ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW • POPULATION (2024): 777,224 (projection) • CAPITAL: Thimphu • MAIN CITIES: Paro, Bumthang, Phuntsholing, Punakha, Gelephu • VISA: A $40 visa must be bought before arrival, at which time the country’s sustainable development fee (SDF) can also be paid. From 2023 to 2027, the SDF has been halved for payments made in US dollars, from $200 to $100 per person, per night. For children aged 6-12, the SDF is $50 per person, per night, while children under six travel for free. Passport must be valid for six months from date of arrival and contain one blank page for entry stamp • HEALTH: Rabies, typhoid and hepatitis A and B vaccinations recommended; the Japanese
encephalitis vaccination is also advisable for certain areas • CURRENCY: Ngultrum (BTN). Major credit cards accepted at larger stores and hotels; carrying local currency is essential • TIPPING: There are no standardized rules for tipping • TIME: GMT+6 • ELECTRICITY: 230 volts • DRIVING: On the left. International Driving Permit required for self-drive rentals; hiring a driver is recommended • PUBLIC HOLIDAYS (2025): Jan 2, 30; Feb 21-23, 28; Mar 1; May 2, 7; Jun 11; Jul 5, 28; Sep 23; Oct 2; Nov 1, 11; Dec 17 • LANGUAGE: Dzongkha (official); Sharchhopka; Lhotshamkha, English • RELIGION: Buddhism (official) • COUNTRY DIAL CODE: +975
CLIMATE Varying altitudes create a diverse climate nationwide. The rainy season runs June to September
GETTING THERE • MAJOR GATEWAY: Paro (PBH) • TYPICAL FLYING TIME: Two layovers: 25h+ from New York; 28h+ from Los Angeles