CUSTOMS
Export of unlicensed antiques, plants or animal products is strictly prohibited. Cameras, video cameras, computers and personal electronic equipment must be declared on arrival and will be checked upon departure.

CLIMATE
It is difficult to accurately generalize the climate of Bhutan because of the variations in elevations and seasons. Southern Bhutan has a tropical climate with hot humid monsoons. Spring in the higher valleys (mid-March to May) has warm days (20°C,68° F) and cool nights. June marks the beginning of summer when day temperatures warm up to (27 – 29 °C,or 80° F – 84°F). By July, the rainy season starts and continues till mid-September. The autumn months of September to November are ideal for trekking with clear skies and mild weather. In December temperatures fall, but the days are warm and the clear, azure winter skies serving as a striking background to the snow-capped peaks. On a sunny day, temperatures reach about 16-18 ° C,(61 to 64° F). The nights, however, are cold with temperatures falling below freezing.

CLOTHING
Cottons and light woolens in summer (June-Sep), heavy woolens jackets might require for the rest of the year. Rain gear for the monsoons and comfortable shoes. Trekking requires hiking boots and adequate clothing.

ELECTRICITY
230 – 240 volts, 50 cycles A.C. The current is variable.

CURRENCY
The national currency is the Ngultrum (Nu). 100 Chetrum = 1 Nu. The exchange rate is approximately US$ 1 = Nu. 65. It is at par with Indian Rupee

CREDIT CARDS
American Express/MasterCard/Maestro card and VISA credit cards are accepted almost the places. Whereas 3-5% commission will adds on the purchase bill.

TIME DIFFERENCE
Bhutan standard time is 6 hours ahead of GMT.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Comfortable hotels and lodges built in the traditional architectural style are available in the major towns.

CUISINE
Tourist hotels have a choice of Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese and Continental food.

COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
Reliable telephone and fax services are available in all towns in Bhutan. International connections are excellent. B-mobile reaches almost all the tourist destination.

Internet is also connected to all the places. Most Hotels has Hifi Broadband connection.

PHOTOGRAPHY
Carry plenty of films and batteries, most of equipment are not ready available in all places of Bhutan.

LANGUAGE
Dzongkha, the language of the western region, is the national language. English is the medium of instruction and is spoken by all government officials and businessmen. Lhotshamkha (Nepali) is prevalent in the south while Bumthangkha, Khyengkha and Sharchopkha are common dialects.

INSURANCE
To protect against unforeseen accidents and mishaps, we advise you to have travel insurance policy from your country. It should adequately cover helicopter evacuation and medical assistance. We regret the unavailability of such policies in Bhutan.

SAFETY
The crime rate in Bhutan is very low.

SHOPPING
Traditional handicrafts, textiles, jewellery, baskets and ceremonial masks are fantastic items to purchase. Paintings and woodcarvings are good buys.