1. What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?

From our reopening on 23^rd September year 2022, visitors to Bhutan will make an active contribution to Bhutan’s economic, social and cultural development.

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) enables investment in transformative programmes that preserve our cultural traditions, protect our heritage and environment, upgrade infrastructure, create opportunities for our young people, and build resilience. Since the opening of tourism in the year 1974, guests have played a critical goal in Bhutan’s development and this relationship is very important to safeguard, protect and preserve the Kingdom of Bhutan and its priceless assets.

This fee also helps to ensure that Guests to Bhutan are in sustainable numbers and we can continue to offer our Guests tranquillity and intimate experience.

2. How much is the SDF and where do the funds go?

• Visitors are levied SDF of USD 200 per person, per night.
• There will be a concessionary levy of 50% on the SDF for children between the ages of 6-12 years and exemptions of SDF for children aged 5 years and below.
• The SDF funds go to the national exchequer and are allocated to various projects that enhance facilities, services and infrastructure for nationals and guests who visit Bhutan, as well as funding free healthcare and education.

GOOD DEAL/DISCOUNT : As of 1st June 2023, any tours booked between 1st June 2023 and 31st December 2023, with travel within these six months, the Bhutan Government has given the following deal with regards to SDF. This measure is taken to restart the Bhutan tourism after the covid 9 pandemic, since Bhutan was one of the last countries to open to tourists ;

4+4 – If you pay the SDF for 4 nights, then for the next 4 nights, there will be no SDF charged

7+7 – If you pay the SDF for 7 nights, then for the next 7 nights, there will be no SDF charged

12+18 – If you pay the SDF for 12 nights, then for the next 18 nights, there will be no SDF charged

3. How can the SDF payment be made?

• The SDF must be paid during the visa or permit application via wire transfer or using a credit card. Your Local Tour Operator can assist you efficiently
• The SDF must be paid in USD. A guest who is eligible for a visa on arrival, should also pay the applicable SDF in USD at the port of entry.

4. OTHER FEES:

• Entrance Fees to certain monuments and parks where entrance fee is applicable
• Bhutan Visa Fee of USD 40 per person and it is Non-Refundable