Omaiyari | Frequently Asked Questions

In the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a small, landlocked nation flanked by India and China. The terrain of this country is characterized by a diverse range, encompassing verdant subtropical plains and forests in the southern region to the captivating expanse of subalpine forests and snow-clad mountains in the north. Revered for its rich cultural heritage, Bhutan is the last bastion of Mahayana Buddhism, embodying a profound connection to this ancient spiritual tradition.

All visitors must obtain a visa to enter Bhutan, except Indian visitors who require a permit.
Nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives are eligible for a visa on arrival at the port of entry.
Holders of diplomatic and official passports from Switzerland and Thailand are eligible for a visa on arrival at the port of entry.
Indian visitors need an entry permit, including those with an Indian passport or voter ID card. For Indian nationals below 18 years, a passport or birth certificate is acceptable, and legal guardians must accompany them..

A passport copy is essential, ensuring its validity extends for at least six months beyond the planned departure from the Kingdom
Valid travel insurance covering the entire duration of the trip is a requisite
Submission of a recent passport-size photograph is also mandatory.

The non-refundable visa fee stands at USD 40 per person. The visa-issuance process is typically expeditious, with a standard processing time of up to five working days. It is important to note that the visa application can only be initiated after transferring the Government SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) and the Visa processing fee.

Indian visitors can present a passport or a voter ID card for the permit application. In the case of children under the age of 18, a valid birth certificate or passport is acceptable, provided a legal guardian accompanies them. Additionally, a recent passport-size photograph is a requisite. Furthermore, visitors must possess travel insurance that remains valid for the entire duration of their trip.

Travelers have the option to acquire travel insurance through their existing insurance company. Alternatively, upon arrival at the port of entry in Bhutan, domestic travel insurance can be purchased from Bhutanese insurance providers. For assistance, tourism information officers are available at all ports of entry. Detailed information on insurance options from Bhutan Insurance Limited can be found here (insert the link to BIL)

Guests from India incur an SDF of Nu. 1,200 or the equivalent amount in INR per person per night.
Visitors from all other countries face an SDF of USD 100 per person per night.
A concessionary levy of 50% on the SDF applies to children between the ages of 6-12 years, while children aged 5 years and below are exempt from the SDF.
SDF funds contribute to the national exchequer, financing various projects to enhance facilities, services, and infrastructure for nationals and visitors to Bhutan. Additionally, these funds support initiatives such as free healthcare and education.

Payment of the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is required during the visa or permit application and can be completed through wire transfer or credit card.
The SDF is to be paid in USD, although Indians also have the option to make payments in INR.

Visitors to Bhutanese towns bordering India will enjoy an exemption from the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) until they reach the first designated point specified by the government. The SDF will only apply to visitors who stay overnight within these border towns.

Certainly, in the case of trip cancellations or shortened durations, the Department of Immigration will facilitate the refund of the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), with any applicable bank charges deducted from the refunded amount.

Travelers have multiple flight options to reach Bhutan, with available routes from destinations such as Dhaka (Bangladesh), Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra (India), Kathmandu (Nepal), Singapore (Changi), and Bangkok (Thailand).
Presently, two airlines, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, operate flights to Bhutan.
Approval from the competent authorities is required for private jets intending to fly into Bhutan.
Accessible by land, visitors can enter Bhutan through Phuentsholing, while Indian guests have additional land entry points at Gelephu, Samdrup Jongkhar, and Samtse.

There are two payment options available:

Credit Card:

Note:

Credit card transactions incur a 4.75% bank transfer fee, making international wire transfers the most cost-effective.

International Wire Transfer:

To extend a visa or permit in Bhutan, individuals must initiate the process with the Department of Immigration before the document's expiration. Payment of the relevant Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and the associated visa or permit extension fees is required and should be submitted to the Department of Immigration.

While visa or permit extensions are typically processed promptly, the timeline can extend up to five working days. If you've booked your tour through our services, we can facilitate the extension of your Bhutan Visa. However, it's imperative to settle the required Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for the visa or permit extension.

If you booked through us, we can extend your Bhutan Visa, but the necessary SDF must be paid.

Certainly, in the event of trip cancellations or shortened durations, the Department of Immigration will refund the SDF, deducting any associated bank charges from the reimbursed amount. To initiate a refund request for the SDF, visitors are required to submit an online request through the immigration system. Processing of the refund will occur only after the visitors have exited the Kingdom.

Arrangements for trekking trips involving overnight stays must be made through a local tour operator. These operators provide comprehensive logistical support for your hiking or trekking adventure.

It is highly recommended for all visitors to Bhutan to engage the services of a knowledgeable guide. This ensures a rich and fulfilling experience, allowing visitors to discover the best that Bhutan has to offer. Guides play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of visitors, especially in the presence of wild animals in the countryside and the unique challenges posed by the altitude and landscape.s.
While guides need not accompany visitors to every experience, such as restaurants and shopping, their presence is strongly advised for visits to temples, local points of interest, trekking activities, and journeys extending beyond Thimphu and Paro to cultural sites. This not only enhances the overall experience but also contributes to the well-being of visitors.
For those entering Bhutan via land borders, it is mandatory to have a guide when leaving the border towns. This measure is in place to guarantee a seamless and enjoyable exploration of Bhutan, making the visit a truly unforgettable one.

Bhutan provides a diverse range of accommodations, including luxurious 5-star hotels and charming traditional homestays, catering to varied preferences for comfort and cultural immersion.