General Pre-Departure Information
Please take time to read through this information; it is designed to prepare you for your adventure in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan.
Travel to Bhutan
Bhutan Endless Journey handles the whole booking process on behalf of its guest, including flights and visa applications but it is advisable to book well in advance to secure accommodation and seats on Druk Air.
Druk Air
Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) flies to and from these destinations:
• Paro, Bhutan (PBH)
• Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM)
• New Delhi, India (DEL)
• Bagdogra, India (IXB)
• Gaya, India (GAY)
• Guwahati, India (GAU)
• Kolkata, India (CCU)
• Dhaka, Bangladesh (DAC)
• Bangkok, Thailand (BKK)
• Singapore (SIN)
Druk Air Tickets
Please note that although Bhutan Endless Journey is authorized to purchase tickets on behalf of our guest, Druk air has no refund policy and that Druk air fares are subject to change. Also note that Druk Air tickets are nonrefundable and none transferable. You may re-schedule air travel on Druk Air for up to one year from date of tickets issuance if necessary. Bhutan Endless Journey is happy to assist in the purchase of Druk Air tickets as a service; however Druk Air’s policies are applied to this service and Bhutan Endless Journey cannot refund tickets purchased on behalf of its guests.
On receipt of payment for the full fare and tickets issuance, guests will be sent a copy of their e-ticket via mail.
Passport and Visa
In order to arrange a visit to Bhutan (under Bhutanese Laws) all arrangements must be made through a local tour operator. All foreign travelers are required to apply for a visa before entering Bhutan. Bhutan Endless Journey is authorized to organize visa applications. We require a scanned copy of the photo page of each guest’s passport (This must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay). It normally takes minimum of 10 working days to process. Additionally, foreign nationals are required to pay a visa fee (nonrefundable) of US $ 40 per application (one name per application).
Tips for passengers
As Paro Airport is “daylight restricted” and totally dependent on weather, flights are occasionally delayed. Passengers should keep at least 24 hours transit time for connecting flights in or out of Paro.
Flights in to Paro are sometimes disrupted by the weather. To be prepared for such an event, it is advised to carry essential personal items like medicine, toiletries, minimum change etc.
Hand Baggage Allowance
Druk Air request that passengers limit their hand baggage to one piece, the size not exceeding 45+35+20 cm ( 17 + 13 + 8 inches) and the weight not exceeding 7 kg.
Check Baggage Allowance
Economy Class: 20 kg (44 lbs)
Business class: 30 kg (66 lbs)
Customs
please note: Bhutan has become the first nation in the world to ban the sale and consumption (in public) of tobacco. While visitor can still bring for their own use the item will attract a duty of 200%. Visitors are advised to be cautious in purchasing old and used items. Custom authorities will not allow any old/ used items to be taken out of the country if they have not certified as a non-antique. (A wax seal tied to the item will indicate approval to take the article out from the kingdom of Bhutan.
Vaccinations, Health and fitness
There are no statutory requirements unless you are arriving from an area designated as infected by cholera or yellow fever. Please consult your doctor or vaccination center for up to date information and if you are on any prescribed medication that you bring a sufficient supply with you.
Travel Insurance
It is strongly recommended that you be insured against medical and personal accident risk (including repatriation costs, air ambulance and helicopter rescue services) and that you also take out cancellation insurance for travel. You should be aware that some policies restrict overage or do not cover travel to Bhutan and many not cover activities such as trekking and mountain biking. Please ensure that your policy provides a sufficient level of protection and covers you for the activities involved.
It is strongly advised that you carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you to Bhutan, in case of any emergency which would require repatriation.
Walking Condition
our walks are and treks are mostly on established trails, and there are no particularly difficult sections. Although some of the trails are steep and rocky and can be muddy and slippery after rain. Boots with ankle support and a trekking pole are recommended.
Transport
for all our tours we use small private minibuses and 4×4 vehicles such as land cruisers depending on the size of group.
Important note:
The information in these notes is given in good faith, and covers the average range of conditions likely to be found on this trip. In remote destinations abnormal condition can prevail at any time, and adventurous holidays can therefore be subject to unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them we request that you be prepared to be flexible where necessary.
For more information contact Bhutan Endless Journey, including the full range of itineraries and services (including Tailor- made itineraries, group and the hosting of special events.
