“To travel is to live,” Hans Christian Andersen once said. And what better way to breathe life into this quote than by venturing into the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon? But before you pack your bags and book that flight, one question might linger in your mind: “How much does a trip to Bhutan really cost?”
Don’t worry, aspiring traveler! We’re here to demystify the costs associated with a Bhutan trip. Buckle up as we explore the various factors influencing the price, offer practical tips to travel smart, and guide you on planning a memorable yet budget-friendly adventure in this mystical Himalayan Kingdom.
Bhutan Travel Costs: A Breakdown
The cost of your Bhutan trip can vary greatly depending on your travel style, preferences, and the duration of your stay. However, understanding the core components can help you plan effectively:
1. The Minimum Daily Tariff
Bhutan has a unique “Minimum Daily Tariff” in place for tourists. This all-inclusive package covers accommodation in government-approved hotels, three meals a day, licensed tour guide services, internal transportation within Bhutan, and a sustainable tourism fee of $65 (used for healthcare, education, and infrastructure development).
Here’s a breakdown of the Minimum Daily Tariff:
- High Season (March, April, May, September, October, November): USD 250 per person per night
- Low Season (January, February, June, July, August, December): USD 200 per person per night
Important Note:
- The tariff is per person, meaning if you’re traveling solo, you’ll pay the full amount. However, discounts apply for groups of two or more.
- Surcharges may apply for luxury accommodations and private tours.
2. Flights
Flights to Bhutan are generally limited, with Paro International Airport being the only international gateway. Direct flights are primarily available from select Asian cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, and Kathmandu.
Flight cost estimation:
- Round-trip flights from the US can range from $1,500 to $3,000.
- Flights from Europe can cost anywhere between €1,000 to €2,500.
- Flights from Southeast Asian countries are comparatively cheaper, ranging from $500 to $1,000.
Tips for finding affordable flights:
- Book your flights well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Consider flying to a nearby hub like Delhi or Bangkok and then taking a connecting flight to Paro.
- Travel during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for potentially lower fares.
3. Visas
Unless you hold a passport from India, Bangladesh, or the Maldives, you’ll need a visa to enter Bhutan. Visas are processed through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator and are typically included in your tour package.
Visa cost:
- USD 40 per person
4. Additional Expenses
While the Minimum Daily Tariff covers most essentials, budgeting for additional expenses is crucial for a comfortable trip.
These may include:
- Tips: Tipping is customary in Bhutan. A general guideline is USD 5-10 per day for your guide and USD 3-5 for the driver.
- Drinks: The tariff covers only three meals, so budget extra for beverages, especially alcoholic drinks.
- Souvenirs: Bhutan offers unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Allocate a budget if you plan on shopping.
- Personal Expenses: This includes any additional snacks, laundry, internet access, or other personal necessities.
Budgeting for Your Bhutan Trip:
Here’s a hypothetical budget breakdown for a 7-day trip to Bhutan for two people during the high season:
- Minimum Daily Tariff: USD 250/person/night x 7 nights x 2 people = USD 3,500
- Flights (estimated): USD 2,000 x 2 people = USD 4,000
- Visas: USD 40/person x 2 people = USD 80
- Additional Expenses (estimated): USD 50/person/day x 7 days x 2 people = USD 700
Total estimated cost: USD 8,280 (approximately USD 4,140 per person)
flight-to-paro
himalayan-mountains
