Bhutan Trip Cost from India; Planning a trip to Bhutan from India? This guide helps you budget your adventure. Bhutan, the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is famous for its stunning scenery, rich culture, and focus on happiness. It’s a dream destination for many, but it’s important to know the costs involved. This guide will break down the expenses to help you plan your trip efficiently.

1. Visa and Entry Permit Costs

Good news for Indian travelers! You don’t need a visa to visit Bhutan. However, you’ll need an Entry Permit.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Entry Permit Fee: You’ll pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of ₹1,200 per person per day.
• Children: Kids under 5 are free, and those aged 6-12 pay half the fee at ₹600 per day.
• Important Note: Make sure to bring your passport or voter ID for proof of identity when you get your permit.

2. Travel Costs: How to Get to Bhutan from India

You have a couple of options for getting to Bhutan:

• By Air:
  • Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines offer flights to Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport.
  • Round-trip flights from Delhi or Kolkata usually cost between ₹15,000 and ₹30,000 in economy class.
  • Flights from Kolkata tend to be more budget-friendly.
• By Road:
  • The most popular land route is through Jaigaon in West Bengal to Phuentsholing, Bhutan’s border town.
  • You can reach Jaigaon by bus or train, which typically costs between ₹1,000 and ₹2,500 depending on your starting point.
  • From Jaigaon to Thimphu, you can take a shared taxi (₹500-₹1,000 per person) or rent a private car (₹3,000-₹5,000 per day).
  • Tip: Shared taxis are a more budget-friendly option.

3. Accommodation Costs in Bhutan

• Budget-friendly: You can find guesthouses and budget hotels for around ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per night.
• Mid-range: If you’re looking for more comfort, mid-range hotels usually cost between ₹2,500 and ₹5,000 per night.
• Luxury: For a truly indulgent experience, luxury hotels and resorts can cost anywhere from ₹8,000 to ₹25,000 per night.

Tip: Look into guesthouses in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha for some budget-friendly options. Booking in advance can often help you secure better rates.

4. Transportation Costs within Bhutan

Traveling within Bhutan is an adventure in itself! Here are some common transportation options:

• Local Buses: These are a budget-friendly option, usually costing between ₹100 and ₹200 per trip.
• Shared Taxis: Shared taxis offer a more comfortable ride and cost between ₹500 and ₹1,000 per trip.
• Private Taxis: For added convenience, especially if traveling with a group, you can rent a private taxi. Daily rates typically range from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 depending on the distance and location.

5. Food and Dining Costs

Bhutanese cuisine is delicious and flavorful! Some of the must-try dishes include Ema Datshi (chili and cheese), momos, and red rice.

• Budget-friendly: You can enjoy street food and snacks for around ₹100-₹200 per meal.
• Mid-range: Budget restaurants offer meals for ₹300-₹500.
• Fine Dining: If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, mid-range restaurants typically cost ₹600-₹1,000 per meal.

Tips:

• Vegetarian meals are generally more affordable.
• Indian food is readily available throughout Bhutan.

6. Sightseeing and Activity Costs

Bhutan offers a wealth of cultural and natural wonders. Here’s a breakdown of some potential costs and must-see attractions:

Costs:

• Trekking Permits: Fees can range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 depending on the specific trek.
• Attraction Entry Fees: Expect to pay between ₹300 and ₹1,000 per person to visit various sites.
• Guided Tours: If you prefer a guided experience, daily rates for group tours typically range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000.

Must-Visit Attractions:

• Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery): A breathtaking monastery perched on a cliffside, offering stunning views.
• Punakha Dzong: A magnificent fortress and administrative center with a rich history.
• Buddha Dordenma Statue: A monumental gilded statue of Buddha overlooking the valley.
• Phobjikha Valley: A picturesque valley known for its stunning scenery and the annual migration of black-necked cranes.

7. Shopping and Souvenir Costs

Bhutan is a shopper’s paradise! You’ll find a treasure trove of unique souvenirs, from beautiful textiles to intricate jewelry. Here’s a quick guide:

• Textiles: Expect to pay between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000 for high-quality handmade textiles.
• Prayer Flags and Souvenirs: These are more affordable, typically ranging from ₹200 to ₹1,000.
• Traditional Jewelry: If you’re looking for something special, traditional jewelry pieces can cost between ₹1,000 and ₹3,000.

A Note on Bargaining: Bargaining is not common in Bhutan. The country emphasizes fair trade practices, so you can be confident that the prices you see are fair and support local artisans.

8. Miscellaneous Costs

• Travel Insurance: While optional, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover any unexpected events like medical emergencies or trip cancellations. Costs can range from ₹500 to ₹1,000.
• Tips for Guides and Drivers: Tipping is customary in Bhutan. You can expect to tip guides and drivers ₹200-₹500 per day.
• Wi-Fi and Mobile Connectivity: You can purchase local SIM cards with affordable data plans for around ₹200-₹500.

9. Sample Budget for a 5-Day Bhutan Trip

This looks like a reasonable estimate for a solo trip to Bhutan. Here’s a breakdown for a solo traveler:

• Entry Permit (SDF): ₹6,000 (assuming a 5-day trip)
• Flights (Round-trip): ₹20,000
• Accommodation (Mid-range): ₹12,500 (assuming 5 nights)
• Food and Dining: ₹2,500
• Local Transport: ₹5,000
• Sightseeing and Activities: ₹3,000
• Shopping: ₹2,000
• Total: ₹51,000

Please Note:

• This is just an estimate, and your actual costs may vary depending on your travel style, the duration of your trip, and the specific activities you choose.
• You can adjust the budget based on your preferences – for example, choosing budget accommodation or opting for more or fewer activities.

