Bhutan – the mystical kingdom nestled in the Himalayas – offers travelers from around the world a rare and deeply spiritual experience. For Australians seeking serenity, adventure, and cultural immersion, this small nation promises an unforgettable escape from the hustle of modern life. But how do you travel to Bhutan from Australia? What are the visa requirements, flight options, and insider tips to make your trip smooth and memorable?
7 Steps for Traveling to Bhutan From Australia
Get Your Bhutan Visa
Unlike most countries, you cannot apply for a Bhutan visa independently. All travelers must go through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator like Go Bhutan Tours or an Australian travel agency partnered with one. Once your Bhutan trip from Australia is confirmed and payment is made, our operator will process your visa with the Bhutanese government.
- Visa approval is issued electronically. You’ll receive an e-Visa clearance letter to present upon arrival.
- The visa is typically processed in 3–5 business days.
Note: No Bhutan visa on arrival is available. All must be pre-arranged.
Pay Bhutan Visa Fee
As of 2025, all international travelers are required to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per night. This fee goes toward environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and infrastructure development.
- Your total visa and SDF costs will be included in your travel package.
- Some discounts apply for longer stays or during low season.
This SDF is part of Bhutan’s "High Value, Low Impact" tourism policy, ensuring sustainable travel experiences.
Arrange Australia to Bhutan Flights
There are no direct flights from Australia to Bhutan. You will need to transit via cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, or Singapore. The final leg of your journey will be operated by Bhutan’s two airlines: Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines, flying into Paro International Airport (PBH).
Popular transit routes from Australia:
- Sydney → Bangkok → Paro
- Melbourne → Delhi → Paro
- Brisbane → Singapore → Paro
Booking early is recommended, as flights to Paro are limited and often full during peak seasons.
Secure Bhutan Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory when visiting Bhutan. Your policy must cover:
- Emergency evacuation
- Medical treatment
- Trip cancellation or delay
- Lost baggage
Many Bhutan tours for Australian travelers include this insurance in their package. Still, double-check the coverage or purchase an additional international policy from an Australian insurer.
Prepare For Health And Safety
No specific vaccinations are required for Australians to enter Bhutan, but it’s wise to be up to date with:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus
- COVID-19 (some restrictions may still apply)
Bhutan is generally very safe, with low crime and excellent local hospitality. However, the altitude (especially in Paro and Bumthang) can cause discomfort for some travelers. Take it slow for the first few days.
Discover What To Expect Upon Arrival
When you land at Paro Airport, your Bhutanese guide will greet you and begin the tour right away. From airport pick-up to hotel check-in, your trip will be organized professionally and smoothly.
- Australian SIM cards do not work in Bhutan. Buy a local Bhutan SIM card upon arrival.
- Upon arrival in Paro, your guide and driver will meet you at the airport. All transport is pre-arranged, so you can relax and enjoy the scenic drives through Bhutan’s mountains.
- You’ll get to taste traditional Bhutanese food like ema datshi (chili cheese), momos (dumplings), and pork with radish. Vegetarian and international dishes are also widely available.
- Your tour includes visits to top Bhutan attractions such as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, and Buddha Dordenma, offering a rich mix of nature, culture, and history.
Your adventure starts immediately — from temples and monasteries to Himalayan trails and cultural festivals.
Manage Currency And Payments
The Bhutan currency is the Ngultrum (BTN). Indian Rupees are also widely accepted. However:
- Credit cards are accepted only in major hotels and souvenir shops.
- Cash is essential for local markets and rural areas.
We recommend carrying AUD and exchanging it in Thimphu or Paro. Alternatively, withdraw BTN at local ATMs using international debit cards (check foreign transaction fees in advance).
Essential Tips For Best Bhutan Tours From Australia
To make your experience smooth and unforgettable, here are key tips to consider when planning travel to Bhutan from Australia.
Book a Licensed Tour Operator
All Bhutan tours must be organized through government-approved operators. Choose agencies experienced with Australian clients who understand your expectations, dietary needs, and travel standards.
Some Australian travel companies are partnered directly with Bhutanese operators and can help with everything — including flights, insurance, visa, and cultural guidance.
📞 Got questions or looking for something more private and authentic in Bhutan?
Fill this Contact Form. Our travel expert will help you to customize authentic Bhutan Tours
Consider Bhutan Trip Duration & Region
Most Australians opt for 7 to 10-day tours, which typically cover:
- Paro (Tiger’s Nest, local markets)
- Thimphu (capital, museums, night markets)
- Punakha (fortress, river valley views)
- Bumthang (central Bhutan’s spiritual heart)
For trekking lovers, add Phobjikha Valley or the Druk Path trek.
Best Time to travel to Bhutan from Australia
The best times to travel to Bhutan from Australia are:
- Spring (March–June) – for rhododendron blooms and festivals
- Autumn (October–November) – for clear skies and major cultural celebrations
Avoid the monsoon season (July–August) unless you prefer fewer crowds and green landscapes.
Be Mindful of the SDF Cost
Since the SDF can be significant over multiple nights, consider:
- Shorter itineraries with high-quality experiences
- Off-season travel when discounts or incentives may be available
- Custom tours that focus on fewer regions to reduce travel costs
Your tour operator can advise how to get the best value without compromising on experience.
Where to buy Bhutan SIM Card?
Internet access in Bhutan is available at most hotels and restaurants, but connection speed varies by region.
- Buy a Bhutan SIM card at the airport (TashiCell or B-Mobile)
- Use apps like Google Translate offline
- Share your itinerary with friends/family before departure
Staying connected helps in emergencies and keeps you socially active on the road.
Customize Your Bhutan Tours
While most Bhutan tours follow a set route, tailor-made itineraries are very possible and recommended. You can chose from:
- Classic Tours: Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s cultural treasures by exploring centuries-old monasteries, majestic dzongs, and authentic villages. These journeys showcase the nation's rich history, intricate architecture, and spiritual depth, offering insight into its distinct heritage.
- Festival Tours: Witness the energy and color of Bhutan’s iconic Tshechus, where masked dances, sacred music, and age-old rituals come to life. These events provide an intimate look into the country’s vibrant religious and cultural traditions.
- Trekking Tours: Venture through Bhutan’s breathtaking scenery on foot, following trails that wind through quiet valleys and over mountain passes. These treks offer close encounters with nature, local communities, and untouched wilderness.
- Adventure Tours: Embrace adrenaline-filled experiences such as white-water rafting, mountain biking, and rock climbing. These tours blend adventure with the exploration of Bhutan’s dramatic landscapes.
- Birding Tours: Take part in expert-led birdwatching excursions to observe Bhutan’s remarkable birdlife. With habitats ranging from lush forests to alpine heights, Bhutan is a haven for spotting rare and colorful species.
Customize your travel to Bhutan from Australia here.
Respect Local culture
Bhutan is one of the most culturally preserved countries in the world. Show respect by:
- Dressing modestly in temples
- Removing shoes before entering religious sites
- Not touching statues or shrines
- Asking permission before taking photos of people
Bhutanese people are warm and welcoming - a little respect goes a long way in creating mutual appreciation.
