Visitor Information For Bhutan Trip - A Complete Guide

Are you planning to book a Bhutan tour? Well, before you book a personalized itinerary, you must know what documents are required to obtain permits and what the kingdom’s tourism rules are. As a renowned Bhutan travel agency operating from Jaigaon (Indo-Bhutan border) since 2012, Kamakhya Bhutan wants you to be updated with complete visitor information on Bhutan permits and SDF.

Bhutan Permits and Visitor Information for Indian Tourists

Indian tourists do not require a visa to enter Bhutan. However, they need to obtain a permit through the following documents:

  • An Indian Passport (minimum 6 months of validity) or an ECI-approved Voter ID card.
  • 2 Passport-sized Photographs
  • Original birth certificate (written in English) for minors

Note: Aadhaar Card and PAN Card are not accepted by the Bhutanese immigration authority to issue permits.

How to Enter Bhutan from India?

You can enter Bhutan from India by overland border routes or via direct international flights:

  • By Road: The Jaigaon-Phuentsholing border in West Bengal is the most popular route that connects India directly to Bhutan.
  • By Air: You can fly directly to Paro International Airport from Bagdogra Airport (IXB) and obtain a permit on arrival.

Mandatory SDF

For India tourists, the SDF is

  • INR/Nu 1200 per person/night
  • INR/Nu 600/night for children aged 6 to 12 years
  • No SDF is charged for children aged 5 years and below

Note: The sustainable development fee (SDF) is charged to fund environmental conservation, free public healthcare & education, and infrastructure.

Mandatory Licensed Guide

All international tourists in Bhutan need to be accompanied by a DoT-certified guide. By choosing Kamakhya Bhutan, you can remain stress-free about SDF receipts, DoT-certified guides, and permit issuance.

Cultural Village Walk

Why Travelers Choose Kamakhya Bhutan?

With 14+ years of excellence in Bhutan tours, Kamakhya Bhutan has become a preferred choice for travelers seeking seamless, authentic journeys into the “Kingdom of Happiness”.

Here are the top reasons for travelers choosing us:

  • Seamless Permit Coordination: We seamlessly manage all immigration paperwork and mandatory Sustainable Development Fee payments. Therefore, you cross the Phuentsholing border absolutely stress-free.
  • 100% Customized Tour Packages: Our Bhutan tour packages can be customized as per your choices and preferences. Additionally, the packages are inclusive of the Royal Government of Bhutan-approved hotels & resorts, logistics, breakfast at all locations, and SDF charges.
  • Deep Local Network: We have partnerships with the trusted local transport networks across Bhutan to ensure a smooth travel experience. If an emergency occurs en route, we guarantee rapid response and assistance.
  • Easy Booking Option: Booking a Bhutan tour with us is as easy as it gets. You can simply call or WhatsApp us at +91 99325 02310 and share your travel requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I use Indian Rupees in Bhutan?

Yes, the Indian Rupee (INR) is widely accepted in Bhutan. The exchange rate between INR and Nu (Ngultrum) is 1:1, which makes it even easier.

Indian tourists can enter Bhutan without a passport. However, they need to have an Election Commission of India-approved Voter ID Card and 2 passport-sized photographs with a white background.

An original birth certificate (written in English) is accepted for minors traveling to Bhutan from India with their families.

By choosing Kamakhya Bhutan, your border wait is just a few minutes because we apply for the e-permit in advance.

No, Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. However, permits need to be obtained through an Indian passport (minimum 6 months of validity) or an ECI-approved Voter ID card.