foreign tourist
bhutan tourism
As of January 2024, traveling to Bhutan as a foreign tourist involves some unique procedures and considerations. Please note that the situation might changed, and it’s advisable to check with the Bhutanese authorities or Bhutan tourism policy for the most up-to-date information. Here are some general guidelines:
Tourist Visa: Bhutan has a policy of high-value, low-impact tourism. Tourists are required to book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, and visas are issued only after the full tour payment is received.
Tour Packages: Tourists are required to travel on a pre-planned itinerary booked through a Bhutanese tour operator. The daily tariff includes accommodation, meals, transport, and a guide.
Sustainable Tourism Fee: In addition to the daily tariff, there is a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) – USD 100 per night that goes towards supporting free education, healthcare, and infrastructure development in Bhutan. Children age 6 – 12 years of age at the time of travel receive 50% discount on their SDF and those age 5 year or younger are fully exempted.
Minimum Daily Package: Bhutan operates on a “Minimum Daily Package” concept, which includes a set daily fee for tourists. This is designed to ensure that tourism in Bhutan is sustainable and of high quality.
Flights: Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. Drukair, the national airline, and Bhutan Airlines operate flights to and from Bhutan.
Cultural Respect: Bhutan places a strong emphasis on preserving its unique culture and traditions. Tourists are expected to respect local customs and traditions.
Permits: Some areas in Bhutan require special permits, and these will be arranged by your tour operator.
good to know
There is no charge for delays in arrival and departure because of weather conditions disrupting flights or road blocks. The tourist must however bear the cost of food, accommodation, transportation, and other services required.
Note: INR (Indian Rupees) is accepted in Bhutan.
(Information courtesy: Tourism Council of Bhutan)
Bhutan, a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas, covers approximately 38,394 square kilometers. It is characterized by diverse topography, ranging from subtropical plains in the south to towering peaks in the north, including the majestic Eastern Himalayas. Lush valleys, dense forests, and swift-flowing rivers are prominent features. The country’s geography is defined by deep gorges, high plateaus, and dramatic landscapes. Notable is the sacred Jigme Dorji National Park, home to unique biodiversity. The capital, Thimphu, lies in a central valley. Bhutan’s strategic location in the Himalayas contributes to its rich natural beauty and cultural distinctiveness.
Tour programmes booked and subsequently cancelled shall be subject to cancellation charges as follows:
within 30 days of start of programme – no charges
within 21 days – 10% of rate
within 14 days – 15% of rate
within 7 days – 30% of rate
less than 7 days or without notice – 50% of rate
after arrival in Bhutan – 100%
Individual tourists and smaller groups of less than three persons shall be subject to surcharge, over and above the minimum daily rates applicable, as follows:
- Single individual US$ 40 per night
- Group of 2 persons US$ 30 per person per night
- The 10% agency commission payable to agents abroad shall not be deductible from the surcharge.
- The surcharge will not be applicable to representatives of foreign travel agents on business study or promotional visit duly approved and cleared by TCB.
- There shall be no charge for CHILDREN up to the age of 5 years. However, those between the ages of 6-12 years accompanied by elders/ guardians shall be given 50% discount on daily rates and 100% discount on Royalty.
- Full time STUDENTS below the age of 25 years holding valid identity cards from their academic institutions shall