Bhutan Travel Regulations
Essential Bhutan Travel Policy: Visa, Permits & Restrictions
Here are the essential travel policy of Bhutan.
Visa Application: As Bhutan Travel Policy Requires
- Fee: $40
- Length of Stay: Up to 90 days
- Process Time: 72 working hours
Nationals from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives can get a permit on arrival by showing a valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
For all other tourists, a Bhutan visa clearance must be obtained before traveling to Bhutan. This can be done online by your Bhutanese tour operator or foreign travel agent.
You need to provide your passport’s photo-page, a recent passport-sized photo, and valid travel insurance for your trip’s duration.
After full payment of your holiday (including a $40 visa fee) is received by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB), your visa clearance will be processed within 72 working hours.
Upon arrival, you’ll need to present your visa clearance letter to get your visa stamped into your passport. Here is your guide on Bhutan Visa Policy
Special Travel Permits for beyond Thimphu and Paro
To travel outside of Thimphu and Paro in Bhutan, you must obtain a special permit from the Bhutanese Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs. This permit, known as the ‘special area permit,’ is required for visiting other districts and is aimed at preserving Bhutan’s natural treasures, environment, and culture.
Trekking Permit: Needed, but Easy to Get
Mandatory Trekking Permit for Specific Areas in Bhutan: To go on a trekking adventure in certain designated areas of Bhutan, a trekking permit is necessary. The Bhutan tourism department has classified various trekking routes and itineraries in Bhutan, ranging from 3 to 23 days. Among the renowned trekking and climbing courses in Bhutan are the Gangtey Trek, Druk Path Trek , Bumthang Cultural Trek – , Jomolhari Trek, Masagang Trek, and Southeast Face Trek.
If you plan to trek outside Thimphu and Paro regions, you would need both Special Permits and Trekking Permit. Ask your Trekking Guide for detail, it’s an easy process.
Hiking Tours in Bhutan would guarantee a safe a responsible travel.
Travel Insurance for Traveling in Bhutan: Mandatory for Entire Stay
Valid travel insurance is mandatory for all visitors throughout their trip. This requirement applies to all visitors except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives. For visa applications, travel insurance must be presented, except forthe aforementioned countries.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): Unique Bhutan Travel Policy
Tourists are obligated to remit a tourism fee, referred to as the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). The SDF is a crucial financial resource that aids in the execution of transformative initiatives aimed at safeguarding cultural traditions, protecting the environment and heritage, enhancing infrastructure, and fostering opportunities for the younger generation, thereby promoting resilience.
Your payment is more than just a significant investment; it’s an endorsement of Bhutan’s pursuit of happiness. The SDF is designed to enrich your experience in Bhutan, adding value to your journey rather than being an extra expense. Currently Bhutan is offering SDF discount for all visitors. Find out more about bhutan tourist SDF Fee.
Travel Restrictions: Ways to TRAVEL in Bhutan
There are some Bhutan travel restrictions that might seem unique. However, we are confident that once people understand the reasoning behind them, most would gladly comply.
Driving Rental Car on Your Own: Not Allowed According to Bhutan Travel Restrictions
The most convenient way to travel in Bhutan is to hire a vehicle and driver from a car rental company or a tourism service provider. Traffic drives on the left in Bhutan. It is not possible to hire a self-drive vehicle in Bhutan.
Why can’t you drive on your own in Bhutan?
- Challenging Terrain: Local knowledge is crucial when navigating narrow, twisting mountainous roads that can be dangerous for drivers who are unfamiliar with them.
- Limited Infrastructure: In remote regions, there is a scarcity of road signs and emergency services, which increases the potential risks to safety.
- There’s No Traffic Lights in Bhutan: Complex junctions without traffic lights requires a comprehensive understanding of the local traffic flow, rules and patterns.
- Safeguarding the Environment: Careless driving has the potential to harm delicate ecosystems and disrupt wildlife, thus affecting the untouched natural beauty of Bhutan.
You can also book a local driver or transport service provider as well as tour operators, or simply take a guided private tour for all-inclusive service.
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Smoking Restrictions in Bhutan: Loosen, but Still There
In 2021, Bhutan legalized the sale of tobacco within the country. However, smoking in public areas is still not allowed. People are allowed to import a specified number of tobacco products for personal use in Bhutan, a 200% tax fee may apply when arriving in Bhutan.
Drugs in Bhutan: It’s a Big No!
The consequences for drug-related crimes are harsh, encompassing extended periods of imprisonment and substantial monetary penalties. These sanctions are also applicable to the use of marijuana. Do remember, these are not just Bhutan Travel Rules, these are the Bhutan Laws.
Antiques, Wildlife Products are off limits in Bhutan
Prohibition on Antiques and Wildlife Product Exports: The export of any antiques and wildlife products is under strict prohibition, with authorities vigilantly ensuring compliance and rigorously enforcing the law. These regulations are not merely Bhutan travel guidelines, they hold the status of official laws in Bhutan.
