Bhutan travel guide for Britons

All foreign nationals, including British passport holders, need a visa to enter Bhutan. Visas are issued only through a Bhutanese licensed tour operator who also arranges a guide and driver.

The operator must submit a visa application on your behalf; you receive a visa clearance letter to present on arrival at Paro Airport.

A Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $200 USD per night is payable to the government, usually collected by the operator.

Bhutan does not host a United Kingdom embassy. The nearest UK diplomatic mission is the High Commission in New Delhi, India.

The main mandatory cost is the Sustainable Development Fee of $200 USD per night, roughly £160 (2026 estimate). Additional expenses include accommodation, meals, internal transport and guide fees, typically adding £50‑£100 per day depending on standard.

A 7‑day itinerary therefore starts around £1,120 for SDF plus £350‑£700 for other costs, total £1,500‑£1,800.

Direct flights to Paro are limited; most travellers connect via Delhi, Bangkok or Kathmandu. Typical total travel time from London is 14‑18 hours including layovers.

Bhutan is UTC+6 year‑round, 5‑6 hours ahead of the UK depending on British Summer Time.

Plugs: Types D, F and G, 230 V 50 Hz – UK plugs fit directly.

Tipping: Expected for guide and driver at the end of the trip; amount is at your discretion, usually £5‑£10 per day.

Emergency numbers: 113 police, 112 ambulance, 110 fire.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all visitors to Bhutan.

Emergency numbers: 113 police, 112 ambulance, 110 fire.

Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting monasteries, and remove shoes before entering temples.

Tipping is expected for guides and drivers at the end of the trip.