Bhutan Travel from Taiwan
How to Travel to Bhutan from Taiwan, Taipei?
If you are planning a trip to Bhutan from Taiwan, here’s a complete guide covering flights, visa requirements, permits, and accommodation.
Visa Requirements for Taiwanese Citizens
- Visa Requirement: All foreign nationals, including Taiwanese travellers, need a visa to enter Bhutan, except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives.
- Visa Process:
- Visas must be arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner. The tour operator will apply for the visa on your behalf.
- You will need to provide passport details and make full payment for your tour to the tour operator.
- Once processed, you will receive a visa clearance letter, and the actual visa will be stamped on your passport when you arrive at Paro International Airport.
- Visa Cost: The visa fee is USD 40, which is typically included in the tour package cost.
Flights to Bhutan from Taiwan
No Direct Flights to Bhutan from Taiwan
- There are no direct flights from Taiwan to Bhutan. You will need to take a connecting flight via Bangkok, Delhi, or Singapore.
Connecting Flight Routes:
- Taipei (TPE) → Bangkok (BKK) → Paro (PBH) (Druk Air/Bhutan Airlines from Bangkok)
- Taipei (TPE) → Delhi (DEL) → Paro (PBH)
- Taipei (TPE) → Singapore (SIN) → Paro (PBH)
The most common and convenient route is through Bangkok, which has the most frequent flights to Bhutan. From Bangkok, Bhutan’s national airlines Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate flights to Paro International Airport.
Airlines to Paro:
- Druk Air (Bhutan’s national carrier)
- Bhutan Airlines
Permits for Trekking
Once you arrive in Bhutan, your visa will allow you to enter and travel in popular areas such as Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha. If you plan to visit restricted areas during the trek you need special Trekking permits which we shall arrange in advance.
Documents Required:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months.
- Travel itinerary and details provided by the tour operator.
- Passport size Photograph.
Tour Packages and Daily Fees
- All tourists (except for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian citizens) must pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person, per night. This fee contributes to Bhutan’s environmental conservation efforts and sustainable tourism development.
- In addition to the SDF, tour packages include accommodation, meals, a licensed guide, and transportation. The packages typically range from 3-star hotels to luxury options, depending on your preferences.
- The daily fee also covers entry permits, sightseeing, and local transportation.
Accommodation Options
Bhutan offers a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
Luxury Hotels:
- Amankora (luxury lodges located in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and more)
- Six Sense (Thimphu, Punakha and Paro)
- Le Méridien (Thimphu and Paro)
Mid-range and Budget Hotels:
- Hotel Druk (Thimphu)
- Olathang Hotel (Paro)
- Zhingkham Resort (Punakha)
Many visitors book their accommodation through tour operators as part of a package, which includes meals and transportation.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan from Taiwan
The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and many cultural festivals take place.
- Spring: The valleys are full of blooming flowers, and temperatures are pleasant.
- Autumn: Clear skies and ideal weather for trekking and sightseeing.
If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, winter (December-February) and summer (June-August) are also good times to visit, though you may encounter colder weather or occasional rain.
Popular Places to Visit in Bhutan
- Paro: Home to Bhutan’s only international airport and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
- Thimphu: Bhutan’s capital, known for its unique blend of modernity and tradition.
- Punakha: Famous for the Punakha Dzong and beautiful landscapes.
- Bumthang: The spiritual heart of Bhutan, filled with temples and monasteries.
Your tour package will typically include visits to these must-see destinations, along with cultural experiences and festival visits if timed accordingly.
Trekking and Adventure in Bhutan
If you’re interested in adventure tourism, Bhutan offers several trekking options, ranging from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day treks such as the Jomolhari Trek or the famous Snowman Trek. These treks are typically included in specific tour packages and are led by experienced guides.
Travel Tips for Taiwan Citizen
- Currency: The official currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), but Indian Rupees are widely accepted. It is advisable to carry some cash, as credit cards are not widely accepted, especially in rural areas.
- Packing Essentials: Bhutan has varied climates, so pack accordingly. Light clothing is suitable for lower altitudes, while warm clothes are necessary for higher altitudes and trekking.
- Connectivity: Bhutan has reliable internet access in major cities and hotels. SIM cards for tourists can be purchased upon arrival.
- Traveling to Bhutan from Taiwan is an enriching experience, combining cultural exploration with stunning landscapes. With easy connections through major Asian cities, a well-organized visa process, and professional tour operators, you can enjoy Bhutan’s unique blend of tradition and nature with ease. Plan ahead, choose the right tour package, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
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