Everything you need to know before you go — fees, process, and requirements for 2025–2027.
All international visitors (US, UK, EU, Australia, etc.) must obtain an e-Visa in advance. The visa is pre-approved online and officially stamped on arrival at Paro Airport.
Indian citizens do not require a visa but must obtain an Entry Permit on arrival or online. No visa fee is charged. Aadhaar card is not accepted — use passport or voter ID.
Nationals of Bangladesh and Maldives follow the same process as Indian nationals — entry permit, no visa fee, but SDF applies at the same concessionary rate.
The SDF is a daily fee charged to every tourist. It goes directly to Bhutan's government to fund free healthcare, education, environmental conservation, and infrastructure for Bhutanese citizens.
| Visitor Type | Daily SDF Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| International Adults (12+) | $100 USD/night | Valid until Aug 31, 2027 |
| Children age 6–12 | $50 USD/night | 50% discount |
| Children under 6 | Free | Full exemption |
| Indian nationals (adults) | ₹1,200/night | ~$15 USD equivalent |
| Indian children 6–12 | ₹600/night | 50% discount |
If you cancel or cut your trip short, the SDF for unused nights can be refunded by the Department of Immigration after your departure. Submit your refund request via the online visa portal. Note: bank transfer charges are deducted from the refund.
Here's what a typical 7-night trip costs in government fees alone, before tour packages and flights.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa fee (one-time) | $40 |
| SDF × 7 nights (1 adult) | $700 |
| Government fees total | $740 |
| Tour package (guide, transport, 3 meals/day, 3-star hotel) est. $180–245/night × 7 | $1,260–$1,715 |
| Return flights (Delhi/Bangkok/Kathmandu) | $400–$900 |
| Estimated total (1 person, 7 nights) | ~$2,400–$3,355 |
You can apply directly at bhutan.travel or through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The operator can handle the entire process on your behalf. Always verify your operator on the Tourism Council of Bhutan website.
You will need: a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond your return date), a digital passport-size photograph, your travel itinerary and dates, and full travel insurance details.
Pay the $40 visa fee and $100/night SDF via wire transfer or credit card through the online portal. All payments must be settled at least one month before your trip starts. Inform your bank in advance to avoid international transfer blocks.
All visitors must sign Bhutan's Pledge of Friendship — a commitment to respect, protect, and positively contribute to the kingdom during your stay.
Within 5 working days, you'll receive a PDF clearance letter by email. You must present this to board your flight to Bhutan. Without it, airlines will not allow you to board.
At Paro Airport, present your clearance letter and passport. Border staff will stamp your actual visa. Ensure this is done — missing the stamp can cause problems at departure.
Paro International Airport (PBH) is the only international airport in Bhutan. Only two airlines operate flights here: Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines) and Bhutan Airlines.
Flight hubs: Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Singapore, Dhaka, Kolkata, Mumbai
Note: The approach into Paro is one of the most spectacular — and technically demanding — in the world. Only specially certified pilots can land here.
Overland entry is only permitted for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals. Three main land border crossings:
24-hour SDF waiver applies for day visitors to border towns who do not travel further inside Bhutan.