Bhutan is sandwiched between two countries India and China in the eastern Himalayan ranges. It is a landlocked country that is accessible only through India by road and Bhutan flights. Bhutan is considered the last Shangri-la and it remained isolated for many years. After the construction of the road from Phuentsholing to Thimphu in the year 1960 by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. Bhutan opened its doors for tourism in Bhutan in the year 1974, when the fourth King of Bhutan King Jigme Singye Wangchuk was crowned and invited many international guests through the road from Phuentsholing to Thimphu.
To plan your trip to Bhutan, contact a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or consult with the Bhutanese Embassy or Consulate in the USA for detailed and up-to-date information on travel requirements, visa procedures, and other guidelines for travelers. Always stay informed about any travel advisories issued by the US State Department for Bhutan before finalizing your travel plans.
United States America(USA) is located on the other side of the Globe. Many Americans want to travel to Bhutan from the USA. Many want to fly into Bhutan to find the last Shangri-la and pristine Himalayan mountains. Bhutan is the first nation in the world with negative carbon emissions. The Constitution of Bhutan directs every citizen to keep 70% of the land covered with forest. Most people think Bhutan is an expensive destination but when we calculate the package of each component you are getting, it is not so.
For example, Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan with three domestic airports. Only Bhutan flights operate i.e. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. No international flights operate in Bhutan. Bhutan’s tourism policy only provides a package tour with a minimum daily tariff. The package includes all meals, 3-4 star hotels, English speaking guide, and standard transportation.
How to travel to Bhutan from USA by flight
Travel to Bhutan from the USA by flight will be nearest airports from India, Thailand, Nepal, Singapore, and Bangladesh. It is connected by Bhutan flights(Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air). India(New Delhi, Kolkatta & Bagdogra), Nepal(Kathmandu) play alternative days flights to Bhutan, Thailand(Bangkok) play daily flights to Paro Bhutan, and Bangladesh(Dacca) alternate days to Paro Bhutan. Bhutan flights play alternate days flight to Bhutan. Your Bhutan Tour Agency will guide you in the best possible and cheapest way.
Travel to Bhutan from the USA by flight is not direct but through connecting flights via New Delhi, Bangkok, and Singapore There are no direct flights from the US to Bhutan. You can find just five countries and nine airports in the field that have routes to this kingdom this is certainly isolated. Then you need to obtain connecting flights to at least one of these ten airports initially if you should be planning on flying to Bhutan.
Flying from the USA to Bhutan involves several steps as Bhutan, as flights are limited from destinations New Delhi, Bangkok, Kathmandu, Singapore, and Dacca. Here’s a general outline of how to fly to Bhutan from the USA:
Research Flights:
Start by researching flights from major US airports to the nearest destination to Bhutan. Bhutan flights fly to limited destinations like New Delhi, Kolkatta, Kathmandu, Singapore, Bangkok, and Dacca to Paro International Airport (PBH). Keep in mind that there are no direct flights from the USA to Bhutan, so you will have to take connecting flights from above mentions destinations.
Choose a Routing:
Depending on your airline and your departure city from the USA, you will likely have various routing options with layovers in other countries. The best common layover cities for flights to Bhutan include Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, and Singapore. The most effective from the USA will be Delhi and Bangkok.
Book Flights:
Once you’ve chosen your preferred routing, book your flights. Consider booking your flights for Bhutan and internationally well in advance to secure the best fares for International flights. flights to Bhutan can be exhausted during the high season of tourists.
Arrange for Bhutanese Visa:
As mentioned earlier, you will need a visa to enter Bhutan, and it can only be obtained through a local licensed Bhutanese tour agency. Better contact your local tour agency as mentioned above.
Transit Visas:
If you have layovers in other countries (e.g., India, Thailand), ensure you check their visa requirements. Some countries may require a transit visa if you plan to leave the airport during layovers.
Check Baggage Allowances:
Each airline has its baggage allowance policies, so check the specific limits for your flights to avoid any additional charges or inconveniences.
Travel Insurance:
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers your journey from the USA to Bhutan, including any layovers or transit periods.
Prepare Necessary Documents:
Gather all the necessary documents, including your passport, visa clearance letter, travel insurance, flight tickets, and any other relevant papers required for your trip.
Be Aware of Time Zones:
Bhutan is in the Bhutan Standard Time (BST) zone, which may differ significantly from the time zone of your departure city in the USA. Make sure to adjust your schedule accordingly.
