How to Plan a Trip to Bhutan

Planning a trip to Bhutan is unlike planning a holiday almost anywhere else. The kingdom welcomes visitors only on pre-arranged, guided trips booked through a licensed Bhutanese operator, which means most of the logistics — guide, driver, hotels and permits — are handled for you. What remains are a handful of enjoyable decisions: when to go, how long to stay and what you most want to see. This step-by-step guide walks you through each one.

01Understand How Travel to Bhutan Works

Independent backpacking is not permitted: every visitor travels on a guided itinerary arranged by a licensed tour operator, who also secures your visa and the necessary permits. A daily Sustainable Development Fee applies, and in return your trip is organised end to end. For the full detail on entry rules, the visa and the fee, see our guide on how to visit Bhutan.

02Choose the Best Time to Go

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most popular seasons, with clear skies and the country's biggest festivals; winter is crisp and quiet, while summer brings lush green valleys and far fewer visitors. If a colourful tshechu appeals, let its dates anchor the trip. See the best time to visit Bhutan and our festival calendar to settle on your dates.

03Decide How Many Days You Need

Most first trips run from five days to a fortnight, depending on how far east you wish to travel. A week is the classic length, taking in Paro, Thimphu and Punakha at an unhurried pace. Our guide to how many days to spend in Bhutan sets out sample itineraries to help you choose.

04Choose Where to Go

From the cliff-top Tiger's Nest in Paro to the cranes of Phobjikha and the temples of Bumthang, Bhutan packs a great deal into a compact country. Browse the places to visit in Bhutan to shape a route around what matters most to you.

05Sort Out Flights and Entry

Bhutan has a single international airport at Paro, served by a small number of carriers from regional hubs such as Delhi, Kathmandu, Bangkok and Singapore — and the descent into the valley is among the most dramatic landings in the world. Once your trip is confirmed, your operator arranges the visa and permits. See our guide to flights to Bhutan for routes and tips.

06Pack and Prepare

Pack layers — mountain mornings are cold even in warmer months — along with sturdy shoes for temple climbs and modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for visits to dzongs and monasteries. It is also worth reading up on local etiquette and on altitude before you arrive. Our guides to the Bhutan dress code, customs and etiquette and altitude cover what to know.

Let Us Plan It For You

Once you have a sense of when, how long and where, the rest is ours to arrange. Tell us your dates and interests and we will design a private, fully guided itinerary around them — or browse our Bhutan tour packages for inspiration to start from.