Bhutan Country Report

The political situation is stable, and there is no particular threat of armed conflict. Crime rates are generally low, although tourists and foreign nationals may be affected by petty and opportunistic theft. Criminal gangs operating in the border areas have been involved in banditry, and crime rates tend to increase in border towns. Protest activity is rare and typically peaceful. There is no particular threat from terrorism. Highways in urban centers are in decent condition, although secondary roads can be in poor condition. Local driving habits can be erratic. Violent storms bring frequent landslides and rock falls during the rainy season from June to September. Flooding occurs in the south. Travelers' diarrhea is the most common ailment among travelers. Malaria is present in some areas in the south. Altitude sickness can occur in areas of higher elevation. Medical services are generally basic. Serious conditions will likely require evacuation to a nearby country with state-of-the-art facilities.

The threat of conflict is low, although Assamese separatists operate along the border with India, causing tensions between the two countries. There is relatively little crime in Bhutan, but opportunistic crime can affect tourists. Violent crime and armed robberies are rare. Overall, the terrorist threat is low; various Indian separatist and Nepal-based militant groups exist but have limited capabilities. Protests occur rarely and are typically peaceful.

There are no particular concerns over air travel.

Roads in urban centers are typically well-maintained, although those in rural areas are in poor condition. Power outages occur occasionally and can affect large swathes of the country.

Most cyber-attacks are unsophisticated; however, concern over the issue is growing.

Various climate zones exist in Bhutan depending on elevation, from sub-tropical in the south to temperate in the center and a polar-type climate in the Himalayas. There are no major manmade hazards. Most quakes are moderate in strength, although poor infrastructure makes the country more vulnerable to damage in the event of a high-magnitude event. Violent storms bring frequent landslides and rock falls during the monsoon season (June-September), with heavy rainfall and possible flooding most likely in southern lowland regions.

Bhutan has several disease threats, including malaria, particularly in the south. Medical services are generally essential, and severe conditions will likely require evacuation to a nearby country with state-of-the-art facilities. Pharmacies are usually well-stocked in urban centers but may be less available in rural areas. Tap water is safe to drink.

Corruption is not a significant issue. The judicial system is generally fair and independent. Police suffer from low-level corruption but are generally responsive to the needs of foreign travelers. The political situation is stable. Bhutan currently faces no international sanctions.