Bhutan Travel Information

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a serene Buddhist kingdom bordered by China to the north and India to the south. Covering an area of over 38,394 sq. km, this enchanting country has long chosen to remain selectively connected to the outside world - preserving its untouched natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Cradled by the mighty Himalayas, Bhutan’s stunning scenery, lush forests, and dramatic mountain terrain offer the perfect backdrop for adventure and reflection. It’s no surprise that this peaceful nation is now considered one of the top travel destinations in South Asia.

Tourism in Bhutan

Bhutan places deep importance on environmental preservation and cultural integrity. In line with this, the Royal Government follows a unique tourism policy of “High Value, Low Impact.” This approach ensures that tourism is carefully managed — protecting the country's natural beauty while offering a more meaningful, crowd-free experience to visitors.

Bhutan is open for tourism, and travelers are welcome to explore its unspoiled charm. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind when planning your trip

Visa Requirements

Bhutan follows its own distinctive visa process. Unlike many countries that issue visas on a weekly or monthly basis, Bhutan issues visas based on the number of days you intend to stay.

Visitors must apply in advance, either through the official online platform or with the help of a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Since the process can take time, it’s best to start your visa application at least a month before your travel date.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Another key aspect of travel to Bhutan is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) - a daily fee charged to visitors, which supports the country’s efforts in environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and infrastructure development.

International tourists: USD $100 per day
Indian tourists: INR ₹1,200 per day

This fee helps Bhutan continue its commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism.

Cultural Etiquette

Bhutan takes immense pride in its traditions and expects visitors to show respect for its culture and customs. No matter where you’re from, it’s important to observe local etiquette during your visit.

Here are some key practices to keep in mind:

Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries or religious sites
Avoid honking or making noise in peaceful areas
Refrain from wearing leather footwear at sacred locations
Do not feed stray animals or dogs
Public smoking is strictly prohibited
Always dispose of garbage properly - protect nature

Gross National Happiness

Bhutan isn’t just known for its landscapes - it’s famous for its philosophy of happiness. Instead of measuring progress through GDP alone, Bhutan developed the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) - a unique approach that focuses on the well-being of its people.

GNH is built on four core pillars: