On 25th August 2023, the Royal Government of Bhutan announced a 50% reduction in the prevailing Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) from USD $200 per person per night to USD $100. This discounted fee for tourism levy will be effective from 1st September 2023 and will continue for four years untill 31st August 2027.
The tourism levy is separate from expenses like accommodation, meals, transportation, guided tours, museum visits, and the visa fee ($40).
Certain Exemptions and Discounts Apply
- Children aged 5 and below are exempted (but the $40 visa fee applies)
- Children between 6 and 12 years old receive a 50% concessionary levy
This fee, mandated by the Royal Government of Bhutan for all tourists, aims to foster sustainable and responsible tourism, following the principle of “high value, low volume” tourism. It supports various societal, developmental, environmental conservation, cultural promotion, and enhancement of tourism infrastructure initiatives for tourists. Contributions through the Sustainable Development Fee aid essential projects such as healthcare, education, conservation efforts, cultural endeavours, and infrastructure enhancements, ensuring that tourism benefits the local communities.
Bhutan has long upheld the policy of “high value, low impact” tourism since the arrival of its first tourists in 1974. Remarkably, it stands as one of the rare carbon-neutral countries globally, absorbing more carbon dioxide than it emits.
Hassle-free Bhutan Holidays
For seamless Bhutan holidays, our tour packages cater to diverse interests for everyone, featuring seasonal attractions and must-see sites in every tour. These fully escorted packages offer options for customization, tailored to fit your interests, preferences, and budget. Contact BGT to arrange your unforgettable trip to Bhutan!
Early Booking Discount
Book early to receive a 10% discount on the land only (excluding SDF).
Price Includes
- Airport and hotel pickups and drops
- Comfortable transport (private vehicle) throughout the trip
- Licensed English-speaking guide & driver
- Best accommodation in 3-star hotels (private bathrooms based on 2 adults sharing a twin/double occupancy (single supplements apply)
- Options for comfortable farmhouse, homestay, or heritage house accommodations
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and bottled water
- Camping facilities and haulage for trekking tours
- Baggage handling at hotels and camps
- All entrance fees for museums and other attractions
- Sustainable development fee (SDF) of $100 per night
- One-time visa fee of $40 (non-refundable)
- Applicable internal taxes and service fees
Price Excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Travel insurance
- Discretionary tips for guides and drivers
- Other personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls, etc.
- Upgrades to luxury properties (4-star and 5-star hotels)
- Single room supplement starting from $50 per night
- Optional activities & additional services
Airfare (Flights to Bhutan)
The airfare for flights to and from Paro International Airport is charged separately in US dollars. We only arrange Drukair (the national airline) or Bhutan Airlines (a private airline) tickets for travel to and from Paro International Airport, including domestic flights. There are no additional costs for these arrangements. Only Drukair and Bhutan Airlines operate scheduled flights to Bhutan’s gateway cities, providing services to Singapore, Bangkok, Kathmandu, Dhaka, Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bagdogra.
Airfare Discounts for Children
Flights to and from Paro International Airport offer some discounts for infants and children:
- Children under 2 years receive 90% discount
- Children under 12 years receive 33% discount