Travelling to Bhutan from Australia

Overview about Bhutan

Bhutan, officially known as Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked country in South Asia. Located in the Eastern Himalayas, it is bordered by the Tibet Autonomous Region of China in the north, the Sikkim state of India and the Chumbi Valley of Tibet in the west, the Arunachal Pradesh state of India in the east, and the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal in the south.

Bhutan also known as Druk Yul - Land of Thunder Dragon is listed as Best in Travel 2020 by Lonely Planet. This small Himalayan nation has much to offer to travellers, after all, it is the birthplace of the popular Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy. Spirituality and Buddhism is an integral part of the Bhutanese life, and even all the government policies and plans have to be aligned with the key tenets of Gross National Happiness.

There are plenty of things to see in Bhutan that caters to the different types of travellers. Whether you’re a cultural buff, a foodie, shopaholic, an avid trekker, nature lover or simply a city dweller looking for an escapade - there will definitely be something in Bhutan for you to indulge yourself in.

Just talk to our Druk Asia travel specialists about your preference and they will be able to provide the best recommendations in Bhutan for you!

1. About Australia and Bhutan

Australia, officially Commonwealth of Australia, is a sovereign country in the Oceania region, with a total land area of approximately 7,682,300 sq km as compared to tiny Bhutan which occupies an area of only 38,394 sq km. Australia has a population size that is 35 times bigger than Bhutan. This large developed country is undoubtedly one of the most multicultural countries in the world that is home to immigrants from all over the world. Australia and Bhutan have long enjoyed warm and friendly relations, predating the establishment of formal diplomatic relations on 14 September 2002. In recent years, Australia has also become a sought-after destination for young Bhutanese to pursue their higher education and to seek employment opportunities. In fact, it is the second most popular destination for Bhutanese students, after India. To date, there are thousands of Bhutanese residing across the different major metropolitan cities in Australia such as Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

A trip from the land down under to the himalayan mountains up above will surely be an exciting one for travellers. It’s almost transporting from highly urbanised Australian cities to being back in time to a calm and slow-paced Bhutan.

Fun fact: Unlike in Australia where you can find over 10,000 beaches, not a single beach can be found in Bhutan!

2. How to travel to Bhutan from Australia

Getting to Bhutan from Australia is mighty easy! All you need to do is to follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Speak to our friendly Druk Asia travel consultant to let them know which dates you would like to travel to Bhutan.
Step 2: Choose your transit hub (either Singapore or Bangkok) - we have recommended some top things to do in both the international airports below.
Step 3: Look for the most suitable flight from the Australian city to the transit point you have decided upon.
Step 4: Book your tickets, pack your luggage and congratulations, you are one step closer to boarding your flight to the enigmatic Land of Thunder Dragon!

Both Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand and Changi Airport, Singapore are popular transit hubs for travellers to the Southeast Asia region. There are direct flights from both of these departure ports to Paro International Airport in Bhutan. It is best for you to choose your transit destination based on your schedule as the Drukair flight timing for both departure points vary accordingly.

2.1 Transiting in Bangkok to Bhutan

According to a survey done by Mastercard in 2019, Bangkok is the most visited city in the world for four consecutive years. With a vibrant street life, cheap shopping, beautiful beaches and wild nightlife, it is no surprise that millions of tourists would throng to this bustling city every year. Bangkok is truly the heart of Southeast Asia and this Land of Smiles is especially popular amongst business travellers and backpackers alike. Whether you are in Bangkok for a few hours of transit, a few days of business trip or a week long vacation, there are many things to keep you occupied in this busy city. Some of the most popular activities include experiencing the traditional Thai massage that can be found all over the city, getting a taste of authentic tom yum (popular hot and sour Thai soup), or go for some shopping therapy.

2.1.1 Top things to do in Bangkok

• Visiting one of the floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak, Klong Lat Mayom, and Amphawa.

• Hop onto a Tuk-tuk and go around the city.

• Check out the Grand Palace located at the heart of the city.

• Have a sweeping view of the city from the top in Sky Bar Bangkok.

• Go on a shopping spree at Chatuchak Weekend Market or Platinum Mall.

• Take a stroll and take pleasure in the glorious sunset at Asiatique: The Riverfront.

• Soak in the nightlife atmosphere in Khao San road.

• Eat your heart out at the night markets such as Artbox Bangkok, Talad Rod Fai, Pratunam, Sukhumvit Street Market and Chatuchak night market.

• Pamper yourself with some popular traditional Thai massage.

• Check out some of the famous eateries featured on Netflix’s Street Food series such as the michelin-starred Jay Fai restaurant for her wok-cooked seafood dishes, Soi Sukhumvit 38’s popular egg noodle pushcart (that has now been relocated to the area near Suan Luang Rama IX Park) and Chinatown’s famous khao gaeng (curry with rice) parlor Jek Pui.

