So you want to visit Bhutan? Smart choice. But let's be honest – the Bhutan trip cost probably has you scratching your head right now.
Here's the deal: Bhutan has this daily fee thing. It almost sounds nuts, but it covers your hotel, meals, getting around, and a guide who really knows their stuff. The upside? No haggling, no scams, and your money helps keep this place beautiful instead of trashed like other tourist spots.
Look, Bhutan's different. We're talking monasteries located on cliffs, mountains that'll make your jaw drop, and people who actually seem happy. The Tiger's Nest hike alone is worth the trip – yeah, it's tough, but standing up there? Unreal.
Now, about those costs – our Bhutan tour packages aren't trying to rip you off. We've got options for tight budgets and fancier ones if that's your thing. Everything's sorted – permits, hotels, the whole deal.
Bottom line: Bhutan's special because it hasn't sold out yet. Go before that changes.
How to Reach Bhutan and Travel Cost
There are two main ways to reach Bhutan from India - by road or by air. Both have different prices, so your total Bhutan trip cost depends on which option you choose.
A. By Road (Budget Option)
This is the cheapest way for a Bhutan budget trip from India. The border town of Phuentsholing connects to Jaigaon in West Bengal.
- Take a train from Kolkata, Delhi, or Guwahati to Hasimara Railway Station.
- From Hasimara, you can take a cab or shared taxi to Jaigaon, which costs about ₹300–₹500.
- You can then walk across the border to Bhutan’s Phuentsholing town.
Once you enter Bhutan, you must apply for a travel permit (free for Indians) and pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is ₹1,200 per night per person.
So, the road journey will cost around ₹3,000–₹4,000 in total for travel and initial entry fees. This makes road travel perfect for people planning a Bhutan budget trip from India.
B. By Air (Comfortable Option)
If you prefer flying, you can book a flight to Paro International Airport - the only international airport in Bhutan. Flights are available from Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, and Guwahati.
- Return airfare ranges between ₹15,000–₹30,000, depending on the season.
- Flight time is short, and you get beautiful views of Mount Everest and the Himalayas.
Air travel makes the Bhutan Trip Cost from India higher, but it saves time and is more comfortable.
required. You can easily get this at the entry point or apply online. The SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) is mandatory for all travellers.
- SDF for Indians: ₹1,200 per person per night.
- Permit validity: Covers Thimphu and Paro; for other regions, you’ll need extra permission.
These costs are part of the total Bhutan travel cost, so remember to add them when planning your budget.
For example, if you’re staying for 6 nights, your total SDF will be ₹7,200 per person. For most visitors, the basic permit covers Paro and Thimphu. If you want to visit other places like Punakha or Bumthang, you will need an additional travel permit, which can be arranged through a local tour agency in Bhutan.
Accommodation Cost in Bhutan
Once you reach Bhutan, the next big part of your Bhutan trip cost is your stay. The country offers a range of places to stay - from small guesthouses to luxury resorts. The Accommodation Cost in Bhutan depends on your comfort level and travel style.
A. Budget Accommodation
If you are looking for low-cost options, you can find guesthouses or small hotels in towns like Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha.
- Price range: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per night for a clean and simple room.
- Facilities: Basic bed, private bathroom, sometimes Wi-Fi.
For a Bhutan budget trip from India, this is a great option.
B. Mid-Range Hotels
If you want more comfort but don’t want to spend too much, mid-range hotels are ideal.
- Price range: ₹2,500–₹5,000 per night.
- Facilities: Better interiors, heating, room service, and restaurant access.
This is the most common choice among Indian families and couples who want to balance comfort and cost.
C. Luxury Resorts
If you want a premium holiday with mountain views, spa services, and beautiful surroundings, luxury resorts are perfect.
- Price range: ₹8,000–₹15,000 per night.
- Some famous ones include Le Meridien Thimphu, COMO Uma Paro, and Amankora.
Staying at a luxury resort will increase your total cost of the Bhutan trip from India, but it’s worth it for those seeking a peaceful, luxurious break.
How Much might you spend on Stay?
If you plan to stay in Bhutan for six nights, your total stay expense could be:
- Around ₹9,000 for budget hotels
- Around ₹18,000 for mid-range hotels
- Around ₹60,000 or more for luxury resorts
This is one of the main parts of your total Bhutan trip cost from India, so it’s good to decide your hotel type early while planning.
Food & Local Transport Cost in Bhutan
Eating in Bhutan is a nice experience, and it doesn’t cost too much. Most meals are made with rice, cheese, and vegetables, and Bhutanese people love chillies in almost everything. The food is fresh, warm, and full of flavour. You’ll find both local and Indian restaurants in Bhutan, like Paro and Thimphu, making it easy for Indian visitors to enjoy familiar tastes while exploring new dishes.
A. Budget Eating Options
Local cafes and small eateries serve simple and tasty food.
Average meal cost: ₹250–₹400 per person.
Must-try dishes: Ema Datshi (chilli and cheese), red rice, and momos.
These places are great for travellers planning a Bhutan budget trip from India, as they offer good food without spending much.
B. Mid-Range Restaurants
These are comfortable dining places that serve both local and Indian food.
Average meal cost: ₹500–₹800 per person.
They’re ideal for couples or families who want a clean and cosy place to eat. Many mid-range restaurants offer buffet options and good service at a fair price.
C. High-End Dining
Luxury hotels and resorts offer fine dining experiences with beautiful mountain views.
Cost: ₹1,000 and above per meal.
They serve Bhutanese, Indian, and continental dishes - often buffet-style or à la carte. These restaurants are perfect for those who don’t mind spending a little more for comfort and ambience.
Local Transport Options
- Taxis are the main way to move around towns like Paro or Thimphu.
- Short rides cost around ₹200–₹400.
