Aten Bhutan Tours

Travel Guide

Visas, fees, flights and seasons, explained plainly so you can plan with confidence.

Getting a visa

All visitors require a visa before traveling to Bhutan. Aten Bhutan Tours can apply on your behalf, or you can apply online at bhutan.travel/visa.

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is US$100 per adult per night. Concessionary rates apply for children. A non-refundable, one-off visa application fee of US$40 is also payable.

Indian tourists pay an SDF of INR 1,200 per person per night. Children aged five and below are exempt; children aged 6 to 12 receive a 50% concession.

What you need to apply

  • A digital copy of a valid passport
  • A recent digital passport photo
  • Arrival and departure dates
  • Valid travel insurance for the duration of your travel
  • Payment details

Getting there

Bhutan has two national airlines, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Direct flights connect Paro International Airport with Bangkok, Singapore, Kathmandu, Dhaka, and the Indian cities of Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra and Guwahati.

There are four official road entry points from India: Samtse and Phuentsholing in western Bhutan, Gelephu in central Bhutan, and Samdrup Jongkhar in eastern Bhutan.

A Drukair plane taking off from Paro International Airport in the valley

When to visit

Every season shows a different Bhutan. There is no wrong month, only different rewards.

Spring (March to May)

Rhododendrons in bloom, clear trekking weather and Paro Tshechu. The most popular season.

Autumn (September to November)

Crisp skies, harvest landscapes, Thimphu Tshechu and the Black-Necked Crane Festival. Ideal for trekking.

Winter (December to February)

Quiet monasteries, snow on the high passes and clear Himalayan views. Cranes winter in Phobjikha.

Summer (June to August)

Monsoon greens the valleys. Fewer visitors, lush scenery and the Haa and Kurjey festivals.

Questions, answered

Leave the paperwork to us

Visa, permits, flights and every night’s stay, arranged by our team in Paro.

Plan your trip