Udumwara Resort - Bhutan Travel Policy

Bhutan operates under a strict “High Value, Low Volume” tourism policy. All international visitors must pay a mandatory daily fee, obtain a visa or entry permit in advance, and travel with a certified guide.

1. Visas and Entry Permits

International Visitors: You must apply for an e-Visa before arrival through the official Bhutan Immigration Services Portal or via a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The non-refundable visa fee is USD 40. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months past your departure date.
Indian Nationals: You do not need a visa but must obtain an Entry Permit using a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card.
Bangladeshi and Maldivian Nationals: You are eligible to apply for a visa in advance or upon arrival at the port of entry.

2. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

The daily SDF funds national public services and environmental efforts. Rates are locked through August 31, 2027:

Standard International Adults: USD 100 per person, per night.
Children (Ages 6–11): USD 50 per night, while children under 6 are exempt.
Regional Rates: Indian nationals pay INR/Nu. 1,200 per night (children under 12 pay INR 600), and Bangladeshi nationals pay USD 15 per night. Day-trippers to designated border zones are exempt from the SDF.

Note: The SDF does not cover hotels, meals, transport, or guide services, and a 5% GST applies to tourism services.

3. Travel & Transportation Regulations

Guides & Transport: Independent travel is restricted; a certified guide is mandatory for cultural sites and travel beyond the Paro and Thimphu valleys. Self-driving is not permitted, requiring visitors to hire a local vehicle and driver.
Permits: Route permits are needed for travel outside Thimphu and Paro, and trekking permits are required for mountaineering.

4. Customs & Local Etiquette

Dress Code & Photography: Dress modestly with covered arms and legs at sacred sites and temples, removing shoes and hats before entering. Photography is banned inside temple interiors, and permission should be requested before photographing individuals.
Tobacco Policy: Public smoking is banned, though travelers may bring a limited amount of cigarettes for personal use with proper customs declaration and

Cultural Etiquette

Guests are requested to dress respectfully when visiting monasteries, dzongs, temples and other religious or cultural sites.
Please follow local instructions regarding photography, footwear, silence and access to restricted areas. Avoid touching religious objects or entering areas marked as restricted.

TRAVEL TO BHUTAN – BOOK DIRECTLY

Plan Your Bhutan Journey Your Way

Visitors can now travel to Bhutan independently without booking a complete tour package through a tour operator.

You can arrange the different parts of your trip directly according to your own requirements, including:

Accommodation – Book your preferred hotel, resort or approved accommodation directly.
Guide – Arrange a certified local guide for sightseeing, cultural visits and travel within Bhutan.
Vehicle & Driver – Book a vehicle with a local driver for transportation within Bhutan.
Activities & Experiences – Arrange sightseeing, cultural experiences and other activities according to your itinerary.