Bhutan Info
Joined: 15 Jan 2007 Posts: 12
Home Country: bhutan
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Posted: Tue Jan 16, 2007 2:13 pm Post subject: SHOPPING IN BHUTAN |
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SHOPPING IN BHUTAN
Markets are held regularly, generally on Saturday and Sunday, and are a rich source of local clothing and jewelry, as well as foodstuffs. The handicraft emporium on the main street in the capital is open daily except Sunday and offers a magnificent assortment of handwoven and handcrafted goods. The Motithang Hotel in Thimphu has a souvenir shop. Silversmiths and goldsmiths in the Thimphu Valley are able to make handcrafted articles to order.
Shopping Hours
Mon-Sun 0900-2000 (closed Tue).
Banking Hours
Mon-Fri 1000-1300. Some smaller branches may be open Saturday or Sunday for currency exchange.
Currency
1 Ngultrum (BTN) = 100 chetrum (Ch). The Ngultrum is pegged to the Indian Rupee (which is also acccepted as legal tender). Notes are in denominations of BTN500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of BTN1, and 100, 50, 25, 10 and 5 chetrum. US Dollars are also widely accepted throughout the kingdom.
Currency exchange
Leading foreign currencies are accepted but traveller's cheques are preferred and receive a better exchange rate. Major hotels in Thimphu and Phuentsholing, and the Olathang Hotel in Paro, will also exchange foreign currency.
Credit & debit cards
American Express and Diners Club have very limited acceptability. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Traveller's cheques
These can be exchanged in any branch of the Bank of Bhutan or at all BTCL hotels. Travelers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars.
Currency restrictions
None, but foreign currency must be declared on arrival. |
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