How to plan a hassle-free trip to Bhutan from India in 2023

Bhutan, the land of the thunder dragon, is a popular destination for Indian travellers who want to experience its pristine natural beauty, rich culture, and Gross National Happiness. However, travelling to Bhutan from India requires some preparation and awareness of the entry requirements, currency, and local SIM cards. Here is a guide to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip to Bhutan from India in 2023.

Passport and visa requirements for Indian travellers

One of the advantages of travelling to Bhutan from India is that you do not need a visa to enter the country. However, you do need to obtain an entry permit at the border immigration office upon arrival. To get the entry permit, you need to have either a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months or a voter identity card issued by the Election Commission of India. You also need to carry two passport-sized photographs and a copy of your itinerary.

The entry permit is usually valid for seven days and allows you to visit the popular tourist destinations of Thimphu and Paro. If you want to extend your stay or explore other regions of Bhutan, you need to apply for a route permit at the immigration office in Thimphu. The route permit will specify the places you are allowed to visit and the duration of your stay. You need to carry your entry permit and route permit at all times and show them at the checkpoints along the way.

Currency and customs rules for Indian travellers

The official currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (Nu), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee. Indian Rupees are also widely accepted in Bhutan, but only in denominations of 100 or less. Higher denominations of 500 and 2000 are not accepted as per the legal tender norms of the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan. Therefore, it is advisable to carry sufficient local currency, especially when travelling to remote areas where card payments may not be available.

As for the customs rules, Indian travellers can bring in the following items duty-free: two bottles of alcohol, each no larger than one litre; one bottle of perfume, no larger than two ounces; 50 grams of gold or one kilogram of silver, including jewellery; 10 pieces of each type of clothing; personal goods for day-to-day use, including electronics and sports equipment; and medication for personal use. The total value of the goods should not exceed Nu 10,000. If you are bringing in tobacco products, you need to pay an import duty of 200% or 100% if arriving from India. You can bring in 800 cigarettes, 1200 bidis, 150 cigars, or 750 grams of other tobacco products.

SIM card and network coverage for Indian travellers

If you want to stay connected during your trip to Bhutan, you can opt for a local SIM card from one of the two telecom operators in the country: Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell. Both providers offer SIM cards to tourists, allowing access to local networks for calls, texts, and data services. To obtain a local SIM card, you need to provide a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photograph for the SIM card registration process. The SIM cards are available at the airport, border towns, and major cities. You can also recharge your SIM card online or at the local shops.

The network coverage in urban areas is generally good, but in remote regions, it may be limited or unavailable. You can check the coverage maps of the providers on their websites before choosing a SIM card. You can also use Wi-Fi hotspots at hotels, restaurants, and cafes, but the speed and reliability may vary.

Tips for a memorable trip to Bhutan from India

Bhutan is a country with a unique culture, history, and environment. To make the most of your trip, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Respect the local customs and traditions. Bhutan is a Buddhist country with a strong sense of spirituality and reverence. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Seek permission before taking photographs of people or places of worship. Do not litter or harm the natural environment.
• Plan your itinerary well in advance. Bhutan has a lot to offer, from scenic valleys and mountains to ancient monasteries and fortresses. However, travelling within the country can take time and effort, as the roads are often narrow, winding, and bumpy. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your itinerary well in advance and book your accommodation, transportation, and tours with a reliable local travel agency. You can also consult the Department of Tourism website for the latest updates and information on travelling to Bhutan.
• Enjoy the local cuisine and handicrafts. Bhutanese cuisine is known for its spicy and flavourful dishes, such as ema datshi (chili and cheese), momos (dumplings), and thukpa (noodle soup). You can also try the local beverages, such as ara (rice wine), butter tea, and suja (salted tea). Bhutanese handicrafts are also worth exploring, as they reflect the artistic and cultural heritage of the country. You can find a variety of products, such as textiles, woodcarvings, paintings, jewellery, and masks, at the local markets and shops.

Bhutan is a destination that will enchant you with its beauty, charm, and happiness. By following this guide, you can plan a hassle-free trip to Bhutan from India and enjoy a memorable experience.