Policies & Travel Information
Pre-departure Checklist
Last updated: August 2026
A practical checklist to help you feel fully prepared before you travel to Bhutan. Work through each section in the weeks before departure, and reach out if anything is unclear.
6–8 weeks before departure
Start early — visa processing, insurance and flight bookings can take time, and the sooner these are in place, the smoother your preparation will be.
Documents & visa
- Check your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Confirm your Bhutan visa application is underway (we arrange this on your behalf).
- Carry printed and digital copies of your passport, visa and itinerary separately.
- Keep a copy of your booking confirmation and our contact details with your documents.
Travel insurance
- Arrange comprehensive travel insurance — it is not compulsory but highly recommended.
- Confirm your policy covers medical emergencies, cancellation, baggage and trekking.
- Check cover for high-altitude activities if your itinerary includes trekking.
- Save your insurer's emergency number and policy details in your phone.
- Read more on our Travel Insurance page.
3–4 weeks before departure
With the essentials secured, turn your attention to your health, packing and how you'll stay connected in Bhutan.
Health & medication
- Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic for up-to-date advice.
- Carry sufficient personal medication for your whole trip, plus a few extra days.
- Bring a copy of any prescriptions and keep medication in its original packaging.
- Pack a small first-aid kit with basics for walks and trekking days.
Packing essentials
- Layered clothing and a warm jacket — evenings and higher altitudes can be cold.
- Comfortable, broken-in walking or hiking shoes.
- A day pack for excursions and a reusable water bottle.
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Modest clothing for monastery and religious site visits.
Money & payments
- Carry some US dollars (small, undamaged notes) for the SDF, visa fee and extras.
- Bring a debit or credit card as backup — acceptance is limited outside main towns.
- Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid declined card transactions.
- Keep some cash for smaller purchases in towns and villages.
Flights
- Confirm your international flights to and from Paro are booked.
- Re-check flight times 72 hours before departure, as schedules can change.
- Keep your e-tickets accessible on your phone and in print.
The week before departure
Final preparations — confirm the small things that make a big difference once you're on the ground.
Staying connected
- Check with your provider about roaming options in Bhutan.
- Consider a local SIM or eSIM — your guide can help arrange this on arrival.
- Share your itinerary and our contact details with someone at home.
Electronics & power
- Pack a universal travel adapter — Bhutan uses plug types D, F and G (230V, 50Hz).
- Bring a power bank for longer days and trekking routes.
- Charge all devices and download offline maps, reading and music before you fly.
Final essentials
Photography & memories
- Pack spare memory cards and a spare camera battery.
- Familiarise yourself with photography rules at religious sites.
Before you go
- Confirm your check-in details and our pre-departure information pack.
- Save our contact details and your guide's information where you can find them quickly.
- Questions? Get in touch or book a consultation.