2.1.2 Travelling to Bhutan from Bangkok, Thailand

There are two international airports in Bangkok - Don Mueang International Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport. Do note that Drukair only operates from Suvarnabhumi Airport if you are planning to transit from Bangkok to Bhutan or vice versa. Drukair operates daily flights from Bangkok (BKK), Thailand to Bhutan. The flight schedule from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Paro International Airport (PBH) may differ for the different months.

Check the latest Drukair Schedule here - www.Drukair.com.sg.

Total flight duration from Bangkok (BKK), Thailand to Bhutan is 3 hours. There might be a 30 - 45 minutes layover at Bagdogra or Kolkata, India for some flights. Passengers are not required to disembark from the aircraft.

A round trip from Bangkok, Thailand to Bhutan is approximately *SGD 1335 (USD 965) per pax. However, airfare and taxes are subjected to change.

Check-in counter for Drukair is located in row S-W (please reconfirm on the information screen once inside the terminal). Check-in counters are open 3 hours before departure and will be closed 1 hour prior to departure. It is advisable for passengers to check in early as seats are allocated on a first-come-first-serve basis.

2.2 Drukair baggage allowance

Drukair provides a standard baggage allowance of 30kg for economy class and 40kg for business class travellers. The carry-on bag allowance is 7kg.

Bhutan has one of the most stunning descents through the gorgeous Himalayan mountain ranges prior to landing at Paro International Airport. Only certified pilots are allowed to land at Paro International Airport.

3. How to apply for Bhutan visa from Australia

All tourists aside from citizens from Bangladesh, Maldives and India are required to apply for a visa. You are required to book your visa and trip to Bhutan through a licensed tour operator. Speak to the friendly travel consultants at Druk Asia and we will be able to assist you with your visa application.

You are required to produce a scanned copy of your passport with minimum six month validity. Bhutan visa application costs USD40 per person.

We will email you a copy of your e-visa clearance upon approval and you are required to produce this at the check-in counter and to the immigration officer when you land in Bhutan. The actual visa will be stamped on your passport at the port of entry once you complete all the immigration formalities.

4. How much does it cost to travel to Bhutan from Australia

Sustainable Development Fee
All tourists entering Bhutan are subjected to a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per night. This fee aims to maintain the country's cultural and environmental integrity, preserving its unique beauty for generations to come. By embracing this commitment to sustainability through the SDF fee, visitors actively contribute to the conservation of Bhutan's natural wonders.

Children under 5 years old are exempt from the SDF, while those aged 5 to 12 years are required to pay USD 50 per night. It's important to note that the SDF does not cover accommodation, meals, transportation, or guide services.

Regional tourists from India are required to apply for a permit and pay 1200 INR/night.

Overall Travel Cost to Bhutan
The total cost of travel to Bhutan largely depends on the following factors:
- The type of accommodation that you choose.
- The places that you visit in Bhutan.
- The no. of days you require a tour guide.
- The no. of days you require a driver.

Do provide your travel details (no. of pax and tentative travel dates) at https://www.drukasia.com/contact/ and our friendly travel consultants will assist you with the costing.

5. What are some popular attractions in Bhutan

Taktsang Monastery, popularly known as the Tiger’s Nest, the national icon of Bhutan is definitely a must-see when you are in the Kingdom! The majestic sacred Buddhist monastery perched on the cliff top, 2950m above sea level provides an unforgettable hiking experience with awe-inspiring sceneries to all travellers. Other places of attractions include Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong, Punakha Dzong, Punakha Suspension Bridge, Chimi Lhakang, Kyichu Lhakang, Dochula Pass, Bumthang valley, Gangtey (Phobjikha valley) and many more.

Click here for more information about some of these places of attraction. 

6. What is the temperature and climate in Bhutan

Due to its location, Bhutan’s weather and climate are heavily influenced by its altitudes and terrains. Western Bhutan has heavier monsoon rains while southern Bhutan has a hot and humid subtropical climate with a monsoon season that is consistent throughout the year. The southern region also receives a significant amount of rain in a year and heavy rainfall can sometimes cause landslides and render roads impassable. Central Bhutan, where the major towns and tourist attractions are located has a more seasonal climate with warm summers before the monsoon. The winters are usually cool and dry with clear blue skies. In the far northern region, the weather has a harsher climate and is much colder during winter. Mountain peaks are perpetually covered in snow and lower-lying areas are cool in summer. 

Climate in Nepal is pretty similar to Bhutan where it’s largely influenced by elevation. In Kathmandu Valley, average temperatures can range from 50° F (10° C) in January to 78° F (26° C) in July, and the lowest and highest temperatures recorded have been 27° and 99° F (-3° and 37° C)

7. When is the best time to travel to Bhutan

Both Bhutan and Nepal are all year round travel destinations. Generally, the best times to visit Bhutan and Nepal are during the spring (Mar - May) and autumn season (Sep - Nov) as the weather is ideal and it’s an excellent time for trekking. The temperature is also at optimum for both countries for sightseeing. Both countries share similar climates with four seasons throughout the year. Aside from the perfect trekking conditions, spring and autumn are also the popular festival seasons in Bhutan. Hence, these are the peak seasons in Bhutan and Nepal where you are encouraged to book and plan your trip in advance.

