If you are visiting Bhutan you will know that you are one of the fortunate few. We’ve put together important information that will come in handy as you begin planning your trip.
Packing list for trekking
In preparation for your trip we recommend that you review the suggested packing list which includes seasonal options:
- Boots - worn in, pre-trip
- Teva or similar sandals
- 2 pairs of inner sox
- 4 pairs of thick socks
- Lightweight long skirts and trousers
- Warm trousers
- Waterproof jackets and trousers
- 2 lightweight long sleeved shirts (quick dry)
- 2 short sleeved T-shirts (quick dry)
- 1 set of thermal underwear
- Large headscarf
- Fleece jacket
- Fleece vest or gilet
- Very lightweight windproof jacket
- Fleece gloves and waterproof over gloves
- Broad-brimmed sun hat
- Bathing suit (for hotel and hot springs)
- Sleeping bag (at least 3 season)
- Liner
- Thermarest sleeping mat
- Pillow case of a size to take your fleece (useful as a substitute pillow)
- Washing kit
- Towel
- Personal hygiene / medical kit (see suggested medical kit content list)
- Sp 25UVA and UVB suncream
- Platypus/camel back water bottle/s – at least 2 litres (4 pints) capacity
- Head torch and spare batteries
- Sunglasses
- Spare prescription glasses
- Pocket knife
- Binoculars
- Camera (and back-up disposable camera)
- Notebook and pen wallet
- 35 minimum and preferably 45 litre capacity day sack
- Books and guide books (see suggested reading list)
- Passport
- Tickets
- Insurance certificate
- Money in U.S. dollars
- List of emergency contacts
- Trek details
- Repair kit for equipment
- Kit bag
- Ziplock plastic bags (handy for keeping items dry)
- Trekking poles
- A set of comfortable clothes which can be left in a spare bag at the hotel for return after the trek
Money & Currency Exchange
Bhutan’s unit of currency is the Ngultrum (Nu.) 1Nu. = 100 Cheltrum. The Ngultrum is at parity with the Indian Rupee.
Visa and American Express credit cards are accepted only at a few places. Visitors are advised to carry travellers’ cheques (preferably American Express) with some cash in US Dollars.