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Accomodation
There is a wide variety of accomodation available in Bhutan from the simple farmhouse stay to the high-end resort in some districts. There are 171 hotels in the country providing 4000 beds in total, although not all of them are tourist standard.
Most tourist hotels are clean and basic and offer simple comforts and culinary fare.
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| A few of the larger hotels in Thimpu offer a fairly good standard of accomodation. |
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Currency and Credit Card |
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The Bhutanese currency is called the Ngultrum. Currency notes are available in various denominations: 1000, 500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and Coins are available in denominations of chertrum 50, 25, 10, 5. Indian currency also widely accepted.
Foreign currency is exchangeable on arrival at the airport or in banks. Banking hours are from 9am to 2 pm (in winter) and from 9 am to 3 pm (the rest of the year 0 Mondays to Fridays and 9 am to 11 am on Saturdays. It is best, however to change your currency in Paro or Thimpu as it may be more difficult in smaller towns. Banks also offer a better rate of exchange.
Most travelers’ cheques are accepted but shops generally charge a levy on credit cards. Credit cards accept only in few shops and hotels in Thimpu or Paro. However, it is recommended to ask before make payment whether they can accept or not?
In general cash is always more convenient, particularly in the districts outside Thimpu, Paro and Phuentsholing town |
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Telephone and Communications |
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The country's digital network has opened up communications with the world. IDD service widely available and connections are generally clear. You can bring your GSM900 mobile phone and get a local SIM card for the duration of your stay.
Internet access is available, every town has a local internet cafe. The postal service also available in each town. |
Safety |
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Bhutan is generally a safe place and the streets are safe to walk around but visitors may find no reason to wander out late at night since the towns close early and packs of stray dogs tend to take over the streets. But it is not recommended to walk alone when trekking. You may get lost or encounter wild animals like the Himalayan bear in certain seasons.
The high alitude may effect some visitors and the best remedy is to rest for a few hours and drink plenty of water. Trekkers who suffer from acute altitude sickness should come down to lower altitude immediately. People with high blood pressure should remember to bring their medication. |
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Time Difference |
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Bhutan has one time zone for the entire country. It is six hours ahead of GMT. Bhutan is 30 minutes head of Indian standard time and 15 ahead of Nepal standard time. |
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