Essential Information
Travel Info
Everything you need to know before your journey to the Kingdom of Happiness.
Overview of Bhutan
Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon
Bhutan, a serene Himalayan kingdom, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled between India and China, this small nation emphasizes Gross National Happiness as a measure of its success. It boasts stunning dzongs (fortress-monasteries), lush green valleys, and terraced fields that showcase its agricultural roots.
The towering Himalayan peaks provide a dramatic backdrop, while fluttering prayer flags and monasteries perched on cliffs reflect Bhutan's deep spiritual essence. Visitors can explore places like the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, meander through pristine forests, and immerse themselves in Bhutanese traditions and festivals.
“Measuring success in happiness, not just wealth.”
Sustainable Development Fee
Travelling Responsibly
Current Policy (Sep 2023 – Aug 2027)
- •50% discount on the prevailing SDF of USD 200 — effective SDF is USD 100 per person per day for USD-paying tourists.
- •50% discount also applied to children aged 6–12 years.
- •24-hour SDF waiver for tourists staying in border towns continues.
Brief History of SDF
Bhutan now mandates a "sustainable development fee" of $200 per night for all visitors — a rise from the previous $65. The reasoning is clear: Bhutan strives to promote high-value, low-volume tourism to safeguard its environment and cultural heritage.
Bhutan has implemented several sustainable tourism initiatives such as responsible waste management and decreasing carbon emissions. In 2020, Bhutan was awarded the Sustainable Tourism Award by the World Tourism Organization.
Purpose of the Fee
The Sustainable Development Fee enables investment in transformative programmes that preserve cultural traditions, protect heritage and environment, upgrade infrastructure, create opportunities for young people, and build resilience.
USD 100 / person / night
Effective discounted rate (2023–2027)
Visa Requirements
Entry Essentials
The Department of Immigration, under the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs, is the only authority that issues visas for Bhutan. With the exception of Indian visitors (who need a permit), all others must obtain a visa.
Nationals of Bangladesh and Maldives are eligible for a visa on arrival. Nationals of Switzerland and Thailand holding diplomatic and official passports are also eligible for visa on arrival. The visa fee is USD 40 per person (non-refundable) and can take up to five working days to process.
Bhutan is served by two national airlines — Drukair and Bhutan Airlines — offering direct flights to and from Paro International Airport. Entry by road is also possible via four official points from India: Samtse, Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar.
Required Documents
- → Passport valid for at least 6 months from travel date
- → Recent passport-size photograph
- → Visa application (online recommended)
Travel Insurance
The mandatory travel insurance requirement introduced during COVID-19 has been withdrawn as of 23/04/2024. However, travel insurance is still recommended as a precautionary measure.
Visa on Arrival
Available for Bangladesh and Maldives nationals — but applying online in advance is recommended to reduce wait time at port of entry.
Transportation
Journey in Comfort
Travel24 Travels provides luxurious transportation services tailored to the size of your group. We arrange private vehicles to ensure you enjoy a comfortable and seamless journey throughout your tour.
Coaster Bus
High Roof Hiace
H1
Santa Fe
Toyota Prado
Innova
With our personalized transportation, you'll have ample time to relax and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Bhutan, the Land of Happiness — making your trip truly unforgettable.
Druk Air
Serves: Bangladesh, Kathmandu, Bangkok, Singapore
Indian cities: Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Gaya, Bagdogra
Bhutan Airlines
Serves: Bangkok, Kathmandu
Indian cities: Delhi, Kolkata
Flight
Flying to Bhutan
Planning to fly to Bhutan? You have two excellent options: Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air, both operating from Paro International Airport and connecting Bhutan to major South Asian hubs.
Both airlines prioritize safety and reliability, with highly trained pilots, maintenance crews, and cabin staff who have received international training. Passengers can expect exceptional service both in the air and on the ground — including special assistance for mothers with infants, children, medical cases, and travelers with disabilities.
Tickets can be easily booked online, or Travel24 can handle your flight booking for a seamless start to your Bhutan adventure.
Payment Process
How to Pay
All costs should be made in USD. There are two primary ways to make your payment.
Bank Wire Transfer
Visit your bank or use your bank's online portal. The most important SWIFT code to mention is Bhutan National Bank's: BNBTBTBT.
If your bank offers online transfer to Bhutan National Bank directly, you do not need to channel through a correspondent bank. If only one SWIFT field exists — use Bhutan National Bank's SWIFT code.
wise.com Transfer
Register on wise.com, add money via bank card, click "Send" → "An Account Outside Of Wise", add recipient with bank details.
Important: When filling transfer details, select SWIFT — not ACH or Wire.
Hotels & Accommodation
Where You Stay
Bhutan offers accommodations for all types of guests — from contemporary 3–5 star hotels with modern amenities to traditional lodges and homestays that immerse you in authentic Bhutanese culture. Out of every window, you'll find pristine forests, majestic snow peaks, and valleys dotted with prayer flags and temples.
Your experience during your stay in Bhutan will be special, with outward-looking and well-informed people providing you with hospitable services.
3–5 Star Hotels
Contemporary facilities: swimming pools, gyms, and spas. Luxury rooms for singles, couples, friends, and families.
Traditional Lodges
Ancient hot stone baths, authentic Bhutanese cuisines, and traditional dress experiences.
Homestays
Stay with local families, enjoy scenic views of pristine forests, majestic snow peaks, and valleys dotted with prayer flags.