Bhutan: Overview

The land of the thunder dragon has shunned the rush towards modernity.

Bhutan, nestling in the heart of the great Himalaya, has for centuries remained aloof from the rest of the world. Since its doors were cautiously opened in 1974, visitors have been mesmerised: the environment is pristine, the scenery and architecture awesome and the people hospitable and charming.

Travel Warning: Political Tension

Southern Bhutan has experienced a number of bomb attacks this year, and there is ongoing conflict between the police and Maoist groups. Most visitors to the country experience no problems, but extra vigilance is advised.

severity: Mid-level alert

Fast Facts

Country Full Name

Kingdom of Bhutan

Population

672,425

Currency

Name: Ngultrum
Code: BTN
Symbol: Nu

Electrical Plugs

European plug with two circular metal pins British-style plug with two flat blades and one flat grounding blade South African/Indian-style plug with two circular metal pins above a large circular grounding pin
230V 50Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: Dzongkha

Time Zones

GMT/UTC +6 

Country Dialing Code

+975

Weights & Measures

Metric

Bhutan - Free Guidebook Chapter

Bhutan -  Pick & Mix Chapters

Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our Bhutan guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the Bhutan download page.

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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

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