Bhutan maintains a controlled tourism policy focused on “High Value, Low Impact” to protect its culture and environment. All international visitors (except specific exemptions) need prior approval.
1. Visa Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa/Permit Requirement | How to Obtain | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian | No visa; Entry Permit required | Online (immi.gov.bt) or on arrival | Use Indian Passport or Voter ID. Free permit (SDF applies). |
| Bangladeshi & Maldivian | Visa on arrival (or apply in advance) | On arrival or online | Passport valid 6+ months. SDF required. |
| All other nationalities | e-Visa required in advance | Online via immi.gov.bt or through licensed tour operator | Mandatory. Cannot buy flight tickets without visa clearance. |
| Thai & Swiss (Diplomatic/Official passports) | Visa on arrival | At Paro Airport or entry points | Ordinary passports need advance visa. |
2. Key Requirements for All Visitors
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Bhutan.
- Visa Fee: US$40 per person (non-refundable, one-time).
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF):
- US$100 per person per night for adults (international tourists) — valid until at least August 31, 2027.
- Children 6–11 years: 50% discount (US$50/night).
- Children under 6: Free.
- For Indian nationals: INR 1,200 (~US$16.50) per night.
- Application Documents:
- Scanned color copy of passport bio page.
- Recent digital passport-size photo.
- Travel dates (arrival/departure).
- Payment details.
3. Application Process (for non-Indians)
- Apply online at the official Bhutan Immigration portal: immi.gov.bt.
- Or book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator (recommended for first-timers — they handle everything).
- Processing time: Usually within 5 working days.
- Once approved, you receive a Visa Clearance Letter. Present it at immigration (e.g., Paro Airport) to get the visa stamped in your passport.
Important: Independent travel is not allowed for most tourists. You must travel with a licensed guide (arranged via tour operator), though you can customize your itinerary.
4. Additional Tips
- Entry Points: Mainly Paro International Airport (PBH). Land entry via Phuentsholing (from India) is also possible.
- Travel Insurance: Not mandatory but strongly recommended.
- GST: A 5% Goods and Services Tax on tourism services may apply from 2026.
- Children & Groups: You can apply for family/group visas together.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the official sites:
- Bhutan Immigration: immi.gov.bt
- Bhutan Tourism: bhutan.travel
If you’re an Indian citizen (common for users from Kolkata), your process is much simpler — just get the entry permit and pay the daily SDF.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the best balance of pleasant weather, clear Himalayan views, blooming landscapes or post-monsoon clarity, and major festivals.
- Spring (March–May): Pleasant mild weather (daytime 15–25°C), blooming rhododendrons, and festivals like Paro Tshechu. Great for photography and nature. Popular, so book early.
- Summer/Monsoon (June–August): Lush green landscapes, warmer, but frequent rain and lower visibility. Fewer tourists, potentially lower costs, good for cultural immersion.
- Autumn (September–November): Often considered the overall best season. Clear blue skies, excellent mountain views, dry conditions for trekking, and festivals (e.g., Thimphu Tshechu in September/October). Peak tourist time — especially October.
- Winter (December–February): Cold (especially at night and higher altitudes), but sunny days and very few crowds. Great for serene experiences and hot stone baths. Snow possible in higher passes.