Understanding Bhutan’s Sustainable Tourism Fee

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a core part of Bhutan’s tourism policy and reflects the country’s commitment to protecting its environment, culture, and way of life. By paying the SDF, travelers directly contribute to Bhutan’s vision of “High Value, Low Impact” tourism, ensuring that travel benefits both visitors and local communities while preserving the kingdom’s pristine landscapes.

At Experience Bhutan Travel, we ensure full transparency so you understand how the SDF supports Bhutan and enhances your travel experience.

SDF Structure for International Travelers

International visitors to Bhutan are required to pay an SDF of USD 100 per person per night.

What the SDF Supports

Your SDF contribution helps fund:

  • Environmental conservation and forest protection

  • Preservation of cultural heritage sites, monasteries, and dzongs

  • Sustainable tourism infrastructure development

  • Community welfare and rural development projects

  • Carbon offset initiatives that help Bhutan remain carbon-negative

Special Rates and Discounts

Bhutan offers reduced SDF rates for certain traveler categories:

  • Children aged 6–12 years: 50% discount (USD 50 per night)

  • Children under 6 years: No SDF charged

  • Indian nationals: INR 1,200 per person per night

  • Students: Discounted rates may apply with a valid international student ID

Discount eligibility is subject to current government regulations.

What Does the SDF Include?

The SDF contributes to nationwide public services and sustainability initiatives, including:

  • Environmental protection and conservation programs

  • Free education for Bhutanese citizens

  • Free healthcare services

  • Development of sustainable tourism facilities

  • Preservation of Bhutan’s cultural identity

While accommodation, transport, guides, and meals are billed separately, the SDF ensures that tourism positively impacts the country as a whole.

SDF Payment and Processing

The SDF must be paid in advance as part of your travel arrangements.

Payment Methods

  • Through licensed Bhutanese tour operators

  • Via the official visa application portal

  • Bank transfer to authorized government accounts

  • Credit or debit card payments through approved operators

At Experience Bhutan Travel, we manage the full payment process on your behalf and provide clear documentation for your records.

Why the SDF Matters?

The Sustainable Development Fee plays a vital role in:

  • Protecting Bhutan’s unspoiled natural environment

  • Preserving traditional culture, architecture, and customs

  • Supporting local communities and livelihoods

  • Maintaining infrastructure in a responsible, low-impact way

  • Ensuring meaningful, uncrowded travel experiences

By paying the SDF, travelers actively participate in Bhutan’s long-term sustainability and cultural preservation.

Frequently asked questions

There are 19 languages spoken in Bhutan, but the national language is Dzongkha. English is used throughout Bhutan’s education system, so it is widely used and understood.

Bhutan is a year-round destination. There are four seasons: summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), winter (December to February) and spring (March to May). But because of the range of altitudes in the country, and the influence of the north Indian monsoons, the climate is incredibly varied. In the south, the humid, subtropical climate is fairly consistent year-round, with temperatures between 15oC and 30oC. Central Bhutan, with its temperate forests, has a more seasonal climate, with warm summers and cool, dry winters. The northern regions are much colder during winter. Because of the high altitude, mountain peaks are snowy year-round and the lower reaches remain cool in summer. In summer, the Indian monsoon season runs from late June or July to late September, mostly affecting the southern regions. Most farming activities take place in the summer, when crops thrive in verdant landscapes. Autumn, from late September or early October to late November, follows the rainy season. It is characterised by bright, sunny days and some early snowfall at higher elevations. It’s the season of feasts and festivals as farmers reap the fruits of their work. From late November until March, the crisp, clear and sunny winter sets in, with frost throughout much of the country and snowfall common above elevations of 3,000 metres. The winter northeast monsoon brings gale-force winds at the highest altitudes through high mountain passes, giving Bhutan the name Drukyul, which means Land of the Thunder Dragon in Dzongkha (Bhutan’s national language). Bhutan’s generally dry spring starts in early March and lasts until mid-April. It is a botanist’s delight, with nature in full bloom. Summer weather commences in mid-April with occasional showers and continues to late June.

Visitors of all nationalities, except those from India, require a visa before entering Bhutan. For all visitors, except those from Bangladesh and the Maldives, this visa must be applied for and approved in advance of travel. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also require a visa, but this can be applied for and approved either in advance of travel or upon arrival in Bhutan. Visitors from India are able to apply for a permit but are required to hold an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card. For Indian nationals under the age of 18, a passport or a birth certificate can be used to enter and they must be accompanied by a legal guardian. Nationals from Switzerland and Thailand holding diplomatic or government-official passports are eligible for a visa at their port of entry.

No, there are no restricted nationalities in Bhutan.

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a daily levy paid by visitors to support Bhutan’s development. Since the kingdom first opened its doors in 1974, guests have played a critical role in our country’s growth. The SDF is collected by the national exchequer and funds are allocated to various projects that create long-term, sustainable opportunities for the Bhutanese people, through free healthcare, education and training, upskilling the tourism and hospitality industry, improved infrastructure, environmental preservation and conservation, cultural preservation programmes and initiatives that support local businesses and economies. The SDF is also a vital means of maintaining the exceptional forest cover and carbon-neutrality for which our small nation is world-renowned and globally critical. The SDF also helps us to ensure that we can continue to offer guests tranquillity and an intimate experience.

The SDF is USD 100 per night for adults from all countries except for India. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF. The SDF for Indian nationals (showing a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card) is Nu. 1,200 (or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees) per person, per night. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay Nu./INR 600 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.

You may bring cash equivalent to US$10,000 into the country.