Visa
All travelers must apply for their visa prior to arrival in Bhutan. The tourism regulation stipulated by the Government of Bhutan stipulates that all tours must be booked through a certified local tour operator. The local tour operator applies for the tourist visa on behalf of the traveler. There is a one-time processing fee of $ 40 per person.
Customs and Duty Free
Travelers can bring the following items to Bhutan for personal use: 200 cigarettes, 30 cigars or 150 grams of tobacco. A person who imports tobacco products for personal use from India pays 100% sales tax, from all other countries 100% sales tax and 100% duty. While you are in Bhutan, you must keep and present the tax certificate when you are inspected by the tobacco control inspector.
The import and export of the following items is strictly prohibited:
- Weapons, ammunition and explosives
- All narcotics and drugs except medically prescribed drugs
- Wild animals, especially endangered species
- Antiques
- The import of plants, natural raw materials etc. is subject to the quarantine regulations.
- Visitors are advised to be cautious when purchasing old and used items, especially of religious or cultural significance, as such items may not be exported without a clearance certificate.
Money
The local currency in Bhutan is Ngultrum. The ngultrum is linked to the Indian rupee. Current exchange rate information can be found on the website of local banks and at the airport. The exchange rate with the euro is usually 1 (Euro) to 70-80 (Ngultrim). Currency exchange services are available at local banks. There are also many ATMs that accept VISA and MasterCard. Service fees may vary depending on the country and bank where the card was issued. Therefore, travelers are advised to contact their bank before traveling to Bhutan. Most hotels, restaurants and shops accept card payments.
Tourist SIM card
Local telephone companies offer tourists SIM cards for sale. Upon purchase, a copy of your passport must be presented. A SIM card costs 100 to 200 Ngultrim (1-3 €). SIM cards are available in standard, micro and nano sizes.
Attention: Some German SIM cards do not work in Bhutan, you can not receive calls or SMS here.