TRAVEL TIPS
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All visitors require a visa before travelling to Bhutan (except those from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives, for whom the relevant processes and fees are outlined separately below). As part of the visa application process, you will be required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$100 per day (per adult; concessionary rates apply for
children).
More information about the SDF can be found here.
✔️ A non-refundable, one-off visa application fee of US$40 is also payable.
✔️ You can apply online for a visa or permit by completing an application form, or if you’re travelling with a tour operator or staying at a hotel, they can apply on your behalf.
✔️ You can apply for yourself and anyone you’re travelling with, provided you have the required information for each person travelling.
To apply for a visa online you will need:
✔️ A digital copy of a valid passport
✔️ A recent digital passport photo
✔️ Arrival and departure dates
✔️ Valid travel insurance for the duration of your travel
✔️ Payment details
VISITORS FROM INDIA AND BANGLADESH
Visitors from India require a permit. You may apply for this before travelling here, or if you’re travelling with a tour operator or staying at a hotel, they can apply on your behalf.
No fees are payable in advance.
You can also apply at your point of entry, but please be aware that there may be a long wait depending on the number of applicants at the time. If you are applying for a permit
on arrival, you will need a passport-size photograph. You must also have insurance for the duration of your visit, which you can prearrange or purchase upon arrival. Your SDF
is payable when applying for your permit, either online or in person.
Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives require a visa, but the process is the same as the one outlined above for Indian nationals: you may apply and pay the relevant
SDF online and prearrange your travel insurance before travelling, or you can do this in person upon arrival.
We recommend arranging your permit or visa beforehand.
Getting into Bhutan by Air
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Paro, Bhutan’s gateway town, offers a breathtaking entry point into the kingdom. Situated at an altitude of 2,225 meters (7,300 feet) above sea level, with towering peaks reaching up to 4,876 meters (16,000 feet), Paro is a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Paro International Airport serves as the primary point of entry for travelers, offering flights to various destinations including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bag Dogra, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore, and Mumbai. Drukair and Bhutan Airlines are the two carriers that operate flights to and from Bhutan. Additionally, domestic airports in Yonphula, Bumthang, and Gelephu provide connectivity within the country. Flying into Paro is an exhilarating experience, as the descent into the valley brings passengers tantalizingly close to towering mountain peaks. The flight from Paro to Kathmandu is particularly thrilling, offering unparalleled views of four of the world’s highest mountains: Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kangchenjunga. On clear days, passengers are treated to spectacular vistas, witnessing these majestic peaks in all their glory. The journey to Paro is not merely a physical voyage; it’s a sensory delight. As the aircraft navigates through the mountainous terrain, passengers are enveloped in a panorama of rugged landscapes, verdant valleys, and snow-capped summits. The sheer grandeur of the Himalayas leaves an indelible impression, evoking a sense of awe and wonder. Upon landing in Paro, visitors are greeted by the town’s serene ambiance and traditional Bhutanese architecture. The iconic Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched precariously on a cliffside, is a testament to Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and serves as a symbol of the nation’s resilience. Whether embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage, immersing oneself in Bhutan’s vibrant culture, or simply reveling in the splendor of nature, Paro offers an unforgettable journey. With its unparalleled beauty and mystical allure, Paro beckons travelers to embark on a transformative voyage to the heart of the Himalayas.
Getting into Bhutan by Land
Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar stand as the primary land border areas open to tourists seeking entry into Bhutan. Phuentsholing, situated approximately 170 kilometers east of Bagdogra Airport in India, serves as the initial point of entry. From there, travelers embark on a six-hour journey spanning 170 kilometers to reach Thimphu, the capital. Gelephu, located in south-central Bhutan, offers another gateway into the kingdom. Traveling approximately 250 kilometers from Thimphu, visitors traverse through sub-tropical landscapes transitioning into alpine zones, culminating in their arrival in the capital after a ten-hour journey. Samdrup Jongkhar, nestled in southeast Bhutan, shares its border with the Indian district of Darranga, Assam, merely 150 kilometers from Guwahati, Assam’s capital. The trip from Guwahati takes about three hours. Tourists entering through Samdrup Jongkhar embark on a scenic journey, passing through Trashigang and onward via the lateral route through Mongar, Bumthang, Trongsa, and Wangdue Phodrang before reaching Thimphu. Covering a distance of approximately 700 kilometers, this journey typically spans a minimum of three days. These entry points not only facilitate access into Bhutan but also offer travelers a glimpse into the diverse landscapes and cultural tapestry that define the kingdom. From the lush subtropical terrain to the rugged alpine vistas, each leg of the journey presents an opportunity for exploration and discovery, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure in the Land of the Thunder
Dragon.