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| Travel to Bhutan with ease |
BHUTAN, renowned for its majestic landscapes and unique cultural experiences, is now more accessible than ever for trav- ellers, thanks to several key improvements in travel pro- cedures. The country has focused on simplifying the visa process. reducing the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) to USD 100, and increas- ing flight options to improve travel convenience.
Simplified Visa Process: Travel to Bhutan with ease
Bhutan requires visas forall visitors, with no nationality restrictions. The introduction of an online visa application system has made this process more efficient. Typically, visas are processed within five working days, allowing for eas- ier travel planning. The visa is valid for up to 90 days. Visitors (except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives), must obtain a visa before arrival. The application involves paying a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and a USD 40 visa fee. The process is flexible, allowingapplicants to apply directly online them- selves, through a tour opera- tor, or via a hotel. There is no cap on visitor numbers to Bhutan, and everyone is wel- come. Self-application for a travel visa is convenient,
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| Travel to Bhutan with ease |
requiring tourists to fill out an online form with essential documents:
A digital copy of a valid pass- port. Arecent digital passport photo. Arrival and departure dates. Valid travel insurance for the duration of planned travel. Payment information Reduced Sustainable Development Fee
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), serves as a daily contribution by tourists towards the nation’s development. The SDF is utilized transparently and responsibly by the Royal Government of Bhutan. This fundaids various sectors such as healthcare, education, envi- ronment, culture, and econ- omy, fostering long-term sus-Travel to Bhutan with ease
tainable opportunities for Bhutanese citizens.
Asa carbon-neutralnation, Bhutan leverages the SDF to uphold its exceptional forest cover and carbon neutrality, ensuring a serene experience for visitors.
In September 2023, Bhutan introduced a 50% reduction in the SDF rate, effective until August 31, 2027, with incen- tives for children. The new rates are USD 100 per adult per night; while children between the ages of 6 and who have not yet turned 12 pay a reduced rate of USD 50 per night. Children who have not yetturned six years old do not pay any SDF fee. The revised fee structure enhances Bhutan’s appeal as an envi- ronmentally conscious and welcoming destination.
Increased Flight Options Bhutan’s airlines, Drukairand Bhutan Airlines, have expanded their flight options, providing increased accessibility to the kingdom with non-stop/transit flights connecting India, Singapore, Thailand, Nepal and Bangladesh to Paro International Airport. Soon, Bhutan Airlines will also start flights to Paro from Sharjah,
peratures. Trekking is less advisable during the summer season (June to mid- September) due to rainfall.
October offers pleasant weather, clear skies, vibrant festivals, and excellent trekking conditions. November and December are prime times for observing the black-necked cranes in Phobjikha Valley.
The valley hosts thesecranesuntil March. Summer is ideal for spotting alpine wildflowers and it’s the season for high-altitude wild- flowers, like the rare blue pop- py, and summer festivals in lesser-visited areas like Haa Valley. Although it rains in summer, the rainfall isnotnor- mally a heavy monsoon, it means the waterfallsandrivers are gushing, and the country
is covered in lush, greenland-
United Arab Emirates. It was also recently announced that Bhutan has signed an Air Service Agreement with the Government of the State of Kuwait. The expansion of con- nectivity aligns with Bhutan’s dedication to accommodat- ing the escalating demand from travellers, ensuring a seamless and enriching expe rience for all.
Best Times to Visit Bhutan When planning a trip to Bhutan, consider what you want to experience. The best time of year to visit Bhutanwill depend on whether you’re interested in trekking, avoid- ing crowds, the location of the places you want to visit, or attending traditional festivals.
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| Travel to Bhutan with ease |
Mid-March to May show- cases the stunning rhodo- dendron blossoms across the eastern Himalayas, with milder temperatures and slightly less clear skies com-
pared to autumn. April offers great opportu nities for lower-altitudehikes. Trekking conditions are opti- mal in April, May, October, and November, with spring presenting more rainfall and autumn offering clearer mountain views and com fortable 20°C daytime tem-
scapes. Winter (November to February) is also a good time to visit most of Bhutan, bar- ring high mountain passes. Fewer tourists and mild val- ley weather make for a serene experience, though warm clothing is recommended.
The main tourist valleys do not experience much (if any) snowfall, and the clear skies. in winter make it a popular time to visit for photographers. Aligning your visit with one of Bhutan’s vibrant religious festivals can enhance your
experience. These festivals, determined by the lunar calendar, feature large gatherings of locals in tra- ditional attire, along with a variety of holy men and ven- dors. While the popular tsechus in Paro and Thimphu attract many tourists, small- er regional festivals offer a more intimate experience.
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The Royal Highland Festival in October, with its unique blend of horse racing, music, and yak beauty contests, is a high- light. Check the Bhutan Department of Tourism web- site or major tour operators for up-to-date festival schedules.
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