3 Common Myths About Bhutan
Posted by: Bhutan Incredible Tours / Category: Blog / Posted On: 9th Dec 2018
When you talk about Bhutan, lots of questions come up. “Omg! It’s really hard to go there right?” “It’s super expensive!” “There’s a limit on the number of visas issued to tourists!” Because relatively few people have been to Bhutan, there’s a lot of confusion and hearsay. We get it. It sounds pretty complicated and the entire process really confusing, but it’s truly not.
We’re here to debunk some common myths and misunderstandings people have. By the end of this article, we’ll eliminate any confusion you may have and you’ll realize that with some planning, you too can experience happiness in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
1. Visitor quotas
This myth is actually rooted in fact. The Royal Government of Bhutan used to limit the number of visitors to 5,000 a year up until 1999. They believed -and rightfully so- that unrestricted access would have detrimental impacts not just on their carefully preserved culture, but on the natural environment they strive to conserve.
Currently, there is no quota on the number of tourists allowed to visit Bhutan. We repeat (because we get asked this question so. many. times.) THERE IS NO QUOTA! Spread the word! However, as Bhutan is only served by 2 airlines flying relatively few routes, the number of visitors is limited to the capacity of the planes serving those routes.
2. It is difficult to get a visa for Bhutan
Having cleared the air that there is no actual visitor quota, you can’t just up and go. With the exception of passport holders from India, Bangladesh and Maldives, all other foreigners must obtain a visa before being permitted to enter Bhutan.
In keeping with Bhutan’s highly regulated policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism,” visas can only be applied for on your behalf by a licensed Bhutan Tour Operator, with whom you will have to book your tour (don’t let the word tour freak you out. It’ll be a private trip with you and your travel companions, you won’t suddenly be lumped together with another massive group) and organize your trip. Basically, once you have booked and paid for your trip, leave everything -including worrying about your visa- to your agent.
3. Travel to Bhutan is really expensive
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. The daily tariff. All tourists must pay a daily tariff of US$250 per day during the peak tourist season (March – May) and US$200 during the non-peak (December – February) season with a surcharge of US$40/30 per person for single/pair travellers. Grab your friends, travel in a group of 3 or more and enjoy (some) savings!
What most people don’t realize is that this amount covers A LOT of stuff. Let’s break it down for you. It includes the following:
- 1. Private guided tour
- 2. Visas for Bhutan
- 3. 3 meals a day at designated restaurants/hotels
- 4. Accommodation at 3* hotels
- 5. A licensed and qualified English speaking guide
- 6. An experienced driver
- 7. A tour vehicle
- 8. Entry fees & road permits
- 9. Government fees, royalty, taxes & surcharges
- 10. Mineral bottled water throughout your stay
- 11. Set of traditional costume (to be returned at the end of the stay) **
- 12. Full service & assistance before, during and after your trip **
