Bhutan Visa – How to Process your Tourist Visa

Visitors of all nationalities except those from India, require a visa to visit Bhutan. Visa upon arrival option is only available for visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives.

You can apply for the visa online or through a local travel operator in Bhutan can apply for it for you.

What are Bhutan Visa requirement?

• A digital copy of a valid passport
• A recent digital passport photo
• Arrival and departure dates
• Valid travel insurance for the duration of your travel
• Payment details

Your visa application process can only be completed once you have paid the one-off visa processing fee and the sustainable development fee for the duration of your trip.

How much is the Visa processing fee?

US$ 40 per person as visa processing fee. A one-time US$40 fee is required for all visitors except those from India.

What is Sustainable Development Fee and calculating your SDF?

All visitors must pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) as part of their visa application process. The SDF is a daily levy which supports Bhutan’s development.

• US$100 per night per person for an adult and children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per nigh
• For Indian National, the SDF is INR 1200 for adult and children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per nigh
• For Bangladesh National, the SDF is USD 15 per night for adult and children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per nigh

*This does not cover your travel expenses (accommodation, transport & meals, etc)

What is the visa application process?

You can apply your visa online using the visa portal. Alternatively, if you are looking for a hassle free booking experience, you may also apply for it through your local tour operator.

A copy of visa will be shared to you

Pick a local tour operator

Confirm travel dates and tour itinerary

Book hotel, flights, transport and guide

Complete payment which includes your visa fee, SDF, and your trip cost

Tour operator will apply your visa on your behalf

Department Of Tourism will verify your payment details and approve your visa

Best Time to Visit Bhutan

Bhutan offers a unique experience throughout the year, but the optimal time to visit depends on your interests.

Spring (March-May): This is the most popular season with pleasant weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views. However, it’s also the peak season, leading to higher prices and crowds.

Summer (June-August): While summer brings lush greenery, it also means frequent rainfall and humidity. This is the off-peak season, offering lower prices but limiting outdoor activities.

Autumn (September-November): Another popular choice with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant fall foliage. This is also festival season, making it a great time to experience Bhutanese culture.

Winter (December-February): Offers a serene and pristine landscape with clear skies. However, temperatures can be cold, especially at higher altitudes, and some trekking routes are closed.

Festivals: Bhutan’s vibrant festivals, known as Tsechus, are major draws. These colorful events showcase traditional dances, music, and costumes.

Activities:

• Birdwatching: Winter is best for spotting the endangered Black-necked Crane.
• Trekking: Spring and autumn offer optimal conditions.
• Motorcycling: Spring and autumn are ideal due to better road conditions.
• River Rafting: Avoid summer due to high water levels.

Budget Travel: Summer and winter offer lower prices and fewer crowds, making them suitable for budget travelers.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Bhutan depends on your priorities: weather, festivals, activities, or budget.

Would you like to know more about specific activities or destinations in Bhutan?

By Air

Bhutan’s only international gateway is Paro Airport, served exclusively by Druk Air, the national carrier, and Bhutan Airlines. These airlines operate flights to select cities in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Thailand, and Singapore. For the most up-to-date flight schedules and bookings, please visit the airline websites.

Getting to Bhutan by Air

Bhutan is served by a single international airport, Paro Airport. Druk Air, the national carrier, and Bhutan Airlines are the only airlines operating flights to and from Paro. These airlines offer international routes connecting Bhutan to major cities in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Thailand, and Singapore.

Discounts and Special Rates

Druk Air provides discounts for specific categories of passengers:

• Students: Enjoy a 30% discount on published fares with valid student identification.
• Children: Passengers aged 3 to 11 receive a 33% discount.
• Infants: Children under 2 years old are eligible for a 90% discount.
• SAARC Nationals: Citizens of SAARC countries can avail special fare options.

Please note that these discounts and rates are subject to change, and specific conditions may apply.

Domestic Flights

To explore different regions of Bhutan, domestic flights are available. Druk Air operates flights from Paro to Younphula (Eastern Part of Bhutan) and Gelephu (Southern Bhutan) twice a week. The domestic flights are also available to Bumthang.

