If you’re looking to explore natural beauty in a less-crowded destination, Bhutan is the perfect escape. Known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” Bhutan leads you to untouched, unexplored landscapes, offering a unique experience of serenity amidst the majestic Himalayas.
Traveling to Bhutan isn’t for everyone; it requires both a deep love for adventure and an appreciation for the mountains. The journey can be expensive, and planning a trip here is not as simple as other destinations due to Bhutan’s strict tourism policies, which ensure the protection of its natural and cultural treasures.
Bhutan stands apart with its commitment to environmental sustainability, banning plastics as early as 1999. The pristine landscapes are free from litter, reflecting the Bhutanese people’s deep respect for their environment. Additionally, Bhutan is devoid of large shopping malls and crowded tourist hubs, further enhancing its peaceful charm.
What truly sets Bhutan apart is its philosophy of Gross National Happiness, which prioritizes well-being over material wealth. Bhutan carefully controls the number of tourists allowed in, maintaining the country’s tranquility and preserving its status as a modern-day Shangri-La since opening its doors to tourism in 1974.
Bhutan is a small, enchanting nation that offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience nature at its purest, making it the ultimate destination for those seeking an authentic, mindful journey.
Tourism Rules in Bhutan
Bhutan has specific regulations in place for foreign visitors to preserve its unique environment and culture.
If you are from Bangladesh or the Maldives, you do not need a visa to visit Bhutan, but you will still need an entry permit upon arrival. On the other hand, if you are from India, you don’t need a visa but must obtain a pre-arranged permit from the Bhutanese government to enter the country.
Visitors from all other countries must secure a visa in advance, as there is no option to acquire one upon arrival in Bhutan. Additionally, all visitors are required to pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which supports Bhutan’s education and healthcare systems, reflecting the country’s “high-value, low-volume” tourism approach.
For Indian nationals, the daily SDF is 1,200 Bhutanese ngultrum (approximately $14.50). Visitors from other countries are required to pay $200 per day for adults, while children aged 6 to 12 receive a 50% discount, and those 5 and under are exempt from the fee.
Prior to 2023, visitors were charged a flat rate of $65 per day as part of a government-mandated package price, ranging from $200 to $300 per day, which included accommodation, meals, guides, and transportation. Now, travelers are expected to book packages through licensed tour operators and be accompanied by certified guides.
Certain regions in Bhutan also require special permits due to environmental or cultural sensitivity, so it’s essential to be aware of these regulations when planning your visit. Adhering to Bhutan’s rules is key to enjoying a responsible and respectful experience in this remarkable destination.
Be reliable and follow the rules in Bhutan.
How to get a visa to visit Bhutan
Obtaining a visa to visit Bhutan is a hassle-free process when you book a tour with Magical Bhutan. We take care of all the necessary paperwork, including visa applications, arranging accommodations, guides, and transportation. For international travelers, except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, a visa is required before arrival.
Once you book a tour with us, we’ll collect all the necessary documents, such as a copy of your passport (valid for at least six months), a passport-sized photo, and proof of travel insurance. We’ll also handle the payment of the $40 visa fee and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), ensuring that all administrative aspects are covered for you.
When you choose Magical Bhutan, everything is included in your tour package—there are no extra charges except for your personal expenses. From the moment you book with us, we handle every detail, including submitting your visa application and ensuring you receive your e-visa approval letter. All you need to do is enjoy your journey to Bhutan, and we’ll take care of the rest, providing you with a seamless and stress-free travel experience.
How to get to Bhutan
Bhutan shares borders with India and Tibet, but only India allows land crossings at three major points: Phuentsholing (in Western Bhutan), Gelephu (in Central Bhutan), and Samdrup Jongkhar (in Eastern Bhutan). There are no train services to Bhutan, so travelers crossing by land typically use buses or cars.
If you are traveling by bus, no permits are required, but if you plan to drive, you will need road permits. Regular bus services run between Phuentsholing and two major Indian cities: Kolkata (about 18 hours away) and Siliguri (about 4 hours away). After arriving in Phuentsholing, you can travel to Bhutan’s larger cities by bus or taxi. Note: For a smoother experience, it is advisable to have a guide accompany you.
For international travelers, flying is the most convenient way to reach Bhutan. Paro International Airport (PBH), located near Paro, is the main gateway to the country. Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air, the national carrier, operate flights to and from major international airports such as Kolkata (CCU), Delhi (DEL), Bangkok (BKK), and Kathmandu (KTM). Frequent flights operate between Kathmandu and Paro, making Nepal an excellent starting point for your journey.
