What should I do if I am interested in traveling to Bhutan?
That's exciting news! First you need to decide on an appropriate time and duration you wish to spend in Bhutan. Then click through pre-arranged expeditions and exclusive packages to determine if you are interested in any of them. Or you also have the option to customize your trip and we will help and make it happen. The duration of your stay in Bhutan will determine the package cost.
What is the SDF and how is it used?
The SDF is the Sustainable Development Fee, a daily levy paid by visitors to support Bhutan’s development. Since the kingdom first opened its doors in 1974, guests have played a critical role in the country’s growth. As we reopen on September 23rd 2022, this partnership is once again evolving to enable us to protect and preserve our kingdom and its priceless assets. It also helps us to ensure that tourists visit in sustainable numbers and that we can continue to offer guests tranquillity and an intimate experience.
The SDF is collected by the national exchequer and funds are allocated to various projects that enhance facilities, services and infrastructure for Bhutanese nationals and visitors, as well as funding free healthcare and education.
How much is the SDF?
For all visitors except those from India, the SDF is US$200 per person, per night. For guests from India (who have an Indian passport or Indian voter ID card), the SDF is 1,200 ngultrum, or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees, per person, per night. Without an Indian passport or Indian voter ID card, the full SDF of US$ 200 will be levied.
Children aged 6 to 12 at the time of travel receive a 50% concessionary discount on their SDF. Those children who have not yet turned six are exempt from paying any SDF.
Day visitors to the Bhutanese towns bordering India are also exempt from paying the SDF until they reach a point designated by the Bhutanese government.
Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?
Visitors of all nationalities, except those from India, require a visa before entering Bhutan. For all visitors, except those from Bangladesh and the Maldives, this visa must be applied for and approved in advance of travel. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also require a visa, but this can be applied for and approved either in advance of travel or upon arrival in Bhutan.
Visitors from India are able to apply for a permit but are required to hold an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card. For Indian nationals under the age of 18, a passport or a birth certificate can be used to enter and they must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Nationals from Switzerland and Thailand holding diplomatic or government-official passports are eligible for a visa at their port of entry.
How do I get a Visa to visit Bhutan?
The Bhutan Government Regulations require the deposit of Tour Payments in full prior to processing of visa. Upon your payment assurance, Daj Expeditions will duly process your visa application. The visa will be stamped at the entry point on your arrival.
What included in my tour packages?
The country has marvelously preserved its age-old traditions and cultural values.
The cost that a visitor pays is not just for entry into Bhutan. The cost covers your hotel accommodation, 3-meals per day, transportation while in the country, certified tour guides, all inland permits & fees, except your airline ticket. If your Tour package is for trekking, this covers expenses such as pack ponies/yaks, camping equipment, and trekking staff. Thus, when you breakdown the cost, it is not as expensive as one thinks. Moreover, visitors to Bhutan discover things such as that most countries in the world have lost centuries ago. The government of Bhutan does not encourage cheaper influx of tourists to achieve its noble goal of sustainable tourism with “high-value low-volume” so that the privileged visitors truly enjoy once they are in the country.
Can we book directly with you for a package travel to Bhutan?
Of course, you can do that and we will be happy to help you in every possible way we can.
Can I travel alone with only a tour guide?
Yes! Individual travel is possible in Bhutan but with an extra Surcharge of USD 40 per day. All other coverage remains the same (hotel accommodation, meals, guide and transportation).
Do I have to travel as per Planned Tour Package or can I decide what I would like to see/do in Bhutan?
You can decide to see what you want without following a Planned Tour Package unless you are part of a Group Tour with fixed itinerary. If you prefer, we can work with you to create a customized tour package.
How do I confirm my booking?
First, you have to make Payment for your trip via bank transfer to us. We will provide you with bank details once your choice of trip is confirmed. Payment should be made at least 30 days in advance peak tourist season (March–May, September–November), it is advisable to make payment for flights at least three months in advance to allow us to confirm seats.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes. All visitors must have full, valid travel insurance for the duration of their visit. For all visitors except those from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives, it is required to be in place when you make your visa application.
Visitors from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives have the option to purchase domestic travel insurance at their port of entry.