Duty Free Shop — Local services in Thimphu District

Information regarding Gold Purchase at Bhutan:

We came to know that Gold is available in Bhutan without tax. However we could not buy because it was out of stock at Thimphu duty free shop.

Gold coins are available without tax only in government outlets, one each in Phuentsholing and Thimphu. They remain closed on weekly holidays and public holidays. We were told that weekly holidays at Phuentsholing are on Saturday + Sunday and at Thimpu on Tuesday. It should be ascertained in advance. Thimphu shop opens at 10 a.m. Tourists were waiting since 9.00 a.m. Shop closes at 5 p.m. Only Dollar currency is accepted. Dollars Notes with any marks, writings or seals on them, torn and folded at corners, are rejected. Only clean notes are accepted there. Xerox copy of Passport, Tourist permit, and proof of staying in a hotel approved by Government of Bhutan are required. Gold is sold only if the stock is available. Fresh stock gets cleared within a week it seems. They also sell Liquor and perfumes in these outlets. There is a limit on purchase of gold per person. To be ascertained in advance. Even if the gold is sold freely, there may be restriction at Immigration counter while leaving Bhutan. Tourists should ascertain personally with Immigration office while entering Bhutan. It is my personal advice to purchase gold at Phuentsholing while entering Bhutan. Because while returning we reached Phuentsholing after 5 pm. And next day flight took off at 9.10 a.m. There was no time to purchase gold. And it was a weekly holiday for them. Our guide did not give any information or suggestion regarding gold purchase. Being a resident of Thimphu, he was not even aware at what time...

The Duty Free Shop...is not really duty free. Here's the deal: if you are in Bhutan and need some nice booze or perfume, this is the place to go. If you are a long-term expat (around 6 months or longer) you may be eligible for a 'duty-free' card, which entitles you to amazingly low prices. Otherwise, the prices are HIGH. The Duty Free shop sells some items that can be found elsewhere in town (example: Gordon's Gin) - but sells these items at a marked-up rate. Best buy the things you can find elsewhere, elsewhere. Beware the hours - the office closes early sometimes. And Beware the cash - the shop doesn't take Credit Cards (although plans to do so by...

I would never recommend anyone to visit this place. Unlike rest of Bhutan people are very rude and treat you like you are there to steal away things.

While Bhutan is talking about hospitality and a country which is thriving on Tourism by collecting SDF, these people can show you a different side and perspective. I would like to give a negative review if at...