Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a mesmerising destination known for its pristine landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual heritage. It is a very small landlocked country located between India and China. Bhutan is home to the world’s tallest unclimbed mountain, Gangkhar Puensum. This beautiful country has many more hidden gems like this waiting to be discovered and explored.
Bhutan for Indian travellers feels like a home away from home with many cultural and geographical similarities. However, there are certain entry requirements that Indian citizens need to fully understand and follow before embarking on their journey. In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive guide for travelling to Bhutan as an Indian citizen. From whether Indians need a visa for Bhutan to the process of acquiring entry permits and other important details, this blog has it all for you. Let’s start without any further delays!
Do Indians Need a Visa to Visit Bhutan?
The simplest answer is no. Indian citizens with a valid Indian passport do not require a visa to enter the country of Bhutan. This special arrangement between India and Bhutan can be credited to the 1949 Treaty of Friendship. The treaty was further revised in 2007, facilitating more seamless diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations between the two countries.
The Treaty of Friendship facilitates seamless travel for Indian citizens allowing them to to travel to Bhutan without a visa. Visa-free travel makes Bhutan one of the most easily accessible international destinations for Indians. However, a valid entry permit is still mandatory for Indian citizens planning on travelling to Bhutan. Acquiring an entry permit is a much more straightforward process.
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What is a Bhutan Entry Permit?
As we have already established, Indian citizens do not have to acquire a visa to visit Bhutan but they do need to have a valid entry permit issued by the concerned authorities. The Bhutan Entry Permit is an official document mandatorily required for Indian citizens to enter and travel within the country. The concerned Bhutanese authorities issue the permit as a substitute for the visa.
Key Details About the Bhutan Entry Permit
- Cost – The entry permit is free of charge, however, Indian citizens have to pay a small Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). The cost is as follows;
- Adult Indian tourists – INR 1200 per person per day.
- Children below 5 years – Exempted from SDF.
- Children aged 6 – 12 – 50% discount on SDF.
- Validity – Initially, the permit is valid for up to 7 days. If you wish to stay longer than 7 days, validity can be extended at the Immigration office in Thimphu. To extend the stay, travellers need to provide proof of hotel booking and a detailed itinerary.
- Usage Conditions – The permit is non-transferable. Every traveller needs to have their permit on them at all times while in Bhutan.
- Accessibility – The basic permit issued to the travellers allows them to travel to Thimphu and Paro. For other regions, a Special Area Permit is required.
Steps to Apply for a Bhutan Entry Permit Online
Indian citizens travelling to Bhutan are eligible to acquire an entry permit at the various entry points. However, it is more convenient and easy to apply for the permit before travelling to avoid any last-minute hassles. Here are the steps to follow;
- Visit the official portal of the Bhutan Immigration Services Portal (https://immi.gov.bt/home/).
- Create an account by registering with your phone number and email ID.
- Travellers applying online need to complete an application form by adding their name, address and travel information including their passport data.
- Once the application is complete, all the concerned documents need to be submitted. The documents include a passport copy, a scan of passport-sized photos and travel insurance for the entire duration of the stay.
- On successful completion of the application form and fee payment, apply.
- A confirmation of submission will appear after handing in the Application. Upon arriving at the entry points the permit gets issued to you automatically.
What is a Special Area Permit?
The entry permit issued to the travellers allows them to enter and explore Thimphu and Paro but for other areas of Bhuta, a special area permit needs to be acquired. It is issued only to those who have already entered Bhutan with a valid Entry Permit. A Special Area Permit gives access to less explored areas of Bhutan such as Bumthang, Gangtey, or Haa Valley.
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Steps to Obtain a Special Area Permit
- Once you are in Bhutan, visit the Immigration Office in Thimphu or Phuentsholing.
- Present your Entry Permit together with your passport and a completed application form.
- List all the restricted locations to which you plan to visit.
- Pay the requested fee (if any).
- Obtain the Special Area Permit. Usually, it is issued on the same day, allowing you to explore the restricted areas.
Documents Needed for a Bhutan Visa for Indians
Indian citizens do not exactly require a visa to visit Bhutan but they need to get a valid permit and the following documents are required to be submitted;
- A valid passport with atleast six months of validity beyond the planned travel dates to enter Bhutan.
