidis, 30 cigars, or 150 grams of other tobacco products. Smoking is restricted in public spaces, and hotels do not permit smoking in rooms. Avoid smoking near temples, monasteries, or any sacred place, as it is considered a sinful act in Bhutanese Buddhist culture.
Clothing
Your clothing choices should align with your travel itinerary. Regardless of the season, we recommend bringing a windcheater, warm layers like long-sleeved shirts and pants, particularly for higher altitudes. Include quick-drying layers and a waterproof jacket or poncho to prepare for diverse weather conditions.
When visiting temples, dzongs, or monasteries, dress respectfully with clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing or tight-fitting clothing to show respect for Bhutan’s culture and traditions.
Footwear
For treks and walks, water-resistant trekking shoes or well-broken-in boots are recommended. Having camp shoes or sandals for rest days can also be convenient.
Electronics & Mobile
While Bhutan offers a chance to disconnect, carrying essential electronics can be helpful. Drones and unmanned aircraft are prohibited, but cameras are allowed. Note that special clearance from the Bhutan Information and Communication and Media Authority is required for professional filming equipment. If you intend to bring such equipment, consult with tourism service providers for guidance.
For charging devices, carry a universal travel adapter and a multi-purpose plug if you plan to use multiple devices. Check with your mobile provider on the availability and pricing of roaming services in Bhutan, or consider purchasing a local tourist SIM from one of Bhutan’s two mobile service providers, available at the exit gate of the arrival terminal.
Other Equipment
Needs vary based on your unique itinerary, and the tourism service providers are available to go over these details with you. If your plans involve trekking, essentials like tents and sleeping bags are provided. However, visitors are expected to bring their trekking gear, including suitable clothing and footwear.
It’s advisable to pack a daypack, metal water bottles for cooling boiled water, a flashlight with spare batteries, toiletries, sunscreen, lip balm, a quick-dry travel towel, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
However, you can buy all these items in Bhutan too but they may be of a different brand and make.