Bhutan
A Journey to Inner Calm
Welcome to Bhutan, a truly remarkable country nestled in the Himalayas. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and strong commitment to preserving tradition, Bhutan offers a unique and unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether you’re exploring ancient monasteries, hiking through lush forests, or immersing yourself in the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people, you’ll discover a land where happiness is measured and cherished. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with adventure, spirituality, and the enchanting charm of Bhutan.
Getting to Bhutan via Air
You can easily access Bhutan through multiple means of transportation. Bhutan’s national carriers, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, offer international flights, providing convenient air travel options.
Alternatively, if you prefer an overland journey, you can enter and exit Bhutan through its southern gateway in Phuentsholing, which connects to the Indian state of West Bengal, allowing for a scenic and culturally rich border crossing experience.
Bhutan Tourism Policy
The Royal Government of Bhutan is pleased to announce additional incentives and policy measures to boost the tourism sector. This is in view of the important role of the tourism sector in generating employment; earning foreign exchange; realizing the potential for spillover benefits for ancillary industries; and in boosting overall economic growth.
The incentives and measures shall consist of the following:
- A fifty percent discount shall be granted on the prevailing SDF of USD 200 for US Dollar paying tourists visiting Bhutan. The effective SDF with the discount shall be USD 100 per person per day for US Dollar paying tourists.
- In addition, a fifty percent discount on the SDF shall be granted on the rates applied to children aged between 6 to 12 years for US Dollar paying children visiting as tourists.
- The 24 hours SDF waiver for tourists staying in the border towns shall continue.
The above incentives will come into effect from 1 September 2023 and shall remain effective for four years till 31 August 2027.
The Royal Government shall conduct periodic assessments of the domestic and international tourism scenarios and may discontinue the above incentives to uphold and promote High Value Low Volume Tourism Policy of Bhutan after 31 August 2027.
Bhutan Visa
All visitors require a visa before travelling to Bhutan (except those from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives, for whom the relevant processes and fees are outlined separately below).
As part of the visa application process, you will be required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$100 per day (per adult; concessionary rates apply for children). A non-refundable, one-off visa application fee of US$40 is also payable.
Before travelling, visitors from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives can apply for a permit (Indian nationals) or visa (Bangladeshi or Maldivian nationals). You may also apply at the point of entry, but please be aware that there may be a long wait depending on the number of applicants at the time. We recommend arranging your permit/visa beforehand.