Here's a detailed guide to what you need to know before planning your trip to Bhutan.
Entry requirements: documents and permits
Although a visa is not required, Indian visitors must obtain an “entry permit” upon arrival. This permit is issued by the Immigration Department at the Phuentsholing Pedestrian Terminal. To secure entry, travelers need specific documents:
- For adults:
- A valid Indian passport (with at least six months remaining) or
- An original voter ID card. (Scanned or photocopied ID documents are not accepted).
Note: Only these two documents are accepted for entry.
- For children (under 18 years old):
- An original birth certificate in English or passport.
- Children must be accompanied by their parents.
- Additional requirements:
- Two passport-sized photographs.
- Travel insurance covering the entire stay, which can be purchased on site from Bhutanese providers at the pedestrian terminal.
Independent travel packages and tour operator packages
Indian tourists have the choice of planning their own trip or employing the services of a local tour operator to arrange their travel documents and itineraries. A list of certified operators is available on the Bhutan Travel and Ministry of Tourism websites.
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Independent travelers must:
- Apply for the entry permit online on the Bhutan Travel website.
- Book stays in accommodation approved by the Ministry of Tourism.
- Hire a tour guide.
- Purchase travel insurance and arrange local transportation.
Sustainable development tax (FDS): what it will cost you
Bhutan charges an SDF of INR 1,200 per person per night for Indian visitors. This tax aims to promote sustainable tourism and finance environmental conservation efforts. Here's how it applies:
- Exemptions for children: Children aged 5 and under are exempt from the fee, while those aged 6 to 12 receive a 50% reduction.
- Short trips: Visits to the towns of Samtse, Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar in less than 24 hours are exempt from SDF. Longer stays beyond 24 hours in these areas result in standard homeless and potential penalties.
Traveling to Bhutan with your vehicle: green tax and regulations
Vehicles registered in India are permitted in designated areas of Bhutan at no additional cost. However, if you plan to drive beyond the Rinchending checkpoint in Phuentsholing, you will face additional expenses:
- A daily green tax of Nu 4,500.
- Mandatory registration on Check Post Management System (CPMS) for customs clearance at Royal Bhutan Police checkpoints.
Vehicle entry conditions:
- Original driving license.
- Original vehicle registration certificate (less than 10 years old).
- Valid vehicle insurance.
- Emission and technical inspection certificate.
- Owner must drive. If another person is driving, a letter of authorization from the owner is required.
Crossing the Phuentsholing pedestrian terminal
The Phuentsholing Pedestrian Terminal on the Jaigaon-Phuentsholing border operates 24 hours a day. Indian visitors staying in Phuentsholing for less than 24 hours do not need an entry permit. However, pre-registration via the BMS website is recommended, generating a QR code for entry. For those planning to travel beyond Rinchending, SDF applies and a permit from the regional immigration office is required.
Other entry points along the border
Indian visitors can also enter Bhutan via Samtse, Samdrup Jongkhar and Sarpang/Gelephu. Entry requirements for individuals and vehicles are identical to those at Phuentsholing, ensuring consistent requirements across the southern Indo-Bhutan border.
While visa-free access to Bhutan for Indians remains a benefit, SDF could incur additional costs that travelers should consider when budgeting for their trip. Proper planning and knowledge of fees and requirements will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan.
