TRAVELLING TO BHUTAN

Bhutan welcomes the world differently. Guided by the philosophy of Gross National Happiness, the kingdom follows a "High Value, Low Volume" tourism policy designed to protect its pristine environment, living culture, and the wellbeing of its people. Rather than mass tourism, Bhutan invites mindful, responsible travellers to experience a country where forests cover more than two thirds of the land, ancient dzongs still serve as centres of governance and faith, and tradition is woven into everyday life. Visiting Bhutan is not just a holiday — it is a contribution to the preservation of one of the world's last great Himalayan kingdoms.

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Every visitor to Bhutan contributes a Sustainable Development Fee, a daily levy that directly funds the kingdom's preservation and progress. The SDF is best understood as a "pay it forward" gesture: your contribution helps provide free healthcare and education for the Bhutanese people, plants trees and maintains forests and wildlife, upgrades trails and infrastructure, renovates historic dzongs and temples, and creates training and opportunities for Bhutan's young people — ensuring that future visitors enjoy an experience as good as, or better than, your own.

Visitor	SDF (per person, per night)
International visitors (adults)	US$ 100
International children aged 6–11	US$ 50
Children under 6	Free
Indian nationals (adults)	Nu./INR 1,200
Indian nationals, children aged 6–11	Nu./INR 600

The SDF is paid at the time of your visa or permit application and is managed transparently by the Royal Government of Bhutan, with all public expenditure documents published online.

Visa & Entry Requirements

All international visitors require a visa, which must be approved before travelling to Bhutan. The process is simple and fully online:

• Apply online through the official immigration portal (immi.gov.bt), or let a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or your hotel handle it for you.
• A one-time, non-refundable visa application fee of US$ 40 applies, paid together with your SDF.
• Applications are typically processed within five working days.
• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry.
• Valid travel insurance covering the full duration of your stay is required.
• Indian nationals do not require a visa; instead, an entry permit is issued using a valid Indian passport or voter ID card.

Getting to Bhutan

By air: Paro International Airport is Bhutan's only international airport — and Metta Resort & Spa is just a short drive away. The national carriers, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, operate direct flights to Paro from Bangkok, Singapore, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Guwahati, Kathmandu, and Dhaka. The descent into the Paro Valley, weaving between forested Himalayan ridges, is widely considered one of the most spectacular landings in the world.

By land: Visitors may also enter overland from India through one of four official border crossings — Phuentsholing and Samtse in the west, Gelephu in the centre, and Samdrup Jongkhar in the east — where immigration formalities are completed on arrival.

Getting Around Bhutan

Self-drive is not permitted for visitors, so journeys within Bhutan are made in a private vehicle with a licensed driver, by local transport, or on a domestic flight. Alongside Paro, domestic airports at Bumthang (central), Gelephu (south) and Yonphula (east) connect the regions, and the Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services offer charters and scenic transfers in clear weather. Roads wind through mountain passes, so allow generous travel times and enjoy the views. Our team is glad to arrange a comfortable car and driver for your stay.

Travelling with a Guide

A registered Bhutanese guide accompanies visitors beyond the main hubs of Paro and Thimphu, bringing the kingdom's history, faith and folklore to life — and ensuring your journey through Bhutan's wild, biodiverse landscapes is safe and seamless. A good guide is the key that unlocks Bhutan, turning a sightseeing trip into a genuine encounter with the country and its people.

Respecting Local Culture

Bhutan's living Buddhist culture is part of what makes a visit so special, and a few simple courtesies are warmly appreciated:

• Dress modestly at dzongs, temples and monasteries — cover your shoulders and knees, and remove hats and shoes before entering.
• Keep your voice low at sacred sites, walk clockwise around religious monuments, and never sit on or touch altars, statues or a lama's throne.
• Photography is often restricted inside temples — please ask before taking photos, especially of people, monks, or religious interiors.
• A friendly "Kuzu zangpo la" (hello) and "Kadrin chey la" (thank you) go a long way with your Bhutanese hosts.

Nature & Wildlife

Bhutan is one of the most biodiverse countries on earth and the world's only carbon-negative nation, with more than 70% of the land under forest. Hunting and fishing are prohibited across most of the kingdom, and travelling with a guide is recommended in wilderness areas where you may share the trail with rare Himalayan wildlife. Please take all litter with you and tread lightly so these pristine landscapes remain unspoiled for generations to come.

Good to Know

• Currency: The Bhutanese Ngultrum (Nu.) is pegged one-to-one with the Indian Rupee, which is also widely accepted. Carry some cash, as cards are not accepted everywhere.
• Best seasons: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer clear skies and vibrant festivals, including the famous Paro Tshechu held minutes from our resort.
• Altitude: The Paro Valley sits at around 2,200 m. Take your first day gently, rest, and stay hydrated.
• Smoking: The sale of tobacco is restricted in Bhutan, and smoking is only permitted in designated areas.
• Connectivity: Local SIM cards with data are inexpensive and available on arrival; Wi-Fi is available here at the resort.
• Need a hand? Bhutan's Department of Tourism runs a free visitor host service at hosts@tourism.gov.bt for any questions before or during your trip.

How We Can Help

Our team at Metta Resort & Spa is happy to guide you through every step of planning your journey — from visa guidance and airport transfers to curated itineraries around the Paro Valley, including Kyichu Lhakhang and the Tiger's Nest (Paro Taktsang). Contact our team or book your stay online, and we will take care of the rest.

Note: Visa rules and SDF rates are set by the Royal Government of Bhutan and may change. Please verify the latest requirements on the official Department of Tourism website before travelling.