Planning a trip to Bhutan: Everything you need to know
Visiting the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has long been considered beyond the reach of the ‘average’ traveller, but those who venture into the Land of the Thunder Dragon are rewarded with an enthralling culture and spellbinding scenery. This remarkable country stands out for its unique approach to tourism, prioritising environmental sustainability and the happiness of its people over mass tourism.
After nearly three years of closed borders during the COVID-19 pandemic, the South Asian gem began welcoming visitors again in 2022 with updated Bhutan entry requirements and a renewed commitment to its deeply held principles. These changes reflect Bhutan's dedication to responsible tourism, aligning with its values of preserving natural beauty and cultural integrity.
If you're planning a trip to Bhutan, here’s what you need to know to navigate the updated Bhutan entry requirements and make the most of your journey. From the tourist tax to travelling there and accommodation options, this Bhutan travel guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable experience in one of the world's most captivating destinations.
Bhutan Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know
How Many People Can Visit?
There is no official limit on the number of visitors to Bhutan. Although there used to be an annual cap of 65,000, this hasn’t been enforced for years. Instead, factors like Bhutan's daily tourist fee, limited flight options, minimal road access, and the requirement to book through an approved tour operator, rather than travel independently, have naturally kept visitor numbers lower than other destinations, preserving an air of exclusivity.
Despite these restrictions, tourism in Bhutan has grown in popularity. Over 300,000 people visited in 2019, and although the numbers haven’t reached those heights again since it reopened in 2022, the number of visitors are slowly climbing back up, with projections for future years looking very healthy. It shows how travellers are searching for experiences beyond the norm.
What is Bhutan’s tourist tax?
As of autumn 2023, Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for international visitors has been set at $100 per day by the Bhutanese government. This rate is planned to remain in effect until the 31st of August 2027. For children aged 6-12, the rate is further discounted to $50 per day, while children under 6 can visit for free. The fee is included in the price of your Bhutan holiday with Mountain Kingdoms.
Bhutan’s distinct tourism model, which has always set it apart, has evolved over the years. Before closing its doors in 2020, all international visitors (except those from India) were required to pay a daily tourist tariff, which included an SDF of $65 along with standard services like meals, accommodation, transportation, and guiding. It was the original all-inclusive deal!
When Bhutan reopened in autumn 2022, however, it introduced a renewed tourism model emphasising ‘high value, low volume, low impact’ travel. As part of this shift, the Sustainable Development Fee increased to $200 per day, with all other travel costs added separately, meaning much higher prices for visitors. Recognising that the high daily fee might deter longer stays, Bhutan reduced the SDF to $100 per day. The reduction is a positive development for anyone planning a trip to Bhutan, making it easier and more affordable to experience the country for an extended time.
Revenue from the SDF supports environmental initiatives, infrastructure upgrades, free healthcare for the Bhutanese people, and education and community training programs, creating a tourism framework that benefits both Bhutan and its visitors. Not only that, but it also helps maintain a more ‘high-end,’ less standardised tourist experience.
Can I travel without a guide in Bhutan?
While previously all visitors needed to travel with a guide, recent updates allow for some independent travel in theory, although there are still many restrictions. For example, independent travellers are not permitted to hire a self-drive vehicle in Bhutan, they’re not allowed to visit monuments such as Dzongs solo, and they cannot trek independently past Thimphu and Paro.
For these reasons, booking and travelling with a licensed tour operator and hiring a guide is still highly recommended. It allows you to maximise the experience, especially for first-time visitors who want to fully understand Bhutan's culture and natural beauty.
Bhutanese guides are well-trained and know their country inside out. They will take you to places you wouldn’t discover on your own, explain Bhutan’s complex mythology, regale you with fascinating and funny tales, give you sound advice on what to eat and drink, introduce you to Bhutan’s flora and fauna, and generally share their in-depth knowledge and passion.
