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How Much Does It Cost To Visit Bhutan?
So you’re wondering about Bhutan costs are ya? If Bhutan’s on your Bucket List, no doubt you’ll be wondering how much that adventure of a lifetime will set you back. Well friend, you’re in the right place, as we’re here to tell you how much it costs to visit Bhutan.
Visiting Bhutan is pretty unique. For starters, it’s the only country globally that levies a tariff on tourists per day (that’s the “Minimum Daily Package” to you and me).
On the surface, that tariff might sound a little daunting for travellers conscious of their budget, but when you explore what it includes, and how it’s actually great news for Bhutan’s sustainable tourism, your perspective might shifts.
So here’s an in-depth guide on how much it costs to visit Bhutan, with all prices quoted in Pounds. Let’s dive in.
Paying The Minimum Daily Package: A Novel Idea
Let’s face it, the mandatory minimum daily fee imposed by the government is going to amount to a significant part of your Bhutan costs. To put it in pounds, this fee is approximately £190 during the peak season (March-May and September-November) and £150 during the off-peak season (June-August and December-February) per person, per day. For lone travellers and parties of two, an extra surcharge is added.
That’s why it’s a great idea to join our small group travel adventures to Bhutan – you can avoid that surcharge! Our trip prices cover your Minimum Daily Package in Bhutan – Click here to find out more about the itinerary.
Sure, it adds up, but your daily fee takes care of practically all the crucial aspects of your trip. We’re talking things like accommodation, meals twice a day, a licensed Bhutanese guide, transportation within the country, all activities, and of course, those taxes we all know and love.
It’s a totally unique system, and it’s there to ensure that Bhutan upholds its “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy.
Cost Of Flights To Bhutan: A Big Chunk of Your budget
As you’d probably expect, your Minimum Daily Package fee doesn’t cover your flights.
Now, flights to Bhutan’s one international Paro Airport only depart from designated cities, like Delhi, Kolkata, Bangkok, Singapore, and Kathmandu.
Prices fluctuate and can range between £1200 and £1,800 for a round trip from the UK, depending on where you’re flying via and the airline you choose. Currently, only Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines will actually get you into Bhutan once you’ve transited through one of the designated cities.
Unsurprisingly, peak travel seasons like spring and autumn tend to drive up Bhutan flight prices, thanks to the country’s limited tourist capacity and increased demand for its much loved festivals and trekking opportunities.
Book well in advance, shop around, and go with a company with a great reputation for cost-effective group travel, and you’ll lower your costs and have an amazing time.
Bhutan Visa Costs: Compulsory For Admission To The Country
All international tourists, barring visitors from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives need a visa to enter Bhutan. This visa comes in at a fixed price of approximately £30 per trip.
Click here for more information about getting your visa for Bhutan
Tips, Additional Activities And Luxury Accommodations: Nudging That Budget Up
The minimum daily fee accounts for standard, typically 3-star, accommodations. But if you’re after a more luxurious treat, Bhutan boasts plenty of high-end hotels like Amankora, Le Meridien, and Taj Tashi. The likes of which will set you back an extra £150-£1200 per night. Ouch.
Then you’ve got activities like river rafting, bike tours, or joining in on traditional cooking classes, which can add a bit more to your budget. They can range between £7 and £75, so do your research before heading out to Bhutan if you want to set a serious budget.
Budget for some shopping and personal expenses too if you’re hoping to bring home a slice of Bhutan. Traditional wear, handicrafts, handwoven bags, and Buddha statues are popular souvenirs and will cost you as little as £4.
And while tipping isn’t mandatory in Bhutan, it’s welcomed. If you can afford to, why not keep a small budget aside for tips to tour guides, hotel staff, and drivers?
So How Much Does It Actually Cost To Visit Bhutan?
A rough estimate for a one-week trip to Bhutan during the peak season could cost between £1,500-£3,000 per person, excluding international flights. That’ll cover the minimum daily fee (£190 x 7 days = £1,330), visa fee (£30), tips, and all those little extras that make your adventure truly unforgettable.
While Bhutan might seem expensive compared to some of its neighbouring countries, the all-inclusive model of the daily fee definitely allows you to soak in Bhutan’s tranquil landscapes, vibrant culture, and lively festivals… without getting tangled in daily expenses.
It also substantially contributes to Bhutan’s healthcare, education, and infrastructure, supporting a tourism model that prioritises sustainability and citizen welfare. Pretty cool in our book.
Investing in a trip to Bhutan translates into an incredible adventure for you, and a contribution to tourism and well-bring for them. And there’s no doubt that Bhutan rewards travellers with a seriously enriching travel experience all the while.
