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Bhutan Visa

Have any doubts on how to get a Bhutan Visa?  No Worries. We are here to provide you all the information on Bhutan Visa and Bhutan Visa Cost. So, know all about Bhutan Travel Visa , Travel Cost and  How to transfer money to Bhutan before traveling to Bhutan.

It is easy  to apply for Bhutan Travel Visa. All  visitors visiting  Bhutan has to procure  visa before arriving in Bhutan. The Indian Tourists require e -permits to enter Bhutan. However, International Tourists require e-visas.  Both e-Visas and e-permits are issued through certified tour operators like Bhutan Best Inbound Tour.

The guidelines provided below may help you to understand how to  get Bhutan Visa. And how it works.

Bhutan Visa

 

The visa formalities work slightly differently for Regional  Tourist and International  Tourist.

Visa Formality For International Tourist

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Bhutan Government has adopted a cautious tourism policy from the beginning to avoid the negative impact of mass tourism. Being a small country, Bhutan cannot effort to succumb to over-commercialization in the field of Tourism. Thus the policy of High Value, Low Volume Tourism is highly preserved.

 

Bhutan Visa Cost

On 27th June 2022, the bill was passed to levy the Government SDF for International guests from USD 65 to USD 200 per night per person.

So in order to get your visa processed , the required Bhutan Government SDF per night per person has to be transferred to the Government SDF account and one time visa application fee of USD40.

 

 

Bhutan Travel
Bhutan Travel
Visa Application Process

In order to get your Bhutan visa , first you have to send the necessary Government SDF and one time Visa processing fee

 

Payment Protection

Your SDF payment is well protected.

After receiving your payment, the Bhutan Tour operator has to send all the payments to the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB).   TCB verifies  the if the required SDF is met or not and further forwards to the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs. The Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs just checks the validity of the passport and approves your Bhutan Visa. The Tour operator will mail you the e-visa , once the visa is approved . The e visa has to be produced while entering the country. Upon your arrival, an immigration officer at the counter shall verify your passport  and e visa clearance .

You need to show your visa clearance letter at your point of entry. Then the immigration will stamp the visa into your passport.

How To Transfer money to Bhutan Account

There are 2 ways to transfer money to Bhutan account:

1. International Wire Transfer

Bhutan can receive the payment in  USD , Euro , Yen and in GBP. So, please follow the following steps to transfer money to Bhutan account.

Step1: The remit  amount should be transferred in any of the above mentioned currency. If your country currency is not in the above currency list. Then please convert.

Step 2. You have to provide details of Beneficiary Bank details (Bhutan National Bank)

 Beneficiary Bank details (Bhutan National Bank)

Step 3:

You have to provide details of Ultimate Beneficiary/Recipient

Beneficiary :

  1. Account Name of Tour Operator : Eg. Bhutan Best Inbound Tour
  2. Address : Eg. RTC Road , White Duplex, PO Box 2050, Postal code 11001 , Thimphu
  3. Account Number: Eg 0100072……

 

2. Bhutan Payment Gateway

The other way to transfer money to Bhutan is by using Bhutan Payment Gateway System. The tour operator will just send you the link, you just need to click the link , fill in details and submit. You need to use your Cards to make payment to Bhutan account through Bhutan Payment Gateway.

Bhutan Visa Formality For Regional Tourist

 

Till June 2020, Indian, Bangladeshis, and Maldivian did not have to pay the Government SDF.

It was not mandatory for Regional Tourists to have an e-visa to enter Bhutan. They could travel to Bhutan on their own in support of their Voters Identity Card (VIC).

Starting from 1st July 2020, the Royal Government of Bhutan has levied SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) for Indian Guest. This is levied in order to promote sustainable and responsible Tourism under the same principle of ‘High Value, Low Volume” Tourism. The concessional SDF  for Regional Guest is Nu.1200 per person per night, equivalent to approximately USD16.

And for Bangladeshi and Indian they have to pay the SDF of USD 200 per person per night, same as any other International guest. However the citizens of Bangladesh and the Maldives can obtain visa at the port of entry and after having paid the required SDF.

The Villages of Bhutan
Bhutan

It has also become Mandatory for Regional Tourist to have e-visa prior to visiting Bhutan

e-Permit Process

The  licensed Bhutanese Tour operator like Bhutan Best Inbound Tour processes the e-permit . However, the Regional guests can recommend the tour operator their own choice of preferred hotel or transportation.

The regional tourist has to furnish the following through the tour operator in order to get e-permit.

1.Details of the confirmed tour itinerary

2. Details of the confirmed accommodation

3. Details of the confirmed ground transport

4. Details of Licensed Bhutanese Tour Guide

5. Pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

The Regional guests are required to send the photo page of the passport or voter card to the tour operator . As this is required by tour operator  to apply for  e-permit through Online Regional Permit System.  Passports or birth certificates are acceptable for Indian natives under 18. However, they must be accompanied by legal guardians.

Benefits of paying SDF For Regional Guest

The new change could be a disappointment to some of the Regional Tourists . However, there are some benefits of paying SDF. The following are the benefits

  1. You will get your permit in advance.
  2. Safe and secure personal attention during the stay in Bhutan
  3. Preferential Exemption granted to all Tourists from paying the entry fees for state-owned tourist attraction sites.
  4. Guarantee quality services.
  5. Contribute to overall sustainable management of tourism in Bhutan

If you still have any questions about  Bhutan Travel Visa, you can always feel to Contact Us. We are the licensed tour operator and can provide you information on Bhutan Travel Visa.

