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How to Visit Bhutan in 2025

Bhutan was the country I most wanted to visit in my life, and I finally did it! 10 days in one of the most amazing places imaginable, stuck in the Himalayas and loving every second. In the next few posts I’ll be explaining how to visit Bhutan, the costs, and the sights and festivals that are must-sees.

Going to Bhutan definitely can not be done spontaneously. It takes time, at least several months, to plan everything. From choosing a Bhutan tour company, to setting up your itinerary, visa forms, airfare and whatnot. THANKFULLY, the visa fee has now reduced fro $200 a day to $100 a day since September 2023, so it’s now much cheaper.

Here are the general steps to organize your trip to Bhutan. It’s well worth the trouble!

How to Visit Bhutan

Bhutan. Just saying the name conjures images of serene monasteries clinging to cliffs, sweeping Himalayan vistas, and a country where Gross National Happiness is actually a thing. Visiting this mystical kingdom is like stepping into a fairy tale, but getting there isn’t as simple as booking a flight and winging it. Let me break down how to visit Bhutan without losing your sanity—or your budget.

Getting to Bhutan

First things first, Bhutan isn’t the easiest place to reach, which just adds to its charm. The only international airport is in Paro, and unless you’re trekking in from India, you’ll be flying there. Two airlines operate flights to Bhutan: Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, both of which are basically lifelines into the kingdom.

The flights themselves are an experience. You’ll soar over the Himalayas, catching views of Everest if the skies are clear. But fair warning: landing in Paro is not for the faint-hearted. It’s one of the most challenging airports in the world, and the descent is like a rollercoaster ride—thrilling, but without the seatbelt.

Bhutan Visa: What You Need to Know

Now, here’s where Bhutan gets unique. You can’t just show up. To visit Bhutan, you’ll need to secure a Bhutan visa before you arrive. But don’t panic—it’s not as intimidating as it sounds. Your Bhutan tour operator will handle the visa process for you once you book your trip.

The Bhutan visa costs $40 USD and will be included in your tour package. After your tour company submits your visa application, you’ll receive an approval letter, which you’ll need to present upon arrival in Paro. Easy peasy.

Bhutan Tour: Why You Need One

Bhutan doesn’t do backpackers or spontaneous solo travel. The country has a policy of “high-value, low-impact” tourism, which means every visitor must book a Bhutan tour. This tour includes your accommodation, meals, transportation, and a guide.

The daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for international tourists is $100 per person per night. This reduced rate came into effect on September 1, 2023, and will remain in place until August 31, 2027. While this fee might still sound pricey, it’s significantly cheaper than the previous $200 SDF. Plus, it helps Bhutan maintain its pristine environment and unique culture.

If you’re considering how to visit Bhutan, remember that your Bhutan tour is your golden ticket—not just for logistics but for the insights and stories your guide will share.

Best Things to Do in Bhutan

1. Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

No visit to Bhutan is complete without the iconic trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Perched precariously on a cliff, it’s every bit as stunning as the photos. The hike takes about 4 to 5 hours round trip, so bring decent shoes and your sense of adventure.

2. Explore Thimphu

Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, is a mix of old-world charm and modernity. There are no traffic lights—just a guy in a booth directing cars. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, and if you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a local festival.

3. Visit Punakha Dzong

The Punakha Dzong is Bhutan’s most beautiful monastery, set at the confluence of two rivers. It’s like a scene straight out of a dream.

4. Experience Bhutanese Festivals

Plan your trip around one of Bhutan’s colorful Tshechu festivals, where monks in elaborate costumes perform traditional dances. It’s an unforgettable cultural immersion.

For more travel inspiration, check out my post on how many countries in Asia. Bhutan is one of them, and arguably the most fascinating.

When to Visit Bhutan

The best time to visit Bhutan is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies and ideal trekking conditions. If you’re a fan of flowers, spring is your jam, as the rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Winter (December to February) is cold but quiet, while summer (June to August) is rainy and best avoided unless you’re into leeches.

How Long Should You Stay?

A week is the sweet spot. This gives you enough time to explore Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha while leaving room for a trek or two. If you’re trekking the Jomolhari Loop or going deeper into the Himalayas, aim for 10 to 14 days.

My experience on how I visited Bhutan

In general, visitors to Bhutan have to be either tourists or those invited by the government (diplomats and such). The alternative options are to get a formal invitation by a citizen or a volunteer organization.

If you’re a tourist, you’re required to be on a preplanned, prepaid, guided tour or travel program arranged by a tour company approved by the government. This isn’t as restrictive as it sounds. You aren’t limited to certain areas of the country and the guides aren’t there to monitor your every move. Rather, they simply do their job in facilitating the tour and providing supplementary information about the sights you’re seeing.

Choosing my operator

After you select a tour company (I went with Bhutan Life Exposure), you have to pay the cost of the tour in full by wire transfer to the Tourism Council of Bhutan. While booking your tour you apply for your visa to Bhutan. You apply for it directly with the tour company, not an embassy. Once payment is complete, your visa is approved shortly thereafter. You receive your visa stamp upon arrival, which is good for two weeks. Extensions are possible if need be.

Choosing my flights

You can get to Bhutan both by land or air. By land, there are three entrance points bordering India: Phuntsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar. From those points you can go by car to the capital, Thimphu, or wherever you choose. A road permit is required, which is set up by your tour company. But I traveled there by air. Druk Air is the only airline that flies to Bhutan. It flies from various cities in India, Nepal, Singapore, Thailand, and Bangladesh. All flights land at Paro airport, although apparently they’re building another international airport. I flew in from Bangkok.

Whew, think that about covers it! To reiterate what I said earlier, the recommended time is about ninety days to take care of all formalities. Bhutan was a dream come true and I hope this helps anyone else interesting in visiting. Happy travels!

Tips for Visiting Bhutan

1. Pack Layers: Bhutan’s weather can change faster than my plans to hit the gym.

2. Respect the Culture: Bhutan is deeply spiritual, so dress modestly and follow your guide’s lead.

3. Bring Cash: Credit cards aren’t widely accepted, so stock up on Ngultrum or Indian rupees.

For a deeper dive into offbeat destinations, don’t miss my post on how to travel to Tibet. If you’re already in the Himalayas, why not make it a double adventure?

Why Bhutan is Worth It

Yes, Bhutan has its quirks—mandatory tours, daily tariffs, and a visa process. But that’s exactly why it’s so special. The country feels untouched, authentic, and entirely its own. It’s not a place for party-goers or luxury-seekers. Bhutan is for those who crave meaning in their travels, who want to connect with nature and culture in a way that feels real.

For a glimpse into how Bhutan fits into the wider world, check out this piece from BBC Travel.

FAQs on how to visit Bhutan

1. Do I need a Bhutan visa to visit?

Yes. Your Bhutan tour operator will handle the visa process for you once you book your trip.

2. Can I travel to Bhutan independently?

No. Bhutan requires all tourists to book a tour through an authorized operator.

3. How much does a Bhutan tour cost?

The daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is $100 per person per night, in addition to your other travel expenses.

4. Is Bhutan safe for travelers?

Absolutely. Bhutan is one of the safest and most peaceful countries in the world.

This version now accurately reflects the updated cost of visiting Bhutan. Let me know if you’d like further refinements!