Yes. Visitors of all nationalities except Indian nationals need a visa to enter Bhutan. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also need a visa, but they may apply either before travel or on arrival. Indian nationals need a travel permit instead.
You can apply for a Bhutan visa online, or your tour operator can apply on your behalf. A correctly submitted visa application can take up to five days to process.
Tourists pay a one-time visa application fee of US$40 and a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). The SDF is USD 100 per night for adults from most countries, while Indian nationals pay Nu. 1,200 per person per night. Reduced rates apply for children.
No. Visitors can now book their trip to Bhutan independently. However, accredited Bhutanese tour operators are still recommended for their local expertise and service.
Yes. It is mandatory for tourists to be accompanied by a local guide while traveling in Bhutan. Route permits are no longer needed as long as travelers are with a guide certified by the Department of Tourism.
Bhutan is considered a year-round destination. Spring and autumn are especially popular because of pleasant weather, clear skies, blooming landscapes, and festival season, though conditions vary by altitude and region.