Payment Advisory for Bhutan Travellers

Using cards and cash in Bhutan: what to check before you travel. A few simple steps with your bank will make sure your payments work smoothly during your trip.

Before you travel

Enable your cards for international use. Check with your bank or banking app that your debit and credit cards can be used abroad, including in Bhutan.
Tell your bank your travel dates. Let them know you will be in Bhutan, so your payments are not blocked as unusual activity.
Check which card networks work. Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, JCB and American Express are supported in Bhutan. The Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan lists the accepted networks.
Check your limits. Know your card’s daily spending and ATM withdrawal limits. ATMs in Bhutan show the limit per transaction on screen.

If a payment is declined

Ask the shop, hotel or your guide for help first. If the problem continues, contact the nearest bank branch. Carrying some cash in US dollars or ngultrum is always a good back-up.

Important for Indian travellers

Cards issued in India but denominated in US dollars do not work in Bhutan, because of the Reserve Bank of India’s FEMA rules. Please carry cards that are valid for India, Bhutan and Nepal. Indian rupees (except some large notes) are also widely accepted, as the ngultrum is pegged 1:1 to the rupee.

Paying for your Drukyul Holidays tour

Your tour is paid in US dollars before arrival, by Wise or international bank wire transfer. We send our bank details with your confirmed itinerary. For your safety, only use bank details sent to you directly by Drukyul Holidays. See our trip cost page and FAQ, or send a booking request.

Questions? WhatsApp us on +975 17909870 or email drukyulholidays@gmail.com.