Are tourists allowed to enter / visit Bhutan via Samdrup Jongkhar?
Tourists from India are allowed but those from other countries are currently not allowed to visit / enter Bhutan via Samdrup Jongkhar entry point, as as of August, 2024.
What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indian nationals visiting Bhutan?
For visitors from countries other than India, the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is set at USD 200 per person, per night. Indian nationals, identified by their Indian passport or voter ID card, are charged an SDF of 1,200 Indian rupees per person, per night. Children under six years old are exempt from the SDF. Those aged between 6 and 12 years receive a 50% discount on the SDF, while children aged 12 and above are required to pay the full rate. Starting from September 1, 2023, a 50% discount on the SDF has been introduced for tourists paying in US dollars, reducing the fee to USD 100 per person, per night. This discount is available until August 31, 2027. Additionally, day visitors to Bhutanese towns bordering India are exempt from the SDF until they reach a designated point set by the Bhutanese government.
How long can tourists stay in Bhutan?
Tourists in Bhutan can stay in the country for a maximum of 90 days.
Can tourists extend their permit / visa from within Bhutan?
Yes, guests have the option to extend their stay through the online visa/permit application portal, using the same login details used for the initial visa/permit processing. To obtain a visa extension, the original passport must be presented at the nearest immigration office. For those who received a permit/visa upon arrival, either the guest or the tour operator should visit the nearest immigration office to process the extension. 🌟
Will I get my Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) if I cancel my trip to Bhutan?
Yes, the SDF will be refunded for any canceled trip, with any bank charges deducted from the refund amount. To request an SDF refund, please submit your request to the Department of Immigration.
