Capital city in Thimphu District, Bhutan
Healthcare in Thimphu: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Thimphu
Adequate for minor problems; serious cases are flown to India or Bangkok. Travel insurance with evacuation cover is strongly advised.
Hospitals for foreigners in Thimphu
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital | National hospital; best in Bhutan, but basic by regional standards |
| Thimphu private clinics | Basic care for minor problems |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: Nu.300–1,000 ($3.1–10.4) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Bhutan: Thimphu's national referral hospital handles most problems; district hospitals are basic. Serious cases are evacuated to India or Bangkok, so travel insurance is strongly advised.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies in Thimphu and Paro; limited stock elsewhere. Bring your own prescription medicines.
- Health spending: US$162 per person a year (2023); 0.6 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 113 · Ambulance 112 · Fire 110 · Tourist police 2300.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Bhutan, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Thimphu for foreigners?
Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital: National hospital; best in Bhutan, but basic by regional standards
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Thimphu?
About Nu.300–1,000 ($3.1–10.4) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Bhutan?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Bhutan expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Thimphu
Going to Thimphu solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Thimphu meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Bhutan
- Tourism Council of Bhutan
- Bhutan Travel (visa and fee)
- Druk Ride
- Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.