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 SDF

All visitors to Bhutan are required to pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 for the duration of their stay, in addition to a one-time visa fee of USD 40.

Travelers visiting Bhutan on invitation visas, FAM trips, MICE programs, or as personal guests are exempt from the daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) but are still required to pay the one-time visa fee.

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.