Last checked: October 2026
Where you stay in Bhutan is shaped by the rules as much as by taste. Ireland says visitors must use the Department of Tourism’s approved list of tourism services and accommodation, and most visitors arrange rooms through a licensed tour operator as part of a package. This guide explains the best bases by region and what to ask before you book. We did not find official hotel price data, so we do not quote room rates, and you should compare current prices on the partner sites below.
How Accommodation Works
- Approved providers: Ireland says visitors must use approved accommodation and tourism services.
- Package booking: Bhutan.travel says a tour operator or hotel can apply for your visa, which is one reason many travellers book through them.
- Nightly fee: The Sustainable Development Fee is charged for each night, so every extra night adds to the cost. See the Bhutan visa guide.
- Insurance: Ireland says full travel insurance is mandatory for the whole visit.
Paro
Paro is the most practical first and last base because Paro International Airport is the main gateway. Staying here at the start lets you adjust to the altitude before the Tiger’s Nest hike, and staying here at the end reduces the risk of missing a flight. Little Bhutan puts Paro and Thimphu nights at around 0°C in February and 3°C in November, so check that your room has heating in the cooler months.
Thimphu
Thimphu is the capital and largest city. It suits visitors who want the widest choice of restaurants and who may need medical care, because the UK says Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu is the only facility offering surgery and emergency treatment. The drive from Paro to Thimphu is about one hour to an hour and a half, according to Druk Asia. See getting around Bhutan for other drive times.
Punakha
Punakha is a good base for Punakha Dzong and a common overnight stop between Thimphu and central Bhutan. Little Bhutan says Punakha runs about 6 to 7°C warmer than Thimphu and Paro all year, which makes it more comfortable in winter and warmer in summer.
Haa and Bumthang
Haa and Bumthang are quieter regions with their own festivals, listed by Little Bhutan as the Haa Spring Festival in April and the Jakar Tshechu in October. Choose them if you have a week or more and want to see less-visited valleys. Book early for festival dates, because Little Bhutan advises planning 3 to 6 months ahead for October.
Gelephu
Gelephu is a southern gateway with an airport that began international services in December 2025, according to Druk Asia. It suits itineraries focused on southern Bhutan rather than a first trip to the western valleys.
What to Ask Before Booking
- Is the property on the Department of Tourism’s approved list?
- Is the SDF included in the price, or charged separately?
- Are meals, transport and a guide included?
- What is the cancellation policy if your flight is delayed by weather at Paro?
- Is there heating in winter, and hot water throughout the stay?
- Does the price change for festival dates?
Payment Notes
Ireland says Bhutan has no ATMs and does not accept credit cards. This may be outdated, so ask your operator and the property how to pay for extras, and bring some cash. The UK says you can bring up to 30,000 ngultrum into the country and must declare foreign currency of US$10,000 or more.
Hotel Deals
Compare current offers below. Always confirm the final price, taxes and cancellation terms on the partner site.
See also our hotel deals page for current offers.
Official Safety Advice
The US State Department lists Bhutan at Level 1, Exercise Normal Precautions (updated 4 September 2026). Rural medical care is limited, and the country is vulnerable to earthquakes, so ask where your accommodation’s emergency exits and assembly points are. See the Bhutan travel guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book any hotel in Bhutan?
Ireland says visitors must use the Department of Tourism’s approved list of accommodation, so check with your operator before you pay.
Where should I stay on my first night?
Paro is the practical choice because it is next to the airport, and it lets you adjust to the altitude.
Is the SDF part of the room price?
Not necessarily. Ask your operator or hotel whether it is included or charged separately.
Do I need to book far ahead?
For October and late March, yes. Little Bhutan suggests 3 to 6 months. For May, November and winter, 1 to 2 months.
Is Thimphu or Paro better for a short trip?
Paro is easier for arrival and departure, and Thimphu has more city amenities. A three-night trip often uses both. See the Bhutan itineraries.
