Travel Requirements

Tourists can book a package holiday to Bhutan through both international and Bhutanese tour operators. Information is available from travel agencies. The Royal Government of Bhutan sets minimum selling prices for packages to Bhutan and this must be paid in US dollars prior to arrival in Bhutan.

Daily Tariff

The minimum tariff for tourist visiting in a group of 3 persons or more are as follows:

  • High Season Tariff – USD 250 per person per night for the months of March, April, May, September, October, and November.
  • Season Tariff – USD 200 per person per night for the months of January, February, June, July, August, and December.

The minimum price includes:

  • All internal taxes and charges (including the royalty), accommodation, all meals, all travel with a licensed Bhutanese tour guide, all internal transport, camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours.
  • The rates are applicable per tourist per night halt in Bhutan.

Surcharges

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

Visa Formalities

Other than Indian, Bangladeshis and Maldivian nationals, all visitors to Bhutan require a visa; all visas are issued from Thimphu; visas are only issued to tourists booked with a local licensed tour operator, directly or through a foreign travel agent. Visa clearance must be obtained before coming to Bhutan and takes at least 10 days to process. Air tickets to Bhutan cannot be purchased without visa clearance. At your point of entry the visa will be stamped in your passport on payment of US$20; two passport photos will also be required. Visas are issued for a 15-day period; extensions can be obtained at a cost of Nu 510.

Cancellations

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%

Delayed Arrivals

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) denominations of 500 and 1,000 are not accepted in Bhutan.