Bhutan Tariff & Entry Guide
Every dollar invested in Bhutan contributes directly to healthcare, education, environmental conservation, and the enduring cultural legacy of the Kingdom.
Pegged to INR
Carbon-negative nation
7,364 m
PBH
Choose Your Perfect Season
Bhutan's four seasons each offer a distinct and magical experience. Whether you seek vibrant festivals, crystal peaks, or serene solitude there is a perfect time for you.
Rhododendrons and magnolias burst into bloom across the valleys. Skies are clear with stunning Himalayan views. The Paro Tshechu festival draws pilgrims and travellers from around the world. Ideal for trekking and photography. Highly recommended.
Lush green landscapes and dramatic cloud formations. Afternoon showers make trekking more challenging but the countryside is breathtaking. Fewer visitors, quieter monasteries, and slightly reduced rates for budget-conscious travellers.
Crisp air, crystal-clear Himalayan skies, and vibrant festivals including the Thimphu Tshechu. Arguably the finest trekking conditions of the year. A favourite for returning guests. Highly recommended.
Crisp air, crystal-clear Himalayan skies, and vibrant festivals including the Thimphu Tshechu. Arguably the finest trekking conditions of the year. A favourite for returning guests. Highly recommended.
Sustainable
Development Fee
The SDF is Bhutan's primary tourism levy mandatory for all international visitors, charged per person per night, paid in advance as part of your visa. Valid September 2023 through August 2027.
- 2026 Update: Bhutan introduced a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on tourism services effective January 1, 2026. This applies to hotel stays, guide services, and transport but not to the SDF itself.
| Guest Category | SDF Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bangladeshi & Maldivian | INR 1,200 | Same rate structure as Indian nationals. |
| Indian Nationals (Child 6-12) | INR 600 | 50% discount on adult rate. |
| Indian Nationals (Adult) | INR 1,200 | Per person, per night. |
| Children Under 6 | Exempt | No SDF applicable. |
| Children Ages 6-12 | USD 50 | 50% discount on adult SDF rate. |
| International Adults | USD 100 | Per person, per night. Mandatory. |
What's Included in Your Package
Accommodation
3-4 star government-certified hotel accommodation throughout your journey.
All Meals Full Board
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included daily. Experience authentic Bhutanese cuisine.
Private Vehicle & Driver
Licensed private vehicle and professional driver throughout your entire journey.
Licensed Bhutanese Guide
English-speaking expert guide, certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan.
Site Entry Fees & Permits
All cultural site entry fees, dzong permits, and monument fees fully covered.
Visa Processing Support
Full visa application support, clearance letter, and all internal transfers.
Entry Requirements
All visitors must enter Bhutan through authorised channels. Requirements differ by nationality see below for your applicable route.
International Visitors
All international visitors must book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Your operator handles the visa application. The visa fee of USD 40 is paid in advance and is non-refundable.
Processing takes up to 5 working days. A visa clearance letter is emailed to you prior to travel and your visa is stamped on arrival at Paro Airport.
Your passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity from your date of entry. Valid travel insurance covering the full duration of your stay is mandatory.
Indian, Bangladeshi & Maldivian Nationals
No visa is required. An entry permit must be obtained available online in advance or at the border crossing.
No advance fees are needed. The SDF of INR 1,200 per person per night applies and is collected during permit processing.
Carry valid national identity documents. Indian nationals may use their Aadhaar card or Indian Passport for entry.
Five Steps to Your Visa
Contact The Mindful Destination and provide passport details for all travellers.
Your operator submits your visa application to the Tourism Council of Bhutan.
Pay the visa fee (USD 40) and Sustainable Development Fee in advance via bank transfer or card.
Receive your visa clearance letter by email within 5 business days.
Present your clearance letter at check-in. Visa is stamped on arrival at Paro Airport.
Traveller's Notes
A few important considerations to ensure your journey is respectful, safe, and truly enriching.
Dress & Respect
Cover shoulders and legs when visiting temples, monasteries, and dzongs. Remove shoes before entering sacred spaces. Walk clockwise around all stupas and chortens.
Currency & Cash
The Bhutanese Ngultrum is pegged to the Indian Rupee and is accepted interchangeably. ATMs are available in major towns but unreliable in remote areas carry sufficient cash.
Altitude
Bhutan ranges from near sea level to over 7,000m. High-altitude trekking requires acclimatisation. Stay hydrated, ascend gradually, and inform your guide of any health conditions.
Photography
Always ask permission before photographing monks, elderly locals, or sacred ceremonies. Many monasteries prohibit photography inside. Be present in the moment not purely in pursuit of content.
Mindful Travel
Bhutan asks that you travel slowly, respectfully, and with intention. Do not disturb wildlife, remove plants, or litter. Leave no trace and leave the kingdom better for your having been here.
Getting There
The only international airport is Paro (PBH) one of the world's most dramatic landings. Drukair and Bhutan Airlines serve Paro from Delhi, Kolkata, Bangkok, Kathmandu, and Singapore.
Paro International Airport
The only international gateway to Bhutan offers one of the world's most dramatic landings a breathtaking approach through Himalayan peaks at 2,235m altitude. Operated by just a handful of certified pilots.
Tariff information based on official Bhutan Department of Tourism guidelines Updated March 2026
All rates subject to change * Please verify with your tour operator before booking