Bhutan is a generous host, and a few small habits go a long way. These are the guidelines we share with every guest before they arrive.
None of this is complicated. Think of it as the house rules of a country that values courtesy, calm and clean places. Your guide will always help you read the room.
Follow proper dress code while visiting offices and religious sites. Entering religious monuments and offices with singlet and miniskirts are not our norm
Refrain from touching any murals, religious painting and objects in the temples as it is disrespectful as per local culture
Remove your hat while entering religious sites and kindly takes off your footwear while entering temple altar rooms
Smoking in the public areas is strictly prohibited and liable to be fined, so please refrain from smoking in public areas
Maintain silence in heritage and religious sites and monuments
Carrying and use of drone is strictly prohibited
Always walk clockwise while passing heritage and religious monuments
Spitting on the wall and other places is discourage
Proper permit is required to export religious artifacts or antiques
Taking photographs and filming is restricted in some areas. So please refrain from filming and taking photograph in those areas. Please seek your guide advise
Always carry valid travel documents and produce the same if required
Refrain from feeding animals on highways, parks and in other places
Always use Tourism Council of Bhutan(TCB) certified : Accomodation facilities Tour guides Tour operators to organize your tour
Washing, swimming or throwing objects into lakes and other water bodies are prohibited as it is considered sacred
Ask and be informed at the cancelation policy of the tour operators or the hotels as every tour operator and hotels have their own cancelation and refund policy
Do not sit straddle or legs streched in front in the altar as it is culturally offensive, we expect you to cross your legs or kneel when sitting in religious places
Be fully insured agains unforeseen medical emergencies
In case of loss of travel document, report to the nearest immigration, police or TCB office
Use proper toilet facilities where available. Be as discreet as possible if open air toilet is to be practiced
Be responsible for your own waste and dispose them in designated areas
Follow traffic rules and use designated zebra crossing for your safety
Report to TCB on misbehavior of guides, drivers and tour operators
When you visit Bhutan, you are a guest in someone's home. Dress as you would for a temple, ask before you photograph a face, and walk clockwise around what is sacred.
Tell us who is travelling, when, and what you hope to see. We will shape a private itinerary around the season, the festivals and the pace you prefer.
