Yes — visitors of almost all nationalities require a visa to enter Bhutan. Here is a quick breakdown by nationality:
If you are unsure about your nationality’s requirements, please contact us and we will be happy to clarify.
You can apply for your Bhutan visa online at immi.gov.bt. Alternatively, if you are booking through Blissful Eco Tours, we can handle the visa application process on your behalf — just one less thing to worry about. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives may also apply in person upon arrival.
A visa application typically takes up to five business days to process once it has been correctly submitted. We strongly recommend applying well in advance of your travel date to avoid any delays, especially during peak travel seasons.
There is a one-off visa processing fee of US$40 per person. This is paid at the same time as the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a mandatory daily fee of US$100 per person, per night. It is unique to Bhutan and supports the country’s commitment to sustainable, high-value tourism — funding healthcare, education, and environmental conservation. The SDF is not included in your tour package price and must be paid separately as part of your visa application process.
Bhutan has one international airport, Paro International Airport, served by two airlines:
Direct flights are available from: Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodhgaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, and Singapore.
Private jets and charter flights may also fly into Bhutan with the relevant government approvals.
Bhutan also has domestic airports at Yonphula (eastern Bhutan), Bumthang (central Bhutan), and Gelephu (south-central Bhutan) for internal travel.
Bhutan is a year-round destination, but the most popular times to visit are:
We recommend spring or autumn for first-time visitors. Contact us and we’ll help you choose the right time based on your interests.
Booking with us is simple. You can:
We will work with you to confirm availability, tailor your itinerary, and guide you through the visa and permit process. A deposit is required to confirm your booking.
Absolutely — customisation is at the heart of what we do. Whether you want a cultural deep-dive, a trekking adventure, a festival experience, or a spiritual retreat, we will design a journey around your preferences, travel dates, and budget. Simply reach out to us and we will start planning.
We recommend booking at least 4–6 weeks in advance, particularly for travel during peak seasons (spring and autumn) or around major festivals. This allows sufficient time to process your visa, arrange permits, and secure accommodation. Last-minute bookings may be possible depending on availability — contact us to check.
We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation policy is as follows:
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances. Please contact us if you have any concerns — we will always try to find a suitable solution.
Our tour packages typically include:
Not included: International flights, the Sustainable Development Fee (US$100/person/night), visa processing fee (US$40), personal travel insurance, tips, and any personal expenses.
Your exact inclusions will be clearly outlined in your booking confirmation.
We accept bank transfers and major credit/debit cards. A deposit is required at the time of booking, with the balance due before your departure date. Full payment details will be provided upon confirmation of your booking.
Tips are not included in the tour price. Tipping is not mandatory but is greatly appreciated by your guide, driver, and hotel staff. As a guide: US$10–15 per day for your guide and US$5–8 per day for your driver is customary, though entirely at your discretion.
The currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged at par with the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian Rupees are also widely accepted.
ATMs are available in larger towns such as Thimphu and Paro, and accept major international cards. However, availability can be unreliable in smaller towns and rural areas. We recommend carrying sufficient cash (USD or EUR can be exchanged locally) before heading off the main routes.
Bhutan has a conservative dress code, especially when visiting dzongs (fortresses), monasteries, and religious sites. We recommend:
Your guide will advise you on specific dress requirements at each site.
Mobile connectivity (3G/4G) is available in most towns and major areas. However, coverage in remote valleys and trekking routes can be limited or non-existent. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels in Thimphu and Paro, though speeds may vary.
If you need to stay connected, local SIM cards are available for purchase in Paro and Thimphu at reasonable rates.
Bhutan is widely considered one of the safest travel destinations in the world. Crime rates are extremely low and the local population is welcoming and respectful towards visitors.
Families with children are very welcome. We can tailor itineraries to suit families, including lighter hikes, interactive cultural experiences, and family-friendly accommodations. Solo travellers are equally well catered for — you will always travel with a knowledgeable guide.
Bhutan does not currently require proof of vaccination for entry. However, we recommend consulting your doctor or a travel health clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure. Common recommendations for travel to the region include:
Please check current health advisories with your national health authority before travelling.
Parts of Bhutan sit at high altitudes — Thimphu is at approximately 2,350 metres, and trekking routes can reach well above 4,000 metres. Altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness) can affect anyone regardless of fitness level.
We recommend:
Your guide will monitor your wellbeing throughout the trip and is trained to respond to altitude-related concerns.
Yes, but with strict conditions. Bhutan has some of the toughest tobacco laws in the world under the Tobacco Control Act 2010 (amended 2021). Tourists may import tobacco products for personal use only, subject to the following rules:
There is no duty-free tobacco allowance in Bhutan. All imports, however small, must be declared and taxed. Undeclared tobacco found at customs will be confiscated, and penalties — including fines or imprisonment — can apply for smuggling.
Smoking is banned in almost all public places in Bhutan. This includes dzongs, monasteries, parks, markets, restaurants, cinema halls, government offices, and all public transport.
Smoking may be permitted in designated areas in the following settings:
Your guide will point out where smoking is and is not permitted throughout your trip. We strongly advise respecting these rules — penalties for smoking in prohibited areas can include heavy fines or imprisonment.
Since 2021 amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, limited retail sales of tobacco are permitted through authorised micro general shops and grocery stores. However, availability is very limited and cannot be relied upon. We recommend bringing your own supply within the permitted limit and declaring it at customs on arrival.
The cultivation, manufacture, and general distribution of tobacco remain prohibited. Purchasing from unofficial or black-market sources is illegal and carries serious penalties.
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