Travel Requirements

Visa Requirements

  • Visa: All foreign nationals (except citizens of India) must obtain a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa is processed through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or visitors can process a visa or permit online from the website of the Department of Immigration https://visit.doi.gov.bt/
  • Visa Fee: The visa fee is included in the overall tour cost, which is set by the government.

To apply for a visa, you will need:

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

Once your trip is confirmed with us, we will provide you with a tour invoice. After the payment is made, we will submit the necessary details to the Department of Immigration (DOI) to process your visa online. Payments for the tour package and air tickets must be made in advance via wire transfer. Once we receive the full payment, we will send you the visa confirmation code.

Daily SDF (Sustainable Development Fund)

The Government of Bhutan collects the SDF to fund essential sectors such as healthcare, education, tourism, hospitality, infrastructure, environmental and cultural preservation, local businesses, and the overall economy of the country. The SDF supports initiatives that maintain forest cover, uphold carbon neutrality, ensure tranquility, and provide an intimate experience for visitors.

The tourism tariff for travelers to Bhutan is set by the Royal Government and the Department of Tourism, as follows:

SDF, Government Fee

  • US$ 100 per person, per night
  • INR 1200 per person, per night (for Indian travelers)

Visa Fee

  • US$ 40 per person, per tour

Note: The total cost of the tour will be calculated separately based on the client’s chosen tour program.

Discounts for Children

There is no charge for children up to the age of 5 years. For children aged 6-12 years traveling with adults or guardians, a 50% discount on the SDF will be applied.

Tips

  • You are advised to carry a printed copy of your visa confirmation code and flight tickets.
  • Your Bhutan visa will be stamped directly on your passport upon arrival at the airport.
  • For travelers entering Bhutan by road through India, your visa will be stamped at the immigration checkpoint in either Phuentsholing or Samdrup Jongkhar.
  • Checkpoints upon arrival by presenting a valid passport (Indian nationals may also use their Voter Identity Card). However, please note that there could be a lengthy wait depending on the number of applicants at the time. To avoid delays, we recommend arranging your permit/visa in advance.
  • Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Travelers are also advised to use the same passport on which the Bhutan visa is stamped for their journey.
  • All visitors are required to have full, valid travel insurance for the duration of their visit.
  • As of September 23rd, 2022, there are no COVID-19 vaccination requirements for adults or children to enter Bhutan.

Refund and Cancellations

All tour programs booked and cancelled shall be subject to charge as follows:

  • No charges if the cancellation is made 30 days or more before the start of the program.
  • 50% cancellation fee if the cancellation occurs between 30 to 10 days before the start of the program.
  • 100% cancellation fee if the cancellation is made within 10 days or less of the start of the program.