Currency & Costs

Understanding Currency and Costs in Bhutan: A Guide for Travelers

Planning a trip to Bhutan involves understanding the country’s unique currency, costs, and tourism policies. Bhutan’s daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) ensures that your visit contributes to the country’s sustainable development. This guide provides a detailed overview of currency, daily costs, and budgeting tips to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Currency in Bhutan

• Local Currency: The official currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR) at a 1:1 ratio.
• Indian Rupees: Indian Rupees are widely accepted, but high-denomination notes (₹500 and ₹2,000) may not be accepted everywhere.
• Currency Exchange:
• Exchange foreign currency at banks or authorized exchange counters in Paro, Thimphu, and other major towns.
• US Dollars, Euros, and other major currencies are accepted for exchange.
• ATMs and Credit Cards:
• ATMs are available in major towns like Thimphu and Paro but may not always accept international cards.
• Credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in urban areas. However, cash is preferred in rural and remote areas.

Daily Costs in Bhutan

1. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

• US$100 per day (per adult): Mandatory for all international tourists (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals).
• Concessionary Rates:
• Children aged 6-12: US$50 per day.
• Children below 6: No SDF.

2. Accommodation

• Luxury Hotels: Approximately US$200–500 per night (e.g., Aman, Six Senses, COMO Uma).
• Mid-Range Hotels: Approximately US$100–200 per night.
• Budget Hotels/Guesthouses: Approximately US$50–100 per night.

3. Food and Drinks

• Local Restaurants: Approximately US$5–10 per meal.
• Hotel Restaurants: Approximately US$15–30 per meal.
• Bottled Water: Approximately US$1–2 per bottle.

4. Transportation

• Private Car with Driver: Included in most tour packages.
• Local Taxis: Approximately US$1–2 per kilometer (for short trips within towns).

5. Activities and Entrance Fees

• Monasteries and Dzongs: Most cultural sites have no entrance fees, but donations are appreciated.
• Guided Tours: Included in most tour packages.
• Trekking Permits: Included in trekking packages.

6. Souvenirs and Shopping

• Handicrafts: Approximately US$10–50 (e.g., handmade textiles, wooden carvings).
• Postage Stamps: Bhutan is famous for its unique stamps, costing approximately US$1–5.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Luxury Travelers

• Daily Budget: Approximately US$300–500 (including SDF, luxury accommodation, meals, and activities).
• Example: A 7-day luxury tour may cost approximately US$2,500–3,500 per person.

Mid-Range Travelers

• Daily Budget: Approximately US$150–250 (including SDF, mid-range accommodation, meals, and activities).
• Example: A 7-day mid-range tour may cost approximately US$1,200–1,800 per person.

Budget Travelers

• Daily Budget: Approximately US$100–150 (including SDF, budget accommodation, meals, and activities).
• Example: A 7-day budget tour may cost approximately US$800–1,100 per person.

Tips for Managing Costs

1. Book Through a Tour Operator: Most tour packages include accommodation, meals, transportation, and guide services, making it easier to manage costs.
2. Carry Cash: While credit cards are accepted in urban areas, cash is essential for rural areas and small purchases.
3. Avoid High-Denomination Indian Notes: Indian Rupees are accepted, but ₹500 and ₹2,000 notes may not be widely accepted.
4. Respect Local Pricing: Bargaining is not common in Bhutan, so respect the prices set by local vendors.

Sample Cost Breakdown for a 7-Day Trip 

Important Note on Rates

The rates mentioned above are approximate and can vary depending on the season, availability, and specific services. Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

Plan Your Bhutan Adventure Today!

With this guide, you can confidently budget for your trip and make the most of your time in Bhutan. Contact us to customize your itinerary and ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.