Plan

Visa

Most visitors need a visa approved before they arrive. Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals also need a visa, but they may get it on arrival.

You can apply online yourself, or a tour operator or hotel can apply on your behalf. The application fee is US$40, paid once and not refundable. Applications are reviewed within five working days.

You can pay the visa fee and the Sustainable Development Fee together online by credit card.

Your passport should be valid for six months from the day you plan to leave Bhutan.

Indian nationals

Indian nationals do not need a visa. They travel on an entry permit, with a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card.

Sustainable Development Fee

The Sustainable Development Fee is US$100 per adult per night for most nationals. Children aged 6 to under 12 pay US$50 per night. Children under 6 pay no Sustainable Development Fee.

The US$100 rate is a 50% incentive. It took effect on 1 September 2023 and was announced to run until 31 August 2027.

Indian nationals pay Nu. 1,200 per person per night, or the equivalent in Indian rupees. Indian children aged 6 to under 12 pay Nu./INR 600 per night.

Bangladeshi visitors have a limited concession, and there is a 24-hour waiver within designated border-town zones. Check whether either applies to you.

The fee pays for public goods, among them schools, free healthcare, youth skilling, and forest and wildlife conservation.

Guide and insurance

You must be accompanied by a licensed guide at all times in Bhutan.

Travel insurance is recommended. It has not been mandatory since 23 April 2024.

Flights

Drukair and Bhutan Airlines operate international flights to Paro, from hubs including Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Dhaka and Singapore.

When to book

The most popular months to travel are March–May and September–November. In those months flights can be fully booked several months in advance, so book flights early. Book your accommodation early too.

What to wear

At temples, monasteries and dzongs (fortresses), wear long sleeves, long trousers or a skirt that covers your legs, and closed-toe shoes. Remove caps and hats at sacred sites and when you meet elders.

At sacred sites

• Remove your shoes when you enter, and do not take photographs inside.
• Keep silent.
• Do not stand between worshippers and an altar, or get in the way of worship.
• Walk clockwise around chortens (stupas) and prayer wheels, with them on your right.
• Do not touch religious items, statues or paintings, and do not sit on lamas’ thrones.
• Do not climb onto or sit on religious monuments, even for a photo.
• Do not point your legs towards people, altars or shrines. Sit cross-legged or tuck your legs beneath you.
• Take care when photographing people who are praying or taking part in a festival.