GETTING INTO BHUTAN

All international visitors visiting Bhutan will have to pay a Sustainable Development Fee of USD 100 per person per night. For regional tourists (India), the Sustainable Development Fee is set at BTN/INR 1200 per person per night. The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), however, exempts day tourists (Indians) who do not travel past the first designated location (Border Town, Phuentsholing).

As part of the visa application process, you will be required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee. Children aged 6-12 at the time of travel receive a 50% concessionary discount on their SDF. Children who have not yet turned 6 are exempted from paying any SDF.

Bhutan’s only international airport is located in Paro, western Bhutan. Visitors can travel to Bhutan by taking flights from Bangladesh (Dhaka), India (Delhi, Kolkota, Guwahati, and Bagdogra), Nepal (Kathmandu), Singapore (Changi), and Thailand (Bangkok). For now, two airlines fly into Bhutan, namely Drukair and Bhutan Airlines.

All visitors can also enter via land from Phuentsholing in the south, while Indian guests can enter Bhutan via other land entry points such as Gelephu, Samdrup Jongkhar, and Samtse. There are domestic flights to Bumthang (Central Bhutan), Gelephu, Sarpang (Southern Bhutan), and Yonphula, Trashigang (Eastern Bhutan).

BEST TIME TO VISIT BHUTAN

March, April & May – Spring season

March, April & May are the best time to visit Bhutan. There is a riot of colors, of resilient greenery and vast blue skies. These months also feature colorful cultural festivals. You could go on short day hikes or just wander around soaking in the many beauties of the land. These spring months lift your spirits and if you’re seeking some insights into the Buddhist way of life, you will possibly want a reflective moment or two.

June, July and August – Summer
It brings monsoon showers and is less predictable for long travel in Bhutan. Days remain bright but could suddenly give way to light showers. Sometimes, a late monsoon may spare the month of June from showers which would mean the best time to visit Bhutan. Moreover, these months fall inside the non peak season. 

Sept, Oct & Nov – Autumn
Autumn season (September, October and November) is another best time to visit Bhutan. It is the much sought after peak season spell for visitors wanting to explore Bhutan’s hinterlands. To trek further up into the Himalayas or hike across its easy but undulated trails. The season has many magical cultural festivals in each calendar year. From religious mask dance festivals to traditional folk culture, the country becomes a great cultural bazaar. If you are a photographer, then visit to Bhutan is a must.