On 20th June 2022, the Royal Government of Bhutan revised the Tourism Bill, after getting it approved by the lower and upper house of the parliament. The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is now increased from US$ 65 to US$ 200 per night per person.
The new Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$ 200 per person per night only covers the royalty for visa. This means a travelers will pay US$200 per night as SDF/royalty and pay additional for the actual travel cost; such as government approved hotels, vehicle, guide fee and meals. There is a discount of 50% on SDF for children below 6 years and 100% for children below 2 years of age.
Bhutan strongly believes in a sustainable approach towards tourism, in line with the philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Therefore, the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD200 goes towards activities that promote carbon-neutral tourism and building a more sustainable tourism sector. This includes offsetting the carbon footprint of tourists and up skilling workers in the travel industry.
Prior to 20th June 2022, a visitors would have to buy a Minimum Daily Package of USD 250/200 in order to get a visa for Bhutan.