Embarking on a journey to the Kingdom of Bhutan offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the world’s most secluded and spiritually rich destinations. For those planning to travel to Bhutan from USA, the experience promises breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, centuries-old monasteries, and a deep immersion into Bhutan’s unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Go Bhutan Tours has a variety of Bhutan tours from USA that cater to every type of traveler. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and expert tips to help you plan your once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
7 Steps for Traveling to Bhutan From USA
1. Get Your Bhutan Visa
All travelers from the USA (and most nationalities) must obtain a Bhutan tourist visa in advance. You cannot get a visa on arrival, nor can you apply directly - your trip must be booked via a licensed Bhutan travel agency, like Go Bhutan Tours.
Documents Needed for Bhutan Visa:
- Passport scan (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport-size photo
- Confirmed tour booking via a licensed Bhutanese tour operator
- Visa fee: USD 40
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 100/night (USD 50/night for kids 6–11)
- Travel insurance (may be required)
Processing Time:
- 5-10 business days after submission by your tour operator
- You’ll receive a visa clearance letter by email to show at check-in and upon arrival
2. Pay Bhutan Visa Fee
There are two essential fees:
- Visa fee: USD 40 per person for a tourist visa
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 100 per night per adult (USD 50 for kids aged 6–11; under 6 free)
3. Arrange Your Flight To Bhutan
There are no direct flights from the USA to Bhutan. You’ll fly via major Asian hubs to Paro International Airport (PBH) - the only international gateway in Bhutan:
- Via Bangkok (BKK): Frequent Druk Air/Bhutan Airlines flights; ideal for West Coast departure
- Via Delhi (DEL) or Kolkata (CCU): Another popular transit route; East Coast USA travelers often connect here
- Via Kathmandu (KTM): Scenic Himalayan route
Airlines: Only Druk Air (Bhutan’s flag carrier) and Bhutan Airlines fly into Paro.
Key tips:
- Flight times vary: ~1h from Kolkata, ~2h from Delhi/Bangkok.
- Schedules depend on weather and season - book 6+ months in advance
- Indian transit may require a transit visa.
4. Secure Bhutan Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory:
- Must cover medical emergencies, including evacuation - especially critical given Bhutan’s remote mountain terrain
- Should include trip cancellation/interruption, lost luggage, and COVID-19 coverage if relevant.
5. Prepare For Health And Safety
Bhutan’s altitude (Paro ~2,200 m / 7,200 ft) requires some precautions:
- Update routine vaccinations (measles, tetanus, etc.) - no special shots required
- To avoid altitude sickness: hydrate, rest on arrival, and avoid heavy exertion on day one .
Additional safety tips:
- Pack layered clothing - temperatures can swing 10–15 °C from day to night.
- Bring sun protection - strong UV at altitude.
- Stick to food safety advice and stay informed on local advisories.
6. Discover What To Expect Upon Arrival
Upon landing in Bhutan:
- You'll pass through immigration with your visa clearance letter and necessary forms
- A local guide and driver will likely meet you - most tour packages include private guides and transportation.
- Bhutan resorts ranges from luxury lodges to cozy farm stays—your operator books these in advance.
- Bhutan Traditional Foods: Try dishes like ema datshi, momo, and pork with radish. Vegetarian and international options are available too.
7. Manage Currency And Payments
Bhutan currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), pegged to the Indian Rupee. U.S. dollars are not accepted locally.
What to do:
- Exchange USD to BTN before arriving (India or Bangkok are good options).
- Carry cash, as ATMs are scarce outside main towns.
- Credit/debit cards may work in upscale hotels but carry backup cash in case of network issues.
Tips For Best Bhutan Tours From USA
1. Book a Licensed Tour Operator
Bhutan enforces a High Value, Low Volume tourism policy - visitors must be on licensed, guided packages. Look for operators with:
- Stellar reviews
- Tailored itineraries (culture, trekking, wellness)
- Pre-included visa/SDF/insurance
📞 Got questions or looking for something more private and authentic in Bhutan?
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2. Consider Bhutan Trip Duration & Region
- 5 - 7 days covers Western highlights: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Tiger’s Nest.
- 7 - 10 days is ideal for adding Bumthang or eastern valleys.
You can find more Bhutan Tours in here.
3. Best Time To Travel to Bhutan From Australia
- Spring (Mar - May) and Autumn (Sep - Nov) offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and cultural festivals.
- Flights fill fast; book 8+ months early .
4. Be Mindful of the SDF Cost
The Sustainable Development Fee ($100/night) is non-negotiable. US travelers pay USD 100 regardless of destination within Bhutan. Kids 6–11 pay USD 50. This fee supports Bhutan's developmental goals.
5. Where to buy Bhutan SIM Card?
- Buy a Local Bhutan SIM Card: International SIM cards often don’t function in Bhutan, so it’s best to purchase a local SIM card once you arrive if you need mobile connectivity.
- Internet Access is Limited: While most hotels and some public spaces offer Wi-Fi, the connection can be slower than what you may be accustomed to.
6. Customize Your Tour
Go Bhutan Tours offers a variety of tour packages for travellers from USA:
- Classic Tours: Explore Bhutan’s rich culture by visiting ancient monasteries, impressive dzongs, and traditional villages. These tours highlight Bhutan’s history, architecture, and spiritual traditions, giving you a deep understanding of the country’s unique heritage.
- Festival Tours: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bhutan’s famous festivals, or Tshechus, featuring colorful masked dances, music, and rituals. These lively celebrations offer a rare glimpse into Bhutanese religious and cultural life.
- Trekking Tours: Discover Bhutan’s beautiful landscapes on foot through scenic trekking routes. From peaceful valleys to mountain passes, these treks allow you to enjoy nature, meet local villagers, and see pristine wilderness up close.
- Adventure Tours: For the thrill-seekers, adventure tours offer activities like rafting, mountain biking, and rock climbing. These tours combine excitement with exploration of Bhutan’s rugged terrain and natural beauty.
- Birding Tours: Join guided birdwatching tours to spot Bhutan’s diverse bird species in their natural habitats. Bhutan’s forests and mountains are home to many rare and exotic birds, making it a paradise for bird lovers.
7. Respect Local culture
Bhutanese are deeply spiritual, with strong Buddhism tradition. Observe:
- No loud noise in dzongs/monasteries
- Dress modestly - shoulders and knees covered
- Follow local customs (bowing, removing shoes, etc.)