Same-sex activity: Not a Crime
On February 17, 2021, Bhutan decriminalized same-sex activity. It is advisable to limit public displays of affection in general.
Photography Rules in Bhutan: Ask before taking Pictures
Strict Prohibition on Photographing Religious Sites and Individuals: Capturing photographs of specific religious sites and individuals is strictly forbidden. It is important to ask for permission before taking pictures of the local people.
Tour Operator & Guides: Recommended and Mandatory at Some Bhutan Attractions
Previously, all visitors were required to book their travel arrangements to and within Bhutan through an accredited tour operator. However, since Bhutan reopened on September 23rd, 2022, visitors now have the option to book everything in Paro and Thimphu independently. Despite this, if you wish to explore beyond Paro and Thimphu or trek in Bhutan, you still need to be accompanied by a professional guide. Bhutan authorities highly recommend esteemed accredited tour operators, who offer expert knowledge and exceptional service, to enhance your experience.
Note: It is still mandatory to have a guide when visiting monuments such as dzongs, for instance.
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Bhutan Travel Rules: Know Bhutan Customs
Know the customs of Bhutan and follow suit. It’s a great way to show respect to your destination and its people. Also, it is a wise move aligned with your own interests. Let’s check out these Bhutan Travel Rules. Once you have read through them, you will find out that there’s not really any fuss to it.
At Bhutan Religious Sites: Be Mindful though Very Few Strict Restrictions Apply
When visiting these sites, please respect the faith of the locals by maintaining silence.
If you wish to photograph worshippers or festival participants, do so respectfully without obstructing their religious practices.
Show respect by removing headwear when visiting sacred sites or meeting elders. If sitting with a monk, nun, elder, or host, it’s best to sit cross-legged.
At temples, dress modestly by covering your arms and legs, and remove your shoes before entering. Avoid taking photos inside, sitting on sacred thrones, or touching religious artifacts or paintings.
Out in Bhutan Wilderness: Follow the Rules & Tradition in Bhutan
Bhutan boasts one of the world’s richest ecosystems in terms of biodiversity. While you are encouraged to appreciate Bhutan’s natural abundance, please respect the wilderness and leave it unspoiled as it is.
In most areas of Bhutan, hunting and fishing are prohibited for all travelers. It is important not to explore the wilderness without an authorized guide.
Among Bhutan Community: It’s not a Rule, but Do Smile!
Bhutanese usually take off their shoes before entering houses. When in Bhutan, do as Bhutanese.
The people of Bhutan are known for their warm smiles, so it’s always nice to smile back and share the positive energy. “Kuzu zangpo la” is a friendly way to say hello and can be used at any time of the day. Similarly, “Kadrin chey la” is the way to say thank you.
Head is the sacred part of Human Body while feet are not
Bhutan travel rules respect the local culture. In Bhutan, touching someone’s head is considered disrespectful as it’s the most sacred part of the body. Similarly, feet, being the lowest part, are seen as unclean. Bhutan travel etiquette advises against stretching your feet towards others or showing the soles of your feet.
Dress Code in Bhutan: Respect Local Traditions in Religious Sites
When traveling in Bhutan, dress codes apply, especially in religious sites like dzongs or monasteries. Tourists are advised to wear long pants and avoid sleeveless tops to respect local customs.
Pay Due Respect Bhutan Royals: Because Bhutan People Love their King
Bhutan travel rules also include showing respect for the royals, as the royal family is highly revered. However, tourists are not expected to follow the same protocols as Bhutanese citizens.
Tipping Rules in Bhutan: Not Mandatory
Tipping is not mandatory in Bhutan, but it is appreciated and has become a part of the tourism culture. A tip of around $6 to $20 per day for tour guides and around $10 per day for drivers is common.
Dining Etiquette in Bhutan: Traditions Still Apply
If invited to a local’s house for a meal, the host may invite you to eat first. During the meal, it’s expected to eat with your mouth closed and not talk with a mouth full of food.
When eating together, you should wait for everyone to be served before starting to enjoy it. Check out 15 Famous Dishes in Bhutan.
Gift Giving? No Rules Against It
While there are no rules against giving gifts in Bhutan, it’s generally more beneficial and respectful to support the local economy through other means. This can include purchasing local goods and services, eating at local restaurants, or donating to local non-profit organizations.
Note: AOT is committed to providing the most current travel information for all visitors to Bhutan. However, please note that Bhutan’s travel restrictions and Bhutan Travel Policy have been subject to somewhat frequent changes since Bhutan reopened in 2022. For the most accurate and up-to-date Bhutan Travel information, we recommend checking with the Department of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs in Bhutan, or simply contact us for free professional travel advice and tips on Bhutan Travel Rules.
How to Plan a Tour While Upholding Bhutan Value
Paro, the city that houses Bhutan’s only international airport, serves as your gateway to the Land of Happiness. Thimphu, the vibrant heart of Bhutan, is another must-visit city. Luckily, you don’t need to apply for extra permits to travel in these Bhutanese cities.
