🇧🇹 Bhutan New Tourism Policy 2022 – SDF Fees & Visa/Permit Rules explained

By: AD Tours on February 7, 2026

Bhutan follows a unique tourism model known as “High Value, Low Volume Tourism”, designed to protect the environment, culture, and local communities. The key part of this policy is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which every tourist pays based on nationality.

Below is the latest updated breakdown of Bhutan’s tourism policy, SDF fees, and visa rules.

🌿 What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?

The SDF is a daily fee charged by the Royal Government of Bhutan to support:

Environmental conservation
Free healthcare and education
Infrastructure development
Cultural heritage preservation

The fee helps Bhutan maintain sustainable tourism and avoid mass tourism impact.

💰 Latest SDF Amount for Bhutan

🌍 For International Tourists

US$ 100 per person per night (Adult)
Children 6–12 years → 50% discount
Children below 5 years → Free

This SDF rate is currently expected to remain valid till 2027 unless revised.

🇮🇳 SDF for Indian Tourists

Nu. / INR 1200 per person per night
Children 6–12 years → INR 600
Children below 5 years → Free

Indian travelers usually enter Bhutan via permit system, and SDF is paid during permit processing.

🇧🇩 SDF for Bangladesh Tourists

US$ 15 per person per night
Special reduced SDF introduced under bilateral agreement
Limited quota approx 15,000 visitors per year

This reduction supports regional tourism and strengthens Bhutan–Bangladesh relations.

Visa, Visa Fee & Entry Rules (Important Difference)

✔ Visa / Permit on Arrival (Regional Countries)

India
Bangladesh
Maldives

They can often obtain permits at entry points (subject to conditions and queue) but they can also obtain the permit in advance which your Local tour agent based in Bhutan can help.

✔ Visa Fee