Take China Group Tours in 2024 to enjoy a 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
Bhutan Visa Fee & SDF Fee: Your Bhutan Tour Advance
Starting from September 2022, Bhutan has implemented a new travel policy, which means that travelers no longer need to book government-approved all-inclusive tour packages. Now, all you need to pay are the visa fee of $40 and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100 per night for accommodation. This fee is a prerequisite for your travel to Bhutan and is required for every tourist except Indian nationals.
Bhutan Visa Fee: $40
- $100 per night for adults
- $50 per night for children aged 6-12
- Free for children below 6 years old
For more detailed information on Bhutan visa policy and SDF policy, please refer to the official sources.
Some of Estimated costs of traveling in Bhutan
After paying the visa and SDF fees, you will still need to cover the expenses for your travel in Bhutan. The specific costs will depend on factors such as the duration of your trip, the type of tour, and the time of your visit.
Although the all-inclusive tour packages are no longer mandatory, many tourists still choose to book packages through travel agencies in Bhutan. These packages provide professional services in terms of transportation, guides, drivers, and itinerary planning, saving you the hassle of dealing with unfamiliar and limited information in a remote and mysterious destination like Bhutan.
Here are some estimated costs for Bhutan tour packages to give you an idea of the potential expenses for your trip.
Entrance Fees
The entrance fees to most of the major attractions in Bhutan are about 1,000 BTN (around $13), such as Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu, Buddha Dordenma, and Punakha Dzong.
However, the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, which tops the list of Bhutan travel destinations, is an exception with an entrance fee of 2,000 BTN (about $25). Nonetheless, it is definitely worth the visit.
It's worth noting that if you book a tour package with a travel agency, these entrance fees are usually included in the package cost.
Accommodation Cost in Bhutan
Accommodation expenses are indeed an important part of travel anywhere, including Bhutan. Bhutan is known for offering a wide range of options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
3-star standard Hotels: Generally priced between $40 and $100 per night, these hotels offer comfortable and clean accommodations with all the basic amenities. Most group tours organized by travel agencies in Bhutan opt for three-star standard accommodations.
Four-star Hotels: Priced between $50 and $250 or even higher per night, four-star hotels provide better modern facilities and amenities for a more luxurious stay.
Luxury Resorts: For an additional cost, you can opt for upscale accommodations such as internationally branded resorts, boutique hotels, or luxury lodges. Prices for these can range from $300 to over $1,000 per night, depending on the level of luxury.
It's important to note that these price ranges are approximate and can vary depending on the location, season, and specific hotel properties in Bhutan.
When planning your accommodations in Bhutan, this link can help you find the most useful information:
Guide Service and Tipping in Bhutan
While the Bhutanese government has opened Thimphu and Paro to independent travelers, they still require visitors to hire a guide when planning to visit dzongs (fortresses) and temples. This emphasizes the importance of a guide during your trip to Bhutan.
Perhaps you would like to know which dzongs and Temples in Bhutan are worth visiting.
The cost of hiring a guide can vary, with English-speaking guides being the most common. If you require a guide who speaks a language other than English, such as Italian, French, or German, there may be an additional cost for their services. However, this cost is usually included in the quotation provided by your travel agency.
Tipping is not mandatory in Bhutan,but it is customary to tip guides and drivers. A good guide in Bhutan often deserves a tip of around $8-10 per day, while drivers can be tipped around $5-8 per day.
If you are participating in a trekking in Bhutan, it is customary to provide additional tips to your personal chef and porters, considering their efforts and services.
Food Cost in Bhutan
Considering that most tour packages in Bhutan include meals, you will rarely have to spend money on food and drinks. If you plan to dine out in Bhutan, the average cost per person is around $12, with breakfast being cheaper. The price for a cup of cappuccino is also around $1, making it an affordable option for coffee lovers. Check out the Bhutanese cuisine guide curated by local experts.
