Journey to Bhutan from Argentina
Journey to Bhutan from Argentina. A journey to Bhutan from Argentina is an exciting adventure into the Himalayas. With no direct flights, you’ll need to fly via hubs like Delhi, Bangkok, or Kathmandu to reach Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport. Argentinian travelers require a visa, arranged by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Bhutan offers breathtaking landscapes, iconic sites like the Tiger’s Nest, and a rich spiritual culture. The Sustainable Development Fee covers most expenses, including accommodation, meals, and a guide, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
Flights and Itinerary Planning
- No Direct Flights: There are no direct flights from Argentina to Bhutan, so you’ll need to make connecting flights via international hubs in Asia.
- Popular Flight Routes:
- Buenos Aires (Ezeiza International Airport) to New Delhi, India: One of the most common routes. You can fly with airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, or Turkish Airlines.
- Buenos Aires to Bangkok, Thailand or Kathmandu, Nepal: Another option with major airlines like Emirates or Qatar Airways.
- Final Leg to Paro, Bhutan: Once in India, Thailand, or Nepal, you’ll need to fly with Bhutan’s national airlines, Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines, which operate flights to Paro International Airport. Be sure to book your flight to Bhutan in advance, as availability can be limited.
*You may have long layovers in transit hubs. Planning these well can make your journey more comfortable.
Druk Air Flight Details
- Delhi to Paro-KB201 Dep:1230 Arri:1520 and Return Paro to Delhi-KB200 Dep:0940 Arri:1130
- Round trip fare is USD 645 Per Person
- Kathmandu to Paro-KB401 Dep:0900 Arri:1020 and return Paro to Kathmandu-KB400 Dep:0700 Arri: 0800
- Round trip fare USD 465 Per Person
- Bangkok to Paro-KB153 Dep: 0600 Arri: 0815 and return Paro to Bangkok-KB152 Dep:1620 Arri: 2030
- Round trip Fare is USD 950 Per Person
Note: The flight schedule is valid till January 2025 and schedule and fare is subjected to change
Visa and Entry Requirements
- Visa Requirement: All tourists need a visa to enter Bhutan. You cannot apply for the visa yourself; it must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners.
- Tourist Packages: Bhutan follows a “high-value, low-impact” tourism policy. As part of this, all tourists must book a guided tour or package with a licensed operator. The visa is processed as part of this tour package.
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): Bhutan charges SDF of USD 100 per person per night and one time visa fee of USD 40 per person. This fee helps preserve the environment and cultural heritage.
* Book your trip with a trusted Bhutanese tour operator who will arrange your visa, accommodations, and transportation.
Best Time to Visit
- Ideal Months: The best times to visit Bhutan are during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These seasons offer pleasant weather and vibrant festivals like Paro Tsechu and Thimphu Tsechu.
- Monsoon Season: Avoid visiting from June to August due to heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans.
* Plan your trip around one of Bhutan’s many festivals to experience its rich culture and traditions.
Health and Safety Precautions
- Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry, but it’s advisable to be up to date on routine vaccines (hepatitis A, typhoid, etc.). Check with your healthcare provider.
- Travel Insurance: Make sure to get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, as healthcare in Bhutan is basic, especially in remote areas.
- Altitude Considerations: Many parts of Bhutan are at high altitudes. Take it slow when arriving to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.
* Pack basic medications and consult your doctor about altitude sickness if you’re visiting higher-altitude regions.
Packing Essentials
- Clothing: Bhutan has a varied climate, so pack layers to accommodate cold mornings and evenings, even in warmer months. If you’re visiting temples, wear conservative clothing that covers your arms and legs.
- Comfortable Shoes: Bhutan is known for its monasteries and hiking trails, so pack comfortable shoes for walking and trekking.
- Power Adapter: Bhutan uses 230V and 50Hz electricity with Type D, F, and G sockets. Bring a universal adapter.
*Pack light, as you may be walking or hiking in some remote areas with limited facilities.
Currency and Budgeting
- Local Currency: The currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian Rupees are also accepted in Bhutan.
- Payments: Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and high-end shops, but you’ll need cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major cities like Thimphu and Paro but may not be reliable.
- Tipping: Tipping is not compulsory but is appreciated, especially for guides and drivers. Plan to budget extra for this.
*Carry small amounts of cash for everyday purchases, as ATMs might not always be available or functional.
