Bhutan Connections: Discover the Heart of the Himalayas

Article Highlights:

• Understanding Bhutan’s healthcare landscape, including the differences between public and private facilities, is crucial for travelers facing medical issues.
• Top 10 health risks, including altitude sickness and gastrointestinal issues, can help travelers take preventive measures.
• Emergency Services: Familiarizing oneself with the capabilities and limitations of emergency services in Bhutan can prepare travelers for unexpected situations.
• Local Attitudes: Recognizing the generally positive view Bhutanese people hold towards international tourists can enhance interactions and cultural exchanges during your visit.

Traveling in Bhutan is an adventure that offers unparalleled beauty and cultural richness. Often referred to as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” Bhutan is a captivating destination that offers breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a unique approach to happiness.

Bhutanese people generally have a positive view of international tourists, including those from the United States and Canada. Bhutanese culture places a high value on hospitality and respect for visitors. The country’s tourism policy emphasizes “high value, low impact,” which means that it aims to provide quality experiences while preserving its culture and environment.

Many Bhutanese people speak some English (especially in urban areas), but language barriers can exist in rural regions. Travelers should bring a phrasebook or use translation apps to facilitate communication. Many locals are curious to learn about other cultures. They often appreciate it when tourists show respect for their traditions and customs. It’s common to receive warm greetings and smiles from locals. Friendly conversations can enhance your experience and help you navigate any challenges.

While local citizens appreciate tourism, there is also a growing awareness of the impacts of over-tourism. Travelers are encouraged to be mindful of their environmental footprint and cultural sensitivities.

Top 10 Attractions in Bhutan

1. Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang): Perched on a cliffside, this iconic monastery offers stunning views and is a must-visit for its spiritual significance and breathtaking hike.
2. Punakha Dzong: This architectural marvel is the second-largest dzong in Bhutan and is known for its stunning gardens and the confluence of two rivers.
3. Buddha Dordenma: A massive statue of Buddha in Thimphu, it is a major landmark and offers panoramic views of the valley.
4. Thimphu Weekend Market: A vibrant local market where you can experience Bhutanese culture, cuisine, and crafts.
5. Paro Valley: Famous for its beautiful landscapes, traditional architecture, and rich history, this valley is ideal for trekking and exploration.
6. Dochula Pass: Known for its 108 chortens (a receptacle for offerings) and stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, this pass is scenic and spiritual.
7. Gangtey Monastery: One of the most important monasteries in the region, it sits in the Phobjikha Valley and is known for its black-necked cranes.
8. Haa Valley: This lesser-visited valley offers serene landscapes, traditional villages, and insight into rural Bhutanese life.
9. National Memorial Chorten: A prominent religious structure in Thimphu, this chorten is a focal point for daily prayers and rituals.
10. Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park: A vast protected area that is home to diverse wildlife, trekking opportunities, and stunning natural beauty.

Common Illnesses and Injuries Encountered by Tourists

Like any international travel, staying healthy is a concern while traveling in Bhutan. If you’re a North American traveler who gets sick or injured while in the country, it’s essential to know how to navigate the healthcare system, understand common health issues, and appreciate the local culture regarding tourists.

• Altitude Sickness: Bhutan’s elevation rises from 660 feet/200 meters in the southern foothills to more than 23,000 feet/7,000 meters in the north. Travelers may experience symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness. The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to avoid moving quickly to a higher altitude. Going slowly gives your body time to adjust. If you are hiking or climbing, don’t do difficult physical activities for the first few days and avoid alcohol and sleeping pills.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Due to changes in diet, unfamiliar food, or contaminated water, travelers may suffer from diarrhea or upset stomach. “When you travel to a place that’s remote to you, there’s a lot of germs your body is not used to. Something like traveler’s diarrhea and or severe case of food poisoning can become an emergency,” said Jeff Weinstein, medical operations manager at Global Rescue.
• Cuts, Scrapes, Bites: Hiking and outdoor activities on Bhutan’s rugged terrain can lead to minor injuries that require attention. Mosquitoes and other insect bites can lead to allergic reactions or infections, including Chikungunya.
• Sunburn and Heat Exhaustion: The high altitude increases UV exposure, making travelers susceptible to sunburn. Depending on the season and activities, travelers may experience heat-related illnesses.

