How much is the SDF?
For all visitors except those from India, the SDF is US$200 per person, per night. For guests from India the SDF is 1,200 ngultrums, or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees, per person, per night. Children aged 6 to 12 at the time of travel receive a 50% concessionary discount on their SDF. Those children who have not yet turned six are exempt from paying any SDF. Day visitors to the Bhutanese towns bordering India are also exempt from paying the SDF until they reach a point designated by the Bhutanese government.

What is the SDF and how is it used?

The SDF is the Sustainable Development Fee, a daily levy paid by tourist to support Bhutan’sdevelopment. Since the kingdom first opened its door in 1974, visitors have played a vital role in the country’s development. As we reopen on September 23rd 2022, however, a day to mark in the history, this partnership is once again advancing to empower us to protect and preserve our kingdom and its irreplaceable assets. It’s also helps us to reassure that tourists visit in sustainable numbers and that we can continue to offer guest peacefulness and also tangible experience. The SDF is collected by the national treasury and funds are allocated to various projects that enhance facilities, services and infrastructure for Bhutanese nationals and visitors, as well as founding free healthcare and education.

Best Time to Visit Bhutan

The best time to visit Bhutan is in spring (March to May) when the weather is pleasant, and the valleys are in full bloom. In spring, the average temperature in Bhutan is around 11–20°C (35–68°F), and the country receives an average rainfall of 100 mm (4 in).

 

On the other hand, autumn/fall (September to November) is also an excellent time to visit Bhutan. The average temperature in fall is 10–22°C (50–71°F). For those looking to hike, this is the best time to visit, as it seldom rains during this season. The average rainfall during this season is around 45 mm (2 in).

If you are not traveling for a special event, such as a festival or trek, you can visit Bhutan at any time of the year.

 

If you’re looking to combine some hiking and local experiences, then the spring and fall are ideal times to visit, as numerous festivals are held in Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha then. The Tshechu Festival celebrated in Punakha and Paro offers an excellent opportunity to experience Bhutan’s rich history and culture.

 

  • March and April are excellent months to visit Bhutan, as the valleys will be in full bloom. The weather will be pleasant, and the valleys will be lush and green with paddy fields and verdant forests.
  • May is hot and humid, so fewer tourists visit around this time. However, the rhododendrons will be in full bloom, and this is an excellent time to visit for photographers and nature lovers.
  • The months from June to August are the peak of the monsoon season in Bhutan. The country experiences heavy rains during these months, and the mountains are enveloped by thick fog and mist.
  • December is the coldest month in Bhutan, but skies will be clear with few to no showers. The valleys will be sunny, and you can catch fantastic views of the Himalayas from there. For those who enjoy the cold, hiking in winter is an excellent option.
  • If you plan to take a vacation around September, October, or November, please note that these are the busiest months. Make sure that you book your tour and accommodation in advance.

 

Package Exclusion

  1. External transportation; Air fares /Train fare etc…
  2. Bottled water during meal is to be borne by the clients directly.
  3. Personal Expenses such as Laundry, Telephone calls, tips & gratuity, any alcoholic, non-alcoholic beverages.
  4. Visa Fee $40
  5. Any cost arising due to road block, natural calamities like, landslides, flood etc…must be borne by the guest directly.
  6. Travel Insurance.

On the day of departure, the ‘local agents’ host obligation shall be limited to providing breakfast only and any extra requirements shall be payable on usage basis. The list of hotels and lodges approved to provide accommodations all listed on this website. If you accommodation is not listed on this website then it is not licensed cater for international tourists. The Royal Government of Bhutan sets minimum selling prices for packages to Bhutan. These must be paid in US dollars prior to arrival in Bhutan.

Related Links

Address

Location