Travel to Bhutan from Cambodia
Travel to Bhutan from Cambodia. Traveling from Cambodia to Bhutan is an enriching experience, but it requires some careful planning due to Bhutan’s unique travel policies and limited connectivity.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with the process and some useful tips:
Flights from Cambodia to Bhutan
There are no direct flights from Cambodia to Bhutan, so you’ll need to connect via a third country like Thailand, India, Singapore, or Bangladesh. Most travelers from Cambodia transit through Bangkok. Bhutan has two main airlines, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, both of which operate flights to Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport.
- Book a flight from Phnom Penh (PNH) or Siem Reap (REP) to your chosen connecting hub (Bangkok, Kolkata, Delhi, etc.).
- From the hub, book a connecting flight to Paro (PBH) with either Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines. Flights from Bangkok to Paro are typically 3 hours long.
Visa Requirements for Cambodian
Travel to Bhutan from Cambodia. Bhutan has a strict tourism policy where travelers (except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must arrange their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner. Independent travel is not allowed.
- Contact a licensed tour operator in Bhutan to handle your visa, accommodation, and itinerary. This is mandatory as the visa cannot be obtained without a pre-booked package.
- Visa Fee: The visa costs around $40, and it’s processed by the tour operator. You need to submit a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo for the application.
- The visa is typically processed within 72 hours. You’ll receive a confirmation letter, which you’ll need to show before boarding your flight to Bhutan. The actual visa will be stamped in your passport upon arrival at Paro Airport.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and Tour Package for Cambodia Citizen
Bhutan follows a “high-value, low-impact” tourism policy to protect its environment and culture. All tourists (except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100 per person per night.
What’s Included in the Package
- Accommodation in 3-star hotels (luxury hotels are available at additional cost).
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- A licensed Bhutanese guide and a private vehicle/driver.
- Entrance fees to monuments, museums, and attractions.
- Trekking permits and other logistical support if required.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
- Spring (March to May): Beautiful rhododendron blooms, pleasant weather.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, perfect for trekking and enjoying Bhutan’s famous festivals like Thimphu Tsechu and Paro Tsechu.
- Winter (November to February): Cold but offers stunning views of snow-covered mountains and a chance to see the black-necked cranes in Phobjikha Valley.
- Monsoon (June to August): Not ideal due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and limited visibility.
Packing Tips
- Clothing: Bhutan’s weather varies significantly based on altitude. Pack in layers. Bring warm clothes, especially if visiting during the colder months, and comfortable shoes for hiking (for the Taktsang Monastery hike).
- Rain gear: If visiting in monsoon season.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: For the high altitudes.
- Power adapters: Bhutan uses Type D, F, and G plugs, and the standard voltage is 230V.
Currency and Expenses
- The local currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR), and the INR is widely accepted.
- While major hotels and some stores in Thimphu and Paro accept credit cards, it’s advisable to carry some cash, as smaller shops and rural areas may not accept cards.
- ATMs are available in major towns, but they can be unreliable, so it’s better to bring enough cash.
Health and Safety
- Altitude: Some areas in Bhutan are located at high altitudes (such as Paro, Thimphu, and the Dochula Pass). If you’re prone to altitude sickness, take it easy for the first couple of days and stay hydrated.
- Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccines are required, but it’s recommended to be up to date with routine vaccines. If you’re coming from a yellow fever endemic country, a vaccination certificate might be required.
- Health Insurance: Make sure to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers healthcare, emergency evacuation, and high-altitude travel.
Cultural Etiquette
- Respect for the Monarchy: Bhutanese people have immense respect for their king and queen. Always speak about them with respect.
- Dress modestly: Especially when visiting temples and monasteries. It’s recommended to wear long sleeves and avoid shorts or sleeveless tops.
- Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Photography inside some religious sites may be prohibited.
Language
- Dzongkha is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Your guide will communicate with you in English. There are other language guide as well.
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