What to Wear
How to dress for Bhutan's dzongs, temples and festivals, and why the national dress still matters.
Visiting dzongs and temples
Dzongs house both government offices and monasteries, and temples are active places of worship. When you visit, wear:
- Long sleeves: no sleeveless tops or T-shirts that show the shoulders
- Long trousers, or skirts below the knee
- Clean, tidy clothes rather than sportswear
Remove hats inside dzongs and temples, and take off your shoes where asked. Photography is not allowed inside temples.
Festivals
Festival days are occasions to dress well. Bhutanese families wear their finest gho and kira, and visitors should dress smartly and modestly too.
The national dress
Bhutanese men wear the gho, a knee-length robe tied with a belt, and women wear the kira, an ankle-length dress with a short jacket. They are worn to work, school and official places. Visitors are welcome to try them; your guide can help you find one.
Everyday clothing
Away from religious sites, dress is relaxed. Comfortable layers and good walking shoes are the most practical choice.