Travel to Bhutan. All You Need to Know About Bhutan
The small kingdom of Bhutan is not easy to find on the map. It is hidden between China and India, high in the Himalayan mountains, and the first foreigners entered it less than 50 years ago. It is one of the most beautiful countries, with no crime or poverty. A country where well-being is measured not by GDP but by the National Happiness Index. Today, we will tell you about one of the most unusual countries in the world, as well as how to get there and what to do there.
How to Get to Bhutan?
The Kingdom of Bhutan does not allow independent tourists; you can enter the country only as part of an organized group. It would be best if you also had a Bhutan Visa. But there is one nuance here — you can organize such a group yourself rather than joining strangers. Of course, if you do not have a company for your trip, it is better to trust a certified agency completely. Carefully read reviews of each company before trusting them to organize your trip to Bhutan.
Organizing a trip to Bhutan through a travel agency in the kingdom is quite simple, plus Bhutanese companies do not charge a commission for services. You must provide the details of all travel participants and 100% prepayment. An entry permit to Bhutan is issued within a few days and is sent by email. A Bhutanese visa is issued at the airport upon arrival. Already on the spot, you can rent a car and explore the country alone.
Bhutan Entry by Flights
The Country has two Airline. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate daily flights from this destination.
- Bangkok Paro Bangkok
- Kathmandu Paro Kathmandu
- Singapore Paro Singapore
- Dubai Paro Dubai
- Delhi Paro Delhi
- Kolkatta Paro Kolkatta
Check Bhutan Tour Packages from Delhi if you are taking flights. Delhi to Paro takes about 2 hours to land at Paro airport.
Bhutan Entry by Road
You can also travel to Bhutan via road. West Bengal is the best connection to Bhutan. If you take flights to Bagdugra you can take a road trip to Phuntsholing Bhutan which takes about 3 hours. The other route to Bhutan is from Samdrupjongkhar in the east. You can reach it easily from Guwahati airport. The driving time is about 2 hours to reach the Bhutan border. You can also check tour packages from Guwahati to Bhutan.
Bhutan Tourist Fees is Different
The Bhutanese visa process is unique compared to most other countries. Instead of a flat fee for a set period (e.g., a fortnight or month), you are charged Sustainable Development Fees of USD 100 per person for each night you spend in Bhutan.
As of September 2022, the daily visa fee has increased significantly. Visitors are now required to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100 per person per night. Unlike the previous system, this fee no longer covers services like accommodation or meals—it solely contributes to Bhutan’s sustainable development initiatives. All other travel expenses, such as lodging and transportation, are now separate.
It’s essential to obtain your tourist visa before travelling to Bhutan. While we recommend applying at least two months in advance, visas can sometimes be processed within a week of your trip.
This new system highlights Bhutan’s focus on preserving its pristine environment and unique culture, ensuring a meaningful experience for visitors.
How much does it cost to travel to Bhutan?
The minimum cost for a Bhutan tour for two people travelling together is approximately US$ 300 per person per night, which includes a full-board plan (staying in 3-star hotels), entrance fees, Guide, Transport, all sightseeing and Airport pick and drop.
Breakdown of Bhutan Travel Costs:
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) & Visa Fee
- SDF: As of September 1, 2023, the SDF has been reduced to US$ 100 per person per night (previously US$ 200) and will remain effective until August 31, 2027.
- Visa Fee: A flat US$ 40 per person is charged for the visa application.
Entrance Fees:
- Fees range from US$ 55 to US$ 119 per person during a week-long trip, depending on the number of sites visited.
- Key Highlights:
- Entrance to Tiger’s Nest: US$ 29
- Other monuments and attractions: US$ 15 each
- Flight fare: US$ 480 – US$ 915 Per person (Flight fare is subject to change)
The flight cost would come between US$ 480 and US$ 915 per person depending on which port of entry you choose to fly. If you connect from Kathmandu, the return flight cost is US$ 480 per person, from Delhi US$ 600 per person, and Bangkok US$ 915 per person.
Documents required to travel to Bhutan?
- Valid Passport (minimum validity should be 6 months during Bhutan exit)
- Passport size Photograph.
- Travel Insurance
- Return flight tickets.
