Frequently Asked Questions About Bhutan

General FAQs for Bhutan

What is the capital city of Bhutan?

The capital of Bhutan is Thimphu.

What is best currency to use in Bhutan?

The currency in Bhutan is the Ngultrum. The Ngultrum is pegged to the Indian Rupee.

What is the official language of Bhutan?

Dzongkha is the national language of Bhutan, however, English is also spoken. Other languages spoken in Bhutan include Sharchop, Nepali, and various Tibetan dialects.

When should I visit Bhutan?

The best time to visit Bhutan is in the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). The weather is milder and there is less rainfall during these months.

How many days do you need in Bhutan?

A minimum of 3 days is needed for a trip to Bhutan, however, we recommend allowing at least 5-7 days in order to fully experience all that Bhutan has to offer.

What are the emergency phone numbers in Bhutan?

The emergency numbers in Bhutan are:


Police – 113


Fire – 115


Ambulance – 102


Bhutan Tourism Monitor – 1800-102-6060 (toll-free within Bhutan)

Places FAQs For Bhutan

What are the must visit places in Bhutan?

Some of the best places to visit in Bhutan include:


Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) – a Buddhist temple complex perched on a cliff 3,120m above sea level


Dochula Pass – a beautiful mountain pass with views of the Himalayas


Punakha Dzong – a beautiful 17th-century fortress located at the confluence of two rivers


Phuentsholing – Bhutan’s commercial center, located near the border with India


Thimphu – Bhutan’s capital city, home to many Buddhist temples and monasteries


Bumthang Valley – a beautiful valley in central Bhutan, home to many sacred sites and temples


Gangtey – a picturesque village in central Bhutan, known for its spectacular views of the Himalayas


Haa Valley – a remote and scenic valley in western Bhutan

How do I get around in Bhutan?

The best way to get around Bhutan is by car or bus. Private cars can be hired in Thimphu, however, we recommend using a tour operator as they will be able to arrange transport and accommodation. Buses are also available, however, they are not as comfortable as cars and may not always be reliable.

Budget FAQs For Bhutan

How much will Bhutan trip cost?

The cost of a trip to Bhutan will vary depending on your itinerary and the length of your stay. We recommend budgeting at least $200 per day, which will cover transport, accommodation, food, and activities.

What is the cost of average meal in Bhutan?

A meal in Bhutan will cost around $10-$15.

What is the cost of accommodation in Bhutan?

Accommodation in Bhutan will cost around $30-$50 per night.

What is the cheapest time to go to Bhutan?

The cheapest time to visit Bhutan is in the winter (December-February). However, many tourist attractions are closed during this time due to the weather.

Culture FAQs For Bhutan

How are the people of Bhutan?

The people of Bhutan are friendly and welcoming. They are also very proud of their culture and traditions.

Which food dishes should I try in Bhutan?

Some popular dishes in Bhutan include:


Ema Datshi – a dish made with chili peppers and cheese


Red Rice – a type of rice that is grown in Bhutan and has a red color due to the high iron content


Jasha Maru – a chicken dish cooked with green peppers, tomatoes, and onions


Momos – Tibetan-style dumplings filled with meat or vegetables
Phaksha Paa – a pork dish cooked with chilies and potatoes

What are the favorite sports in Bhutan?

Some popular sports in Bhutan include:


Archery – Bhutan’s national sport, often played during festivals
Horse racing – another popular sport, especially in the western region of the country


Basketball – Bhutan’s most popular team sport, played both recreationally and competitively

What are the major religions in Bhutan?

The two main religions in Bhutan are Buddhism and Hinduism. However, there is a small Muslim minority.

Some popular festivals in Bhutan include:


Tsechu – a religious festival held in honor of Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Buddhism in Bhutan. It is celebrated with masked dances and performances


Losar – the Tibetan New Year, celebrated in February with feasts, family gatherings, and special prayers


Gomkora – a festival held in honor of the local deity, Gonpo. It is celebrated with masked dances and sporting competitions
Jambay Lhakhang Drup – a festival held every October to celebrate the victory of Buddhism over Bon, the pre-Buddhist religion of Tibet. It is celebrated with dances, music, and feasts

What souvenir gifts to buy from Bhutan?

Some popular souvenirs to buy from Bhutan include:


Thangkas – painted or woven cloth depictions of Buddhist deities or scenes


Buddha statues – made from bronze, silver, or gold, these statuettes make for beautiful and meaningful gifts
Tapestries – brightly colored tapestries with traditional Bhutanese designs


Prayer flags – flags printed with Buddhist prayers and symbols, often seen fluttering in the wind on mountaintops


Bhutanese crafts – such as pottery, woodcarvings, and hand-woven textiles.