Plan for Layovers:
If you have long layovers during your journey, consider exploring the layover cities or booking airport lounges for added comfort. Remember that traveling to Bhutan requires proper planning, and it is advisable to work with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator who can help you navigate the process and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Enjoy your journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon!
How do I get to Bhutan?
How do I get to Bhutan? will be important to know while traveling to Bhutan. You can access Bhutan through road and Flights. International flights don’t fly to Bhutan and out. You can charter international flights. Clearance can be approved through Bhutan Aviation Authority through your tour agency in Bhutan.
Flights to Bhutan from USA
There are no direct flights from the USA to Bhutan. You will need to take a connecting flight from one of the neighboring countries that have regular flights to Bhutan, such as India, Nepal, Thailand, Singapore, or Bangladesh.
The most common route to travel to Bhutan from USA by air is, from New York( JFK International Airport) to New Delhi India, or Bangkok, Thailand. Now Bhutan flights are connected to Singapore thrice a week which also makes non-stop flights from the USA to Bhutan. The flights can take up to a maximum of 17 hours of flight journey to connect airports in Asia. Some of the best airlines that fly from the USA to India, Thailand, and Singapore are as follows.
- Thai Airways
- Etihad Airways
- Air India
- United Airways
- Qatar Airways
- Air Emirates
- Singapore Airways
Flights to Bhutan from USA tend to be handled by only two providers, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines as mentioned above. Both are Bhutanese-owned airlines. International airlines are forbidden from landing at Paro International Airport. Flights to Bhutan are from Dhaka in Bangladesh; Bagdogra, New Delhi, Kolkata, Gaya, and Guwahati. Other international airports that are connected with Bhutan flights are Kathmandu in Nepal; Bangkok in Thailand and Singapore.
Flights to Bhutan from USA to selected airports in Asia from the US are California, Austin in Tx, Washington DC, and NY. Flight rates start from US$460 with connecting routes to Bhutan. It takes about 14 hours to land at connecting airports and a total of 30 hours to get to Paro International Airport in Bhutan.
Bhutan Flight Fares
Bhutan flight fares for both Airlines i.e. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are at par. The fares mentioned below are the rates quoted before theCovid19 pandemic. Bhutan Flight fares for round trips in Economy class are mentioned below.
- From Bangkok to Paro and back Bangkok fare in economy class: US $ 978.00
- From New Delhi to Paro and back to New Delhi fare in Economy class: US $ 624.00
- From Kathmandu to Paro and back to Katmandu fare in Economy class: US $ 442.00
- From Kolkata to Paro and back to Kolkata fare in Economy class: US $ 440.00
- From Dhaka to Paro and back to Dhaka fare in Economy class: US $ 445.00
Note Business class tentative additional US$ 220 more than the Economy class mentioned above. Change in Price before notice.
Baggage Requirements for Bhutan Flights
- 40 Kg in Business Class & 30 Kg in Economy Class on both flights
- Infants paying 10 % of the Bhutan flight fares are not entitled to any baggage allowance.
- Hand Cabin Baggage to carry with you. for 5 Kg in Economy class and 7 Kg in Business class.
Note Excess baggage is charged extra (per kg of the 1.5 % of the one-way Adult fare).
(Note: Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air flight fares change without prior notice. Both Airlines’ flight prices are more or less the same price).
How to travel to Bhutan from USA by land
Travelers traveling from the USA can also travel by land. If you are touring in India and Nepal. They can fly to any of the destinations in India or to Kathmandu in Nepal. They can further travel by land to Phuntsholing, Samdrup Jongkhar, and Gelephu, which are all entry points for visitors traveling by land. Samdrupjongkhar and Gelephu’s points are regularly. Phuentsholing entry point will be the most appropriate entry point.
In India, the two closest Indian airports are Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal and Guwahati Airport in Assam. Travelers can either catch a flight from these two airports to Paro or drive buses or Taxis to the Jaigoan the opposite border town to Phuntsholing. It is roughly 170 kilometers away from Bagdogra International Airport in West Bengal and about 5 hour’s drive. Tourists can also travel by train from India to the nearest train station to the Bhutan border, from there you can catch a taxi or a bus to the border town of Phuntsholing.
How to book your Bhutan tour from USA
Any visitor flying into Bhutan cannot travel to Bhutan on their own and Bhutan doesn’t follow the policy of visa on arrival. Due to limited resources and an underdeveloped country, Bhutan is strictly against mass tourism. Therefore Bhutan tourism follows a strict tourism policy that states that every tourist must book a tour in advance through an authorized Bhutan tour agency.