During winter (Dec - Feb), both countries will have cold weather and snowfalls in the higher altitude region, especially in the eastern parts of Bhutan. Whereas, summer (Jun - Aug) is usually the monsoon season in Bhutan and Nepal. Trekkings may be discouraged due to the dangerous and slippery trails. However, there are still plenty of things to do during the off-peak seasons in both countries. You will also have a more authentic travel experience due to the lower footfall and save up to 20% of your daily tariff due to the lower charges in the non-peak season for Bhutan.

8. What are some tour packages that I can select

Below are some popular Druk Asia tour packages that you can choose from:-  

Trekking tour

9 Day Druk Path trek

9 Day Dagala Thousand trek

11 Day Jomolhari Trek

Cultural tour

7 Day tour in Thimphu, Punakha and Paro

10 Day tour in Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, Gangtey and Paro

Meditation tour

7 Day Neykor tour

Depending on your personal preference, we will be able to customise your itinerary accordingly. After all, our aim is to ensure that you have the most memorable trip in Bhutan!

Druk Asia also offers special interests tours such as photography and sketching tours. Aside from that, we also organise pre-wedding photography trips. 

For other tours and itineraries, check out the different packages at www.drukasia.com. 

9. About Tsechus (Festivals) in Bhutan

Tshechu or the Mask Dance Festival is the most important religious festival in Bhutan. It is held annually in the monasteries and dzongs from all the 20 districts in the different months of the year to honour Guru Rinpoche who brought Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century.  A Tshechu typically lasts for four or five days. It is celebrated on the tenth day of Tibetan lunar calendar corresponding to the birthday of Guru Rinpoche. Hence, the exact dates of the Tshechu in the different districts varies from year to year. 

Dancers usually wear wooden masks that represent animals, fearsome deities, and various manifestations of Guru Rinpoche. According to legends, Guru Rinpoche has eight manifestations, each with a different name and appearance. The most distinctive mask represents the wrathful manifestation of Guru Rinpoche which he transformed to tame harmful deities.

The most popular Tshechus for tourists are in Paro, as well as in Punakha, and Thimphu where thousands of locals will turn up in their best attire to enjoy the festival.

• Punakha Dromchoe and Tshechu (February)
• Paro Tshechu (April)
• Thimphu Tshechu (September)

11. What are some tips for travelling to Bhutan

11.1 Bhutan currency exchange, ATM withdrawal and credit card usage

• The Bhutanese currency, the Bhutanese ngultrum (Nu.), is at par with the Indian rupee. Thus, Indian rupees are commonly accepted in Bhutan. However, old indian rupees as well as 500 and 1000 rupees are not accepted in Bhutan.
• You may not always be able to withdraw any money from the local ATMs. It is advisable for you to bring along cash for out of pocket expenses.
• Aside from the Paro International Airport, you can also exchange for the Bhutanese currency (Ngultrum) at Bank of Bhutan in Thimphu and Paro. However, they only accept 10 major currencies: U.S. Dollar, Pound Sterling, Euro, Japanese Yen, Swiss Franc, Hong Kong Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Danish Kroner, Australian Dollar and Singapore Dollars. 
• The exchange rate varies according to your currency denomination. You are encouraged to bring larger denominations for the exchange as larger bills will give you a higher exchange rate.
• USD 100 bills issued before year 2000 are not accepted for exchange.
• Credit cards are not commonly accepted in Bhutan yet. It is still advisable that you bring along cash for payment. Most places might accept payment in the 10 major foreign currencies.
• For the daily foreign exchange rate of the different banks in Bhutan, check out www.dailybhutan.com/FX. 

11.2 Where can I get a SIM card in Bhutan

• There are two mobile operators in Bhutan - B-mobile and Tashi Cell. 
• You can purchase a tourist SIM card from the airport, mobile operator office or from any authorised dealer in larger towns like Paro and Thimphu. 
• You will need your passport copy and 200 Ngultrum (Nu) (approx. USD 2.70). You might want to get some extra few hundred Ngultrum for the beginning, especially if you want to call abroad or use the internet. You can load your balance by buying recharge vouchers, which comes in 50 Nu to 500 Nu value
• From our experience, a top up of 300 Nu (USD 4.20) should suffice for a week’s trip.
• *To help you skip the queue and cut down the hassle of getting a SIM card on your own, a SIM card will be ready for you upon your arrival if you travel with Druk Asia.

11.3 Is the wifi and internet in Bhutan reliable

• Most of the hotels offer free wifi but some may be limited to the lobby area. Internet connection is generally good in bigger towns like Thimphu, Paro, Trongsa and Bumthang. Some remote valleys may have intermittent connectivity. It is advisable for travellers to purchase a SIM card upon arrival in Bhutan.