Bhutan Travel Directory

Entry Requirements

Visa Requirements for Bhutan:

• Indian Citizens: Visa-free entry (however, require entry permits)

• Bangladeshi and Maldivian Citizens: Visa on Arrival (VOA).

• All Other Nationalities: E-Visa required prior to arrival.

Maximum Stay:

• Tourist visas allow a maximum stay of 90 days.

Documents required for visa applications:

1. A digital copy (JPEG or PNG) of your passport with minimum of 6 months validity from the intended date of departure from Bhutan.

2. Recent digital passport size photograph in white background.

3. Intended travel dates.

Payment of Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

• Bhutan imposes a mandatory Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) on all foreign tourists. This fee, a cornerstone of the country's "High Value, Low Volume" tourism policy, directly supports environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and sustainable development initiatives. By contributing to infrastructure improvements, conservation programs, and public services, the SDF helps Bhutan maintain its pristine natural beauty and unique cultural heritage for future enthusiasts like you and many others.

• The SDF is USD 100 per night for adults from all countries except for India. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.

• The SDF for Indian nationals (showing a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card) is Nu. 1,200 (or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees) per person, per night. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay Nu./INR 600 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.

Bhutan, a secluded Himalayan realm often called the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," offers a transformative journey. Its pristine landscapes, deeply rooted culture, and unwavering dedication to Gross National Happiness (GNH) make it a haven for those seeking a sustainable and fulfilling travel experience.

Entering Bhutan

Your Gateway to the Land of the Thunder Dragon

A. Travelling by Air:

International Airport:

The country has one international airport located in Paro. It is the main international airport in Bhutan, nestled amidst the stunning Himalayan foothill. Flights operated by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines arrive and depart from following destinations:

• Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodhgaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore and Dubai.

• Private jets or charters can fly into Bhutan after obtaining the relevant approvals.

Therefore, it is recommended that you book connecting flights to one of the aforementioned destinations. To ensure a smooth journey, please consult our flight schedule or contact our customer service for the latest information.

Domestic Airports:

• Yonphula Airport (YON): Located in eastern Bhutan (Trashigang)

• Bumthang Airport (BUT): Located in central Bhutan (Bumthang)

• Gelephu Airport (GLU): Located in south-central Bhutan (Sarpang)

We can also arrange a domestic flights within Bhutan in case if you wish to travel to one of the regions above. Please let us know beforehand.

Drukair Route Map

Bhutan Airlines Route Map

Druk Air monthly flight schedule (Please note that the schedule are subject to change)

Bhutan Airlines monthly flight scedule (Please note that the schedule are subject to change)

B. Travelling by Land:

• Phuentsholing Land Border: This is the most popular land border crossing, connecting Bhutan with India. It's a bustling border town, and many travelers choose to combine a Bhutan trip with a visit to nearby destinations like India and Nepal.

• Gelephu Land Border: Located in western Bhutan, Gelephu offers another land route into the country, primarily used for regional trade and travel.

• Samdrup Jongkhar Land Border: Situated in eastern Bhutan, this border crossing is less frequented by tourists but is important for regional trade and cultural exchange with India.

We can also arrange a domestic flights within bhutan in case if you wish to travel to one of the regions above. Please let us know beforehand.

You may travel to Bhutan either by air or land.

Travelling Independently

Unlike in the past, it is not mandatory to book your trip via licensed tour operators. This gives prospective travellers freedom of planning their own itineraries, organising inbound transportations, and booking accommodations at your own convenience. However, there are certain requirements every tourists must comply:

1. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): All non-Indian tourists must pay USD 100 per night. (to be paid during visa application)

2. Guided Travel: Although independent trips booking is allowed, a tour guide is mandatory for all tours except from the entry point until the first hotel (Tourism Rules and Regulations 2022). Hence, you still have to hire a licensed guide and driver.

3. Visa Application: You can apply online for visa to Bhutan any time by providing passport copy, intended dates of stay, and pay both visa fees and SDF during e-visa application.

While Bhutan now allows independent travel, many visitors still prefer the convenience and expertise offered by our accredited tour operators. By choosing a tour operator like us, you can enjoy hassle-free, curated itineraries, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. Ventara Tours specialize in crafting authentic experiences, providing well-organized trips that offer peace of mind and allow you to immerse yourself fully in the beauty and culture of Bhutan.

Is it mandatory to engage a tour operator to visit Bhutan?

How Much Does it Cost to Travel Independently

1. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) : USD 100 per night for all non-Indian nationals.
   

2. Visa Fee : USD 40
   

3. Flights: Round trip flights to Paro International Airport from connecting cities (BKK or SIN): USD 850 -1000+

4. Accommodations
   a. Standard Hotels (3-star): USD 60 - 120 per night
   b. Mid Range Hotels: USD 180 - 270 per night
   c. Luxury Hotels: USD 400-1000+ per night (Aman Kora, Six Senses, Uma etc.)

5. Transportations
   Private car rentals: USD 50 - 120 per day (varying to vehicle and travelling distances.

6. Local Travel Guide: Mandatory travel guide when sight seeing: USD 30 - 100 per day ( depends on the desired services)

7. Meals: USD 30 - 50 per day

8. Activities and permits: Trekking Fees, entrance fee to restricted areas and monuments, and obtaining special permits : USD 50 - 350 per day
   

Estimated total Costs if You Travel Independently
Budget Trip (3 Nights): USD 850 - 1100 per person (Excluding Air Fares)
Mid-range Trip (3 Nights): USD 1200 - 2000
Luxury Trip (3 Nights): USD 3000 ++

*** These figures are only indicative, the actual costs will vary depending on your personal choices.

The cost of your Bhutan adventure can vary depending on your individual preferences. Factors such as the length of your stay, desired level of comfort, and chosen activities will influence the overall expense. Here's a general breakdown to give you an approximate figure to give you overall idea:

Licensed Tour Operators

If you book your trip with VenTara Tours, we offer several advantages:

1. Visa & Permits Simplified: We handle visa applications, permits, and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) seamlessly, making the process especially easy for first-time visitors.

2. Hassle-Free Travel: Skip navigating Bhutan's unique regulations and focus entirely on your adventure—leave the complexities to us.

3. Seamless Arrangements: Our tours are smooth and adventurous, guided by licensed experts who share fascinating insights into Bhutan's rich culture, history, arts, and customs.

4. Complimentary Visa Service: We offer a free visa application service for all our valued guests, adding even more convenience.

5. Customized Itineraries: Every trip is tailored to your preferences to ensure a memorable experience.

6. All-Inclusive Logistics: Transportation, accommodation, guides, and meals are pre-arranged, so you can enjoy your trip with complete peace of mind.

Our expert team takes care of every detail, from visa applications to personalized itineraries, ensuring a hassle-free and unforgettable experience.

Navigate to our Packages now.

Tour operators provide knowledgeable guides who expertly navigate Bhutan’s stunning landscapes while sharing fascinating insights into the country's rich culture, history, and customs. These local perspectives add immense value to your journey, offering a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and unique way of life. Through stories and details you might not discover on your own, these guides make your trip far more meaningful, enriching the entire experience with their intimate knowledge of the region.

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