Visiting Bhutan
Checklist on arranging a visit to Bhutan:
· Choose a tour program from the option listed in our website or contact us for a tailor made program with the areas and places of interest, dates and duration of the visit.
· After reviewing your interest and needs, we will work out a suitable itinerary and forward the same to you along with tour invoice.
· You will than be required to fill up the visa form which can be downloaded from our website.
· Email us the duly filled visa application form along with two scanned passport size photographs and tour payment. This is required as per Department of Tourism’s rules without we are not authorized to process for your visa. Your payment will be withheld by Department of Tourism and will be released to us only after your visit is over.
· We will make all your travel arrangements and email you a copy of your visa clearance letter along with all the information you will need to travel to Bhutan, practical information on Bhutan, health risks, etc.
Best Time to TravelWinter is a good time for touring in western Bhutan, bird watching in the subtropical jungles in the south, and white water rafting. The ideal time for trekking is late-September to late-November for high altitude trek going over 4000 meters when skies are generally clear and the high mountain peaks rise to a vivid blue sky. However, shorter treks such as Druk Path, Bumthang and Gangtey can be undertaken throughout the year. Spring or March-May is recognized as the second-best time to visit Bhutan for touring and trekking. Though there are more clouds and rain, the magnificent wildflowers are in bloom and birdlife is abundant.
Fly by Air
The most convenient way of entering Bhutan is by Druk Air, the country’s national (and so far only) carrier. Druk Air operates flights from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata and Kathmandu to Paro but flight timings and frequency vary according to season. Druk Air’s website www.drukair.com.bt includes details of current flight schedules and airfares. Please check the website for the latest information when planning your travel arrangement or contact us for information. The spectacular mountain scenery en route is seen at its best in the winter months, when skies are generally very clear. The flight between Kathmandu and Paro gives the most extended view of the Himalayan ranges, including the Everest region. Given suitable weather conditions, Mt. Kanchenjunga will be visible for some time on all routes. Flying in and out of Bhutan is an unforgettable experience, whichever route you take!
Delayed Arrival/Departure
As flights can be delayed due to weather conditions (particularly during the summer months), it is advisable to allow 24 hours before any onward connection. There are no charges for delays in arrival and departure because of weather conditions disrupting flights or road blocks. The clients must, however, bear the cost of food, accommodation, transport and other services required.
Travel by Land
Arrival/departure by land is also possible, through the southern border town of Phuntsholing. The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, West Bengal about 4 hours drive away. The travel time for the 175 Km stretch from Phuntsholing to Thimphu can be more than six hours. Phuntsholing is a convenient entry/exit point for travelers wishing to visit the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal along with Bhutan. It is sometimes possible to arrange land exit from Bhutan through the southeastern border town of Samdrup Jongkhar, which is approximately 3 hours drive from Guwahati, capital of the Indian state of Assam. Please check with us if you are interested in this route out.
Tour programs booked and subsequently cancelled shall be subject to cancellation charges as follows:
a) Within 60 days of the start of the tour program- Free
b) Within 45 days - 10% of the rate
c) Within 30 days - 15% of the rate
d) Within 21 days - 30% of the rate
e) Within 14 days or cancellation without notice - 50% of the rate
f) Within 7 days - 100%