When you go to Bhutan, the first thing you’ll notice is the peace.
The locals truly found a formula for a harmonious life.
This is the land of a strong sense of tradition, culture, and history.
Visiting Bhutan means getting a different perspective on life.
It is a country where you can see the traditional festivals, Punakha Dzong which are monasteries and religious centers of the local communities, learn to throw an arrow, hike or go to clubs.
It is a unique mix of everything but seen through the lens of happiness first.
Everything here is directed toward living a happy life.
Warnings & Dangers in Bhutan
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Bhutan is named "the happiest country in Asia" and the 8th in the whole world. All you'll see here are the happy faces of locals. The locals are nice and polite people.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport mainly refers to the buses that are available, but usually crowded. The roads are poor, so it is necessary to take extra care while traveling. Taxi drivers usually don't use meters, so it is necessary to arrange for a price in advance.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : LOW
Pickpocketing risk if very low in Bhutan. Tourists report that even if you leave personal belongings in plain sight, no one will touch them. Simply respect the local customs and there is a great possibility that you won't have any nuisance.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Bhutan is susceptible to floods, droughts, glacial lake outbursts, earthquakes, and landslides. Over the last decade, there were a few major earthquakes that caused enormous material damages, estimated at over $50 million. Avoid visiting Bhutan during the season of monsoon rains, particularly in July.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
Mugging risk is very low in Bhutan, so it is pretty safe for tourists. There is a high chance you won't have any problems while in Bhutan. Just use common sense and use the time to explore this wonderful country as much as possible.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk for terrorist attacks is very low in Bhutan, there were no attacks in recent history. However, it still cannot be completely ruled out. Make sure to stay informed and follow the security protocol in case something suspicious happens.
SCAMS RISK : LOW
Scams are really non-existent here. The only thing that may annoy you is the possible misunderstandings with the locals in cases when you are trying to book a hotel for your stay. Make sure to double-check everything before you go.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Bhutan is very safe for female solo travelers. Local agents usually arrange a guide and a driver to accompany the tourist during the stay, so there is really no need to worry. The country is peaceful and the crime rate is low.
How Safe Is Bhutan for Tourists?
Bhutan is a pretty peaceful country and it is not likely to have some inconveniences.
However, a certain caution is still advised.
Be aware of the dogs, since there are a lot of them on the streets it may become uncomfortable when they come in a pack.
During the nighttime, they may become more active and bark very loudly.
Make sure to stay away and safe, especially if you are afraid of dogs.
When visiting museums and temples, making photographies is forbidden.
Breaking this rule may put you in trouble, so respect the rules and keep your camera and your mobile phone away.
Also, be prepared to have trouble with the service for your mobile phone.
Bhutan does not have many phone towers.
In addition, there is a risk of malaria, so it is necessary to take medications for malaria with you in case you start feeling sick.
Symptoms are tingling of the hands and feet, feeling dizzy or experiencing shortness of breath.
In the end, make sure to explore Bhutan’s nightlife.
Just keep an eye on your drinks while you are there and take trusted taxies for your trip back to the hotel.
If you take some basic precautions, your time in Bhutan will be unforgettable.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Bhutan?
Most citizens do require a visa to enter Bhutan.
Make sure you check your visa status before making any arrangements.
The passport must be valid at least 6 months after the planned stay in Bhutan.
Which Currency Is Used in Bhutan?
The official currency in Bhutan is Indian Rupee.
The symbol is ₹.
One U.S. dollar equals 71,30 Indian Rupees.
Tourists can use other currencies since the foreign currency is widely accepted in Bhutan.
How's the Weather like in Bhutan?
Bhutan has four seasons and the weather ranges widely depending on the part of the country.
In the part closer to India, it is cool during winter months and humid and hot during summer.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Bhutan?
There are four airports in Bhutan.
Only one has international flights and it’s called the Paro International Airport.
It is located 6k m away from Paro.
It serves around 180,000 passengers a year.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Taking travel insurance is always recommended.
It will save you a lot of trouble in case you need to cancel your trip for any private reason or in case you get sick while you are there.
What Are Some Things to Do in Bhutan?
Once in Bhutan, you can’t miss visiting The Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
This magnificent monastery is located on the cliff and you’ll need to hike for 2 hours to get there.
Is the Water in Bhutan Safe to Drink?
Tap water is not drinkable in Bhutan.
It is advised to consume bottled water available in shops, restaurants, and hotels.
Also, make sure to avoid eating salads since they may be washed with tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Bhutan?
There is no Uber service in Buthan.
There are taxies on the main streets where you can get one.
Make sure to ask about the price first to avoid misunderstandings.
