Bhutan Guide

Good journeys begin with good questions.

Practical planning help for travellers preparing for Bhutan.

01 · Visa & SDF

Understand the current rules.

Bhutan’s entry and fee rules can change. On the live site, always link to official government sources and publish the latest confirmed requirements.

For now, here’s the general overview:

  • Visa is required for most nationalities (except India, Bangladesh, Maldives).
  • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is USD 100 per person per night (reduced for children and certain countries).
  • Visa applications are typically processed through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.

Always check official Bhutanese government websites for the most current information.

02 · When to Go

Choose the season around your priorities.

Bhutan has four distinct seasons, each offering a different experience:

  • Spring (March–May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and pleasant temperatures. Good for trekking and sightseeing.
  • Summer (June–August): Lush greenery, but monsoon rains can be heavy. Fewer crowds.
  • Autumn (September–November): Clear views, crisp air, and festival season (Thimphu Tshechu, Punakha Drubchen). Considered the best overall time.
  • Winter (December–February): Cold days, clear skies, and unique snow-capped views. Good for those who don't mind chill.

Festival dates vary each year—always confirm with us.

03 · From India

Plan your gateway.

Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Bhutan but do need a valid passport or voter ID. Entry by air is via Paro International Airport (from Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Guwahati, etc.).

Land entry is possible through the following border towns:

  • Phuentsholing (via West Bengal, nearest to Bagdogra)
  • Gelephu (via Assam, nearest to Guwahati)
  • Samdrup Jongkhar (via Assam)

Transfers from Indian border towns to Thimphu can take several hours (4–6 hours from Phuentsholing).

04 · FAQ

Questions travellers ask.

How many days should I plan? +
A first trip often works well at around a week; longer journeys make room for slower routes and deeper experiences.
Can I customise a package? +
Yes. The redesign is intentionally centred around private, tailor-made journeys.
Can you arrange road entry? +
Yes, we can arrange transfers from Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar. Please contact us for details.
What is the minimum daily budget? +
With the SDF and other costs, a typical private journey starts from around USD 150–200 per person per day, depending on travel style and accommodation.
Plan Your Journey