Traveling to Bhutan is a little different from visiting most countries, because the government controls tourism to preserve its culture and environment. Want to travel somewhere under the radar? Somewhere more culturally traditional and untainted by mass tourism? Somewhere that’s like stepping back in time, where very few have the privilege to see? Consider traveling to the Asian country of Bhutan. I hope this Bhutan travel guide convinces you that this little country should be on your list. Read on to learn how to travel to Bhutan.

Here’s how you can do it step-by-step:

1. Decide your entry point
  • By air: The only international airport is Paro International Airport. Flights are mainly operated by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines from select cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Singapore, and Kolkata.
  • By land: You can enter via border towns in India — Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar.
2. Understand the visa requirements
  • Foreign tourists (except Indians, Bangladeshis, and Maldivians) must get a visa in advance.
  • You can’t apply directly — you must book through a Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner.
  • Indians, Bangladeshis, and Maldivians can enter with a permit (no advance visa) but still need to follow certain travel rules.
3. Book your trip through an authorized operator
  • The operator arranges your visa, flights, hotels, guides, and itinerary.
  • Independent travel is not generally allowed — you must be on a planned itinerary with a licensed guide.
4. Pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
  • As of 2023, most foreign tourists pay USD 200 per person per night as the SDF (separate from your tour cost).
  • For Indians, it’s ₹1,200 per person per night.
5. Get your visa clearance
  • Once you confirm your booking and pay, the tour operator will get your visa clearance letter from Bhutan’s Department of Immigration.
  • You’ll need to show this before boarding your flight or crossing the border.
6. Prepare for Bhutan’s travel style
  • Expect a mix of cultural visits (monasteries, dzongs, festivals) and outdoor adventures (trekking, hiking).
  • The trip will be more guided and structured than a typical backpacking holiday.
The national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bhutan, Drukair, connects Bhutan to the world. Operating three Airbus A319s, one A320neo, and one ATR 42-500, Drukair has scheduled flights to Paro from Singapore, Bangkok, Delhi, and Kathmandu.

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