As a Bangladeshi citizen, you enjoy privileged entry to Bhutan due to strong bilateral ties, similar to Indian and Maldivian nationals. You do not need a prior tourist visa to enter Bhutan. Instead, you'll obtain a visa on arrival (stamped directly into your passport) at the port of entry, along with an entry permit for unrestricted areas. This policy remains unchanged as of November 2025, promoting regional tourism under Bhutan's "high value, low volume" framework.

However, all visitors (including Bangladeshis) must pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which funds conservation, education, and infrastructure. For regional tourists like you, the SDF is USD 17 per person per night (reduced from USD 100 for international tourists). Children under 6 are exempt, and those aged 6-12 get a 50% discount (USD 8.50/night).

Bhutan requires all tourism to be booked through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or TCB-certified hotel, even for visa-exempt nationals. Independent travel is not allowed, you must join a guided tour or stay package.

Key requirements

Before traveling, ensure you meet these essentials:

Step-by-step guide to entry

Follow these steps for a smooth process. Processing at entry points is quick (15-30 minutes) but can be longer during peak seasons (March-May, September-November).

·         Book Your Trip Through a Licensed Operator

·         Contact a Bhutanese tour operator or TCB-certified hotel to arrange your itinerary (accommodation, guide, transport). They handle permits and SDF payments.

·         Find operators: Visit the official Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) directory at tourism.gov.bt/tour-operators. Popular options for Bangladeshis include Bhutan Dragon Tours or Yangphel Adventure Travels.

·         Provide: Scanned passport photo page, recent passport-sized photo (JPEG, 2x2 inches, white background), travel dates, and itinerary preferences.

·         Cost: SDF (USD 17/night) + tour package (starts at USD 200-300/person for 3-4 days, including meals and guide). Pay online via the operator's portal.

Tip: Book 2-4 weeks in advance. Your operator will email a confirmation letter—carry a printed copy.

Apply for online entry permit (recommended, optional)

·         To skip queues at entry, apply for a pre-issued entry permit via the official system.

·         Go to bhutan.travel/visa > Create an account > Select ‘Regional Tourist’ (Bangladesh).

·         Upload: Passport scan, photo, and SDF payment proof.

·         Processing: 24-48 hours (free, no visa fee). You'll get a digital permit via email.

·         If skipped, apply on arrival.

Travel to Bhutan

·         By Air: Fly from Dhaka (Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport) to Paro International Airport (PBH). Drukair or Bhutan Airlines operate 1-2 daily flights (1.5-2 hours, ~BDT 20,000-30,000 one-way). Book via drukair.com.bt or bhtair.com.bt.

·         By Land: Cross from Bangladesh (e.g., via Tamabil to Dawki, then to Guwahati, India), then to Phuentsholing border (Jaigaon, India). ~24-30 hours by bus/train. Requires Indian e-Visa. Less common due to road conditions.

·         Entry points: Paro (air), Phuentsholing/Gelephu/Samdrup Jongkhar (land). No other ports.

·         On arrival: Get Visa and Permit Stamped

·         Proceed to Immigration counter with: Passport, operator confirmation letter, SDF receipt, and printed online permit (if pre-applied).

·         Pay any outstanding SDF (cash/card accepted).

·         Receive: Visa stamp (valid up to 7-30 days, extendable) and entry permit (covers major sites like Thimphu, Paro, Punakha).

·         Location: At Paro Airport or land border immigration office (open 9 AM-5 PM).

Note: Your tour guide (arranged by operator) will meet you here.

Travel within Bhutan

·         Your permit allows access to western/central regions. For restricted areas (e.g., Bumthang, eastern Bhutan), your operator applies for special permits (free, 1-2 days processing).

·         All travel must be with a licensed guide, no solo hiking or driving.

Exit Bhutan

·         No exit formalities beyond immigration stamp. Overstay fines: USD 20/day.

·         Fly out from Paro or bus to Phuentsholing.

Fees breakdown

Tips and updates (November 2025)

·         Peak season: Book early—SDF waivers ended in 2023; full rates apply.

·         Currency: Carry USD/INR cash (ATMs limited). Cards accepted in cities.

·         Sustainability: Follow "leave no trace" rules; plastic bags are banned.

·         Contacts: Bhutan Embassy in Dhaka (for queries): +880-2-5881-3991, rbedhaka@mfa.gov.bt. TCB Helpline: +975-2-322285.

·         Recent changes: No major updates since 2023 SDF adjustments. Online permits expanded for regionals to reduce entry delays.

This guide is based on official sources for accuracy. Always verify with your tour operator for personalized advice. Safe travels to the Land of the Thunder Dragon!