Following are Guidelines
Passport :
Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Bhutan.
Cultural Considerations:
Bhutan is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions during your visit.
Currency:
The Bhutanese currency is the Ngultrum (BTN). While Indian Rupees are also widely accepted, other currencies may not be as readily usable. It’s advisable to exchange some money upon arrival in Bhutan.
Travel Insurance:
It’s recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and any unforeseen situations.
New SDF Charges US Citizens
The tourists are required to pay SDF(Sustainable Development Fund) to the Government of Bhutan US$200 per person per day. 50% discount on SDF for children aged is from 6 to 12 years old. the minimum daily tariff for US citizens laid by the Tourism Council of Bhutan is no more but only SDF. Extra costs like flight tickets, hotels, meals, internal transport, visa fees, and guide charges are additional. Once the tour is booked with an authorized tour agency. Bhutan tour agency will make all necessary arrangements before you arrive from USA. Tour agency from Bhutan will communicate to you every detail for your travel to Bhutan from USA.
Steps for traveling to Bhutan from USA.
- Contact the Local Tour Agency and ask for a tour itinerary & daily minimum package tariff. Confirm Bhutan flight tickets for flying to Bhutan by Bhutan flights.
- Transfer the payment. Transfer of payment through the wire is secured in Bhutan.
- Bhutan Tour Agency processes Bhutan visa online with necessary documents(visa form duly filled-up, a valid passport copy with a minimum of six months from the date of arrival to Bhutan. One page blank is required minimum.
- Getting vaccinated fully for any kind of disease prevailing in Bhutan important is Covid-19 vaccination
- Get a Bhutan Visa and e-tickets from your Bhutan Tour agency.
- Pack your language and enjoy your tour of Bhutan.
Bhutan Consulate in New York, NY
For more information, you can call or visit the Bhutan Consulate in New York
Address for Bhutan Consulate in New York: 763 United Nations (1st Avenue), NY 10017, New York, United States, Phone:+212-6822268,+212-6822312, +212-6822371,+212-6822752, Fax:+212-6610551
Email: [email protected]
US Embassy in New Delhi, India
US Embassy is not established in Bhutan. Services to U.S. citizens in Bhutan are limited. If you lose your U.S. passport replacement will be difficult and costly. So travelers traveling into Bhutan should keep documents safe and sound.
The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India has consular responsibilities for Bhutan. It maintains frequent and friendly communications with the Bhutanese Embassy in New Delhi. Officers in US Embassy in New Delhi, India often visit Bhutan for any kind of official work like renewing passports and so on.
U.S. Embassy New Delhi
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi – 110021
India. Telephone No: +(91) (11) 2419-8000, Telephone No: +(91) (11) 2419-8000,Fax No.: +(91) (11) 2419-8407. Email id: [email protected]
Bhutan Visa & Application for American Citizen
Bhutan Visa needs to be processed beforehand through your Bhutan tour agency. Bhutan Visa cannot be processed by online or yourself. It has to be pre-booked. Once your tour is booked through your agency, documentation of your Bhutan visa is processed.
Bhutan has a unique tourism policy where visitors are required to book their travel through a local licensed Bhutanese tour agency. The tour agency will then handle the visa application on your behalf. You cannot obtain a Bhutanese visa independently. It is advisable to book your tour well in advance.
Processing when it comes to Bhutan visas & applications for American citizens takes around 7 working days to process. Bhutan visas & applications for Americans need to be sent applications for at least 30 days before your day is expected, so it’s important to book as soon as possible. During high season it is better to process as early as possible.
Once the Bhutan visa is processed. Everything is taken care of Bhutan tour by your tour agency. Flight tickets connecting to your nearest airport are booked through Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. You should get it at a cheaper rate instead you buying online. An E-ticket will be emailed to you. Bhutan Visa will be e-mailed to you after it is processed through an online platform through “Tashel”.
Procedures before entering Bhutan.
Once you reach the airport at Paro or the border crossing at Phuentsholing, you shall need to show your Bhutan Visa and stamped passport at the Bhutan Immigration immigration counter. The assigning officer will process and add the visa stamp to your passport. This often takes less than an hour, however in busy times into the peak season, may take longer than is little at Paro Airport. It will take less time at Phuentsholing Immigration. Coming from India by land you need to visit the Indian Immigration office at Jaigaon for a stamp out in your passport. The office is very near Star Cinema Hall, MG Road, or Super Market.
Don’t forget to register or fill up the form for your gadgets like a camera or Drone etc. The drone is banned in Bhutan. for further inquiries on drone shooting and film shooting, you need to process through your agency for the permit.
Even if you want to bring tobacco and cigarettes you can buy and declare on the counter. Smoking and chewing tobacco are banned in Bhutan but for tourists, you can import and smoke in designated areas.
Most important is to take care of your Passport and other related documents because if you are misplaced or lost while you are in Bhutan, it is difficult to process in Bhutan. There is no US Embassy in Bhutan.
Best time to visit Bhutan
The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring season and Autumn season. From June and July, the monsoon starts and the rainfall season starts. The rainfall is not like in India or the foothills of Bhutan. During the rainy season, the Tourism Council of Bhutan offers an off-season rate of US$200 per season per night(June, July, and August). It is an advantage for tourists traveling into Bhutan during the off-season. During winter also Tourism Council of Bhutan offers a discount of US$200 per person per night because of the winter season.
Paro Festival and Thimphu Festival Tours for tourists is maximum during the fall season. Thimphu Festival falls every September and October. Paro Festivals every spring season. Moreover, the main festivals of Bumthang also fall during the fall season.
The best time to visit Bhutan, especially for trekking in Bhutan will be during spring and autumn. Less trekking is done during the monsoon and Winter seasons.
How to visit Bhutan from the USA?
As an American citizen, visiting Bhutan from the USA requires some planning beforehand and you should know the rules and regulations.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to visit Bhutan from the USA:
Passport and Visa:
Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel dates. You’ll need a visa to enter Bhutan before your arrival. Contact a Licensed local tour agency.
Choose a local Licensed Tour Agency:
Bhutan requires all international visitors to travel through licensed tour operators. Research and select a tour operator that suits your interests and budget. They will handle the necessary paperwork, visa application, and itinerary planning for you.
Plan Your Itinerary:
Work with your chosen tour operator to create a customized itinerary that includes the places you want to visit and the activities you wish to partake in. Bhutan is known for its breathtaking landscapes, monasteries, fortresses, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Minimum Daily Package:
Bhutan has a minimum daily package that covers your accommodation, meals, transport, and an official guide. The rate varies depending on the season and group size but typically ranges from $200 to $250 per day. Additionally, there is a Sustainable Development Fee of $65 per day.
Book Flights:
Book your international flights from the USA to Bhutan’s only international airport, Paro International Airport (PBH). Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are the only carriers that operate flights to Bhutan. Ensure your tour operator is aware of your flight details to arrange airport transfers.
Arrange Travel Insurance:
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events during your visit to Bhutan.
Prepare Necessary Documents:
Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including your passport, visa clearance letter, travel insurance, and any other relevant papers required by your tour operator.
Respect Local Customs and Culture: Bhutan is deeply committed to preserving its unique culture and environment. Respect local customs, dress modestly, and follow guidelines provided by your tour guide.
Currency:
The Bhutanese currency is the Ngultrum (Nu), but the Indian Rupee (INR) is also widely accepted. ATMs are available in major towns, and credit cards are accepted in some hotels and establishments.
Vaccinations and Health Precautions:
Check with your healthcare provider or travel clinic to get updated on any required or recommended vaccinations for Bhutan.
Remember, visiting Bhutan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and its commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that your trip supports the local economy and protects its natural and cultural heritage. Enjoy your journey!
7 Best Tour Packages for the US
7 Best Tour Packages for US traveling to Bhutan will provide the best tour packages for all segments of clients. We customize tours as per your flight schedules from different sectors of flight originating and connecting to different places like Kathmandu, New Delhi, Bangkok, Kolkatta, Bangdogra, Singapore, Dacca and so on.7 Best tour packages for the US mentioned below for further details.
- 3 Nights 4 Days Bhutan Tour Packages for US
- Glimpse of Bhutan for 6 Days
- 7 Days Bhutan Tour Packages for US
- Bhutan Luxury Tour from the US
- Thimphu Festival Tour
- The Shangrila Bhutan itinerary for 8 Days
- Bumdra Trek-the shortest trek in Bhutan
We can advise you further after communicating through e-mail. We have a wide range best tour packages for the US. we provide a birding package, the toughest trekking in the world(Snowman trek), a white river rafting tour, School and college tours for Educational benefits, Camping in the pristine Himalayas, a Cultural tour, a Textile tours to Bhutan, and many more.
What to bring for the Bhutan tour?
- Small carry bag for carrying your passport and documents.
- Hiking shoes for Taksang day hike. In Bhutan, you will be walking at least 3-4 km in a day.
- Rainroat during the rainy season
- Full sleeve shirts and trousers. You are not supposed to wear half sleeves while visiting monasteries and temples in Bhutan.
- Exchange your currency at Paro Airport and while leaving you can exchange Bhutanese currency at Airport. The exchange for Bhutanese currency is at par. You can use international debit/credit cards in Bhutan. You can’t carry beyond US$10000.
- Sun cream and anti-insect repellent cream.
- You are not allowed to use Drone only on a special permit.
- Carry enough battery packs and memory cards if you are the photographer
- Chewing tobacco and smoking is against the law. Buy the prescribed quota from Paro International Airport or at entry points for your consumption. Ask for a receipt.
What to bring for Trekking in Bhutan
Before you trek you need to check your items before your trek starts.
- Your carry bag to carry your valuable items like passport and travel documents.
- Carry a water bottle with you always.
- Raincoat/Umbrella when you are trekking during the rainy season.
- Anti-insects repellent cream.
- Sunglass/sun cap.
- Extra batteries and power bank if you using cameras for photography. Drone shots are not allowed only with a special permit.
- Flashlight with power banks.
- Chocolates and bars for your consumption while trekking.
- Trekking shoes.
- High altitude pills.
- Walking sticks or else ask your tour agency.
- Your tour agency will provide you sleeping bag but if you want to use your own you can bring it along with you.
- Always ask for a hot water bag to sleep peacefully during winter.
- Carry woolen and warm clothes. During summer temperature is around 10-12 centigrade. During winter it will be extreme running minus.
- Carry earplugs for sleeping during the night because of dogs around your campsite.
Tour Cancellation Policy for Bhutan
Tour booked through us and canceled shall follow
- No charges for tour cancellation within 30 days of the start of the tour.
- 10% of the quoted rate will be refunded within 21 days.
- 15% of the quoted rate will be refunded if cancellation is done within 14 days.
- Refund of 30% of the quoted rate within 7 days.
- Refund of 50% of the quoted rate within less than 7 days.
- No refund for after arrival to Bhutan.
Note for delayed Arrivals
There is no charge for delays due to weather conditions, disrupting flights, roadblocks, and unnatural calamities for departure and inbound. The tourist must bear the cost of food, accommodation, transportation, and other services required by travelers.
FAQs for US passport holders traveling to Bhutan
What to expect in Bhutan?
Bhutan is the first country with carbon negative in the world. The environment is a clean, safe, and peaceful country. No strikes and hartals like neighboring countries. The maximum land is covered with forest(72%). Bhutan generates clean hydro-power from the steep and deep-running rivers. The land consists mostly of steep and high mountains.
The average altitude you will be traveling will be 2400m above sea level. You will not tend to get altitude sickness. But when you are trekking the higher Himalayas you might tend to get sickness. We advise trekkers to acclimatize before the trek.
Bhutanese culture and traditions will attract you. Bhutanese has a unique culture. Bhutanese don’t measure Gross National Product but enjoy Gross National Happiness. Bhutanese hospitality is great. Even if you stay in Bhutanese homestays you will get excellent service.
Where is Bhutan?
Bhutan is in the eastern Himalayas. It is sandwiched between China to the north and India to the south, West and East. It lies between latitudes 26°N and 29°N, and longitudes 88°E and 93°E. The terrain consists mostly of steep and high mountains. Elevation rises from 200 m in the southern foothills to more than 7,000 m in Northern Bhutan.
Is Bhutan Safe?
Bhutan is a very safe country. Crime is uncommon, you will small crimes, and the crime rate is very low as compared to other countries. The beauty of Bhutan is you will never see traffic lights.
Can I travel to Bhutan right now?
All tourists who wish to travel to Bhutan right now can travel but one has to go for mandatory quarantine in the hotel in Bhutan for covid protocols policy. Anybody required a visa and must book their holiday through a Bhutanese Tour agency or international tour agent who is connected here in Bhutan. Only registered Bhutan Travel agencies will take care of Bhutan Visa issues.
How much does it cost to go to Bhutan?
It depends upon the nights you want to stay in Bhutan. How much does it cost to go to Bhutan how many nights, and the kinds of hotels do you want to stay in Bhutan? Bhutan Depending on the duration and kind of hotel you stay in Bhutan.
The basic tour package cost of travel to Bhutan with 3 Nights 4 Days Tour to Bhutan will start from USS$ 715.00 including Hotels 3-4 star category, All meals, standard transport within Bhutan, an English Speaking guide, Bhutan Visa US$40. The package does not include Airfare International and domestic, Travel, and Medical Insurance, Our best tour Package would be 6 6-night 7-day tour to Bhutan.
How to Get to Bhutan from the US?
Contact the Bhutan Tour agency in Bhutan. Get a quote for the Bhutan Tour package with your interest. Your tour partner will advise you on the best possible to get to Bhutan from the US. Already is mentioned above for the US citizens flying into Bhutan.
How do travel to Bhutan from the USA by Land?
From India to Bhutan
If you are traveling to Bhutan from the USA by land, the option that is best is to take the flight direct from the United States to an Airport in India, northeast India, New Delhi, or even to the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose airport terminal in Kolkata. After that, it is easy to get a train to Alipurduar Junction, New Jalpaiguri(NJP), or Hasimara in the Indian State of West Bengal. India covers nooks and corners of Indian cities and towns.
Through the railway station at Hasimara, you can easily get a taxi or bus to Jaigaon, near the border opposite Phuentsholing, Bhutan’s border town. From Hasimira is a 30-minute drive to reach Phuentsholing. From Alipurduar junction is one hour drive and from NJP is 5 hours car drive.
After reaching Jaigaon you must stamp your passport for entering Phuentsholing Bhutan gate. Another entry point is Samdrup Jonkhar if you are flying to Guwahati under Assam state of India.
From Nepal to Bhutan
If you are already in Nepal and want to travel to Bhutan from land. You will need to get a flight to the Tribhuvan airport terminal from Kathmandu if you travel from the United States of America to Nepal. There are not any flights that are direct from the United States to Nepal, & most routes connect either in Qatar, Abu Dhabi, or Istanbul. As soon as you reach Kathmandu, where you can get across into India, although the border town of Kakarbhitta in east Nepal could be the easiest & most preferred.
The crossing goes to the West Bengal city of Panitanki, from where you could get a train that is direct to Hasimara, near the Bhutanese border town of Phuentsholing. From Panitanki you can directly get the bus to reach the border town of Jaigaon. if you want a Bhutan vehicle we can arrange it at the border of Nepal and India.
FAQs for USA travelers traveling to Bhutan
Can I obtain a Bhutan Visa on Arrival?
No. Bhutan doesn’t allow Bhutan Visa on arrival. Bhutan Visas must be obtained through the Bhutan Tour Agency in advance. A minimum of seven days working days is required for a Bhutan Visa by the Bhutan Tour Agency to be processed after submitting all required documents.
What documents are required for the Bhutan Visa Application?
The following details are required for a Bhutan Visa through your Bhutan Tour agency.
- Bhutan Visa application form filled by each client
- Passport size scan copy of color picture
- six months validity of passport scan copy. email the copy to your tour agency.
- if the Student emails scan a copy of the student ID card scan copy.
What do you need to do before Traveling to Bhutan?
- The first important is your US passport should be valid. Minimum 6 months minimum after the date you plan to exit Bhutan.
- Carry your health documents
- If you are trekking carry trekking items. consult with your travel agent in Bhutan.
- Insure while coming to Bhutan.
- You might face health risks in Bhutan. Get all of the vaccines, medications, and travel supplies you need for your trip to Bhutan.
Important Notice for US citizens
Note: It has been brought to the notice of the Tourism Council of Bhutan office that some guests are booking their tours through unregistered Tour Operators in the US or worldwide. Clients are making direct tour payments to the companies outside. Such arrangements have caused immense difficulties to both guests as well as this office.
This office would like to inform and request all travelers planning their tours to Bhutan to make their reservations only through registered Tour Operators in Bhutan. A list of local Bhutanese Tour Operators is available on www.tourism.gov.bt/plan/tour-operators or if in doubt, this office can confirm the authentication of the operators should a request for the same be made.
Therefore, we would like to inform all concerned parties that the Tourism Council of Bhutan will not be responsible for any complaints related to or resulting from a tour booked through unregistered Tour Operators.
For further information and authentication of the tour operators please visit the link
Notice: courtesy from the Department of Tourism.