Bhutan’s unique language, dress, customs and deeply held beliefs can also seem like a social and ethical minefield to the visitor, and a local guide will help you navigate through the etiquette and make sure you don’t inadvertently offend.
Your guide will of course do everything they can to ensure your holiday runs smoothly and their natural warmth and friendliness will make them seem more like a friend than a guide. We have been working with the same partners in Bhutan for over 35 years and all of our small group and tailor made holidays to Bhutan include the services of their expert guides.
If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, whether for a short visit or a longer stay, there aren’t many Bhutan travel restrictions that you need to consider. It’s more about making sure you’re informed about Bhutan’s daily tourist fee and the best way to travel the country with a guide.
Bhutan Entry Requirements: What Do I Need to Enter?
Bhutan’s entry requirements include a Bhutan tourist visa, along with a passport that has more than six months of validity remaining. The visa incurs a one-off fee of $40 and lasts for a maximum of 90 days from the date of entry. Mountain Kingdoms will arrange your Bhutan Visa Clearance in advance, allowing you to receive your visa upon arrival. Using a licensed tour operator is part of Bhutan’s structured approach to tourism, ensuring that all travellers have local guidance and support during their stay.
If you are planning a trip to Bhutan, you’ll need to travel through Nepal, India, Thailand, or Singapore, each of which have their own entry requirements (see 'How to Travel to Bhutan' below). Nearly all our trips enter Bhutan via Kathmandu, making it an ideal opportunity to combine your Bhutan adventure with some time in Nepal. Be sure to secure the necessary visas for all transit and destination countries to ensure a smooth journey.
In addition to the Bhutan entry visa, all travellers should be aware of Bhutan’s entry fee, officially known as the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) which we have mentioned previously. Currently set at $100 per day, the SDF is paid as part of Bhutan’s commitment to ‘high value, low volume’ tourism. Both the visa and SDF costs are included in your holiday price.
Is Bhutan Safe for Tourists?
For those planning a trip to Bhutan, safety is not a concern. Travellers will quickly discover an exceptionally safe environment, with a very low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. This high level of safety is due in part to Bhutan’s emphasis on Gross National Happiness, which promotes community welfare, harmony, and respect, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere for visitors.
Bhutan's unique approach to tourism also helps maintain a sense of security as most visitors travel through approved tour operators. This ensures that travellers receive guidance throughout their stay and can easily reach local assistance if needed.
That said, as with any travel, there are a few basic differences for tourists to bear in mind:
Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water, as it may not be suitable for tourists. Stick to bottled or filtered water, which is widely available, and be cautious about consuming ice in drinks.
Traffic and Transportation: Bhutan has a unique approach to traffic management. Instead of traffic lights, local traffic wardens direct vehicles in cities like Thimphu, adding a distinctive charm to city life. Roads in Bhutan are generally safe, though they can be winding and narrow in mountainous areas. Licensed drivers, who are experienced in navigating these roads, transport tourists.
Altitude: Many regions in Bhutan are at high altitudes, so travellers should be mindful of altitude sickness, especially if trekking or visiting high mountain passes.
Stray Dogs: Bhutan has quite a few stray dogs, especially in urban areas. While most are friendly, some can be unpredictable as they’re not domesticated.
Cultural Etiquette: Bhutan is a deeply spiritual and culturally rich country. Tourists should be respectful of local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and act appropriately in monasteries and temples.
Bhutan’s government and local communities place a high priority on ensuring that tourists have a safe and memorable experience, making Bhutan one of the safest destinations in Asia. With thoughtful planning and adherence to local advice, anyone travelling to Bhutan can feel confident about their safety and enjoy the country’s remarkable landscapes, culture, and unique traditions.
How to Travel to Bhutan
Bhutan only has one international airport – Paro, and two airlines - Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. These are the only airlines that are allowed to fly into the country. Flights originate in Nepal, India, Thailand and Singapore. The majority of visitors from the UK fly via Kathmandu in Nepal which provides the perfect opportunity for a Himalayan combo holiday! There are also three small, domestic airports in Bhutan for flights within the country.
Road access into Bhutan is limited to only three border crossing points, all from northern India: one in the west of Bhutan at Phuntsholing, one more centrally at Gelephu, and the other in the east at Samdrup Jongkhar. The eastern road crossing is particularly useful for anyone wanting to explore the lesser-visited side of Bhutan. Our Rodang La Trek or Gentle Walking Eastern Bhutan holidays both fly into Paro, travel east and then exit at Samdrup Jongkhar.
Accommodation options in Bhutan
There is a good variety of accommodations in Bhutan ranging from traditional homestays to luxurious hotels.
Most of our group holidays use Bhutan’s standard tourist-class hotels in the towns and villages. These are on par with 3* hotels in the UK. On a couple of our holidays we include nights staying in official government-approved farmhouse homestays. Facilities in these are clean and simple and they offer a genuine insight into authentic family life in Bhutan. Our Hidden Valleys of Bhutan walking holiday includes three nights in different homestays and we can also build homestay nights into a tailor made itinerary.
For those who don’t want to sacrifice any home comforts, there are several luxurious hotel brands with properties in Bhutan such as Como, Amankora, Six Senses, and Gangtey Lodge. They are of the highest standard, with beautiful locations, environmentally aware designs and high-end facilities. You may recognise the name Gangtey Lodge as it was featured on the BBC's Life Beyond the Lobby - a stay here or at any one of these exclusive hotels can be added to any Mountain Kingdoms holiday.
If you are trekking in Bhutan you will be camping as there is no equivalent in the mountains to Nepal’s tea houses. First-rate camping equipment is included in all Mountain Kingdoms trekking holidays in Bhutan along with an experienced support crew who will porter the gear, put up and take down the tents (including a dining and toilet tent), and provide delicious, nutritious meals.
Best Places to Visit in Bhutan: What You Should Plan to See
When planning a trip to Bhutan, a visit to its impressive Dzongs is a must. They are unique to Bhutan, so it’s the only place in the world where you can see them. They were created as both fortresses and administrative centres, and their towering, whitewashed walls and striking gold-red roofs dominate the landscape.
Among them, Punakha Dzong is especially stunning with its picturesque riverside location and vibrant jacaranda trees in full bloom during spring. Paro Dzong and Thimphu Dzong are equally impressive and hold great historical and cultural importance. The annual tsechus, or festivals, held at Paro Dzong in the spring and Thimphu Dzong in the autumn are the two most significant in Bhutan’s festival calendar.
Speaking about festivals, they are an integral part of Bhutanese social and spiritual life, and tourism in Bhutan. They are most noted for their colourful masked dances that bring to life Buddhist myths of good triumphing over evil and are believed to bless all of those who observe them. Festivals are also social occasions where families and neighbours stop work and come together in celebration. Most towns and villages hold an annual festival and all our walking holidays and cultural tours include a visit to one as do selected departures of most treks.
No Bhutan travel guide is complete without mentioning Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a cliff high above the Paro Valley, this iconic site is both breathtakingly beautiful and photogenic, so you’ll be able to take some fabulous photos. The hike up to its prayer-flag-lined entrance is challenging but rewarding, offering travellers the chance to capture that classic Tiger’s Nest photo while also experiencing the serenity of this sacred spot.
Beyond dzongs and the Tiger’s Nest, there are countless other places to discover while visiting Bhutan. The country is home to museums, artisan workshops, villages, and temples that showcase its deep-rooted culture and craftsmanship. Additionally, Bhutan’s natural landscapes offer scenic splendour, from lush valleys to towering mountains, making it a destination rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage.
What types of holidays can you take in Bhutan?
As Bhutan is landlocked you can’t take a beach break, and as it only has towns you can’t do a city break! But, apart from these, there are plenty of options for lovers of culture, such as the countryside and mountains.
