Below information is collected from the Tourism Council of Bhutan on 8th August 2010.

Distances and Travel Times within Bhutan

Tourist Buses

Tourists can travel in Bhutan with medium-sized buses (20-22 seats), small buses (8-12 seats) or hired cars. Road widths do not permit larger buses.

Visa Formalities

Other than Indian, Bangladeshis nationals, all visitors to Bhutan require a visa; all visas are issued from Thimphu; visas are only issued to tourists booked with a local licensed tour operator, directly or through a foreign travel agent. Applications for tourist visas are submitted by the tour operator. Visa clearance from Thimphu must be obtained before coming to Bhutan. Visa clearance takes at least 10 days to process. Air tickets to Bhutan cannot be purchased without visa clearance. At your point of entry the visa will be stamped in your passport on payment of US$20, two passport photos will also be required. Visas are issued for a 15day period; extensions can be obtained in Thimphu at a cost of Nu.510.

Cancellations

Tour Programmes booked and subsequently cancelled shall be subject to cancellation charges as follows:

within 30 days of start of programme ~ no charges

within 21 days ~ 10% of rate

within 14 days ~ 15% of rate

within 7 days ~ 30% of rate

less than 7 days or without notice ~ 50% of rate

after arrival in Bhutan ~ 100%

Delayed Arrivals

There is no charge for delays in arrival and departure because of weather conditions disrupting flights or road blocks. The tourist must however bear the cost of food, accommodation, transportation, and other services required.

Note: INR (Indian Rupees) denominations of 500 and 1000 are not accepted in Bhutan.