About Bhutan

Packing for Bhutan requires careful planning, as the weather and activities can vary greatly depending on the time of year and region. Here’s a comprehensive packing list to ensure you’re well-prepared:

Clothing

General Clothing

• Light Layers: T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and light sweaters for layering.
• Warm Jacket: A fleece or down jacket for colder mornings and evenings, especially in winter or at higher altitudes.
• Comfortable Pants: Lightweight trekking or travel pants. Jeans are fine for city areas but not ideal for hiking.
• Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket and umbrella, especially if traveling during the monsoon (June–August).
• Thermal Underwear: Essential in winter (December–February) or for trekking.
• Gloves and Scarf: For chilly weather and windy conditions.
• Traditional Attire: You don’t need to bring traditional Bhutanese clothing, but respectful attire is required for visiting monasteries and festivals.

Footwear

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: For daily sightseeing and light hiking.
• Hiking Boots: If you plan to trek or hike (e.g., Tiger’s Nest).
• Sandals/Flip-Flops: For relaxing at hotels or short strolls.

Accessories

• Daypack: For carrying essentials during day trips or hikes.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Many hotels offer refill stations, reducing plastic waste.
• Sunglasses and Hat: To protect against strong sun, especially at higher altitudes.
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Essential for protecting your skin from the intense mountain sun.
• Camera: Bhutan is incredibly photogenic, so bring extra batteries and memory cards.

Personal Items

• Travel Documents: Passport, visa clearance letter, flight tickets, and travel insurance.
• Cash: Bhutan’s currency is the Ngultrum (Nu), but USD is widely accepted. ATMs are limited.
• Power Adapter: Bhutan uses Type D, Type G, and Type M outlets with 230V.
• Toiletries: Basic items like toothbrush, toothpaste, and any specific skincare products.

For Treks and Outdoor Activities

• Trekking Poles: Useful for longer or steeper treks.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: For evening treks or camping.
• Sleeping Bag: If your trek package doesn’t include one.
• Snacks: Energy bars or trail mix for hikes.

First Aid and Medication

• Personal Medications: Bring enough for your trip, as pharmacies are limited.
• Altitude Sickness Medicine: If trekking to higher altitudes.
• Basic First Aid Kit: Band-aids, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
• Motion Sickness Pills: For winding mountain roads.

Respectful Attire for Religious Sites

• Wear long pants or skirts and cover your shoulders when visiting monasteries, dzongs, or attending festivals.

Optional but Helpful Items:

• Binoculars: For wildlife spotting, especially in nature reserves.
• Guidebook or Notes: For additional context about Bhutan’s history and culture.
• Small Gifts: Bhutanese people appreciate small tokens, like postcards from your home country or candies for children (optional).

If you’re traveling during a specific season or for an activity like trekking, let me know—I can refine the list further for you!

Yes, As of June 2025, the Department of Tourism allows tourists to apply for a Bhutan visa independently. However, it is strongly recommended to go through a licensed local tour operator like Yuelkor Tours & Travel to ensure accuracy, compliance, and a seamless experience.

We handle all formalities on your behalf, including document collection, itinerary planning and visa coordination with the relevant government agencies.

Step-by-Step Visa Application Process:

-Confirm Your Travel Package & Make Payment:

Once you confirm your tour with us, you will make full payment for your travel package, which includes:

• 1) The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) (daily charge per person)
• 2) A one-time Visa Fee of USD 40

-Visa Application Submission

We will submit your completed visa application to the Department of Immigration via the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB).

Approved Visa:

After processing and approval, you will receive an copy of Visa from us.

What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a mandatory daily charge levied by the Royal Government of Bhutan to promote high-value, low-volume tourism and support national development goals.

1)Amount: USD 100 per person per night (as of 2025)

2)Purpose of SDF:

• – Supports free education and healthcare in Bhutan
• – Promotes environmental conservation and cultural preservation
• – Helps maintain infrastructure and tourism sustainability
•  

The SDF also ensures that tourism in Bhutan remains responsible, respectful, and aligned with Gross National Happiness values. 
 Your SDF contribution directly benefits the Bhutanese people and helps preserve the country’s pristine environment and rich heritage.

Required Documents for Visa Processing

To begin the visa application, we will request the following documents:

– Scanned Copy of Passport Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry.

– Recent Passport-Sized Photograph A clear, color photo that meets international passport standards.

Visa Processing Time

– Estimated Approval Time:7 to 14 business days from the date of application submission.

– Final Step Upon Arrival: Present your Visa Clearance Letter at Paro International Airport or any designated entry point, and immigration officers will issue your physical visa on arrival.

Additional Travel Permits & Services

Depending on your itinerary, we will arrange any additional permits or bookings required:

Special Area Permits

These are required for visits to restricted or protected regions such as:

• Bumthang
• Laya
• Trashigang
• Merak–Sakteng
• Other highland or border zones

Trekking Permits

Necessary for treks that pass through protected trails or national parks. We arrange all trekking permits in accordance with local regulations.

