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Bhutan is a landlocked country in the eastern Himalayas, between China (Tibet) in the north and India in the south. Much of the land is steep mountains, deep river valleys and forest. Large areas are protected, and the country has a strong focus on conservation.

Bhutan was unified in 1907 under its first king, and it became a constitutional monarchy with elected government in 2008. Buddhism shapes daily life, and visitors see dzongs (fortress monasteries), prayer flags and festivals called tshechus. Traditional dress and handwoven textiles are still widely worn. The main places visitors go to are Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Bumthang.

Most visitors need a visa, which is arranged before arrival, usually through the official online system. Citizens of India can enter without a visa, using a valid passport or another accepted identity document. Your passport should be valid for several months beyond your planned stay. Apply only on the official government website.

Most visitors must pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee, and visitors must travel with a licensed local operator. Fees and rules change, so check the official tourism website. Be careful of look-alike visa websites that charge extra fees.

Bhutan has a range of climates, from subtropical valleys in the south to alpine areas in the north. Winters are cold and dry, and summers are warm and wet with heavy monsoon rain.

• March – MaySpring is one of the best times to visit, with clear skies, flowering rhododendrons and major festivals.
• October – NovemberAutumn has clear views of the mountains and comfortable temperatures, so it is also very popular.
• June – SeptemberThis is the monsoon season, with heavy rain and landslide risk on some roads, so travel is harder.

Bhutanese food is often hot and spicy, with chillies used in many dishes. Vegetarian options are common, and many meals are based on rice, vegetables and cheese. You can ask for less chilli if you prefer milder food.

• Ema datshiThe national dish, a stew of chillies and local cheese, often served with red rice.
• Red riceA nutty rice grown in the high valleys and served with most meals.
• MomosSteamed or fried dumplings filled with cheese, vegetables or meat.
• Jasha maruSpicy minced chicken cooked with onion, chilli and tomato.
• SujaSalted butter tea made with yak butter, traditionally served hot.
• AraA local rice drink, sometimes offered at homes and festivals.

Many festivals follow the lunar calendar, so their dates change each year. Check the official tourism website for exact dates before you plan your trip.

• February – MarchLosar — The Bhutanese New Year, with family gatherings, prayers and special meals.
• February – MarchPunakha Dromche — A festival at the old winter capital with masked dances and blessings.
• March – AprilParo Tshechu — A famous religious festival with masked dances held in the dzong courtyard.
• September – OctoberThimphu Tshechu — The capital's largest festival, with dances, music and a large crowd.
• October – NovemberJambay Lhakhang Drup — A festival at an ancient temple in Bumthang with fire ceremonies and dances.
• NovemberGangtey Black-Necked Crane Festival — A nature and culture event in the Phobjikha Valley, home of the rare cranes.

• Passport & visaCheck your passport validity and apply for your visa early. Keep copies of your documents with you.
• MoneyThe ngultrum is the local currency, and Indian rupees are widely accepted. Cash is useful outside the main towns, and card payment is limited.
• Phone & internetMobile coverage is good in towns and main roads. Buy a local SIM card on arrival, with your passport.
• HealthBring any medicines you need and travel insurance that covers high altitude. Drink bottled or boiled water.
• ClothesBring warm layers for cold mornings and evenings, and a rain jacket for the monsoon. Modest clothing is expected at temples and dzongs.
• Customs & etiquetteRemove hats and shoes when entering temples and dzongs, and do not point your feet at religious objects. Ask before taking photos of people.
• Getting aroundRoads are winding and mountainous, so journeys take longer than the distance suggests. Plan your travel times with care.
• Safety or permitsBhutan is generally safe. Some areas need special permits, and rules on drones and filming may apply, so check with official sources.

For the latest rules and fees, always check these official websites. They open in a new tab.