Top Places to Visit in Bhutan
The best option is to choose one of the Bhutan Tour Packages. The country’s calling card and the main attraction is the Taktsang-lakhang monastery, which translates to “nest of the tigress.” It is built on the side of a mountain, at an altitude of 3000 meters above sea level, and the climb to it takes about two hours. You can go to the monastery on horseback, but remember that residents can charge a very inhumane price for such a pleasure. Bargain—this will reduce the price tag several times.
Punakha Valley:
Longest Suspension Bridge:
Fertility Temple:
13th Arts and Craft School:
Thimphu the Capital of Bhutan
The capital city of Thimphu is a link between the past and the present. Modern hotels and cafes coexist with medieval monasteries; the establishments have good Wi-Fi. In the capital of Bhutan, visit the Thimphu Chorten Stupa and the Tashinchho Dzong fortress, where the government operates. Tourists are allowed to enter the fort only after 6 pm. In the vicinity of Thimphu, there are two exciting monasteries: Tamchog Lhakang, which is reached by a suspension bridge made of forged chains, and Tango, which is standing on the top of a hill.
Remember that photography is strictly prohibited in Bhutan’s monasteries. Violating this ban may even result in fines.
Things to Do in Bhutan
Exploring Bhutan is not just about sightseeing. It is the door to the customs and daily life of the country. If you are an adventure seeker, Bhutan’s stunning landscapes will not disappoint you. If you’re interested in culture, local festivals and cultural centres offer a wealth of experience. So, get ready to discover the best things to do in Bhutan.
Experience Local Culture
Bhutanese people are very hospitable and humble. They are religious, respectful, hardworking, and polite. A Bhutanese never demands anything. He is always interested in the opinion of his interlocutor. At the same time, he will gently try to insist on his vision of solving this or that problem. Given this trait, you should not express your desire in a categorical form. It is always better to ask a local for advice and then lead him to the right decision in a detached manner. Even in markets and stores, you can hint at the possibility of offering discounts. Bhutanese are quite unsophisticated and are happy to make small concessions in communication. However, bargaining is not accepted here. Many foreigners consider local residents to be unfriendly and reserved people. However, they are just very shy.
There are many traditional places of worship in Bhutan. All of them can be divided into three types. These are “gompas” (monasteries), “Lhakhangs” (temples), and “chortens” (stupas that are installed at some memorial sites). You can also see the “dzong” in Bhutan. It is a fortified monastery that looks more like a large castle. Dzongs are the centres of the regions of Bhutan. At the same time, they perform religious and administrative functions. According to traditions, the stupa or temple is walked clockwise from the left.
At the entrance to each gompa or dzong, there is a prayer drum called “kurde” with mantras. Often, several drums are installed at once, spinning which believers offer prayers. The main ideological reference point in Bhutan is the sacred Buddhist texts. From this, it becomes clear where the Bhutanese came from, and there is such a respectful attitude towards the book. No Bhutanese will throw away written paper; it will be burned.
Learn the Traditional Costume of Bhutan
Bhutan has made it official to wear a national dress during office hours and in Schools. Traditional men’s clothing is the national robe “gho”. Since it is very long, tied with a wide cloth belt at the waist or pinned at the knees. Women in Bhutan wear the kira. This garment is very similar to a sari. The kira is wrapped around the body and secured with decorative elements. Without national clothes, a resident cannot get into the temple or any institution. To emphasize their status, Bhutanese tie a scarf of different colours over their left shoulder. If you see a white scarf, this is an ordinary Bhutanese. Yellow is for the King. Red for nobility or monk, and orange is an official for Minister. Tourists can easily wear loose European clothing. Formal attire will only be required when attending a formal event or visiting a local Bhutanese home.
Witness Local Traditions
According to tradition, Bhutanese eat with their hands while sitting on the floor. In large cities, there is an increasing trend toward using cutlery and kitchen tables. The lady of the house serves the food. The head of the family starts the meal first. A small piece of food is always left for local spirits and deities. A few decades ago, marriages were arranged by agreement, often between relatives. Currently, this custom is gradually becoming a thing of the past. The wedding is celebrated in a calm atmosphere. However, the rite itself consists of certain intricate rituals. According to tradition, the newlyweds are given symbolic scarves and the usual gifts. In Eastern Bhutan, it is customary that after marriage, the wife leaves her home and moves in with her husband. In Western Bhutan, on the contrary, the husband moves into his wife’s house.
Dos and Don’ts in Bhutan
Dos in Bhutan:
- Respect Local Customs and Traditions
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting dzongs (fortresses), monasteries, and temples.
