Bhutan Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Bhutan.
Healthcare System
Bhutan provides free basic healthcare to its citizens through a network of hospitals and Basic Health Units (BHUs). For tourists, healthcare services are available but limited, especially outside Thimphu and Paro. The country has made significant progress in healthcare delivery, but facilities remain basic by Western standards, and specialized treatments are not available.
Hospitals
Main hospitals include Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu, Paro Hospital, and regional hospitals in Punakha, Bumthang, and other dzongkhags. These facilities can handle basic medical issues, minor injuries, and stabilize patients for evacuation. Tourists should not expect Western-standard care and should be prepared for basic conditions, limited English-speaking staff outside Thimphu, and potential medication shortages.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (often called medical stores) are available in Thimphu, Paro, and other major towns, but stock is limited. Common medications like pain relievers, antibiotics, and basic first aid supplies are usually available, but bring prescription medications from home. Bring sufficient supplies of any regular medications as specific brands may not be available. Altitude sickness medication (Diamox/acetazolamide) can be found in Thimphu pharmacies.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is absolutely essential and strongly recommended by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. Medical evacuation to Thailand or India can cost USD $50,000-100,000 or more. Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking if you plan to trek above 3,000 meters. Keep all receipts for any medical treatment received for insurance claims.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a comprehensive first aid kit including altitude sickness medication, antibiotics, anti-diarrheal medication, and any prescription drugs you need
- Carry copies of prescriptions and medical records, especially if you have pre-existing conditions
- Discuss altitude acclimatization plans with your tour operator before arrival, especially if visiting areas above 3,000 meters
- Keep your tour guide informed of any health issues immediately, as they can coordinate medical assistance
- Download offline medical information and know the location of the nearest hospital to your itinerary
- Consider bringing oral rehydration salts and water purification tablets for remote areas
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the most common health risk for visitors to Bhutan. Many popular destinations including Paro (2,250m), Thimphu (2,320m), and Punakha (1,200m) are at significant altitude. Trekking routes and mountain passes can exceed 4,000-5,000 meters. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.
Bhutan's mountainous roads are narrow, winding, and often unpaved with steep drop-offs and no guardrails. Landslides, fog, and challenging driving conditions pose risks. Roads can be treacherous during monsoon season (June-August) and winter months.
Bhutan has exceptionally low crime rates, and theft is rare. However, opportunistic theft can occur in crowded areas, markets, and during festivals. Items left unattended may occasionally go missing.
Stray dogs are common in Bhutanese towns and cities, particularly Thimphu and Paro. While most are docile, some can be aggressive, especially at night or when in packs. Rabies is present in Bhutan's dog population.
Trekking in Bhutan involves challenging terrain, high altitude, unpredictable weather, and remote locations far from medical help. Risks include falls, altitude sickness, hypothermia, and getting lost.
Traveler's diarrhea and stomach upsets can occur from unfamiliar cuisine, spicy food, or contaminated water. Tap water is not safe to drink in most areas. Bhutanese cuisine is very spicy, which can cause digestive issues for unaccustomed travelers.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some individuals or companies claim to offer cheaper tours or bypass the official tourism system. These are illegal and can leave you stranded without proper accommodation, permits, or support. You may also face legal issues for working with unregistered operators.
Some shops sell mass-produced items from Nepal, India, or China as authentic Bhutanese handicrafts at inflated prices. These items lack the quality and cultural authenticity of genuine Bhutanese products.
