Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s and Donts while in Bhutan!

The Monarchy

Bhutanese people have a deep, traditional reverence for the Royal Family. A visitor should be careful to show respect for the King, and other members of the Royal Family.

Religion

Visitors should avoid wearing revealing clothes at all times. Dress neatly/decently especially when visiting Temples and Dzongs. Shoes and hats must be removed before entering a temple. Always move in a clockwise direction or do not speak loudly inside the temples. When visiting temples it is customary to leave an offering of Nu 10 or more on the altar. The monk/caretaker will then offer you holy water which you can accept and make a gesture that you are sipping it but spread it on your head. All statues and paintings, large or small, ruined or not, are regarded as a sacred. Never climb onto one to take a photograph or do anything, which might indicate a lack of respect or clarify with your guide. Pointing with your finger at statues, paintings or people is considered rude. If you must, point with your right arm, your palm open and facing upwards and your thumb folded inside.

Photography

No photography is allowed inside temples and Dzong.

People are happy to pose for pictures but it’s always best you ask them first.

Social Norms

Public displays of affection between men and women are not acceptable.