Published On:23 Aug,2019
Bhutan, the land of Thunder Dragon, has become one of the top tourist destinations for Honeymoon, Spiritual Holidays. Unless you’re from a select few countries, such as Nepal, Bhutan Tours is expensive and not easily undertaken. However, the distinctive Buddhist culture, unspoiled scenery, and fresh mountain air make it very worthwhile. The number of people visiting Bhutan is increasing every year, reflective of growing interest in the country as a tourism destination.
▼ Here’s what you need to know about to plan your Bhutan Tours.
The Bhutanese government is reserved about allowing visitors into the country. Independent travel to Bhutan is opening up but it’s not something the government encourages. Generally, visitors to Bhutan must either be tourists, or guests of the government. The only other options for visiting the country are to receive an invitation by “a citizen of some standing” or a volunteer organization.
Everyone travelling to Bhutan requires to obtain a visa in advance, visas cost $40. The visas must be applied and paid for in advance, from registered tour operators (not embassies), at the same time as booking the rest of your trip. You should try and make your travel arrangements at least 90 days prior to travel to allow time for all the formalities to be completed.
The visas are processed through an online system by the tour operators and are approved by the Tourism Council of Bhutan once full payment of the cost of the trip has been received. Tourists are issued with a visa clearance letter, to be presented at immigration upon arrival at the airport. The visa is then stamped in the passport.
The only international airport in Bhutan is located at Paro, about one and a half hours drive from Thimphu. Currently, two national airlines operate flights to Bhutan: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Departure points include Bangkok (Thailand), Kathmandu (Nepal), New Delhi and Kolkata (India), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Yangoon (Myanmar), and Singapore.
The minimum price of tours (called a “Minimum Daily Package”) to Bhutan is set by the government, to control tourism and protect the environment, and can’t be negotiated. The price includes all accommodations, meals, transportation, guides and porters, and cultural programs. Part of it also goes towards free education, free healthcare, and poverty alleviation in Bhutan.
“Minimum Daily Package” prices vary according to the season and number of tourists in the group.
» $250 per person per day, for a group of three or more people.
» $280 per person per day, for a group of two people.
» $290 per day for single individuals.
» $200 per person per day, for a group of three or more people.
» $230 per person per day, for a group of two people.
» $240 per day for single individuals.
1. Bhutan Sightseeing Tour – 4 Days
2. Majestic Western Bhutan Tours – 6 Days
3. Bhutan Family Tour – 8 Days
4. Thimphu Tsechu Festival Tour, Bhutan – 8 Days