10. Tips to Save Money on Your Bhutan Trip

• Travel Off-Season: Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (January-February and June-August) for potentially lower prices on flights and accommodations.
• Embrace Shared Transportation: Opt for shared taxis or local buses whenever possible instead of hiring private vehicles.
• Book in Advance: Booking flights and accommodation in advance can often secure better deals and availability, especially during peak season.
• Dine Locally: Explore local eateries and try delicious Bhutanese cuisine at budget-friendly prices.
• Travel with Friends: Traveling with a group allows you to split costs on transportation and guided tours, making the trip more affordable.

Conclusion – Bhutan Trip Cost from India

Dreaming of a trip to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon? It can be as luxurious or budget-friendly as you make it! With Xplro.com’s travel guide, you can experience the magic of Bhutan without breaking the bank. This guide provides insights on everything from permit costs and flights to accommodation and activities. Explore stunning monasteries, trek to Tiger’s Nest, or simply wander through serene valleys – Bhutan promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveler or exploring with friends, follow our tips for saving money on travel, food, and local transport. With proper planning, you can experience the wonders of Bhutan without straining your wallet. Visit Xplro.com today to start planning your dream trip to Bhutan!

FAQs

1. Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Bhutan?

• Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Bhutan, which makes it an accessible destination for Indian travelers. However, they need to obtain an Entry Permit. This document is issued either upon arrival at Paro International Airport or at the land border crossing at Phuentsholing.

2. What documents are required for Indian citizens to enter Bhutan?

• Indian travelers must carry a valid passport with at least six months of validity or a voter ID card. These documents are mandatory for obtaining the Entry Permit. Additionally, passport-sized photographs may be required during the permit application process.

3. How much is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indian tourists?

• The Sustainable Development Fee, or SDF, for Indian tourists visiting Bhutan is ₹1,200 per person per day. Children below the age of 5 are exempt from the fee, while those aged 6 to 12 pay a reduced rate of ₹600 per day. This fee supports Bhutan’s environmental conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives.

4. What is the best way to travel to Bhutan from India?

• Traveling to Bhutan from India can be done by air or road. Flights operated by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines connect major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati to Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport. For those preferring a road trip, traveling to the border town of Jaigaon in West Bengal and crossing into Phuentsholing is a popular choice. From there, tourists can proceed by road to destinations such as Thimphu and Paro.

5. How much does a round-trip flight to Bhutan cost from India?

• The cost of round-trip flights from India to Bhutan generally ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000, depending on the city of departure and the time of booking. Flights from Kolkata are usually more affordable compared to other Indian cities.

6. Is Bhutan an expensive destination for Indian travelers?

• Bhutan can cater to both budget-conscious and luxury travelers. Indian tourists often find Bhutan reasonably priced, with a typical 5 to 7-day trip costing around ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 per person. This budget includes expenses like the Sustainable Development Fee, accommodations, transportation, food, and sightseeing.

7. What is the average cost of accommodation in Bhutan?

• Accommodations in Bhutan are available across various price ranges, allowing travelers to choose based on their budget. Budget hotels and guesthouses typically charge between ₹1,000 and ₹2,000 per night. Mid-range hotels cost around ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 per night, while luxury resorts and boutique hotels can cost anywhere from ₹8,000 to ₹25,000 per night, offering premium amenities and services.

8. Can Indian tourists use Indian currency in Bhutan?

• Yes, Indian Rupees are widely accepted in Bhutan, making transactions convenient for Indian tourists. However, it is advisable to carry smaller denominations, as higher-value notes may not be accepted in remote areas or small shops.

9. What are the must-visit attractions in Bhutan for Indian tourists?

• Bhutan boasts numerous attractions that captivate travelers with their cultural and natural beauty. Highlights include the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff in Paro; the magnificent Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture; and the serene Buddha Dordenma Statue in Thimphu. Other must-visit places include the picturesque Phobjikha Valley and the scenic Dochula Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range.

10. What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

• The ideal time to visit Bhutan is during spring, from March to May, when the landscape is adorned with blooming flowers and trekking conditions are perfect. Autumn, from September to November, is another excellent time, offering clear skies and vibrant festivals. While these are the peak seasons, winter and summer can also be enjoyable for those seeking fewer crowds and lower costs.

11. Are Indian food and vegetarian options available in Bhutan?

• Indian food is widely available in Bhutan, catering to the preferences of Indian tourists. Many restaurants serve dishes like curries, dals, and chapatis alongside Bhutanese specialties. Vegetarian options are also abundant, as Bhutanese cuisine often includes vegetable-based dishes such as Ema Datshi, a spicy chili and cheese preparation.

12. Do Indian tourists need a guide to travel in Bhutan?

• Indian tourists are not required to hire a guide for their trip to Bhutan, offering them the flexibility to explore independently. However, hiring a guide can enhance the travel experience, especially for trekking or cultural tours, as guides provide valuable insights into Bhutan’s history, culture, and traditions.