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South Asia

🇧🇹 Vaccines for Bhutan

Entry requirements & recommendations for travel to Bhutan

Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended. Malaria risk exists in some southern lowland areas but most tourist destinations are at altitude and lower risk. Japanese Encephalitis worth discussing for rural lowland travel. Yellow Fever required if arriving from endemic countries.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information only — not personal medical advice. Requirements and risks change. Always consult a qualified travel health clinic before departure.
Required for entry
Yellow Fever
Certificate required if arriving from endemic country.
💉 1 dose (lifetime)
📅 Book at least 3 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: 10 days after vaccination. Certificate valid for life.
🛡 Protects for: Lifetime (single dose).
Required for entry
Recommended by WHO & CDC
Hepatitis A
Food and water contamination risk.
💉 2 doses
📅 Book at least 4 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: 2 weeks after 1st dose. Full protection after 2nd dose (6–12 months later).
🛡 Protects for: 1st dose ~1 yr. 2nd dose: lifetime.
Recommended
Typhoid
Contaminated food and water.
💉 1 dose
📅 Book at least 3 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: 2 weeks after vaccination.
🛡 Protects for: 3–5 years. Booster recommended if re-exposure.
Recommended
Japanese Encephalitis
Risk in southern border areas.
💉 2 doses
📅 Book at least 7 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: After 2nd dose (28 days after the 1st).
🛡 Protects for: Booster after 1 year if ongoing exposure.
Recommended
Rabies
Animal bites risk.
💉 3 doses
📅 Book at least 5 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: After 3rd dose. 2nd dose 7 days after 1st, 3rd dose 21 days after 1st.
🛡 Protects for: Pre-exposure reduces post-bite treatment needed. Boosters based on blood tests.
Recommended
Disease risks
  • ⚠Malaria (southern border districts only — not in Thimphu or higher altitudes)
  • ⚠Japanese Encephalitis (south)
Approximate cost per person
Required vaccines
~€74
(~$81)
per person · full courses
Yellow Fever (1 dose)€74 ($81)
Recommended vaccines
~€786
(~$856)
per person · full courses
Hepatitis A (2 doses)€140 ($152)
Typhoid (1 dose)€45 ($49)
Japanese Encephalitis (2 doses)€264 ($288)
Rabies (3 doses)€273 ($297)
Malaria tablets (4 weeks) (1 dose)€64 ($70)

💡 Approximate figures based on private European travel clinic rates (April 2026). Actual costs vary by clinic and country. Not all recommended vaccines will apply to every trip — discuss your specific itinerary with a travel health clinic.

Often combined with
IndiaNepalSri LankaBangladesh
When to book

Book 4–6 weeks before travel. Yellow Fever timing if arriving from endemic countries. Hepatitis A and Typhoid have short lead times.

Common questions
Do I need vaccines for Bhutan?
Yellow Fever proof required if arriving from endemic countries. Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended. Most tourist destinations in Bhutan are at altitude with lower malaria risk.
Is there malaria in Bhutan?
Malaria risk exists in some southern lowland areas near the Indian border. Most tourist destinations in Bhutan are at altitude and lower risk.
Is tap water safe in Bhutan?
Tap water is not reliably safe. Use bottled water throughout.
What is healthcare like in Bhutan?
Medical facilities in Bhutan are limited. Carry comprehensive travel insurance. Serious medical issues require evacuation to India or Bangkok.

Data based on WHO International Travel and Health and CDC Yellow Book 2026. Last verified: April 2026. Always verify current requirements with a travel health clinic before departure.