Why do I need a guide? Can I just tour Bhutan on my own?

Tourism is Bhutan is highly regulated by the government. If you wish to visit Bhutan, you must do so through a licensed Bhutanese tour company. You cannot tour the country on your own and you cannot rent a car and drive on your town. You are obliged to have a guide and a driver. This policy ensures that when you come to Bhutan, you will be immersed in a tradition, culture and environment that have been carefully preserved for future generation and tourism.