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.

• How to Process a Bhutan Visa?
  • Tourists from all countries except India, Bangladesh, and Maldives:
    • A $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.

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

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.