Situated in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a mystical kingdom where Gross National Happiness matters more than GDP, where snow-capped peaks blend with centuries-old monasteries and where Indian travelers are warmly welcomed. But before you pack your bags for this serene escape, you need to understand Bhutan’s unique visa and permit process — especially for Indian citizens.
Unlike many international destinations, Indians don’t need a visa to enter Bhutan, but they do need to obtain a permit — either online or on arrival. From entry requirements and Sustainable Development Fees (SDF) to special permits for restricted areas and traveling with kids, this guide answers all your questions clearly and briefly.
Whether you’re planning a spiritual journey to Paro’s Tiger’s Nest or a peaceful getaway to Thimphu, this Bhutan Visa Guide for Indians will ensure your trip is hassle-free, fully legal and absolutely memorable.
Do Indians Need a Visa to Visit Bhutan?
No, Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. However, a permit is mandatory for entry and travel within Bhutan.
Entry Permit for Indian Tourists
Indian nationals must obtain an Entry Permit issued by the Department of Immigration. It acts like a visa substitute for Indians.
You can get it:
- On arrival at the Phuentsholing border (by road)
- At Paro International Airport (if flying into Bhutan)
- Online via https://visit.doi.gov.bt (recommended)
Documents Required for Entry Permit
- Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months validity) OR Voter ID card (only accepted at Phuentsholing)
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Hotel booking confirmation (3 Star Hotel is a minimum)
- Travel itinerary
- Printed permit approval copy (if applying online)
- Entry fee/SDF payment proof
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indians
Indian tourists must pay the SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) of ₹1,200 per person per day.
If you’re traveling with children:
- Kids under 5 years: No SDF
- Kids 6–12 years: Pay 50% of SDF
- Carry birth certificate or passport
- If only one parent is traveling, a NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the other parent is advisable
Difference Between Travel Rules for Indians vs Foreigners
Indians can enter Bhutan with just a permit, while foreigners need a pre-approved visa and must travel through authorized tour operators. Indians can pay a much lower SDF (₹1,200/day) instead of the standard USD 200+ for foreigners
Places You Can Visit with Entry Permit
With your Entry Permit, you can travel to:
- Thimphu (capital city)
- Paro (home of Tiger’s Nest monastery)
To go beyond these (e.g., Punakha, Bumthang, Haa Valley), you’ll need a special area permit, which can be arranged by your tour operator or immigration office in Thimphu.
Special Permits for Restricted Areas
Your Entry Permit only allows access to Paro & Thimphu.
To visit places like:
- Punakha
- Haa Valley
- Bumthang
You must get a Special Area Permit from the Immigration Office in Thimphu. This usually requires hotel bookings and a valid reason to visit.
How to Enter Bhutan
Option 1: By Air
- Fly directly to Paro International Airport from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra
- Airlines: Druk Air, Bhutan Airlines
- Entry Permit issued at Paro Airport
Option 2: By Road
- Enter via Phuentsholing (West Bengal – Jaigaon border)
- Permit issued on arrival at the border gate
🚫 Pan Card is not valid for entry.
Arrival Experience at Paro Airport
- Immigration checks your Entry Permit and passport
- SIM cards (B-Mobile, TashiCell) available at airport
- Currency exchange counters available
- Taxis and private cabs available for Paro to Thimphu (1.5-hour drive)
Overland Travel via Phuentsholing Border
- Common entry route by road from India (Jaigaon – Phuentsholing)
- Nearest train station: Hasimara (15 km away)
- Permit office is open Mon–Fri, 9 AM to 5 PM
- You may need to stay overnight in Phuentsholing if you arrive late
Online Permit System
You can apply in advance for entry permit through Bhutan’s official tourist permit portal:
👉 https://visit.doi.gov.bt
Recommended for smooth travel during peak seasons
- Upload documents
- Pay SDF online
- Get approval before arrival
How Long Can Indians Stay in Bhutan?
- Entry permit allows a stay of up to 7 days (extendable)
- You can apply for an extension at the Immigration Office in Thimphu
Can You Extend Your Stay?
Yes. Visit the Department of Immigration in Thimphu and request an extension with a valid reason, updated hotel bookings and additional SDF payment.