- If you book a taxi for a full day, it costs ₹2,500–₹3,500.
- Renting a car with a driver for the whole trip (5–6 days) costs around ₹15,000–₹20,000.
Tips to Save Money on Local Travel
- Share taxis with other tourists.
- Walk short distances; most towns are small and safe.
- Plan your sightseeing routes to avoid extra taxi fares.
So, your Food & Local Transport Cost in Bhutan per day may be around ₹1,000–₹1,500 if you eat well and travel locally by taxi.
Sightseeing and Activities in Bhutan
Bhutan is all about natural beauty, peaceful monasteries, and clean surroundings. You don’t have to spend too much on sightseeing, as many places are free or charge a small entry fee.
A. Thimphu (Capital City)
- Visit Buddha Dordenma, a giant golden statue with mountain views.
- Explore Tashichho Dzong, a large fortress and monastery.
- Walk around Clock Tower Square and enjoy shopping and local food.
- Entry fees: ₹200–₹300 for some attractions.
B. Paro (Cultural Gem)
- Hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery) - one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan.
- Entry fee: around ₹1,500 per person.
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
C. Punakha (Valley of Peace)
- See Punakha Dzong, built between two rivers, known for its lovely wooden bridge.
- Visit Dochula Pass on the way to Punakha - you can see 108 stupas and snow peaks.
D. Adventure Activities
- River rafting in Punakha: ₹3,000–₹5,000 per person.
- Short treks or mountain cycling around Paro: ₹2,000–₹4,000 per day.
Sightseeing and adventure activities together can add ₹5,000–₹8,000 to your total Bhutan trip cost, depending on what you choose.
How much does it cost to go to Bhutan – Complete Budget Overview
Now that you know the basic costs, here’s an idea of what your whole trip might cost:
A. Budget Trip
- Travel by road, stay in simple guesthouses, eat local food, and share taxis.
- Total cost: ₹25,000–₹30,000 per person for 6 days.
- Ideal for students and solo travellers.
B. Mid-Range Trip
- Fly one way or both, stay in 3-star hotels, eat at decent restaurants, and visit main attractions.
- Total cost: ₹45,000–₹55,000 per person for 6 days.
- Best for couples and families.
C. Luxury Trip
- Fly both ways, stay in top resorts like Le Meridien or COMO Uma Paro, and enjoy spa treatments.
- Total cost of Bhutan trip from India: ₹1,00,000–₹1,20,000 or more.
- Perfect for honeymooners or travellers seeking comfort and peace.
Your total Bhutan Trip Cost from India depends mainly on your hotel, transport choice, and travel style.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
The Best Time to Visit Bhutan is between October to December and March to May.
A. Spring Season (March–May)
- The valleys are green and full of flowers.
- The famous Paro Tshechu Festival is held during this time.
- Great weather for hiking and photography.
B. Autumn Season (October–December)
- The skies are clear, and the mountains look beautiful.
- Best time for outdoor sightseeing and long drives.
- Ideal for families and first-time visitors.
C. Winter Season (December–February)
- Cold weather, but fewer tourists and lower hotel prices.
- Great for people who enjoy peace and snow-covered hills.
D. Summer/Monsoon Season (June–August)
- It rains often, and roads can be slippery, but it’s the cheapest season to visit.
- You can find big discounts on hotels and flights.
Choosing the right season will help you manage your Bhutan travel costs better while enjoying the best of nature.
Bhutan has lovely handmade products and crafts that make great souvenirs.
A. What to Buy
- Wooden masks, prayer flags, and traditional jewellery.
- Yak wool scarves, handwoven fabrics, and bamboo products.
- Local food items like red rice, honey, and herbal tea.
B. Where to Shop
C. Budget for Shopping
- Keep aside ₹3,000–₹5,000 for small gifts and local items.
- These costs can easily fit within your total Bhutan trip cost for Indian travellers.
Tips to Save Money on Bhutan Trip Cost
- Book early: Flight and hotel prices are cheaper when you book a few months before your trip.
- Travel by road: If you live in eastern India, road travel is the best way to reduce the Bhutan trip cost from India.
- Share taxis: If you meet other travellers, share cabs to divide local travel costs.
- Eat local: Local cafés serve filling meals for less money and give you a taste of Bhutanese culture.
- Stay in guesthouses: They are cheaper, clean, and often come with kind hosts who make your stay feel like home.
- Travel off-season: Visiting during less crowded months like June or July can reduce your Bhutan travel cost as hotels and taxis are cheaper.
- Use cash: ATMs are limited in some areas, and using cards can lead to extra charges. Carry enough Indian rupees (accepted widely in Bhutan).
These small tricks can help you save a lot and make your Bhutan trip cost lighter without missing the fun.
Example Itinerary and Daily Budget
Let’s imagine you are spending six days in Bhutan. You arrive in Phuentsholing by road, stay in mid-range hotels, and eat simple meals.
- Your daily expenses might include around ₹1,200 for food, ₹500 for local travel, and ₹1,500 for stay.
- Add your SDF of ₹1,200 per night, and your daily total becomes around ₹4,000.
- For six days, that’s about ₹24,000 for everything inside Bhutan, plus your travel from India.
So a comfortable Bhutan vacation is possible even on a modest budget.
The total Bhutan trip cost from India depends on how you plan. A road trip for budget travellers may cost ₹25,000–₹30,000, while a comfortable mid-range holiday can go up to ₹50,000. Luxury vacations can cost ₹1 lakh or more.
No matter what your budget is, Bhutan is always worth visiting. Its people, nature, and peaceful environment make every traveller fall in love with the country. If you travel smart, eat local, and choose the right time, your Bhutan holiday cost from India will stay well within your plan.
So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready for a memorable trip to the Land of the Thunder Dragon - Bhutan.