At Magical Bhutan, based in Kathmandu, we can organize your entire trip to Bhutan, including flights. While we can book flights from various international locations, we highly recommend flying from Kathmandu, as it offers daily and frequent flights to Bhutan. Our team ensures a seamless travel experience, taking care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying the beauty of Bhutan.
Where to stay in Bhutan?
When visiting Bhutan, there are various accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious stays. Hotels in Bhutan are categorized as 3-star, 4-star, and 5-star, with the highest availability in major towns like Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, and Bumthang. All hotels are regulated by the government to ensure they meet high standards of safety, comfort, and service for visitors.
Since independent travel is not permitted in Bhutan, accommodations are arranged through certified tour operators as part of the mandatory tour package. These operators manage your bookings, ensuring a comfortable stay tailored to your preferences, whether you choose a simple budget hotel or a luxurious 5-star property.
In smaller towns or remote areas, guesthouses and traditional lodges offer more intimate, comfortable stays. Thanks to Bhutanese hospitality and the government’s strict regulation of all accommodations, you can expect secure, well-regulated, and pleasant stays throughout your journey.
When booking a trip with Magical Bhutan, accommodations are already included as part of your package. We offer a range of options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious stays, all carefully selected to ensure your comfort and convenience.
Best things to do in Bhutan
If you want to journey from the sub-alpine Himalayan mountains in the north to the lush tropical plains in the south, Bhutan is the perfect destination, especially for trekking. Its diverse landscape offers stunning trekking routes that take you through serene forests, rolling valleys, and breathtaking mountain views.
For those interested in experiencing a unique lifestyle or learning about ancient legends, a visit to Merak Village in the far east is a must. This remote area, opened to tourists in 2012, is home to the seminomadic Brokpa people. These locals will captivate you with fascinating stories of their encounters with the mythological yeti, deeply rooted in Bhutanese folklore.
Nature lovers will find Bhutan’s commitment to conservation remarkable, as the country has a policy to maintain 60% forest cover, although it currently boasts 70% forestation. This makes Bhutan an excellent destination for eco-tourism, with its five national parks offering pristine natural beauty. Phrumsengla National Park is famous for birdwatching, while Royal Manas National Park, near the Indian border, provides opportunities to see endangered species like tigers, elephants, and golden langurs. Wildlife enthusiasts can extend their stay to increase their chances of witnessing these majestic creatures.
One of Bhutan’s most iconic sites is Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. This sacred monastery clings to the side of a cliff and is believed to have been built by Guru Rinpoche, who is credited with bringing Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. Legend has it that he meditated here for three months and flew on the back of a tigress to defeat local demons, giving the site its name. The hike to Tiger’s Nest, which starts from a parking lot at 7,000 feet above sea level, requires moderate fitness and takes about three hours, including several hundred steps up the mountain to reach the temple.
A journey to Bhutan promises an unforgettable experience, where the beauty of nature, the richness of culture, and the warmth of the Bhutanese people come together to create memories that will last a lifetime.
The best time to visit Bhutan
While Bhutan’s visa fees and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) remain the same year-round, the overall cost of your trip can vary depending on the season. During peak seasons like spring and autumn, tour packages might be slightly higher due to increased demand, but off-season travel, especially in winter, offers a chance to save. Magical Bhutan provides tailored tour packages for each season, ensuring you get the best experiences regardless of when you visit.
Here’s a seasonal guide to help you choose the perfect time for your Bhutan tour:
Winter (December to February)
Winter tours in Bhutan offer a peaceful, crowd-free experience, perfect for those who enjoy serene landscapes and cooler weather. While high-altitude treks can be challenging due to snow, our tours focus on lower-altitude trekking, cultural experiences, and visits to significant sites like Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest). You can also participate in Bhutan’s vibrant festivals, such as National Day on December 17 and Lhosar, Bhutan’s Lunar New Year, celebrated on February 21. Magical Bhutan will ensure you experience the best of Bhutan’s winter charm with our expertly crafted tours.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is the ideal season for tours focusing on trekking and nature. With the flowers in full bloom and Bhutan’s landscapes coming alive, Magical Bhutan offers specially designed trekking tours through scenic routes. Whether you’re hiking to Tiger’s Nest or exploring Bhutan’s national parks, spring provides the perfect backdrop. You can also immerse yourself in cultural events such as Zhabdrung Kuchoe, a tribute to Bhutan’s spiritual leader, and other festivals that highlight Bhutan’s rich heritage.
