Most foreign visitors need a visa before arrival. Only citizens of India have a different permit process. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also require visas but have special arrangements.
Most international visitors pay an SDF of USD 100 per person per night. Indian visitors pay a reduced rate of Nu. 1,200 per night. The fee supports healthcare, education, conservation, and sustainable tourism
There is a one-time visa application fee of USD 40, separate from the daily SDF.
A correctly completed visa application generally takes up to 5 working days to process.
You can book hotels and flights independently, but Bhutan still requires visitors to be accompanied by a certified local guide when traveling around the country.
Yes. All trekking routes must be undertaken with an accredited guide or tour operator for safety and logistics.
The most popular seasons are:
Bhutan uses the Ngultrum (BTN/Nu.), which is pegged 1:1 with the Indian Rupee. Credit cards are accepted in major towns, but carrying some cash is recommended.
No. Bhutan removed the mandatory travel insurance requirement in April 2024, though travel insurance is still strongly recommended.
Most travelers arrive through Paro International Airport. Flights are operated mainly by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines from cities such as Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Dhaka, Kolkata, and Singapore.