Addition Cost in Bhutan
In addition to the aforementioned expenses, you may also consider purchasing souvenirs and handicrafts as mementos. For a traditional hot stone bath experience, the estimated cost would be around $10-20. Some hotels may have their own hot stone bath facilities.
If you are interested in experiencing the thrilling Punakha white water rafting, as a reference, the price for one wooden raft is ca. $150, accommodating up to 6 passengers.
Cost of Joining Group Tours in Bhutan
If you have read the above article and still don't have an overall estimated price for Bhutan tour packages, you can refer to the reference prices provided by Asia Odyssey Travel for their group tours in Bhutan based on 3-star hotel standards. (Visa fees and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per night are typically included in Bhutan tour packages.)
| Group Tour Packages | Price |
|---|---|
| 4 Days Highlights Bhutan Group Tour | From USD$950 p.p |
| 5 Days Western Bhutan Group Tour | From USD$1180 p.p |
| 6 Days Bhutan Group Tour | From USD$1460 p.p |
| 7 Days Bhutan Group Tour | From USD$1630 p.p |
| 8 Days Bhutan Group Tour | From USD$1920 p.p |
| 9 Days Bhutan Group Tour | From USD$2150 p.p |
| 11 Days Bhutan Group Tour | From USD$2620 p.p |
Please note that the prices mentioned above are for reference only and may vary depending on factors such as the season and timing. For detailed and specific pricing information, please contact us directly.
Bhutan Currency, Cash, and ATMs
Navigating the financial landscape of Bhutan is straightforward once you're acquainted with the basics. The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), on par with the Indian Rupee, is the local currency. For convenience, travelers are advised to exchange their money upon arrival, as international credit cards may not be widely accepted, especially in rural areas.
Major towns are equipped with ATMs that accept Visa and MasterCard, but it's wise to carry sufficient cash for purchases in smaller shops and markets. Remember, while Indian Rupees are readily accepted, the newer ₹2000 notes are often not, so it's best to carry smaller denominations.
How to travel to Bhutan on a budget?
Booking Cheap Flights
Booking flights in advance can be one of the major expenses, so it is advisable to consider booking your flights to Bhutan early to get the best prices. Use flight comparison websites and set up price alerts for flights to Paro, the only international airport in Bhutan.
There are only two commercial airlines operating flights to and from Bhutan, namely Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Considering flights departing from India, Nepal, and Bangladesh may be cheaper compared to flights from Bangkok and Singapore.
Asia Odyssey Travel can assist you in arranging your flights. We have a team of professional travel advisors who can help you with flight selection, booking, and arrangements. We will search for the best flight options based on your preferences and ensure a smooth travel experience for you.
Travel to Bhutan During Off-Season
Additionally, timing your visit can make a significant difference. Traveling during the off-peak season can reduce costs considerably. Bhutan's low season falls during the summer months of June to August and the winter from December to February. During this time, you're likely to find better deals on flights and accommodations.
Book Your Trip in Advance
Early bookings can sometimes yield early bird discounts, and you'll also have a longer period to monitor potential price changes and adjust your plans accordingly.
Explore Bhutan with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel
Asia Odyssey Travel is a local-based travel agency that offers Bhutan Group Tours and customized tours in Bhutan. Our team of experienced local guides ensures that you have an immersive and insightful journey, sharing our deep understanding of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality.
Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a captivating destination with its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich Buddhist traditions. Asia Odyssey Travel can help you discover the highlights of Bhutan, including Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, Bumthang, and Gangtey.
Whether you're interested in trekking through pristine mountain trails, participating in vibrant festivals, or exploring remote villages, Asia Odyssey Travel can tailor Bhutan Trekking Tour and Bhutan Festival Tour itineraries to suit your preferences.
Embark on a memorable journey through Bhutan with Asia Odyssey Travel and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty and traditions of this unique Himalayan kingdom.
If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.
Data in submission...
