Bhutan may be visa-free, but these fees could add thousands to your travel budget

Indian tourists can visit Bhutan without a visa, but there's a mandatory fee that could add up significantly during your stay. While Bhutan remains accessible for Indian nationals, the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) can lead to substantial expenses, depending on the length of the visit.

Here's a detailed guide to what you need to know before planning your trip to Bhutan.

Entry Requirements: Documents and Permits
Although a visa isn't necessary, Indian visitors must obtain an ‘Entry Permit’ upon arrival. This permit is issued by the Department of Immigration at the Pedestrian Terminal in Phuentsholing. To secure entry, travelers need specific documents:

For Adults:

• A valid Indian Passport (with at least six months remaining) or
• An original Voter ID card. (Scanned or photocopied IDs are not accepted).

Note: Only these two documents are accepted for entry.

For Children (Under 18):

• An original birth certificate in English or a passport.
• Children must be accompanied by their parents.

Additional Requirements:

• Two passport-sized photographs.
• Travel insurance covering the entire stay, which can be purchased locally from Bhutanese providers at the Pedestrian Terminal.

Independent Travel vs. Tour Operator Packages
Indian tourists have the choice to either plan their own trip or use a local tour operator's services to arrange travel documents and itineraries. A list of certified operators is available on the Bhutan Travel and Department of Tourism websites.

Independent travelers should:

• Apply for the entry permit online at the Bhutan Travel website.
• Book stays in Department of Tourism-approved accommodations.
• Hire a tour guide.
• Obtain travel insurance and arrange local transportation.
  
  

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): What It Will Cost You
Bhutan charges an SDF of INR 1,200 per person per night for Indian visitors. This fee is aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and funding environmental conservation efforts. Here's how it applies:

• Children Exemptions: Kids aged 5 and under are exempt from the fee, while those between 6-12 years get a 50% discount.
• Short Trips: Visits to Samtse, Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar towns under 24 hours are SDF-exempt. Longer stays beyond 24 hours in these areas incur the standard SDF and potential penalties.
  
  

Traveling in Bhutan With Your Vehicle: Green Tax and Regulations
Indian-registered vehicles are permitted in designated zones within Bhutan at no additional cost. However, if you plan to drive beyond the Rinchending Check Post in Phuentsholing, you’ll face additional expenses:

• A daily Green Tax of Nu 4,500.
• Mandatory registration on the Check Post Management System (CPMS) for clearance at Royal Bhutan Police checkpoints.
  
  

Vehicle Entry Requirements:

Original driving license.

Original vehicle registration certificate (less than 10 years old).

Valid vehicle insurance.

Emission and roadworthiness certificate.

The owner must be driving. If another person is driving, an authorization letter from the owner is required.

Crossing Through the Pedestrian Terminal at Phuentsholing
The Pedestrian Terminal at Phuentsholing, at the Jaigaon-Phuentsholing border, operates round the clock. Indian visitors staying within Phuentsholing for less than 24 hours do not need an entry permit. However, pre-registration via the BMS website is recommended, generating a QR code for entry. For those planning to travel beyond Rinchending, the SDF applies, and a permit from the Regional Immigration Office is necessary.


Other Entry Points Along the Border
Indian visitors can also enter Bhutan through Samtse, Samdrup Jongkhar, and Sarpang/Gelephu. Entry conditions for both individuals and vehicles are identical to those at Phuentsholing, ensuring consistent requirements across the southern Indo-Bhutan border.

Though Bhutan’s visa-free access for Indians remains an advantage, the SDF could mean additional costs that travelers should account for when budgeting their trip. Proper planning and awareness of the fees and requirements will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan.