What It Means & How Much You Pay
Bhutan is one of the world’s few carbon-negative countries. To preserve its culture and nature, Bhutan follows a "High Value, Low Volume" tourism policy, which includes a mandatory Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) - often referred to as the Bhutan tourist tax.
This fee helps fund free healthcare, education, infrastructure, and environmental conservation for the people of Bhutan. Every visitor contributes to Bhutan’s future simply by being here.
Here’s everything you need to know about the SDF and applicable tourist taxes as of 2025.
The SDF is a per-night fee charged to all foreign visitors, regardless of nationality or entry method (by air or road).
Indian citizens: Rs. 1,200 per person, per night
Foreign nationals (other than India, Bangladesh, Maldives): USD $100 per person, per night
Children under 5 years: Free
Children aged 5-12: 50% discount
This fee is collected in advance as part of your tour booking and goes directly to the Bhutan government.
While the SDF is not a direct service fee, it supports and maintains:
You are not paying just to enter Bhutan - you're contributing to Bhutan's vision for sustainable, mindful tourism.
The SDF is charged per night of stay inside Bhutan. For example:
It applies from the date of entry until the date of exit (including the final night).
No. The SDF applies regardless of how you enter Bhutan:
Every traveler must pay the same nightly SDF according to nationality.
The SDF is non-refundable once your visa or permit is approved. However:
If your trip is postponed or rescheduled in advance, we can assist with adjusting the dates and reapplying without extra charges.
Paying the SDF means you're helping Bhutan stay:
You’re not just visiting Bhutan - you're becoming a partner in preserving it.
When you book a Bhutan tour with us, we:
No hidden costs. No confusion.
Yes, Bhutan has a tourist tax - but it's a small price for a big experience. You'll see where your money goes in every clean valley, quiet temple, and smiling face.