TaggedBhutan Entry For Regional GuestBhutan VisaBhutan Visa Applicatione-permit for Indian GuestSDF For Indian Nationality

Google Reviews

Jenny ChuaJenny Chua
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

In Nov 24, we had the privilege of exploring Bhutan with the guidance of an exceptional tour guide, Kinlay Dorji & Jigme Tshering from Bhutan Best Inbound Tour agency and I couldn’t be more impressed with the experience. From the moment we arrived, they ensured every detail of our trip was perfectly planned and executed, making it truly stress-free and enjoyable. Their deep knowledge of Bhutan’s history, culture, and traditions was remarkable, and they shared stories and insights that brought the country’s rich heritage to life. Whether we were visiting iconic landmarks like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery or strolling through serene villages, their passion for Bhutan was evident and contagious. What truly stood out was their dedication to providing personalized service. They were always attentive to our needs, ensuring we were comfortable, well-fed, and immersed in the beauty of Bhutan. Their warm hospitality, patience, and ability to adapt to our preferences made the journey unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, I cannot recommend this tour guide enough. They truly go above and beyond to ensure you experience the heart and soul of the Land of the Thunder Dragon. An absolute five-star experience!

Reviewed on: 1/14/2025

Terri KimTerri Kim
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

Our first time in Bhutan couldn’t have been as amazing & memorable as it was without the wonderful team behind Bhutan Best Inbound Tour who were with us every step of the way. We decided (very last minute) to go to Bhutan with only weeks to spare. I decided to go with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour based on online reviews, responsiveness (via WhatsApp), and reasonable pricing. Because our trip was short (5 days/4 nights) and we already rushed to book our flights/accommodations, we were mainly looking for a dedicated tour guide/driver to explore Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Deki, who planned our itinerary, was responsive and accommodating to all my inquiries and requests. She answered my questions, and put my mind at ease when it came to our visas. She was lovely to work with, and made us feel prepared before our trip. But what she couldn’t have prepared us for was how amazing Bhutan would be and how much we would love our trip. We arrived at Paro International Airport early in the morning, and were greeted outside with white scarves by our guide and our driver who were patiently waiting for us. Our guide, Phub, was fantastic. Not only was he like a walking encyclopedia about his country, the culture, and Buddhism, he was personable and so funny. He was also quite the photographer, capturing the best angles and even directing us on how to pose. Phub was also very flexible with our daily schedule, and accommodating to our requests, which we appreciated immensely. He also shared tips & tricks that only locals would be privy to, which made this trip much more intimate and fulfilling than if we decided to go without a tour guide. I HIGHLY recommend a tour guide if you are thinking of going to Bhutan for the first time. We had two drivers, both very humble and excellent drivers. I felt very safe in the car despite impatient drivers, the occasional cow and dog, and landslides. On our day trip to Punakha from Thimphu, a landslide extended our trip by an hour each way, but our driver was patient and made sure we were comfortable. The breathtaking views (and company) made the delays worth it. We were so fortunate to have such wonderful drivers who prioritized our safety. From the kindness of the people to the delicious food, from the beautiful weather to the rich culture, and of course, Tiger’s Nest (which left us breathless, both figuratively and literally), Bhutan is truly a special country that left us with so many beautiful memories. We plan to visit Bhutan again, and when we do, we can’t wait to work with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for all our needs. If you’re looking for a tour guide, I highly recommend reaching out to Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for a seamless experience

Reviewed on: 12/24/2024

Suresh KaruSuresh Karu
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

I had an amazing 7 nights 8 day trip to Bhutan, Phub my guide and driver Nima made it a memorable vacation. They were professional , kind and always helpful , also their local knowledge made it an experience unforgettable to me. The hotels they choose had excellent service, the cook made my favourite dish Idli. The home stay hostess was always smiling and kind. They also had the best price for the tour package.If I ever return to Bhutan I would choose them again Hands down .

Reviewed on: 9/30/2024

Charles VrtisCharles Vrtis
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

Everything about my experience in Bhutan was outstanding from start to finish! It is very serene, stunningly beautiful, and its people are exceptionally kind and welcoming! Of course, had I not chosen the right tour operator, I might have left with different feelings. Fortunately, I selected Bhutan Best Inbound Tour. From the start, my experience with them was smooth and seamless. Deki, my contact in arranging the logistics, could not have been more responsive and helpful. She made everything so easy, including arranging for a visa. And, I cannot say enough good things about my guide and driver. They really made my experience in Bhutan so wonderfully memorable. I felt completely comfortable and safe with the driver, Jigme. Not only that, he always had a smile on his face. My guide, Tenzin (“Tax”] Loday was great. He was prompt, reliable, and very engaging. He is now my Bhutanese brother! His love for his country shows, and his clear and helpful explanations about its history and sites could not have been better. Thank you Bhutan Inbound Tour!

Reviewed on: 3/30/2024

Brian NYCBrian NYC
5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars5 stars

Huge thanks to Bhutan Best Inbound Tours for an amazing experience in magical Bhutan! My guide Phub is a true expert who taught me so much about the history and culture of Bhutan, and he took perfect care of me each and every place we visited. Our driver Lobzang got us to all of our destinations safely and on time, and they made a great team, always keeping me smiling and in awe of the beauty of bucket list Bhutan. Everything was smooth from start to finish, the hotels were all excellent and comfortable, and I highly recommend Bhutan Inbound and my friends Phub and Lobzang to anyone planning a trip to stunning Bhutan!

Reviewed on: 10/14/2023

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