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory?
Not mandatory for Indians yet, but highly recommended for emergencies, especially if you’re planning hikes or remote area visits.
Can I Use Indian Rupees in Bhutan?
Yes. Bhutan accepts Indian currency at 1:1 rate.
You can use:
- ₹50, ₹100, ₹500 notes (widely accepted)
- ₹2,000 notes: not preferred or often rejected
ATMs are available in cities like Thimphu & Paro, but limited in rural areas.
Mobile SIMs, Internet & Wi-Fi
- Bhutan SIMs (TashiCell or B-Mobile) are available at airport or border
- International roaming is expensive
- Wi-Fi is decent in cities, slow in remote areas
- Bring an unlocked phone to use local SIMs easily
What NOT to Do in Bhutan
Bhutan is culturally sensitive and very peaceful. Avoid:
- Smoking in public (illegal without a permit)
- Wearing revealing clothes in monasteries
- Touching or climbing religious monuments
- Criticizing the King or royal family
- Loud or disrespectful behavior in dzongs and temples
Best Time to Visit in Bhutan (Seasonal Tips)
- March-May: Flowers blooming & Pleasant weather
- September-November: Clear Skies, Perfect for Trekking & Festivals
- December-February: Snow in Paro & Thimpu, Fewer Tourists
- June-August: Heavy Rain
Emergency Contacts for Indians in Bhutan
- Bhutan Immigration Department: https://www.doi.gov.bt/
- Bhutan Permit Support Email: support@doi.gov.bt
- Indian Embassy in Thimpu: +975-2-322162
- Emergency (Police in Bhutan): 113
Final Bhutan Travel Checklist for Indians
- Valid passport or voter ID
- Entry permit (online or on arrival)
- SDF paid (₹1,200/day)
- Hotel booking & itinerary
- Passport-size photos
- Special permits (if going beyond Paro/Thimphu)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Bhutan Visa FAQs for Indians
Can I drive my own car or bike from India to Bhutan?
Yes. But you need a vehicle permit from the Road Safety and Transport Authority (RSTA) in Bhutan and valid Indian DL, RC insurance, and pollution certificate.
Is Bhutan safe for Indian tourists?
Absolutely. Bhutan is one of the safest countries to travel in. Low crime rates, clean cities and helpful locals make it ideal for families and solo travelers.
Are there vegetarian food options available?
Yes. Most restaurants in Bhutan offer vegetarian food. Indian dishes are available in Thimphu, Paro and tourist towns.
What if I’m traveling with a child or minor?
Carry a passport or birth certificate. If only one parent is traveling, it’s recommended to have a NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the other parent.
Can I travel solo to Bhutan?
Yes. Indians are allowed to travel solo.
Do I need to pre-book hotels for permit approval?
Yes. You must provide proof of accommodation (booking vouchers or confirmation) when applying online or at the border.
Is internet and mobile network easily available?
Yes, in cities like Paro and Thimphu. You can buy a local SIM (TashiCell or B-Mobile) at the airport or border. You can also activate roaming from India works, but is very expensive.
Can I travel beyond Thimphu and Paro with the basic entry permit?
No. To visit places like Punakha, Haa, Bumthang or Gangtey, you must obtain a Special Area Permit from the Immigration Office in Thimphu.
Can I extend my entry permit in Bhutan?
Yes. Visit the Immigration Office in Thimphu before your permit expires. You’ll need:
Updated hotel booking
Valid reason for extension
Additional SDF payment
Is the permit process different at the border vs airport?
At Paro Airport, permits are granted on arrival.
At Phuentsholing, you’ll need to visit the permit office during working hours (Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM) and might need to stay overnight for approval.
What are the ways to enter Bhutan from India?
By air: Direct flights to Paro Airport from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati
By road: Via Phuentsholing border (near Jaigaon, West Bengal)
What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?
It’s a daily tourism fee to help Bhutan maintain sustainable travel. For Indians, it is ₹1,200 per person per day.
Can I travel to Bhutan with just an Aadhaar card or PAN card?
No. Only a passport or voter ID is accepted for Indian citizens. Aadhaar and PAN are not valid travel documents.