- A Voter ID Card can also be used alternatively in the absence of a valid passport.
- Recent and clear passport-sized photographs.
- Proof of accommodation in Bhutan such as a hotel booking.
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) payment receipt (1200 per person per day).
- Your travel schedule must be listed in complete detail.
Note: The exact documents needed might vary. It is recommended that the travellers confirm the documents required with the Royal Bhutanese Embassy in New Delhi.
Basic Eligibility to Enter Bhutan
Indian citizens need to necessarily meet the following requirements to enter Bhutan successfully;
- Valid ID Proof – Passport or Voter ID card.
- Entry Permit – Obtained online or on arrival.
- Vaccination Certificate – Not mandatory but recommended.
- Travel Insurance – Although it is optional, it is recommended to have travel insurance for the entire duration of the trip.
- COVID-19 Guidelines – Check for any updated travel advisories related to health protocols.
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Provisions for Entering Bhutan with a Private Vehicle
Since Bhutan is accessible via road for Indian travellers, it is possible to drive across this beautiful country in the comfort of your own vehicle. However, there are certain requirements that one would need to meet before being allowed to travel to Bhutan with their vehicle;
- Documents Required:
- Registration Certificate (RC)
- Insurance
- Valid Driver’s License
- Recent Pollution Certificate
- Authorisation letter (if applicable)
- Permit Application – To bring your vehicle, you can apply for a permit, either online or at entry points.
- Validity – The permit for the vehicle lasts as long as the visit permit.
- Restrictions – Vehicles are allowed only in designated areas of Bhutan. For other areas, you may need additional permits.
Entry Points for Indian Citizens to Visit Bhutan
Indian citizens visiting Bhutan can enter the country through the following points of entry.
- By Air – Paro International Airport. It is the only international airport in Bhutan.
- By Road – There are multiple entry ports for Indian citizens travelling to Bhutan by road.
- Phuentsholing – It serves as the most popular entry point connecting West Bengal and Bhutan.
- Gelephu – Another important entry point that connects Assam and Bhutan.
- Samdrup Jongkhar – Connects Assam and Bhutan.
Bhutan Travel Restrictions & Regulations
- Bhutan imposes strict restrictions on tobacco production and consumption. Tourists need to obtain special permission to transport any kind of tobacco products.
- Drones are not permitted to be used in Bhutan unless approve by Bhutanese authorities.
- The Indian Rupees (INR) is widely accepted across Bhutan.
- Bhutan requires tourists to contribute to the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) every day as this fee supports conservation and national development initiatives.
- People visiting Bhutan must always have a licensed guide from the country to show them around the restricted locations outside of established town zones.
Conclusion
Indian citizens can have an enriching travel experience while visiting Bhutan. They do not need a visa to enter; instead, they need an entry permit, which is obtained through a simple procedure making travelling to Bhutan even more accessible. Bhutan is a mystical land promising enriching experiences in whatever it is that you choose to do. Irrespective of whether you are exploring the vibrant streets of Thimphu or the serene valleys of Paro or another area with mountains, lakes and never-ending peace and serenity, Bhutan is sure to offer an unforgettable journey. Collect all your necessary documents, receive the permits and you are all set to embark on this beautiful journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Indians travel to Bhutan without a visa?
Yes, Indian citizens can travel to Bhutan by using their passport or a valid voter ID card and a necessary entry permit.
- How long can Indians stay in Bhutan with an Entry Permit?
The entry permit is valid for 7 days. Its validity can be extended at the immigration office in Thimphu if you wish to stay longer.
- Can I visit Bhutan with my private vehicle?
Yes, visitors can come to Bhutan with their private vehicles after obtaining the necessary permits and paying the prescribed fee.
- What is a Special Area Permit?
It is an official permit allowing visitors to explore restricted areas beyond the initially permitted areas like Paro and Thimphu.
- Can I obtain the Special Area Permit online?
No, it can only be secured once the visitor has entered Bhutan. This permit can be applied only at the immigration office in Thimphu.
- Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for Indian travellers visiting Bhutan?
Currently, there are no specific COVID-19 restrictions, but it’s advisable to check the latest guidelines before travelling.
- What are the entry permit options for Indian citizens?
Indians travelling to Bhutan can obtain on-arrival permit at various entry points. It can also be obtained online to avoid any last minute hassles.