All tourism in Bhutan is regulated by the Department of Tourism (DOT). Visitors can only travel through pre-arranged, all-inclusive packages offered by licensed tour operators.
- Visa fee: USD 40 per person,
- SDF: USD 100 per person per night (Sustainable Development Fee)
Government FIT Surcharge:
- Single traveler: USD 40/night
- 2 travelers: USD 30/night per person
- 3+ travelers: No surcharge
Standard Inclusions:
- Accommodation: 2-3 star hotels (twin-sharing); upgrades to 4-5 star available.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included; packed lunches for treks.
- Transport: Comfortable chauffeur-driven vehicles.
- Guides: Licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide; multilingual guides available on request.
- Sightseeing & Permits: Entrance fees and all permits included.
- Trekking: Equipment, support crew, and tented camps included.
- Taxes & Royalties: 35% government royalty included.
Accommodation
- Standard: Clean, comfortable 2-3 star hotels.
- Luxury: Premium 4-5 star hotels in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang.
Food
- Breakfast: Overnight hotel/lodge
- Lunch & Dinner: Local tourist-standard restaurants or hotels
- Treks & Remote Areas: Packed lunches enjoyed outdoors or in shelters
Guides
Every tour is accompanied by a certified, licensed Bhutanese guide. Multilingual guides (German, French, Japanese, etc.) available with advance booking.
Transportation
All tours include experienced drivers and comfortable vehicles:
- Standard: Toyota coaches (6-20 seats) or vans (1-5 seats)
- Upgrade: Luxury SUVs or 4WD vehicles
Trekking in Bhutan
Trekking is fully supported by a professional team:
- Support crew: Cooks, assistants, horsemen
- Accommodation: Tented camps (no lodges on trails)
- Meals: Freshly prepared daily
- Staff: Certified and licensed by TCB