Everyone knows how hard it is to get visas to the U.S., U.K., and Canada, but not many know that Bhutan is just as strict, although for entirely different reasons. Unlike the countries mentioned above, Bhutan doesn't discriminate based on the country of your passport. Instead, its stringent policies on visas are intended to control tourism and protect the environment.
Bhutan is the last Vajrayana Buddhist stronghold in the world and houses countless revered religious sites. In an effort to protect its faith, culture, and spirituality, Bhutan doesn't let just anyone into its space. You must be chosen.
Bhutan is paradise on Earth, and no one can tell us otherwise. And if you're lucky enough to be allowed into the country, then you're in for the trip of your lifetime. But how do you enter the modern-day Shangri-La?
Here's a complete guide to visiting Bhutan for Filipino passport holders:
1. Find a registered travel operator.
Bhutan only allows a specific number of tourists to enter the country at any given time. To make things more complicated, Bhutan encourages visitors to go through registered tour operators to enter the country. The nation only recently opened up to DIY travelers, but it would be extremely difficult to schedule or book anything on your own. So the chances of your visa getting approved if you use a registered operator are quite higher. To make things easier for yourself, find a registered Bhutan travel operator and choose the package you prefer.
2. Figure out your itinerary.
Your itinerary will determine your Minimum Daily Package, which refers to the price set by the government for tourists. This amount, which covers accommodation, meals, transportation, guides, porters, and cultural programs, goes to Bhutan's social services, like free education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. The price can range from $200 (P10,900) during the low season to as high as $290 (15,900) during the peak season. For a seven-day vacation, you'd need at least $1,400 (P76,700). Discounts are available for students and children, and you can request a certain hotel for a lower Minimum Daily Package or for a better stay.
3. Pay for your stay.
Unlike some countries that require show money, Bhutan requires that your trip has been prepaid and pre-prepared before you begin your holiday. Payments should be made directly to the Tourism Council of Bhutan, which will transfer the payment to the operator.
4. Apply for a visa.
For only $40 (P2,190), you can secure your visa without having to prepare a binder like you do for a Schengen visa. Instead, the only documents you need are your passport, proof of travel insurance, and a recent passport size photo. No need to prepare your assets, bank certificates, educational background, or worse, yearbook.
5. Receive your visa.
You'll get your visa clearance letter in your email, which you'll need to present at the airport to enter Bhutan. You'll receive your actual visa stamped in your passport at the airport. Fun fact: Nearly every country in the world needs a visa to enter Bhutan, regardless of their economic standing. The only countries that get visa-free access to Bhutan are its closest neighbors and friends: India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives.
6. Book your flight.
Once you've got your visa, it's time to actually book your flight. Flights to Bhutan are only available through its two national airlines: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. These flights come only from Bangkok, Kathmandu, New Delhi, Kolkata, Dhaka, Yangon, and Singapore, so unfortunately, there's no direct flight from Manila. Of the four Bhutan airports, only the Paro International Airport accepts international flights.
7. Get ready for your holiday.
Given Bhutan's isolated nature, there are only a few ATMs available in the country. So you'll need to prepare your cash in advance. Ngultrum is the currency of Bhutan. Logistics aside, the most important thing to remember when you visit Bhutan is to honor its traditions.
8. Enjoy Bhutan.
There's a reason the country strictly controls its tourism—to avoid the trappings of tourism. You won't find crowded tourist traps or giant tourist-created dumpsites. The Bhutan government website says it plainly: "When we welcome you to our kingdom, you may tread lightly on our soil and sacred sites."
Here are a few crucial traditions to follow to avoid making a major faux pas:
- Be quiet and pay your respects at sacred sites.
- Don't take photos or videos of everything unless you have people's permission to capture them.
- Remove your hat or cap when visiting a secret site or meeting an elder.
- Sit cross-legged in the presence of monks, nuns, elders, and hosts.
- Wear long sleeves and cover your legs when visiting temples.
- Remove your shoes in secret sites.
- Don't sit on any thrones or touch religious or previous items.
- Don't hunt or fish without permission.
- Don't venture into the wild without guidance.
- Respect people's privacy.
- When people smile at you, smile back.
Keep in mind, these aren't just recommendations—these are all explicitly stated on the Bhutan Tourism Council's website. When it comes to mindful tourism, Bhutan doesn't joke around.
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