Since you're traveling on a pre-paid tour package, this is rare, but independent travelers (Indian, Bangladeshi, Maldivian nationals who don't require tour packages) may occasionally be overcharged for taxis, additional services, or items in non-tourist areas.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Register with your embassy upon arrival if staying for an extended period
- Keep copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance separately from originals
- Share your itinerary with family or friends at home
- Keep your tour guide's contact information readily accessible
- Carry a whistle and flashlight when trekking or walking at night
- Learn basic Dzongkha phrases for emergencies: 'Rogay' (help), 'Nganpay' (hospital)
Cultural Respect and Safety
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting dzongs and monasteries; cover shoulders and legs
- Remove shoes before entering temples and religious buildings
- Ask permission before photographing people, monks, or religious ceremonies
- Walk clockwise around religious monuments and stupas
- Do not point your feet at Buddha statues or religious objects
- Avoid public displays of affection, which are culturally inappropriate
- Never touch someone's head, which is considered sacred in Buddhist culture
- Respect photography restrictions in religious sites; some areas prohibit photos entirely
Altitude Safety
- Spend your first 24-48 hours in Bhutan at lower elevations if possible before ascending higher
- Drink 3-4 liters of water daily at altitude
- Avoid alcohol, sleeping pills, and heavy meals during the first few days
- Climb high, sleep low: if trekking, don't sleep more than 300-500m higher than the previous night
- Recognize AMS symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping
- Descend immediately if symptoms worsen or if you develop severe symptoms like confusion, difficulty walking, or shortness of breath at rest
- Consider consulting a doctor about Diamox (acetazolamide) before your trip
Road Safety
- Always wear seatbelts, even in the back seat
- Avoid distracting the driver on mountain roads
- Take motion sickness medication before long drives if prone to car sickness
- Request breaks during long journeys for rest and fresh air
- Keep windows closed on dusty roads to avoid respiratory irritation
- Don't be alarmed by narrow roads and steep drops; drivers are experienced with these conditions
Food and Water Safety
- Drink only bottled water (widely available) or water that has been boiled for at least one minute
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it's made from purified water
- Eat only thoroughly cooked food served hot
- Avoid raw vegetables and salads unless at high-end hotels
- Peel fruits yourself rather than eating pre-cut fruit
- Be cautious with dairy products, especially unpasteurized cheese and butter
- Carry hand sanitizer and use it before eating
- If trying ema datshi (chili and cheese) or other spicy dishes, start with small portions
Trekking Safety
- Never trek alone; always use licensed guides and support staff
- Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell
- Pack layers for rapidly changing weather conditions
- Bring a headlamp with extra batteries
- Carry high-energy snacks and water purification tablets
- Know your limits and don't push beyond your fitness level
- Stay on marked trails and follow your guide's route
- Camp only at designated sites
- Protect against leeches during monsoon season with salt, insect repellent, or leech socks
Wildlife Safety
- Do not approach or feed wild animals including monkeys, dogs, and yaks
- Maintain distance from yaks and dzos (yak-cattle hybrid) on trails; they can be unpredictable
- Store food securely when camping to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife
- Be aware that Bhutan has Himalayan black bears, though attacks are rare
- If you encounter a bear, back away slowly without running; make yourself appear large
- Watch for leeches on trails during and after monsoon season
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Bhutan is exceptionally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The Buddhist culture emphasizes respect and non-violence, and women generally enjoy high social status in Bhutanese society. Harassment is extremely rare, and women can travel freely without significant concerns. Since all tourists (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) must travel with registered tour operators, you'll have built-in support and guidance. Local women are often entrepreneurs and hold positions of authority, and you'll see them in all sectors of society.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; cover shoulders and wear pants or long skirts below the knee
- While Bhutan is very safe, use common sense: avoid walking alone late at night in unlit areas due to stray dogs rather than crime
- Solo female travelers on package tours will have a dedicated guide and driver, providing both safety and cultural insights
- Women traveling during menstruation should note that some temples and sacred sites have traditional restrictions; ask your guide for guidance
- Bhutanese people are generally respectful and curious rather than intrusive; questions about your marital status or family are cultural norms, not harassment
- Photography restrictions apply equally to all visitors; always ask permission before photographing people
- Tampons and pads are available in Thimphu and Paro but selection is limited; bring adequate supplies
- Female guides are available upon request when booking your tour
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality was decriminalized in Bhutan in 2021, marking significant progress. Same-sex sexual activity between consenting adults is now legal. However, there are no specific anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, and same-sex marriage is not recognized.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection, as this applies to all couples (heterosexual or same-sex) in Bhutanese culture
- When booking accommodations through your tour operator, request double beds if needed, though this may not always be available
- Be aware that discussing LGBTQ+ topics openly may make some Bhutanese uncomfortable due to cultural conservatism rather than hostility
- Thimphu and Paro are more cosmopolitan and likely to be more accepting than rural areas
- There are no LGBTQ+-specific venues, organizations, or Pride events in Bhutan
- Focus on Bhutan's natural beauty, culture, and hospitality rather than expecting LGBTQ+-specific experiences
- Your tour guide and operator should be professional and respectful regardless of sexual orientation
- Consider connecting with LGBTQ+ travel groups or specialized tour operators who have experience arranging trips to conservative destinations
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is absolutely critical for visiting Bhutan and should be considered non-negotiable. Bhutan's remote location, high altitude, limited medical facilities, and challenging terrain make medical evacuation a real possibility. A medical emergency requiring evacuation to Thailand, India, or Singapore can cost USD $50,000-100,000 or more. The country's healthcare system, while improving, cannot handle serious medical emergencies or complex procedures. Additionally, weather-related delays, flight cancellations, and trek interruptions are common, making trip interruption coverage valuable. The Tourism Council of Bhutan strongly recommends comprehensive insurance for all visitors.
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