Visit Bhutan
Before you travel
Visas
Most international visitors need a visa, which is approved before you travel and issued when you arrive. Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals follow a different permit process. As your tour operator, we can submit the application for you once your itinerary is confirmed.
- Confirm your itinerary and travel dates with us.
- Send a clear passport scan and a recent photo.
- We submit your visa application and arrange the required fees.
- You receive your visa approval before you fly.
- Your visa is issued on arrival at Paro or at a land border.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Bhutan charges visitors a daily Sustainable Development Fee, which funds healthcare, education, conservation and carbon-neutral tourism. The rate is set by the Government of Bhutan, differs by nationality and age, and has changed several times in recent years.
We do not publish a fixed rate on this website. Your written proposal lists the SDF that applies on the date of your quote. For the official figures, see the Department of Tourism website.
Getting there
Paro International Airport is Bhutan's only international airport. Bhutan's airlines, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, connect it with regional hubs such as Bangkok, Delhi and Kathmandu. The approach through the mountains is spectacular. Flights are limited, so book early.
Travellers coming from India can also enter overland, most commonly at Phuentsholing. Use our trip planner to see how a Paro or Phuentsholing arrival changes your route.
When to go
March–May
Spring
Rhododendrons in bloom, mild days and the Paro Tshechu. A popular time to travel.
June–August
Summer
Monsoon season: green valleys and fewer visitors, but rain can affect mountain views and roads.
September–November
Autumn
Clear skies and big festivals. The most popular season, so book early.
December–February
Winter
Cold, crisp and clear, with black-necked cranes in Phobjikha. High passes can close after snow.
Practical tips
- Guides: a licensed guide is required for most travel in Bhutan. Every Druk ST Tours and Travels trip includes one.
- Altitude: Paro and Thimphu sit around 2,200–2,400 m and high passes go well above 3,000 m. Take it easy on the first day and drink plenty of water.
- Roads: mountain roads are winding and slow. A short distance on the map can take hours, so allow plenty of time between valleys.
- Money: the currency is the ngultrum (BTN), pegged to the Indian rupee. Card acceptance is growing but carry some cash for small shops.
- Time zone: Bhutan Time is UTC+6.
- Insurance: we strongly recommend travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, especially for treks.
- Etiquette: dress modestly at religious sites, walk clockwise around chortens, and ask before photographing people.
Rules and fees change. Always check official sources before you travel. We confirm the current requirements in every proposal.
Questions about visas or fees?
Send us an enquiry and we'll explain exactly what applies to your nationality and dates.