2026 Bhutan Travel Guide for Indian Tourists | SDF, Permit, Flights & Currency

1. Entry Documents & Permit Process

Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. However, an Entry Permit is mandatory prior to or upon arrival.

Accepted Identity Documents: Valid Indian Passport (minimum 6 months validity) OR Original Indian Voter ID (Election Commission Card).
Children below 18 years: Original Birth Certificate or Passport, plus school ID.
Permit Processing: Soulful Journeys Bhutan pre-processes your entry permit online so you avoid long queues at the border or airport!

2. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indian Travelers

Bhutan enforces a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) to maintain high-value, low-impact sustainable tourism.

Regional SDF Rate for Indian Passport / Voter ID Holders:
• Adults: ₹1,200 per person per night.
• Children (aged 6 to 12 years): ₹600 per child per night (50% discount).
• Children under 6 years: Fully exempt (FREE).

3. How to Reach Bhutan from India

By Air (Direct Flights):

Drukair and Bhutan Airlines operate direct flights to Paro International Airport (PBH) from major Indian cities:

New Delhi (DEL)
Kolkata (CCU)
Bagdogra / Siliguri (IXB)
Guwahati (GAU)

By Overland Entry (Road / Train):

For scenic road trips, enter via border towns:

Phuentsholing (via Jaigaon, West Bengal): Nearest rail station is Hasimara (29 km) or New Jalpaiguri / Siliguri (150 km).
Samdrup Jongkhar (via Assam): Convenient for travelers entering from Guwahati (110 km).

4. Currency, Food & Local Comforts

Currency Acceptance: Indian Rupee (INR) is pegged 1:1 with Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) and accepted everywhere in Bhutan! ₹100, ₹200, and ₹500 notes are widely used.
Food Preferences: We arrange authentic Pure Vegetarian, Jain, and Indian meals at handpicked local Bhutanese restaurants.

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