Financial institutions in Bhutan have been greatly enhanced and today we have a number of banks that caters to the needs of the people. Some of the banks that you can avail of services and facilities while in Bhutan are the Bank of Bhutan Limited, the Bhutan National Bank, the Druk PNB, Bhutan Development Bank Limited, and the Tashi bank. Many of these banks provide you with SMS and internet banking facilities. There are also ATM facilities that you can avail of and ATMS are located in a number of places where you can withdraw your money especially in Thimphu and in the border town of Phuentsholing. Traveler's cheque can be easily withdrawn and exchanged into local currency. However, as you travel into the interior, ATM and internet facilities are almost non-existent and we suggest that you do your banking facilities while in Thimphu.

Bhutan's currency is the Ngultrum (Nu) that is at par with the Indian Rupee. It is however recommended that you carry travelers' cheque or cash, preferably American Express and US dollar instead, as the ATM facilities for foreign currency is limited to jus few towns including the capital city Thimphu. Visa and Amrican Express credit card are also widely accepted.

The Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan has initiated a travel and medical plan solely for the visitors. Hence it is important that you get detailed information about the insurance scheme from your travel agents here in Bhutan. You may also visit the website at www.ricb.com.bt

Bhutan experiences a great variation in its climate. Summers are warm with average daily temperature ranging from 20-25 Celsius, while winters are cold. In winters temperatures are usually below 15 Celsius. So bring with a copule of warm clothes and comfortable shoes to go with the weather, the terrian and the program. You might want to consider 'what to wear' for hikes, trekking and sightseeing, as well as dinners, appointments and functions that we have for you. Others that you could consider bringing with you would b a pair of sunglasses, sun screen lotion and a hat; antiseptic cream, anti-histanmine cream, anti-diarrhoea pills, altitude and car sickness medicine; insect repellent, flash light (w/spare batteries) umbrella, camera, films and accessories (including spare camera batteries) etc

Bhutanese speak a variety of languages but Dzongkha is the national language and one of the most widely spoken language. English is also a medium of communication and most Bhutanese speak English. Communicationg in English especially with the people in urban areas and the towns will enhance your knowledge on Bhutan.

We expect visitors to dress modestly and respectfully especially if you are planning a visit to the monastries, Dzongs and other religious institutions. As a mark of respect, be kind enough to remove your hats, caps etc. as you enter religious and administrative premises, institutions and in any other places that you come across with the national flag being raised.

We have a duty to protect Bhutan from Drugs and Tobacco Products. To do this we need your help and cooperation. If we stop you and ask you about your baggage please cooperate.

Please do not carry tobacco goods that are over the limits.

Over the years, many quality hotels have come up in Bhutan. Most hotels in Bhutan meet the recent standardization policy, most tourists accomodate in a 5 star or a 3 star hotel. THe hotels are well maintained and have all basic amenities such as geysers and shower rooms and are properly maintained. Visitors can be assured of their warmth and comfort of the hhotels, and the ambience and the hospitality offered by the hotels are incredible. The 5 star hotels are mostly located in Thimphu and Paro; towns like Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang also have a variety of hotels that are comfortable. Away from town, you may find it tempting to camp outside in the forest or make a night halt at the purpose-built-in cabins sprinked along some main trekking routes.

The following articles are exempt from duty:

1. Personal effects and articles for day to day use by the visitors
2. 1 litre of alcohol (spirits or wine)
3. 200 cigarettes, on payment of import duty of 200%
4. Instruments, apparatus or appliances for professional use
5. Photographic equipment, video cameras and other electronic goods for personal use.

You have to complete the passenger declaration form on your arrival before checking out. THe articles mentioned under (4) & (5) must be declared on declaration form. If any such items are disposed of in Bhutan by sale or gift, tehy are liable for customs duty.

On departure, visitors are required to surrender their forms to the customs authorities.

Import/export restrictions of the following good is strictly prohibited:

1. Arms, ammunitions and explosives
2. All narcotics and drugs except medically prescribed drugs
3. Wildlife products, especially those of endangered species
4. Antiques

Imports of plants, soil etc. are subject to quarantine regulations. These items must be cleared on arrival. Visitors are advised to be cautious in purchasing old and used items, especially of religious or cultural significance, as such items may not be exported without a clearance certificate.