Bhutan

Visa requirements for Bhutan depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.

March–May brings rhododendrons in bloom and clear skies — perfect for the Tiger's Nest hike and the Paro Tsechu festival (March/April). October–November is the other prime window — crystal clear post-monsoon skies and mountain views. June–September is monsoon; December–February is cold at altitude.

• Modest dress is expected throughout the country
• Traditional dress (gho for men, kira for women) must be worn when visiting dzongs, monasteries, and government offices
• Visitors to Tiger's Nest: no shorts or sleeveless tops — long trousers and covered shoulders required
• Remove shoes before entering all monasteries and temples

• Bhutan is the world's only carbon-negative country — environmental respect is deep and genuine
• The concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) governs policy over GDP — a real, functioning philosophy
• Photography at Tiger's Nest (Paro Taktsang) is permitted in the grounds but forbidden inside the monastery
• Never point feet at religious objects, monks, or elders
• Clockwise circumambulation of stupas and prayer wheels is always correct

• Tobacco is heavily restricted — sale is prohibited; import requires a 100% customs duty. Smoking in public is illegal.
• LGBTQ+ activity was decriminalised in 2021 — a historic change; social attitudes are still conservative
• Plastic bags are banned
• All tourism must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator (TCBF) — independent travel is not permitted except for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals