What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit Bhutan, with clear skies, mountain views, and major festivals (tshechus) like Paro and Thimphu. Winter (December-February) offers fewer crowds and lower haze, while the summer monsoon (June-August) brings rain but lush landscapes.

How far in advance should I book a Bhutan tour?

Book 2-4 months ahead for standard travel, and 6+ months ahead for festival season (spring and autumn tshechus) when flights and hotels fill quickly. Bhutan has only two airlines serving Paro International Airport, so flight availability, not tour operator capacity, is usually the earliest constraint.

What should I pack for a trip to Bhutan, and is altitude a concern?

Pack layered clothing for temperature swings between 1,200m (Phuntsholing) and over 3,000m (Paro, Dochula Pass), sturdy hiking shoes for sites like Tiger's Nest, and modest clothing for temples (shoulders and knees covered). Altitude sickness is uncommon below 3,500m but possible on trekking routes; acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated.

Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Yes. All foreign tourists (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) need a visa, arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator like Bhutan Upward Travels. The operator submits your documents, pays the visa fee, and secures approval before you travel; you cannot apply for a Bhutan tourist visa directly on your own.

Do I need a licensed guide to travel in Bhutan?

Yes. Bhutan requires all international tourists to travel with a licensed Bhutanese guide for the duration of their trip, arranged through an authorized tour operator. The guide accompanies you at all sites outside Paro and Thimphu town centers and is included in standard tour package pricing.

What currency is used in Bhutan and how do I pay for a tour?

Bhutan's currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), pegged 1:1 to the Indian Rupee, though US dollars are widely accepted for tourism payments. Tour packages, including the Sustainable Development Fee, are typically paid in USD by bank transfer to the licensed tour operator; carry cash for small personal purchases.

// exploring: Cultural Immersion

A 12 Day Journey Through Western Bhutan

Duration12 Days / 11 Nights

Pricing From$18,460per person · $1,538 per day · SDF included · group rates available

Comfort TierLuxury· AmankoraAmankora, COMO, Six Senses and their peers

Kingdom of Bhutan

Licensed tour operator

// overview

About this trip

"Embark on an extraordinary 12-day immersive journey through Bhutan, where sacred monasteries, serene valleys, and living traditions reveal themselves at every turn. Hike to the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery, spend a night in a working monastery, share home-cooked meals with local families, and discover hidden Himalayan trails. Ideal for cultural enthusiasts and nature lovers — whether travelling solo, as a couple, or with a small group — this journey weaves soul-stirring landscapes with deeply authentic experiences, offering a slow, mindful exploration of Bhutan's pristine heart."

Licensed tour operator, Kingdom of Bhutan

// plan this trip

Plan Your Adventure

Tell us your dates and group size and a specialist will tailor this itinerary to you. You'll get a detailed quote within 24 hours.

Plan my trip

Included in the price

Licensed private guide
Private transport throughout
Entry and monument fees
Sustainable Development Fee

Not included

International flights

Anything else you are unsure about, ask before you book and we will confirm it in writing.

// expedition itinerary

Day by Day

12 days

Touch down in Paro and meet your guide for a warm welcome. Wind through river valleys and mountain scenery on the drive to Thimphu. Explore the vibrant farmers' market, catch a live archery practice, and settle into the calm rhythm of Bhutan's peaceful capital.
See day 1 in detail

// before you book

Good to know

A 12 Day Journey Through Western Bhutan

12 Days / 11 Nights · from $18,460 pp · SDF included

Plan my trip

// more journeys

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