Summer (June to August)
Though the monsoon season makes trekking more difficult, summer in Bhutan is ideal for cultural tours. Magical Bhutan offers tours that focus on exploring Bhutan’s ancient monasteries, temples, and religious landmarks. This is also the season when many of Bhutan’s religious festivals occur, such as the observance of Lord Buddha’s Parinirvana. Our summer tours offer deep cultural immersion, taking you to unexplored regions of Bhutan with fewer crowds.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is considered one of the best seasons for a Bhutan tour. The weather is perfect for trekking, with clear skies and dry trails. Magical Bhutan offers comprehensive tours during this period, focusing on trekking, cultural festivals, and stunning landscapes. You can join in on Bhutan’s iconic celebrations such as the Blessed Rainy Day and the King’s Coronation Day in November. Our autumn tours ensure you experience Bhutan at its most vibrant, with the perfect balance of adventure and cultural exploration.
Each season brings a different charm to Bhutan, and Magical Bhutan has a tour for every traveler, ensuring your journey is unforgettable no matter when you visit. Let us handle every detail, from accommodations to festival experiences, making your Bhutan tour seamless and full of wonder.
Things to Know
Magical Bhutan will arrange all your transportation needs, including private vehicles for organized tours, ensuring you can explore Bhutan’s larger cities and remote regions comfortably. Beyond road travel, we offer a variety of trekking and cycling tours, as well as domestic flights and helicopter charters, so that every aspect of your journey is taken care of seamlessly.
With Magical Bhutan, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Bhutan, while we handle all transportation logistics, making your trip smooth, comfortable, and memorable.
Travelling costs to Bhutan
When booking with Magical Bhutan, all major expenses are covered as part of your tour package, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish. This includes flights, accommodations, visa fees, meals, the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), entrance fees for sightseeing, and tour guide services. Whether you’re planning a budget-friendly trip or a luxurious stay, we take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying Bhutan’s beauty and culture.
Your flights are included, and prices typically range from $115 to $500 per person depending on your departure location. The $40 visa fee and the $200 per day Sustainable Development Fee are also covered in our all-inclusive package.
For accommodations, we offer a variety of options, ranging from comfortable budget hotels to luxury properties, where you can enjoy meals, spa services, and other premium amenities. You won’t need to worry about dining arrangements, as meals are included in the package, but if you choose to dine elsewhere, restaurant prices can range from $3 for fast food to $20 per dish at upscale venues.
If you wish to visit Bhutan’s historic sites like monasteries and temples, entrance fees, which are typically around $13 per person, are already accounted for. Additionally, Magical Bhutan includes guided tours for iconic hikes like Tiger’s Nest or day trips to regional temples, where guide fees (about $100 per day) are covered. For longer treks, we ensure that all necessary permits and expenses are pre-arranged.
How to Pay for Trip Expenses
With Magical Bhutan, you don’t need to worry about making individual payments for flights, accommodation, or visa applications, as all of this is handled by us. However, it’s always advisable to carry some cash for personal expenses like souvenirs, snacks, or other purchases. Credit cards are accepted at most larger hotels, but cash is needed for smaller shops, local eateries, and entrance fees if you choose to explore on your own. You can exchange foreign currency or use ATMs at the airport and hotels to avoid money issues.
By booking with Magical Bhutan, you get an all-inclusive experience, allowing you to enjoy the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and a peaceful atmosphere without any hidden costs or surprises. Your trip will be as seamless as it is unforgettable.
At last
Bhutan is considered the safest country in Asia, with a unique focus on Gross National Happiness (GNH) rather than Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This emphasis on happiness over material wealth sets Bhutan apart as a special and unique destination. In Bhutan, the belief is that true happiness comes from spiritual well-being, community, and connection with nature, not from possessions or wealth. Magical Bhutan ensures that your visit to this extraordinary country aligns with these values, making your journey unforgettable. Contact us today to book a tour or trek in Bhutan!
One of the unique cultural practices in Bhutan is the transfer of family property to daughters rather than sons, reflecting the country’s progressive and egalitarian values. Additionally, Bhutan is not just carbon-neutral but also one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world, which is another reason why it stands out from other destinations.
A fascinating tradition in Bhutan is that everyone celebrates their birthday on New Year’s Day, with joyous singing and dancing. Beyond its vibrant traditions, Bhutan offers unparalleled natural, cultural, and spiritual experiences, making it the perfect destination to enrich your travel plans. Magical Bhutan will guide you through all these wonders, ensuring your time in this magical kingdom is truly worth it.