Bhutan maintains a carefully managed tourism policy focused on “High Value, Low Volume.” Independent travel is not permitted for most nationalities; visitors must travel with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.

Visa & Entry Requirements

• Most nationalities require a visa arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The operator submits your passport details and processes the application online.
• Processing typically takes 3–7 working days. You receive a visa clearance letter by email, which you present on arrival at Paro International Airport (or a land border). The actual visa stamp is issued on arrival.
• Visa fee: USD 40 per person (one-time, non-refundable).
• Passport validity: At least 6 months from the date of entry.
• Indian nationals: No visa required. An entry permit is issued on arrival (or can be applied for online). Valid Indian passport or Voter ID is required.
• Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals: Special concessional arrangements apply (often visa on arrival or reduced fees).

Entry points are primarily Paro International Airport (the only international airport) and land borders such as Phuentsholing (from India).

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

The SDF is a mandatory government fee that supports free healthcare, education, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation in Bhutan.

Current rates (valid until 31 August 2027):

• Most international adults: USD 100 per person per night
• Children aged 6–12: USD 50 per person per night
• Children under 6: Exempt
• Indian nationals: Nu. 1,200 (or equivalent INR) per person per night (children 6–12: Nu. 600)
• Certain regional nationalities may qualify for lower concessional rates.

The SDF is paid in advance as part of the tour package/visa process. Unused portions may be refundable if the trip is shortened.

A 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on tourism services has applied since January 2026 (separate from the SDF).

Getting to Bhutan

• By air: Fly into Paro (PBH) on Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines. Common connection hubs include Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Singapore, and Dhaka. Flights operate only in daylight due to the challenging mountain approach.
• By land: Possible via the India–Bhutan border at Phuentsholing (and other points). Route permits are required for travel beyond the border towns.

International flights should be booked early, especially for peak seasons, as capacity is limited.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Pleasant temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and major festivals (e.g., Paro Tshechu).
• Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, excellent mountain views, comfortable weather, and popular festivals (e.g., Thimphu Tshechu). Peak season for trekking.
• Winter (December–February): Cold but clear; good for birdwatching (black-necked cranes) and fewer crowds.
• Monsoon (June–August): Lush landscapes and lower visitor numbers, but frequent rain and possible road disruptions.

Practical Tips

• Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), pegged 1:1 with the Indian Rupee. Indian Rupees are widely accepted. ATMs are available in major towns; credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and shops.
• Language: Dzongkha is the national language. English is widely spoken in tourism and official settings.
• Health: No mandatory vaccinations currently required for most travellers, but consult a travel clinic. Altitude ranges from low valleys to high passes — allow time for acclimatisation, especially on treks. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly recommended.
• Clothing & Etiquette: Modest dress is required at temples and dzongs (shoulders and knees covered). Remove shoes and hats before entering sacred buildings. Walk clockwise around chortens and temples.
• Connectivity: SIM cards and eSIMs are available; Wi-Fi is common in hotels but can be variable in remote areas.
• Photography: Generally allowed outdoors; restricted inside temples and during certain rituals. Always ask permission before photographing people.
• Guide requirement: A licensed guide is mandatory for the duration of your stay (except limited independent movement in certain border towns for short visits).

Booking Process

1. Choose a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
2. Finalise your itinerary and dates.
3. Submit passport copy and pay the package cost (including SDF and visa fee).
4. Receive visa clearance letter.
5. Book international flights once clearance is confirmed.

All foreign visitors (except certain regional nationalities under specific conditions) must book through a licensed operator. Packages typically include the guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entrance fees in addition to the SDF and visa.

For the most current regulations, always confirm with your licensed operator or the official Tourism Council of Bhutan website, as policies can be updated.