- Remove hats and shoes before entering religious sites.
- Greet with Respect
- Use the traditional greeting, “Kuzuzangpo,” when meeting locals.
- Follow Environmental Guidelines
- Bhutan emphasizes sustainability, so avoid littering and follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Use refillable water bottles to minimize plastic waste.
- Observe Sacred Spaces
- Always walk clockwise around religious structures like chortens (stupas) and prayer wheels.
- Show reverence in temples by speaking softly and refraining from pointing at sacred objects.
- Engage with Locals
- Bhutanese people are friendly and welcoming, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or participate in cultural activities.
- Carry Cash
- Many rural areas and small vendors don’t accept cards, so keep cash on hand for small purchases.
Don’ts in Bhutan
- Do Not Disrespect Religious Items
- Avoid touching sacred objects, murals, or statues unless explicitly allowed.
- Never climb on religious monuments or display irreverence.
- Avoid Public Displays of Affection
- Bhutanese society is conservative, so refrain from PDA to respect cultural norms.
- Do Not Smoke in Public
- Smoking in public areas is prohibited, and Bhutan has strict tobacco laws. Designated smoking areas are available in some places.
- Refrain from Pointing at People or Sacred Sites
- It is considered impolite to point with your finger. Use your palm to gesture instead.
- Do Not Wander Into Restricted Areas
- Certain religious sites and dzongs have areas closed to non-Bhutanese. Always follow guides or signage.
- Avoid Criticizing the Royal Family or Culture
- Bhutanese people deeply revere their king and traditions, so avoid making disparaging comments.
By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you’ll ensure a respectful and enriching experience while enjoying Bhutan’s unparalleled beauty and culture.
Additional Tips
The Department of Tourism produces special information booklets describing all aspects of travel in Bhutan. The tour operator is obliged to familiarize tourists with their contents.
When travelling to Bhutan at any time of the year, wear warm clothes. In winter, wear fur-lined outerwear and warm underwear. When planning hiking trips, wear a fully insulated jacket and trousers, a warm hat, and strong mountain boots with thick socks.
Bhutan is a significant supplier of electricity to the Asian market. At the same time, the country is experiencing power surges and short-term outages. It is recommended to have portable chargers and, if necessary, uninterruptible power supplies.
As for tipping you can leave a small reward at your discretion. You can leave $5-10 per day for guides and tour bus drivers and $10-20 for guides on challenging walking routes.
Travel to Bhutan can be an unforgettable experience: friendly locals, exotic food, and stunning views. Select a tour, try to see all the attractions, and experience unmatchable ancient culture. This country will always remain in your heart.
Important Sights and Tour
- Bhutan Birding Tour
- 9 Days Bhutan Tour Itinerary
- 10 Days Bhutan Birding Tour to explore Hornbill
- Bhutan Pilgrimage Tour
- 5 Days Bhutan Birding Tour
How to travel Bhutan from Different Countries, Visa Formalities and Flights?
- Travel to Bhutan from the USA
- Travel to Bhutan from Germany.
- Travel to Bhutan from Hong Kong.
- Bhutan Trip from Singapore
- Bhutan Travel from Vietnam
- Travel to Bhutan from Austria
Bhutan Weather and Temperature
Frequently Asked Question
Is SDF mandatory?
Yes SDF is mandatory to pay to enter Bhutan.
Can I travel to Bhutan without a Travel Guide?
Travelling to Bhutan without a Guide is not recommended. Your tour should be guided tour.
Can we go to Bhutan in our Car?
Yes, you can drive your car but you need to pay daily fees of INR 4500 per day per car. The permit will be issued by RSTA from the border. You need proper vehicle documents to apply for the vehicle permit.
What is required to enter Bhutan?
To enter Bhutan you need a valid Passport and apply Visa in advance. You will only get a Bhutan Visa upon paying SDF of USD 100 per person per night and one-time visa fees of USD 40.
How much are daily Tourist Fees in Bhutan?
Daily tourist fees other than Indian national is USD 100 per person per night also called SDF. For Indian nationals INR 1200 per person per night is applicable.
Can we go to Bhutan with an Adhar Card?
No, you cannot enter Bhutan with an Adhar Card. You need to have either a Passport or Voter’s Card if you are an adult or an Original Birth certificate for a child below 12 years.
How to pay SDF in Bhutan?
Once you confirm the tour you can transfer the SDF through bank transfer.