By Land

Travelers can also enter Bhutan by road through three border points. The most popular entry point is Phuntsholing, located in southwestern Bhutan and accessible from India’s West Bengal. It’s a five-hour drive from the capital, Thimphu. Gelephu in south-central Bhutan and Samdrup Jongkhar in the southeast offer alternative entry points, primarily for those exploring eastern Bhutan.

Planning a trip to Bhutan involves several cost components.

Mandatory Fees

• Visa Fee: A one-time US$40 fee is required for all visitors except those from India and Bangladesh.
• Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): US$100 per night per person for an adult.
• Children aged between 6 to 12 years at the time of travel receive a 50% discount on their SDF.
• For Indian National, the SDF is INR 1200 for an adult and children aged between 6-12 years received a 50% discount on their SDF.
• For Bangladesh National, the SDF is USD 15 per night for an adult and children aged between 6-12 years received a 50% discount on their SDF.

Transportation

• Airfare: Only Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate flights to Bhutan. Costs vary based on departure city and travel season.
• In-country Transportation: Options include SUVs, vans, or buses, with costs depending on group size and itinerary. A driver is typically included.

Accommodation

Bhutan offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Prices vary based on location, amenities, and season.

Guides and Permits

• Guides: For exploring beyond Paro and Thimphu or undertaking treks, a licensed guide is mandatory.
• Permits: Certain attractions and activities may require permits or entrance fees.

Additional Expenses

• Activities: Optional activities like cycling, rafting, traditional hot stone experiences come with additional costs.
• Shopping: Bhutan offers unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

Note: Bhutan’s unique tourism model ensures a sustainable and high-quality experience. While costs may be higher than some destinations, the investment contributes to preserving Bhutan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

To get a price estimate for your trip

We provide tailored quotes based on your travel dates, group size, accommodation preferences, and desired activities

Currency and Banking in Bhutan

Bhutan’s currency is the Ngultrum (Nu), which is pegged equally to the Indian Rupee. Travelers can exchange currency at Paro Airport or local banks. While Indian Rupees are widely accepted, it’s advisable to carry some Ngultrum for smaller transactions.

ATMs are available in most towns, accepting Visa and MasterCard. Credit cards are also accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it’s recommended to carry some cash as a backup.

Traveler’s checks can be exchanged at banks, but ATMs and card payments are more convenient options.

Customs and Duty-Free Regulations in Bhutan

Tobacco Products

Bhutan has strict tobacco control laws. Visitors are allowed to bring a limited quantity of tobacco products for personal consumption, subject to heavy taxes. It’s essential to retain the tax receipt for inspection.

Duty-Free Allowances

Upon arrival, travelers can bring in a limited amount of duty-free items, including alcohol, perfume, and personal belongings up to a specified value.

Personal Effects

Visitors can temporarily import personal items for their stay, provided they are re-exported upon departure. This includes items like electronics, professional equipment, and personal belongings.

Prohibited Items

Several items are prohibited from import and export, including:

• Firearms, ammunition, and explosives
• Narcotics and drugs (except medically prescribed)
• Wildlife products
• Antiques
• Plants and soil (subject to quarantine)

Important Note: Travelers should be cautious when purchasing antique or culturally significant items as export restrictions may apply.

It’s advisable to declare all items upon arrival and to retain receipts or documentation for high-value goods.

Hotels and lodges rated above 3 stars are considered standard and suitable for international tourists, while homestays provide an additional option for a unique cultural experience. They are approved by the government and registered with the Department of Tourism of Bhutan.

The hotel rooms are equipped with air conditioning (electric heating or cooling) and wood-burning stove facilities. Meals typically include local dishes such as red rice with hot spicy chilies and cheese (Ema Datse), considered the national dish of Bhutan. Non-spicy, non-vegetarian, and continental dishes are also available.

Some hotels offer traditional hot stone baths where guests can experience soaking in water containing medicinal plants.

For the birdwatching tour, Flying Panda Nature Expeditions offers camping experiences with trained crew members in locations hotels are unavailable.