Bhutan Trip Cost from India in 2025 is one of the most magical and peaceful places you can visit. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, it offers breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, warm-hearted locals, and a sense of spiritual serenity that’s hard to find elsewhere.
If you’re an Indian traveler, you’re in luck! Traveling to Bhutan is not only easier for Indians but also relatively affordable. But how much does it actually cost? In this guide, we’ll break down the total cost to travel to Bhutan from India, including permits, travel, accommodation, food, activities, and more. Let’s dive in!
Why Visit Bhutan?
Before we get into the cost, here’s why Bhutan is a must-visit destination:
- Stunning Himalayan landscapes and lush green valleys
- Ancient dzongs (fortresses), temples, and monasteries
- Rich Buddhist culture and peaceful vibes
- Clean air, less crowd, and a focus on Gross National Happiness
- Friendly visa-free entry for Indian citizens
Is a Visa Required for Indians to Travel to Bhutan?
No, Indians don’t need a visa to travel to Bhutan. However, as per the Bhutan government regulations, Indian nationals must carry:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity) OR
- A Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India
Additionally, you need to obtain an entry permit at Phuentsholing (if entering by land) or at the airport (if flying into Paro).
Note: As of 2020, the Bhutan government introduced a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of INR 1,200 per person per day for Indian nationals.
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Modes of Travel from India to Bhutan
You can reach Bhutan either by air or road, and both have their own pros and cons.
Option 1: By Air – Flights from India to Bhutan
The only international airport in Bhutan is Paro International Airport. Direct flights are available from:
- Delhi
- Kolkata
- Bagdogra
- Guwahati
Flights are usually operated by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines.
Average Round-Trip Flight Cost:
- Delhi to Paro: ₹20,000 – ₹30,000
- Kolkata to Paro: ₹12,000 – ₹20,000
- Bagdogra to Paro: ₹8,000 – ₹15,000
Tip: Booking early and during non-peak seasons can save you money.
Option 2: By Road – Entering Bhutan via Phuentsholing
The most common land route is through Jaigaon (West Bengal) to Phuentsholing (Bhutan border town). From there, you can travel to Thimphu, Paro, and other towns.
Road Travel Cost:
- Bus/Train to Jaigaon: ₹500 – ₹1,500 (depending on your location)
- Taxi from Phuentsholing to Thimphu: ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 per car
- Shared cabs are also available at cheaper rates (₹600 – ₹800 per person)
Total Land Travel Cost (from India to Thimphu via Phuentsholing): ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per person
Bhutan Entry Permits and SDF for Indians
While visa is not required, Indian tourists must get permits to enter Bhutan.
Entry Permit:
- Issued at Phuentsholing or Paro Airport
- Free of cost
- Valid for Thimphu and Paro
For visiting other places like Punakha, Bumthang, or Haa Valley, you need a special permit (available in Thimphu).
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indians:
As of 2020:
- INR 1,200 per person per night
- Children below 5 years: Free
- 6 to 12 years: 50% discount
Example: For a 6-day, 5-night trip, SDF would be ₹6,000 per person
Cost of Accommodation in Bhutan
Bhutan offers a range of stays—from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts.
Budget Hotels & Guesthouses:
- ₹800 – ₹1,500 per night
- Basic amenities, clean, and comfortable
Mid-Range Hotels:
- ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per night
- More facilities, better views, and cozy interiors
Luxury Hotels:
- ₹6,000 – ₹15,000+ per night
- Includes resorts like Le Méridien, Amankora, and Zhiwa Ling
For budget travelers, 5 nights in Bhutan would cost around ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 for accommodation.
Food and Dining Costs in Bhutan
Bhutanese food is simple, healthy, and spicy! A few must-tries are Ema Datshi (chili cheese stew), Phaksha Paa (pork with radish), and Momos.
Meal Costs:
- Street food/snacks: ₹100 – ₹200
- Local restaurants: ₹200 – ₹400 per meal
- Fine dining: ₹800 – ₹2,000+
Estimated daily food expense: ₹500 – ₹700 per person
For 6 days: ₹3,000 – ₹4,200
Transportation Within Bhutan
Getting around Bhutan is easy via taxis or private cars. Self-drive is not available for tourists.
Local Transport Costs:
- Taxi (Thimphu – Paro): ₹1,000 – ₹1,500
- Local sightseeing taxi: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 per day
- Shared cabs available on popular routes
You can also hire a car with a guide/driver for the full trip, which may cost around ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 per day.
Entry Fees & Activities
Most monasteries and attractions in Bhutan are free to visit, but some do have nominal entry fees for Indian tourists.
Entry Fees (approximate):
- Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest): ₹500
- Punakha Dzong: ₹300
- National Museum: ₹200
- Folk Heritage Museum: ₹100
Activities like archery, hot stone bath, or hiking guides may cost extra.
Bhutan Travel Cost Breakdown (Per Person – 6 Days)
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Travel (Road/Air) | ₹3,000 – ₹25,000 |
| SDF (₹1,200 x 5 nights) | ₹6,000 |
| Accommodation | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Food & Dining | ₹3,000 – ₹4,500 |
| Local Transport | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Entry Fees & Activities | ₹500 – ₹1,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | ₹19,500 – ₹56,500 |
Tips to Save Money on Bhutan Trip
- Travel with friends or family to split costs (especially for taxis and hotels).
- Book flights and hotels early to get discounts.
- Use shared cabs instead of private taxis.
- Eat at local restaurants or homestays.
- Travel during the off-season (Jan – Feb, June – Aug) for lower rates.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to travel to Bhutan from India? The answer depends on your travel style—budget trips can cost around ₹20,000, while a more comfortable mid-range trip may cost ₹30,000–₹40,000. Luxury experiences can go upwards of ₹50,000.
Whatever your budget, Bhutan guarantees a priceless experience. With its natural beauty, peaceful vibe, and spiritual depth, it’s one destination that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is Bhutan expensive for Indians?
Not really! With the SDF and reasonable prices for food and stay, Bhutan can be quite affordable for Indian travelers.
Q2. Can I use Indian currency in Bhutan?
Yes, Indian Rupees (₹) are accepted in Bhutan, preferably ₹100 and ₹500 notes.
Q3. Is Bhutan safe for tourists?
Absolutely. Bhutan is one of the safest and most tourist-friendly countries in the world.
Q4. How many days are enough for Bhutan?
5 to 7 days are ideal to cover Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha comfortably
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on current travel policies, general price estimates, and personal research as of the time of writing. Costs and regulations may vary due to seasonal changes, government updates, or individual preferences. Travelers are advised to verify details with official sources or tour operators before planning their trip to Bhutan. The author and publisher are not responsible for any changes or discrepancies in travel expenses or policies.