Bhutan Visa and SDF: Travel Guide

Bhutan’s standard Sustainable Development Fee is US$100 per adult per night for international visitors other than Indian nationals. Indian adults pay Nu. 1,200 per night. The visa application fee is a separate, one-off US$40 for travellers who require a visa. These government charges are separate from the cost of your tour services.

Fee guidance checked on 20 October 2026. Sources: Department of Tourism FAQs and official SDF announcements.

What are the SDF rates?

Traveller	SDF per night
International adult, other than Indian nationals	US$100
International child aged 6–11	US$50
Indian adult	Nu. 1,200
Indian child aged 6–11	Nu. 600
Child under 6	No SDF

The reduced US$100 adult rate is a concession scheduled through 31 August 2027. For later travel, confirm the rate before booking; do not assume the concession will continue. Eligibility for any special exemption depends on the traveller and itinerary.

How much does a seven-day stay cost in government fees?

For an adult paying the standard international rate, a seven-day itinerary with six chargeable nights has an SDF of 6 × US$100 = US$600. Add one US$40 visa application fee: US$640 in these government fees per adult. This example assumes travel within the concession period and no special exemption. Hotels, guiding, transport, meals, flights, entry tickets and applicable taxes are additional unless your quote includes them.

Do I need a visa or a permit?

Most visitors need visa approval before arrival. Indian nationals use a permit. Bangladeshi and Maldivian visitors can apply for a visa in advance or on arrival under the official arrangements. Check Bhutan Travel’s visa guidance for the documents and application route that apply to you.

Is GST included in a Bhutan tour quote?

Bhutan introduced a standard 5% Goods and Services Tax from 1 January 2026. GST-registered businesses charge tax on taxable goods and services under the applicable rules. Your written quote identifies applicable GST on tour services and states whether it is included in the total; SDF and visa charges are listed separately. Read the Department of Revenue and Customs GST guidance.

What will my written quote show?

• The itinerary, hotel and room arrangements, number of travellers and chargeable nights.
• Tour services, agreed meals and visits, and the items excluded from the package.
• SDF for each traveller, visa charges where applicable, and applicable GST.
• The total, payment arrangements and booking conditions.

How do I send application documents?

Use the official application service or the secure process agreed with our team. Keep passport scans and payment details out of the general enquiry form.

Does an enquiry confirm my booking?

No. We confirm the itinerary, availability, full quote and booking conditions before you book. Read our Bhutan travel guide or request a quote for your dates and group.