Frequently Asked Questions

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Bhutan is a small, landlocked nation located in the eastern Himalayas between India and China. Its landscape ranges from subtropical plains and forests in the South to subalpine forests and snowy mountains in the North. Bhutan is a predominantly Buddhist country and is known as the last stronghold of Mahayana Buddhism.

All International tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa which must be pre-arranged through a license Bhutanese Tour Operator or one of their international partners.  Visa clearance must be obtained through your tour operator prior to travel.  For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives may obtain a visa on entry. er to this item.

International tourist visas a cost of USD $40 applies.  This can be paid in advance to you tour operator or travel agent.  For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives there is no cost incurred. 

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a fee that is levied to all tourists entering Bhutan. The SDF equates to USD 200 per night for tourists from all countries with the exception of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives, who are required to pay Ngultrum 1200 per night. The Sustainable Development Fee collected goes toward free education, free healthcare and poverty alleviation.  

There are a number of airports where you can fly into Bhutan from (Bangkok,Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore and Mumbai.).  At present two carriers operate to Bhutan, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Also, there are three land border crossings which you can travel into the kingdom overland.  All crossings are along the Indian border only - Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar.  All travel arrangements to Bhutan must be made through a local tour operator. A list of tour companies operating in Bhutan is available on this website. Your selected tour operator will make all the necessary arrangements.

The tour package includes a minimum of 3 star accommodations, costs for all meals, an experienced guide and transportation (with driver) within the country.  All of these services will be arranged by your tour operator. 

Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum. Its value is tied to the Indian Rupee which is also accepted as legal tender.  

There is no limit on the number of tourists admitted into the country each year. In order to protect our culture, traditions and natural environment the government has adopted a strict policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism”. This policy is aimed at attracting discerning tourists that will respect the unique culture and values of the Bhutanese people while also providing the visitors with an unforgettable one of a kind experience.

The most distinctive characteristic of Bhutanese cuisine is its spiciness. Chillis are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that was not spicy.
 Rice forms the main body of most Bhutanese meals. It is accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken are the meats that are eaten most often. A wide selection of western and Indian food is also available in many of the restaurants around the country.