Spring
Popular for pleasant temperatures, flowers and clearer hiking conditions, though weather still varies by altitude.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Start with the basics.
Start with your dates and how long you have. Then choose where to go, how to enter Bhutan, the hotel level you want and the experiences that matter to you.
Start my plan ↗
WHEN TO GO
There isn’t one “best” season.
Your ideal month depends on weather, views, festivals, crowds and how much flexibility you have.
Summer / monsoon
Greener landscapes and fewer visitors, with more rain and cloud risk. Good planning matters if mountain views are a priority.
Autumn
A popular period for clearer skies, festivals and trekking. High demand can make early planning useful.
Winter
Cold mornings but often crisp days in western valleys. A quieter option if you dress for the season.
HOW MANY DAYS?
Six or seven days works well for a first trip.
4–5 daysParo + Thimphu, with Tiger’s NestCompact
6–7 daysAdd Punakha without rushingClassic first trip
8–10 daysAdd Phobjikha, festivals or more local timeMore time to explore
10+ daysConsider Bumthang, eastern Bhutan or longer treksGo farther
ENTRY & SDF
Nationality changes the entry process.
These figures are current official guidance as reviewed in September 2026; verify again before booking.
Permit + lower SDF rate
Indian travellers currently use a permit rather than a visa and pay Nu/INR 1,200 per adult per night.
Read the India guide →Visa + USD SDF
Bhutan’s official tourism guidance currently states a USD 100 per adult per night SDF for countries other than India, with a USD 40 visa application fee for visitors who require a visa.
Check official visa guidance ↗A FEW PRACTICALS
What travellers often ask.
Do I have to book through a tour operator?
No. Bhutan’s official FAQ says travellers can book independently, although accredited operators are available if you want help arranging the trip.
Is a guide mandatory?
Yes under current official guidance. Visitors are required to be accompanied by a guide while travelling around Bhutan.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
No. Bhutan removed the mandatory insurance requirement in April 2024, but official guidance still strongly recommends travel insurance.
Are route permits still required?
Current official guidance says tourists no longer require route permits when accompanied by a Department of Tourism-certified guide, except for restricted/prohibited areas and specific situations.