At Druk Holidays Pvt Ltd, we aim to make your travel experience to Bhutan as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Understanding the visa and entry requirements is essential for a smooth journey. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.
Tourist Visa
All foreign nationals, except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, need a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa process is straightforward and facilitated by licensed tour operators like Druk Holidays Pvt Ltd.
How to Obtain a Visa
- Booking a Tour: To obtain a visa, you must book a tour through an authorized Bhutanese tour operator, such as Druk Holidays. Independent travel is not allowed.
- Visa Application: Once you’ve booked your tour, Druk Holidays will handle the visa application process on your behalf. You will need to provide a scanned copy of your passport (which should be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry) and a passport-sized photo.
- Visa Approval: The Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) will process your visa application. Upon approval, a visa clearance letter will be issued. This letter will be sent to you by Druk Holidays and is required to board your flight to Bhutan.
- Visa Issuance: The actual visa will be stamped in your passport upon arrival at Paro International Airport or any other designated entry point.
Visa Fees: The visa fee for Bhutan is USD 40, which is typically included in your tour package cost. This fee covers the visa processing and issuance.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): In addition to the visa fee, travelers must pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is USD 100 per person per night. This fee is used to support sustainable tourism and community development in Bhutan. The SDF is also included in your tour package and covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and a licensed tour guide.
Entry Points
Most travelers enter Bhutan via Paro International Airport. Druk Holidays will provide all necessary assistance upon your arrival. Other entry points include:
- Phuentsholing (by land from India)
- Gelephu (by land from India)
- Samdrup Jongkhar (by land from India)
Travel Permits
In addition to your visa, certain areas in Bhutan require special permits:
- Restricted Area Permit: Required for travel beyond Thimphu and Paro, such as Punakha, Bumthang, and other districts. Druk Holidays will arrange these permits as part of your tour package.
- Protected Area Permit: Required for travel to restricted areas like the Haa Valley. Again, these permits will be handled by Druk Holidays.
Customs Regulations
Bhutan has strict customs regulations to protect its cultural heritage and environment. Key points include:
Import Restrictions: Prohibited items include narcotics, wildlife products, and antiques. Firearms and ammunition are also banned.
Duty-Free Allowance: Visitors can bring in a reasonable quantity of personal items, including cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices. Duty-free allowances include up to 200 cigarettes, 30 cigars, or 150 grams of tobacco products, and up to 1 liter of alcohol.
Currency Declaration: Travelers must declare any currency exceeding USD 10,000 upon arrival.
Health and Safety: No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Bhutan, but it’s advisable to be up-to-date on routine vaccines. It’s also recommended to consult with a healthcare provider about vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and tetanus.
Travel Insurance: While not a mandatory entry requirement, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. This should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities if you plan on trekking or engaging in other outdoor activities.
Navigating the visa and entry requirements for Bhutan is straightforward when you travel with Druk Holidays Pvt Ltd. Our team handles all the details, ensuring you have a hassle-free experience from start to finish. With your visa, permits, and fees taken care of, you can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Bhutan. For any further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.