Before travelling to Bhutan, or indeed any destination,
it is good practise to check the travel advice pages of your own government’s
website for up to the minute advice on travel and especially for specific
threats to your safety based on your nationality, gender, race, religion or
sexual persuasion.
Other than the general threat of global terrorism, there
are no additional terrorist threats presently existing in Bhutan.
Bhutan is prone to occasional earthquakes some of which
have caused damage and resulted in a small number of deaths. In times of heavy
rain, floods and landslides are a more common threat.
Tourist crime, though increasing, is relatively uncommon
in Bhutan, with only very occasional instances of opportunistic snatching of
portable technology, handbags and luggage, purses, wallets and passports.
Possession, use and trafficking of illegal drugs can lead
to a long custodial sentence and large fines.
Homosexuality remains illegal in Bhutan, and subject to a
period of incarceration for up to a year, though prosecutions are extremely
rare. Nevertheless it is recommended to be very discreet and respectful of
local traditional views for your own security.
The buying and selling of cigarettes and tobacco is
illegal in Bhutan. The importation of tobacco is restricted to 200 cigarettes
and subject to a duty of 200%. If you carry cigarettes into the country, it is
most important to keep your customs receipt as, if you cannot produce the
documentation, it is possible you could be charged with tobacco smuggling, an
offence carrying three years imprisonment.
Smoking is forbidden inside public spaces, including
hotels, bars and restaurants.