Flight Booking Assistance

We can book your flights to Bhutan via:

• Druk Air
• Bhutan Airlines All flights arrive at Bhutan’s only international airport in Paro and we ensure timely coordination with your travel plans or you can also purchase the online flight tickets

Arrival in Bhutan

At the point of entry:

• Show your Visa Clearance Letter
• Your physical visa will be issued and stamped into your passport
• Our representative will greet you and begin your guided journey through Bhutan

Travel Bhutan with Peace of Mind

With Yuelkor Tours & Travel handling your visa and documentation, you can relax and focus entirely on enjoying Bhutan’s unique culture, nature, and spiritual beauty.

Would you like help starting your visa process or customizing your itinerary? We’re ready to assist.

Trip Cancellation & Change Policy (As per 2025 Tourism Guidelines – Bhutan)

At Yuelkor Tours & Travel, we understand that plans may change. Our cancellation and change policies are designed in accordance with the Department of Tourism (DoT), Bhutan and follow industry-wide standards practiced by licensed Bhutanese tour operators.

Here’s what travelers need to know:

Cancellation Policy

All cancellations are subject to the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) guidelines and your selected travel package terms.

Refund Schedule:

• 30+ Days Before Arrival

Full refund of tour cost, minus administrative and applicable bank fees.

• 15–29 Days Before Arrival

50% refund of the tour cost.

• Less Than 15 Days Before Arrival

No refund, as key arrangements (visa, hotels, permits) are already confirmed and paid for.

Note: Visa fees, permits, and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) are generally non-refundable once processed.

Flight Cancellation & Changes

If your flights to Bhutan (booked via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines) need to be canceled or changed:

• Cancellation Fees:

Applied based on the airline’s ticketing policy and how far in advance the flight is canceled.

• Date Change Fees:

Rescheduling may incur additional charges. Early notice allows for more flexibility and lower fees. Airline tickets are often non-refundable or partially refundable based on fare class.

Changes to Travel Plans

Before Arrival:

– Itinerary changes (e.g., swapping destinations or adjusting sightseeing) can be made at no cost, depending on timing and service availability.

– Upgrades or added services (luxury hotels, special permits) may incur extra fees.

During Your Trip:

– Changes to hotels, routes, or activities are possible but subject to availability.

– Any additional services used (e.g., hotel nights, new permits, transport changes) will be billed accordingly.

✍️ Changes made after arrival may require re-approval of certain permits, especially in restricted or protected areas.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) Policy

– The SDF is USD 100 per person per night (as of 2025).

– Non-refundable once your visa is processed, even if your trip is shortened or canceled.

– This fee supports Bhutan’s long-term development goals in health, education, and environmental conservation.

Tips to Minimize Cancellation Losses

– Cancel Early: Notify us as soon as possible to maximize any eligible refund.

– Review Policies: Understand cancellation terms before confirming your booking.

– Consider Rescheduling: Many tour operators (including us) allow rebooking your trip to future dates with minimal penalty, subject to terms and availability.

If your flight to Bhutan is delayed or canceled, the steps and options available depend on the circumstances of the disruption, the airline’s policies, and how your travel plans are structured. Here’s how to handle such a situation:

1. If Your Flight is Delayed or Canceled Before Arriving in Bhutan

Contact Your Airline

• Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines: These are the only carriers flying into Bhutan. Reach out to them immediately for rebooking or assistance.
• Policy for Delays and Cancellations:
  • Airlines may offer rebooking for the next available flight.
  • Refunds or alternative arrangements depend on the airline’s cancellation policy.

Notify Your Bhutanese Travel Agent

• They can adjust your itinerary to accommodate the delay and rearrange transportation, guides, and accommodations.
• Any additional costs (e.g., missed hotel stays or new arrangements) will likely be your responsibility.

Travel Insurance

• If you have travel insurance, check if it covers trip delays, missed connections, or cancellations. Many policies reimburse additional expenses such as hotel stays and meals during unexpected delays.

2. If Your Flight is Delayed or Canceled While Leaving Bhutan

Contact the Airline

• Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines will rebook you on the next available flight.
• You may need to wait for the next flight day, as flights to and from Bhutan are limited.

Extend Your Stay

• Your travel agent can help extend your hotel stay or arrange alternative accommodations until your rescheduled flight.
• Ensure your visa or permits remain valid. In most cases, they can be extended if required.

Travel Insurance

• Insurance may cover extended accommodation and meal costs if the delay exceeds a specified duration.

3. Tips to Manage Flight Issues

• Book Flexible Flights: When possible, choose tickets with flexible change or cancellation policies.
• Buffer Time: If your trip involves connecting flights to Bhutan, schedule ample layover time to avoid missed connections.
• Have a Backup Plan: Keep a list of alternative flights or nearby cities with connections to Paro (e.g., Delhi, Bangkok, Kathmandu).
• Stay Informed: Monitor weather conditions and airline updates, especially during monsoon or winter seasons when flights are more likely to be affected.

4. Assistance from Bhutanese Authorities

• Bhutanese authorities and tour operators are generally very accommodating and will do their best to help you navigate disruptions.

Would you like tips on travel insurance, flexible flight options, or how to build buffer time into your itinerary?