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This article keeps the decision near the top, separates planning guidance from changing conditions and points you back to the complete internal library.
Browse the full Bhutan library →The officially published SDF is USD 100 per adult per night for most international visitors, USD 50 for children aged 6–11 and zero for children under six. Indian citizens pay Nu./INR 1,200 per adult per night, Nu./INR 600 for ages 6–11 and zero under six.
What the SDF is
The Sustainable Development Fee is a government levy charged by night. It is not a complete daily tour package and does not automatically include a hotel, guide, vehicle, meals, flights, monument admission or activities.
A useful quotation shows the SDF on its own line, identifies the number of chargeable nights and records every traveller's age and passport category.
International and Indian rates
- Most international visitors: USD 100 per adult per night.
- International children aged 6–11: USD 50 per night.
- International children under six: no SDF.
- Indian adults: Nu./INR 1,200 per night.
- Indian children aged 6–11: Nu./INR 600 per night.
- Indian children under six: no SDF.
Visa fee and other costs
For visa-paying visitors, the official portal lists a separate, non-refundable USD 40 visa application fee. Guide, transport and accommodation are separately purchased services. Ask whether taxes, monument fees, festival supplements, domestic flights and cancellation charges are included.
How to audit a quotation
- Match chargeable nights to the arrival and departure record.
- Check age concessions against travel dates.
- Separate government fees from supplier services.
- Confirm currency and exchange-rate treatment.
- Request cancellation and refund terms before payment.
Useful answers
Frequently asked questions
What is the current adult SDF?
The Department of Tourism currently publishes USD 100 per adult per night for most international visitors.
Is the visa fee included?
No. The official portal lists a separate USD 40 visa application fee for visa-paying visitors.
Do children pay?
Ages 6–11 pay half the adult SDF; children under six pay no SDF.
Does the SDF include a guide?
No. The certified guide requirement and the guide service charge are separate from the government levy.
Sources and fact-checking
Rules, prices, access, weather and local procedures can change. Reconfirm current conditions before travel.
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