Bhutan's entry system has two parts: a visa (or permit) and the Sustainable Development Fee. Both are handled as part of your booking with us, so the process is simple.
Visas and permits
Every visitor except nationals of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives requires a visa. We apply for it online on your behalf once your trip is confirmed — you simply provide a passport scan and a photo, and your approved visa clearance arrives by email before you travel. There is no embassy visit. Indian nationals do not need a visa but must carry a valid passport or Voter ID card and obtain an entry permit, which we also arrange.
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Most international visitors pay an SDF of USD 100 per person per night, with a 50% concession for children aged 6–12 and no fee for children under 6. Indian nationals pay a lower SDF in Ngultrum. The fee is the cornerstone of Bhutan's "high value, low volume" tourism policy and directly funds free public healthcare and education, environmental conservation and training for Bhutanese in the tourism sector — so your visit contributes tangibly to the country and its people.