Bhutan Trip Cost from India (2026 Guide)

Planning a Bhutan trip from India often starts with one simple question: how much will it really cost. The answer depends on trip duration, travel style, entry route and accommodation choices. This guide breaks down Bhutan trip costs for Indian tourists clearly, without hidden assumptions.


Is Bhutan expensive for Indian tourists?

Bhutan is not a low-cost destination, but it is also not unaffordable. For Indian citizens, Bhutan sits in the mid-range travel cost bracket compared to destinations like Nepal, Sri Lanka or the North East of India.

The biggest difference is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which directly affects your total cost.


Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indians

Indian citizens visiting Bhutan must pay an SDF for stays beyond 24 hours.

Current SDF rates for Indians:

  • Adults (13 years and above): ₹1,200 per person per night

  • Children (6–12 years): ₹600 per child per night

  • Children below 6 years: No SDF

This fee is fixed by the Bhutan government and applies regardless of whether you travel independently or through a tour operator.


Major components of a Bhutan trip cost

1. Travel cost from India to Bhutan

Your entry route significantly affects your budget.

By road (most economical):

  • Entry via Phuentsholing or Gelephu

  • Travel to border by train or bus, then taxi

  • Approximate cost: ₹3,000–₹7,000 per person

By flight:

  • Direct or connecting flights to Paro

  • Limited seats and seasonal pricing

  • Approximate cost: ₹18,000–₹35,000 per person (round trip)


2. Accommodation cost in Bhutan

Hotel prices vary by location and season.

  • Budget hotels: ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night

  • Mid-range hotels: ₹3,500–₹6,000 per night

  • Luxury hotels: ₹10,000+ per night

Paro and Thimphu are slightly more expensive than Punakha and smaller towns.


3. Food expenses

Indian tourists generally spend:

  • ₹600–₹1,200 per day on meals

Indian food is widely available in Paro and Thimphu, which helps control costs.


4. Transport within Bhutan

If you are not self-driving, you will need a local vehicle with a driver.

  • Sedan or SUV with driver: ₹3,500–₹5,500 per day

  • Fuel and driver costs are usually included

Road distances in Bhutan are short, but travel time is longer due to mountain roads.


5. Permits and guide costs

  • Entry permits are required for areas beyond Paro and Thimphu

  • Guide requirement depends on itinerary and route

  • Costs are usually bundled into tour packages


Total Bhutan trip cost from India (realistic estimates)

5 days / 4 nights Bhutan trip

  • Budget: ₹28,000–₹35,000 per person

  • Mid-range: ₹38,000–₹48,000 per person

  • Luxury: ₹65,000+ per person

7 days / 6 nights Bhutan trip (most popular)

  • Budget: ₹40,000–₹48,000 per person

  • Mid-range: ₹52,000–₹65,000 per person

  • Luxury: ₹90,000+ per person

9–10 days Bhutan trip

  • Budget: ₹55,000–₹65,000 per person

  • Mid-range: ₹70,000–₹90,000 per person

  • Luxury: ₹1,20,000+ per person

These estimates include accommodation, internal transport, SDF, basic sightseeing and meals. Flights are usually extra.


Cost difference: road trip vs flight

  • Road trips are cheaper but take more time

  • Flights save time but increase total cost significantly

Many Indian travellers choose road entry and return by flight to balance cost and comfort.


Hidden costs Indians often miss

  • Extra SDF for unplanned additional nights

  • Festival season hotel surcharges

  • Last-minute flight fare increases

  • Monument entry fees at select sites

  • Tips for drivers or guides

Planning with a buffer helps avoid surprises.


Can Bhutan be done on a low budget?

Yes, but only with:

  • Road entry

  • Budget hotels

  • Shorter itineraries

  • Off-season travel

Even then, Bhutan is not a backpacker destination due to fixed SDF costs.


Final thoughts on Bhutan trip cost from India

Bhutan offers a high-quality travel experience with strong cultural preservation and environmental standards. For Indian tourists, the cost reflects this approach.

If you plan carefully, Bhutan delivers excellent value, especially for first-time international travellers seeking safety, cleanliness and cultural depth.