Sandwiched between China and India, two of the world’s oldest and most remarkable civilizations, Bhutan is a tiny landlocked country in the Himalayas. This captivating kingdom holds a great many surprises that you probably won’t know until you go.
The Bhutanese name for Bhutan, Druk Yul, means “Land of the Thunder Dragon” and it only began to open up to outsiders in the 1970s. The Wangchuck hereditary monarchy has wielded power since 1907. But Bhutan became a two-party parliamentary democracy after elections in March 2008.
QUICK FACTS
- PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months from date of arrival One page required for entry stamp
- TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Yes
- VACCINATIONS: Suggested
- CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: USD 10,000
- CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: USD 10,000
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The months of September & October are the best time to visit Bhutan, as they greet visitors with clear skies and pleasant weather. The winter trips in Bhutan are also good, as the days are sunny, though evenings and nights are chilled. Spring in Bhutan is a pleasant time to visit as well. Summers are not so great because the beginning of summer brings heavy rains.