Bhutan Guide
Preparing for the Kingdom of Happiness.
This guide outlines every step needed to prepare for your journey to Bhutan.
Confirm Entry Requirements
Who Needs a Visa? All international guests must secure a visa before arrival. Note: A separate, simplified process applies to citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives.
Know the Associated Fees
Two primary fees are required:
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): US$100 per adult, per night.
- Visa Application Fee: A single, non-refundable charge of US$40.
Essential Documents Checklist
- Valid Passport (Digital Copy)
- Recent Digital Passport Photo
- Confirmed Travel Dates (Arrival and Departure)
- International Payment Method (Credit/Debit Card)
The Application Steps
Follow these main steps (often managed by Zombala):
- Commit to the Pledge of Friendship.
- Register on the official tourism portal.
- Submit your detailed travel itinerary.
- Complete payment for both the Visa Fee and the total SDF.
Review & Final Approval
Timeline: Applications are officially reviewed within five working days.
Final Step: Once approved, your electronic Visa Clearance Letter will be issued, confirming your readiness for Bhutan!
Special Entry Procedures For Regional Tourists
Different procedures apply to visitors from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives.
Indian Visitors
- Entry Document: Requires a permit, not a visa.
- Application: Apply online before arrival or at the point of entry.
- On-Arrival: If applying at the entry point, remember to bring a passport-size photo.
- Fee Payment: The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is paid when applying for the permit.
Bangladeshi Visitors
- Entry Document: Requires a visa.
- Application: The application process is similar to that for Indian nationals.
- Submission: You can apply online in advance or at the entry points.
- Fee Payment: The SDF is payable at the time of application.
Maldivian Visitors
- Entry Document: Requires a visa.
- Application: The application process is similar to that for Indian nationals.
- Submission: You can apply online in advance or at the entry points.
- Fee Payment: The SDF is payable at the time of application.
Important Note: Applying for a permit or visa upon arrival may involve significant waiting times, depending on the volume of travelers. For the fastest and smoothest experience, Zombala Tours always recommends applying online in advance.
Let Zombala Handle the Intricate Procedure
Why navigate the complex administrative work, payment platforms, and timeline checks yourself? As your trusted local Bhutanese operator, we manage the entire visa process—from document submission to clearance—ensuring a smooth and worry-free start to your trip.
What is
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a core component of Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Impact” tourism strategy. Paid as a daily levy by international visitors, the SDF is a direct contribution to the nation’s well-being, supporting development projects, environmental conservation, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Your SDF contribution is a direct investment in the long-term success of Bhutan, ensuring tourism benefits every citizen and protects the environment:
Preserves the Environment
The funds maintain Bhutan's commitment to being carbon-negative, supporting the protection of forests and biodiversity, and safeguarding the constitutional mandate of over 70% forest cover.
Supports Local Communities
The SDF funds critical national programs, including free healthcare and education for all Bhutanese citizens, as well as essential infrastructure development.
Safeguards Culture
It helps maintain Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, ancient traditions, and sacred sites, ensuring future generations can experience the authentic Bhutanese way of life.
Ensures Quality Tourism
By funding high-value, low-impact tourism, the SDF preserves the intimate, uncrowded, and genuine Bhutanese experience for all visitors.
Handcrafted Itineraries for Every Traveler
The daily SDF rates vary based on the traveler’s age and nationality:
For International Visitors (Excluding India)
- Adults: $100 USD per person, per night.
- Children (Ages 6–12): $50 USD per person, per night (a 50% concession).
- Children (Under Age 6): Exempt from the fee.
For International Visitors (Excluding India)
- Adults: ₹1,200 INR per person, per night.
- Children (Ages 6–12): Receive a 50% discount on the regional rate.
- Children (Under Age 6): Exempt from the fee.
- Day Tourists: Exempt from the fee if they do not travel past the first designated checkpoint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Bhutan has 19 languages, but the national language is Dzongkha. You won’t have trouble communicating, as English is widely used and understood across the country, serving as the language of the education system.
The official currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). It is pegged 1:1 with the Indian Rupee (INR), and Indian Rupees are commonly accepted for transactions.
It’s wise to bring multiple adapters, as Bhutan uses three different electrical plug types:
- The British plug (three square pins, Type G socket).
- The European plug (two round pins, Type C socket).
- The Indian plug (three thick round pins, Type D socket).
Bhutan is an exciting year-round destination with four distinct seasons. The climate varies significantly due to the country’s diverse altitudes:
Spring (March–May): Mild weather, ideal for travel.
Summer (June–August): Warmer temperatures, marked by the monsoon season.
Autumn (September–November): Often considered the peak season, offering clear skies and great festival viewing.
Winter (December–February): Cool and dry, with lower valleys offering great views and higher areas experiencing snow.
When calling Bhutan from abroad, you must use the international country code +975 at the beginning of the number.