Cultural tours
Bhutan is an absolute nirvana for culture vultures. With its unique architectural style, rich artisan heritage, and a plethora of temples, tsechus and dzongs, there are countless cultural highlights to discover. We offer a two-week Definitive Cultural Tour in Bhutan which covers all the must-see sights, plus lesser-known ones as well, to really get you under the skin of this remarkable country.
Walking holidays
Bhutan’s focus on environmental protection and sustainability mean that it has mile after mile of walking paths and wonderfully unspoilt countryside to explore. We offer several walking holidays the most popular of which, Gentle Walking Bhutan, covers the key sights in the west of the country whilst Gentle walking in Eastern Bhutan covers much less visited, and less accessible side of the country. Alternatively, you can go a little off the beaten track and include some homestay accommodation and an overnight hike on our Temple Trails & Homestays in Bhutan holiday.
Trekking holidays
Bhutan is a wonderfully hilly and mountainous country, rising above 7,000m along its high northern border. Trekking is the only way to immerse yourself in the mountains but you don’t have to be a Himalayan explorer to enjoy it. The Druk Path Trek is an ideal starter with only five days of trekking between Paro and Thimphu yet still enjoying high passes and superb views.
If you want to get to the foot of one of Bhutan’s biggest peaks then try our Mount Chomolhari Trek or, for the really adventurous, the epic Lunana Snowman Trek takes you into some of Bhutan’s most remote, challenging territory. During the Covid closure, Bhutan re-established an ancient trading path, transforming it into one of the world’s newest long-distance routes – the Trans Bhutan Trail. You can walk and trek the best sections of the trail on our new Trans Bhutan Western Highlights holiday.
Cycle tours
If two wheels rather than two feet is your thing then our Cultural Cycling Tour of Bhutan may well tick your travel box. Following a really varied route from Paro to Bumthang there are plenty of good climbs followed by exhilarating descents as well as lots of sightseeing and a night in a homestay.
Tailor Made Delights
Not sure what you want to do or how to put it together? We can tailor make your perfect Bhutan adventure using our 35 years of experience organising holidays to Bhutan. Take a look at our Tailor Made pages and call our friendly team of travel lovers to discuss options, get some expert advice and request a quote.
Summary
Planning a trip to Bhutan offers travellers the chance to immerse themselves in a breathtaking landscape rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From exploring ancient dzongs and vibrant festivals to tackling scenic trekking paths, Bhutan has something for every type of adventurer. The nation’s unique approach to tourism, with its Sustainable Development Fee and entry requirements, guarantees a sustainable and high-quality experience for all visitors.
Whatever holiday you take in Bhutan, you are guaranteed to have an experience like no other. Tashi Dalek!
If you’d like to truly experience Bhutan’s magic, there’s no better way to do it than through a trekking holiday. Mountain Kingdoms offers a variety of walking and trekking tours in Bhutan, suitable for a range of skill levels. With our expert knowledge, you’ll unlock the full beauty and depth of the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’. Contact our friendly team who'll be very happy to answer questions you may have.
At Mountain Kingdoms we have been organising small group and tailor made holidays to Bhtuan for over 37 years. Our MD, Steve Berry, has connections with Bhutan that go back to the 1980s when he led a climbing expedition to Gangkar Punsum - the highest mountain in Bhutan. Although, the expedition team failed to make the summit due to bad weather, Steve made many friends and contacts in the kingdom who he has remained close to. In fact, our local partner in Bhutan is the same company that supported Steve's original expedition. Steve is still a regular visitor to Bhutan, pioneering new trails and supporting the emergence of homestay accommodation which helps provide an additional income to local farmers. Several other members of the Mountain Kingdoms team have also walked and trekked in Bhutan and we have used their first-hand knowledge to write this blog post. We have also used our deep knowledge of the country to create an extensive portfolio of Bhutan walking holidays, treks and cultural tours spanning the breadth of Bhutan.