Cultural Etiquette and Behavior
- Respect Sacred Sites: Bhutan is a deeply spiritual country. When visiting monasteries or temples, dress modestly and follow local customs. Remove your shoes before entering sacred places and avoid touching religious artifacts.
- Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or inside monasteries. Some religious sites may prohibit photography.
- Environmental Responsibility: Bhutan places high importance on conservation. Avoid littering and respect the natural surroundings.
*When interacting with locals, a friendly “Kuzuzangpo la” (hello) can go a long way in making connections.
Booking Tours and Accommodations
- Tour Packages: All tourists must book their tours through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. These packages include accommodation, meals, a guide, and transportation. You can customize your itinerary based on interests such as trekking, cultural tours, or wildlife exploration.
- Accommodation: Bhutan offers a range of accommodations, from comfortable 3-star hotels to luxury resorts. The standard 3-star hotels included in tour packages are clean and comfortable, with basic amenities. Luxury options are available at an extra cost.
*Discuss your preferences with your tour operator in advance to ensure your accommodation and itinerary suit your needs.
What to See in Bhutan
- Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery): A must-visit for all travelers, this iconic cliffside monastery requires a moderate hike.
- Thimphu: Bhutan’s capital is home to cultural landmarks like the Tashichho Dzong and the Buddha Dordenma statue.
- Punakha Dzong: A stunning fortress located at the confluence of two rivers.
- Bumthang Valley: Known for its spiritual significance and picturesque landscapes.
*Plan your days wisely to cover the major highlights while leaving time to explore Bhutan’s serene countryside.
Suggested Trekking Tour for Argentinian Travelers
Druk Path Trek (5-6 Days)
- Overview: Druk path Trek is one of Bhutan’s most popular treks, ideal for those with moderate trekking experience. It takes you through ancient trade routes, past beautiful alpine lakes, rhododendron forests, and scenic mountain views.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights:
- Trekking from Paro to Thimphu.
- Stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari.
- Visiting Jigme Langtsho and Tshokam Lake and also other lakes like Simkotra Tsho and Phajoding Monastery.
- Best Time: March to May, September to November.
Tips for Argentinian Trekkers
- Acclimatization: Bhutan treks often involve high altitudes. Spend a few days in Bhutan to acclimatize before starting the trek.
- Permits: All trekking tours must be arranged through licensed Bhutanese tour operators, who will handle permits and logistics.
- Gear: Most treks are fully supported with horses and guides, so you won’t have to carry your gear, but pack for varying climates.
Other Recommended Tour for Argentina Citizen
- Royal Highlander Festival of Laya(23rd to 24th Oct 2025)
- Luxury Bhutan Amankora Journey
- Bhutan Butterfly Tour
Additional Tips
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in hotels, but mobile network coverage is limited in remote areas. Consider buying a local SIM card for basic connectivity.
- Language: English is widely spoken, but learning a few phrases in Dzongkha (the national language) can be fun and appreciated by locals.
Related Post
Travelling Bhutan from other Destinations
- Travel to Bhutan from Chile
- Travel to Bhutan from Malaysia
- Travel to Bhutan from Denmark(Europe)
- Bhutan Travel from Taiwan
- Bhutan Travel from Belgium
FAQ
How can I travel from Argentina to Bhutan?
There are no direct flights from Argentina to Bhutan. The most common route is to fly from Buenos Aires to a major connecting hub, like New Delhi, Bangkok, or Kathmandu, and then take a connecting flight to Paro, Bhutan’s international airport, with Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines.
What should I know about the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?
The SDF is a fee of $100 USD per person per night for foreign tourists, which supports Bhutan’s sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.
When is the best time of year to visit Bhutan?
The ideal travel periods are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), as these seasons offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and vibrant festivals.
Is Bhutan safe for tourists?
Yes, Bhutan is considered a safe destination with low crime rates. The country is known for its welcoming and friendly people. Basic travel safety precautions should still be observed.
What is Bhutan Popular for?
Bhutan is popular for its age-old living culture, clean environment- almost no pollution and colorful festivals with spectacular landscapes and impressive landmarks. Also called the Last Shangri-la, religion, and nature is in harmony working their magic in this mystical land. Religion is deeply rooted in Bhutan and is the only Buddhist Kingdom in the world. It’s also called the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
