- The TIPPING -
Local customs and suggested guidelines
A gesture of appreciation, never an obligation
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Tipping is not mandatory in Bhutan, and there is no expectation that visitors must leave a gratuity.
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Whether or not you choose to give a tip should always depend on the quality of the service you received, your level of satisfaction, and your personal wishes.
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Please feel completely comfortable making the decision that feels right for you.
Who usually receives tips?
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Over the years, tipping has become a common part of tourism in Bhutan and is often seen as a meaningful way to thank those who have contributed to your experience.
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If you would like to offer a gratuity, it will be greatly appreciated by the people who accompany your journey, particularly your guide and driver.
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For trekking trips, it is also common to tip the cook, assistant cook, and mule handler who support the expedition behind the scenes.
How much tips?
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These figures are only guidelines and should never be viewed as fixed expectations. Any amount given with genuine appreciation is always warmly received.
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As a general guideline, it is common for guides and drivers in Bhutan to receive gratuities of approximately USD 10–20 per day, depending on the level of service provided and the guest’s satisfaction.
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For trekking journeys, amounts of around USD 5–10 per day per trek staff member are commonly suggested as a reference.
