Travel Information

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Bhutan. Please check your passport expiry well before departure and carry a copy separately from the original.

The information below reflects our understanding at the time of publication and is provided as general guidance only. Visa rules, fees and entry requirements can change. Please confirm current requirements with the Royal Government of Bhutan or your own government's travel advice before booking or travelling.

Who needs a visa?

Visitors of all nationalities — except Indian nationals — require a visa before entering Bhutan. Nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives also require a visa, which can be applied for and approved either in advance of travel or upon arrival in Bhutan.

Indian nationals are able to apply for a permit and are required to hold a valid Indian passport or Indian voter ID card. Indian nationals under 18 require a passport or birth certificate, and must be accompanied by a legal guardian.

Nationals of Switzerland and Thailand holding diplomatic or government-official passports may be eligible for a visa at their port of entry.

Visa applications are typically processed within five business days once submitted correctly.

A visa allows a stay of up to 90 days from the date of entry.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Bhutan charges a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) — a daily levy paid by visitors to support Bhutan's development, healthcare, education, infrastructure, conservation, cultural programs and local businesses. The SDF rates below are current as of publication and valid through August 31, 2027; rates are subject to change.

A visa fee of USD 40 per person applies. Children under 6 are not subject to the SDF charge. Indian nationals pay a significantly reduced SDF rate (INR 1,200 per day for adults). SDF is refunded for cancelled or shortened trips after guests leave Bhutan, via the visa portal, after departure.

There is also a charge of Nu. 4,500 per car, per day for self-driving. A local guide is mandatory and will be arranged as part of your journey.

For the most current SDF rates and visa information, please refer to the Royal Government of Bhutan or speak with us before booking.

Travel insurance is not compulsory, but we highly recommend comprehensive cover for all journeys. Please see our Travel Insurance page.

Bhutan has one international airport at Paro. Drukair and Bhutan Airlines operate flights connecting to Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodhgaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati and Singapore. Domestic airports are located at Yonphula (east), Bumthang (central) and Gelephu (south-central).

International flights to Bhutan are limited and it is important to book early, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking international flights to and from Paro is generally arranged directly by travellers; we can advise on routing and timing to suit your itinerary.

The local currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). Indian Rupees are also widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in some places, but cash is recommended in smaller towns and for day-to-day purchases. You may bring up to the equivalent of USD 10,000 cash into Bhutan. Currency exchange is available at Paro Airport and major banks.

The SDF and visa fees are payable in USD. Extensions of stay are paid in USD for most nationalities (Indian nationals pay in INR).

Bhutan's climate varies by season and altitude. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are popular for mild weather and clear skies. Summer brings monsoon rains, and winter is cold, especially at higher elevations. We will advise on the best timing for your itinerary.

Dress in layers. Comfortable walking shoes, warm layers for evenings and higher elevations, and modest clothing for visits to monasteries and religious sites are recommended.

Much of Bhutan sits at high altitude. Some itineraries reach over 3,000 metres. Take time to acclimatise, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice if you have any concerns about altitude before booking.

Trekking options range from gentle walks to challenging multi-day hikes. Choose an itinerary that matches your fitness and experience. Please disclose any health considerations so we can recommend a suitable journey.

Carry sufficient personal medication for your trip, along with a copy of any prescriptions. Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic before departure for up-to-date health advice.

Bhutanese culture is deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions. Please dress modestly, remove shoes and hats when entering religious sites, ask before photographing people, and always behave respectfully at monasteries and dzongs.

Bhutan is a photographer's dream, but some sites restrict photography, especially inside religious buildings. Always ask permission before photographing people, and respect any signage or guidance from your guide.

Mobile and data coverage is available in most towns, though it can be limited in remote areas. Local SIM cards or eSIM options may be available; your guide can assist.

Wi-Fi is generally available at hotels, lodges and other accommodations, though speeds and reliability vary and connections may be slow or intermittent. Travellers should be prepared for limited data in general, particularly outside main towns and on trekking routes.

Bhutan uses 230V, 50Hz. Plug types D, F and G are commonly used — a universal travel adapter will cover all three. A power bank is also useful for longer days or trekking.

• Layered clothing and a warm jacket
• Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
• Day pack for excursions
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal medication and a small first-aid kit
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Universal travel adapter and power bank