If you’re planning to travel from Nepal to Bhutan, obtaining a Bhutan visa is the first step you need to take. The journey from Nepal to Bhutan can be accomplished through various means, such as crossing the Indian State of West Bengal to reach the Bhutanese border crossing at Phuentsholing, or by taking a direct flight from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport to Bhutan’s Paro International Airport.
Although Bhutan and Nepal are separated by a mere 63 kilometers at their closest points, it is not feasible to travel such a short distance. To reach Bhutan from Nepal, you must either take a 404-kilometer flight or travel overland across the 180-kilometer gap from Siliguri to Phuentsholing.
Once you have determined your preferred mode of transportation, securing your Bhutan visa becomes crucial.
Obtaining a Bhutan visa is a compulsory requirement for tourists planning to visit Bhutan from Nepal. This travel permit is essential for all nationalities, except for Indians, Bangladeshis, and Maldivians. Unlike typical visa processes through embassies or online applications, the Bhutan visa has unique regulations.
The Bhutan visa is exclusively issued through registered Bhutanese tour operators. It serves as a strict travel permit that grants entry into the last Himalayan kingdom for a specified duration, which is indicated on the visa application. It’s worth noting that individuals cannot apply for the visa independently; a recognized Bhutanese Tour Operator must facilitate it. The application process for the Bhutan visa is known for its stringent requirements, making it one of the most rigid visa procedures worldwide.
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Take a look at all the requirements for a Bhutan visa from Nepal:
Applying for a Bhutan visa from Nepal follows a specific procedure that differs from traditional embassy applications or online processes. Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining a Bhutan visa:
The only way to obtain a Bhutan visa is by booking a tour with a registered tour operator or travel agent recognized by the Tourism Council of Bhutan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bhutan. Ensure that your chosen operator is authorized to handle visa applications on your behalf.
Since Bhutan does not allow independent traveling, you must choose a tour package compulsorily. Similarly, you have to provide a pre-arranged itinerary. The tour package must clearly specify all dates, hotels, transportation, guides, and sightseeing activities.
After booking your tour and settling the required fees, your tour operator will initiate the visa application process. You will need to provide essential passport details such as your Full Name, Permanent Address, Nationality, Occupation, Passport Number, Date of issue and expiration, and Date and Place of Birth. Additionally, you’ll need to submit an electronic copy of your passport photo and scanned copies of your passport.
The next step is to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and the tour costs. The SDF is USD 100 per person (as of 20,25) and children under 12 years will get a discount. Meanwhile, the tour costs depend on the package you select. It usually covers all your activities in Bhutan, hotels, meals, guides, transportation, entrance fees, etc. You can pay the costs using the methods arranged by your tour operator. Your visa processing will begin once you have completed the payment.
Upon approval of your application, the Foreign Ministry will issue a visa clearance number in the form of a letter. This clearance number will be sent to your tour operator, as well as the immigration terminals at Paro International Airport and the Phuentsholing Border Checkpoint. It will also be shared with the national airlines of Bhutan, Druk Air, and Bhutan Airlines.
Once you receive the visa clearance number, you can proceed to book your flight to Bhutan. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines will require the clearance number before confirming your booking. Ensure the number matches the one provided to them by the Foreign Ministry. You must present the visa clearance letter at the immigration of Paro International Airport. Then, the immigration will stamp the actual visa on your passport.
By following these steps and working with a registered tour operator, you can successfully obtain a Bhutan visa and explore remarkable sites like the Punakha Dzong and other scenic destinations in Bhutan.
$950 $855
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Reach 3,750 M./12,300 Ft. (Tiger Nest ) in 08 Days
18 Days
When traveling to Bhutan from Nepal, there are specific visa fees that you need to be aware of. Here is a breakdown of the Bhutan visa fees:
By understanding the visa fees associated with traveling to Bhutan from Nepal and ensuring timely payment, you can smoothly proceed with your tour arrangements.
Visas for Bhutan are typically issued for a duration of 15 days. However, if your tour extends beyond this period or is shorter, the visa will be issued for the exact duration of your tour. The specific dates of validity are included in the Visa Clearance Letter, which is issued by the Department of Immigration in the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs in Thimphu.
If you wish to extend your stay in Bhutan, it is possible to extend your visa duration at an additional cost. Your tour operator will assist you in providing the necessary details of the extended itinerary. Before approval, you will be required to make the additional daily package fee payment to the designated bank account. The fee for visa extensions in Bhutan is typically around eight US dollars per person. The tour operator will handle the application for the visa extension on your behalf once the relevant payment is made.
The cancellation policy for your Bhutan trip largely depends on the policy of the tour operator you have chosen. However, it’s important to note that since most tour bookings occur approximately 30 days before the scheduled trip, a full refund is usually not possible. Refund policies may vary, and it is advisable to review the terms and conditions set by your tour operator. Regarding the visa itself, similar to visas from other countries, there is no refund available once the visa has been approved. Once the visa is issued, it cannot be canceled.
Understanding the validity, extension, and cancellation policies associated with the Bhutan visa and tour arrangements will help you plan your trip effectively and make informed decisions.
There are two main ways to travel from Nepal to Bhutan: overland and by air.
Whether you choose overland travel or air travel, both options provide access to the stunning landscapes and cultural wonders of Bhutan.
For a Nepal-Bhutan tour, additional visas or permits may be required depending on your mode of travel:
You must check your nationality’s specific visa requirements and fees and consult with the relevant embassies or consulates to ensure you have the correct visas and permits for your Nepal-Bhutan tour.
Independent applications for a Bhutan visa are not permitted. The Bhutanese government has a policy to regulate tourism and protect the country’s natural environment and cultural heritage. As a result, all Bhutan visas must be obtained through a registered tour operator or travel agent.
The tour operator or travel agent will handle the visa application process on your behalf. They will liaise with the Bhutan Tourism Council and the Department of Immigration in Bhutan to obtain the necessary visa clearance for your visit. This ensures that the number of tourists entering Bhutan is regulated and managed effectively.
It is important to note that the tour operator or travel agent will also arrange your accommodations, itinerary, and other travel services during your stay in Bhutan. The tour package and visa fees must be paid in full before the visa application can be processed.
By implementing this system, Bhutan aims to maintain its tourism industry’s sustainability and preserve the country’s unique cultural and environmental aspects.
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