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Getting into Bhutan

Getting into Bhutan: Detailed Guide

1. Visa Requirements

Bhutan regulates tourism through a “High Value, Low Impact” policy. Most travellers must book via a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, who arranges Bhutan Visas, flights, and accommodations.

Getting into Bhutan and landing at only Paro International Airport
  • How to Process a Bhutan Visa?
    • Tourists from all countries except India, Bangladesh, and Maldives:
      • $40 visa fee (one-time) is required.
      • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): 100 per person per night (reduced to 100 per person per night. Children 6–12 pay 50%; those under 6 are exempted.
      • Your tour operator applies for a visa clearance letter, which you present upon arrival to receive the visa stamp.
    • Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals:
      • Indians: Apply for an entry permit (free) online (via Bhutan Travel Permit) or at entry points. SDF: ₹1,200/night (≈$15).
      • Bangladeshis/Maldivians: Free visa but must be booked through a tour operator. SDF: $100/night.
  • Documents: Passport (6+ months validity), travel insurance, and visa clearance letter.

2. Flights to Bhutan

  • International Flights: Bhutan have recently upgraded its routes to Dubai and Singapore making travel easy from this destination.
    • Paro International Airport (PBH) is Bhutan’s only airport.
    • Airlines: Druk Air (national carrier) and Bhutan Airlines operate flights from:
      • India: Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Guwahati.
      • Asia: Bangkok, Kathmandu, Singapore, Dhaka, Dubai and Vietnam.
    • Booking: Flights must be arranged by the tour operator as part of your package.
  • Land Entry:
    • Borders at Phuentsholing (India)Gelephu (India), and Samdrup Jongkhar (India).
    • Land entry also requires a pre-arranged tour.
  • The Bhutan flights operate from Delhi, Kathmandu, Bangkok, Singapore, Dubai and Kolkatta.

3. Accommodation

  • Tour operators book approved hotels/homestays (3–5 stars or boutique lodges).
  • Options:
    • Luxury: Aman, Pema Ko, COMO, Gangtey Lodge.
    • Mid-Range: Hotel Druk, Pemako.
    • Budget: Locally-run guesthouses or homestays (cultural immersion; ~30–30–50/night).
  • Independent bookings (e.g., Airbnb) are prohibited unless part of a tour package.
Luxury accomodation for Bhutan Travel
Luxury Hotel Amankora of Thimphu

4. Transportation in Bhutan

  • Domestic Travel: Included in tour packages (private car/van with driver and guide).
  • Roads: Mountainous and slow; e.g., Paro to Thimphu: 1 hour; Paro to Punakha: 3–4 hours.
  • Domestic Flights: Only available from Paro to Bumthang and Bumthang to Paro. Most travel is by road.

5. Costs Overview

  • Daily Rate: ~200–200–400+ per person (includes SDF + tour package: lodging, meals, transport, guide).
  • Budget Example:
    • 7-day trip: ~1,400–1,400–2,800 (excluding flights).

6. Key Tips

  • Book Early: Especially for peak seasons (spring/autumn) and particular festival seasons.
  • Health: No COVID-19 restrictions (as of 2023).
  • Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly at religious sites.
  • Always use the Bhutan Travel Agency
  • Know Dos and Dons before reaching Bhutan.
  • Always respect culture and tradition of Bhutan
While in Bhutan you can check Homestay accommodation for authentic bhutanese experience.
Home Stay in Bhutan

Summary

Bhutan’s tourism model ensures curated, sustainable travel. All Bhutan Visits (except regional tourists) require a pre-paid tour package covering visas, flights, accommodation, and transport. Plan with a licensed operator for a seamless experience.

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