Emergency in Bhutan

Global Rescue members Terry and Bob Corbin met friends in Bangkok for a long-anticipated trip to Bhutan. Unfortunately, during their travels, Bob Corbin found out he contracted E. coli and the infection spread to his bladder and kidneys. He needed to get to a hospital immediately. The Corbins called Global Rescue, and our medical operations team directed them to the Bumrungrad International Hospital.

“Throughout the ordeal, the [Global Rescue] staff was professional, informative, and available to assist us through a difficult and frightening situation in a foreign country,” Terry Corbin said.

Our operations team helped the Corbins navigate the hospital, obtain needed medical records, and work with their luxury adventure travel tour advisor to reschedule flights to get them home.

“We returned home in time for Bob to recover fully so that he could walk our daughter down the aisle for her wedding,” Terry Corbin said.

Quality of Healthcare in Bhutan

By being informed about healthcare, common health issues, and local sentiments while preparing for emergencies, you can focus on enjoying your journey and creating unforgettable memories in this unique Himalayan kingdom. Whether you’re hiking to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery or exploring the vibrant streets of Thimphu, a little preparation and awareness will go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in Bhutan.

The healthcare system in Bhutan is a blend of modern and traditional practices. While significant progress has been made in recent years, healthcare quality can vary across the country.

• Public Healthcare: The government operates hospitals and clinics, particularly in urban areas like Thimphu and Paro. While the services are generally free for citizens, the facilities may lack advanced medical technology.
• Private Healthcare: Private clinics and hospitals are available, offering better resources and shorter wait times but at a higher cost. It’s advisable to choose well-reviewed private facilities for serious issues.
• Emergency Care: Emergency services are still developing. In urban areas, basic ambulatory services exist, but in rural regions, access to emergency care can be limited.
• Traditional Medicine: Bhutan has a rich tradition of herbal medicine. While beneficial for minor ailments, it should not replace conventional medical care for serious conditions.
• Pharmacies: Pharmacies are generally well-stocked with common medications, but it’s wise to carry any necessary prescription drugs.

First Responders and Emergency Services

First responders in Bhutan are primarily trained healthcare personnel who may not have the extensive training of their North American counterparts. Ambulance services are available in urban areas like Thimphu and Paro, but they are limited in rural areas. The response time can vary, so it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and know the nearest medical facilities.

While some paramedics and healthcare workers are trained in basic first aid and emergency response, the level of training and the equipment available may not be as advanced as what you would find in Canada or the United States. It’s crucial to have a basic understanding of first aid and carry a small first-aid kit while traveling.

Bhutanese people are generally kind and helpful, and in an emergency, local citizens may assist in getting you to the nearest medical facility. However, communication may be a barrier, so having a translation app on your phone could be useful.

The Global Rescue Connection

Do you have a medical question during a trip to Bhutan? Your Global Rescue membership provides services for emergency field rescue from the point of illness or injury, medical advisory and medical evacuation transport home and (for applicable memberships) virtual healthcare access and security services. As a member, contact us whether it’s a major emergency or something minor.

• Did you sustain a major injury or get sick? Head injury? Acute Mountain Sickness? Heat exhaustion? Heart attack? Contact us immediately and an on-staff expert will answer and assess your circumstances and arrange for your medical evacuation, if necessary.
• Do you have a twisted ankle or is it a fracture? Is your severely upset stomach due to food poisoning? Is that strange bug bite getting worse? It may seem like a minor injury or illness, but you can make certain by contacting Global Rescue. You will get real-time access to doctors, paramedics and nurses who will help sort out the do’s and don’ts based on your unique situation and symptoms. It’s part of your membership services.
• Did you run out of a prescription, lose your passport or hear a flash flood or landslide warning? Maybe there’s a local language barrier you need to overcome. You’re just one call away from help from travel advice experts who will keep you safe and prepared, whether identifying where you can refill your prescription, changing your destination to avoid a natural disaster threat, or finding translation services. Again, it’s all part of your membership.

Contact Global Rescue at +1 (617) 459-4200 or ops@globalrescue.com or operations@globalrescue.com but if you experience a life-threatening emergency and are within the range of an emergency service — like 911 in North America or 112 in Bhutan — contact them immediately. If you experience an emergency, after you are safe and stabilized and need to communicate with Global Rescue you must contact Global Rescue directly by phone at +1 (617) 459-4200 or by sending an e-mail to ops@globalrescue.com or operations@globalrescue.com

It’s also important to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers. In Bhutan, you can dial 112 for emergencies, including medical assistance. Be certain to carry a copy of your travel insurance and Global Rescue membership, passport, and any medical records that may be relevant to your care.