You can enter Bhutan through several key points:
By Air: Paro International Airport serves as the primary gateway for international travelers
By Land: There are multiple border entry points from India:
o Phuentsholing (West Bengal, India)
o Samdrup Jongkhar (Assam, India)
o Gelephu (Assam, India)
Each route offers a unique experience, whether you're flying over the breathtaking Himalayas or crossing into Bhutan through its scenic border towns2. Would you like details on visa requirements. Please do contact us for more details or tour arrangement. Make Tour is always there for you in 24/7
Indian nationals enjoy simplified travel to Bhutan, bypassing visa requirements but incurring a daily Sustainable Development Fee of INR 1200. Essential documents include a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) or original Voter ID (downloads not accepted). Children without Voter IDs need their English birth certificates. Independent travelers must pre-book hotels and a guide, while all trekking must be arranged through a tour operator.
A valid Indian passport (6 months validity) or original Voter ID is required.
A daily Sustainable Development Fee of INR 1200 per person
Children without Voter IDs need English birth certificates.
All trekking activities must be booked through a registered tour operator./p>
Traveling to Bhutan involves specific requirements, differing slightly for Indian nationals compared to other nationalities. Generally, all travelers must adhere to regulations designed to promote sustainable tourism
Foreign nationals require a pre-arranged visa.
A Sustainable Development Fee of USD 100 per person per night and a visa fee of USD 40 per person are mandatory
Necessary documents include a passport with at least six months validity, passport-sized photographs
Trekking must be organized through a tour operator.
Bhutan's approach to sustainable tourism is a globally recognized model, prioritizing environmental preservation and cultural integrity. It's rooted in the "high-value, low-impact" philosophy, ensuring that tourism benefits the nation without compromising its natural and cultural heritage. This is achieved through careful regulation, community involvement, and a strong emphasis on ecological responsibility.
Bhutan limits tourist numbers through regulations and fees, focusing on quality experiences over mass tourism
The SDF directly funds environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and social development projects.
Bhutan maintains a high percentage of forest cover, promoting biodiversity and carbon neutrality.
Tourism policies emphasize respecting and preserving Bhutanese traditions, customs, and religious sites.
Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, minimize their environmental footprint, and support local businesses.
Local communities are involved in tourism initiatives, ensuring they benefit economically and culturally.
Bhutan has a rich cultural heritage shaped by its deep-rooted traditions, Buddhism, and unique way of life. Here are some of the most prominent cultural traditions:
Mahayana Buddhism: Central to daily life and societal values.
Traditional Dress (Gho & Kira): Bhutanese people wear traditional attire daily. Men wear a knee-length robe called gho, while women wear an elegant long dress called kira. These outfits are mandatory in schools, government offices, and formal events
Archery (Dha): Bhutan’s national sport, archery, is more than just a game—it’s a social and cultural event filled with singing, dancing, and friendly rivalry. Competitions take place across the country, often accompanied by traditional songs and humorous taunts between teams.
Chili and Cheese (Ema Datshi): Bhutanese cuisine is known for its spicy flavors, with Ema Datshi, a dish made of chilies and cheese, being the national favorite. Almost every meal in Bhutan incorporates chilies!
Tshechu Festivals: One of the most significant celebrations in Bhutan, Tshechu is a religious festival featuring mask dances performed by monks and laypeople. Each district has its own Tshechu, with the Paro and Thimphu Tshechu being among the most famous.
Bhutan is famous for prioritizing happiness over economic growth. The philosophy of GNH ensures that development is balanced with spiritual and social well-being.
Bhutanese architecture is striking, with massive fortress-monasteries (dzongs) serving as administrative centers and places of worship. The iconic Punakha Dzong and Tiger’s Nest Monastery are among the most breathtaking.
In temples and homes, people light butter lamps as part of Buddhist rituals to remove darkness and bring wisdom. Prayer flags are also placed on hills and rooftops to spread blessings.
While rare today, polyandry (where a woman may have multiple husbands, often brothers) was once practiced in some parts of Bhutan. Arranged marriages still exist but are becoming less common.
Bhutan, the Thunder Dragon Land, is a hidden jewel in which conventional traditions blend into exalted surroundings, offering the traveler an unordinary glimpse into a pure Himalayan kingdom. From exploring its great monasteries, walking on its pristine valleys, to experiencing the graciousness of its populace, every Bhutan experience is a walk into a land of peace, piety, and cultural richness.