When traveling to Bhutan as a tourist, visitors must pay a daily tariff and a Sustainable Development Fee or SDF, which covers a range of services. However, there are also certain costs that are not included in this tariff. Below is a breakdown of what is included and what is not included in the daily tariff.

The per day tariff to visit Bhutan for international tourists primarily consists of daily tariff and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). Here's how the cost breaks down:

For International Tourists:

• Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 200 per person, per day.

This fee does not include accommodation, meals, transportation, or guided services. The SDF of USD 200 per day for international tourists, which goes towards the country’s environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and infrastructure development.

For Tourists from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives:

• SDF: Nu 1,200 per person, per day (approximately USD 15 per day).

This fee does not include accommodation, meals, transportation, or guided services. The SDF of USD 200 per day for international tourists, which goes towards the country’s environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and infrastructure development.

Total Per Day Cost (Estimate for International Tourists):

For international tourists, the per-day tariff can vary significantly depending on your preferences for accommodation and other services. Typically, the total cost per day may range between:

• USD 150 to USD 350 per person, per day, depending on the level of accommodation (e.g., 3-star, 4-star, 5-star), meals, transport, and any special activities or experiences.

What's Included in the Daily Tariff:

1. Accommodation:

   • 3-star hotels are typically included in the daily tariff. The accommodations are pre-arranged by tour operators and are comfortable, clean, and in line with Bhutan's cultural ethos.
   • If tourists wish to stay in luxury hotels (4-star or 5-star), an additional surcharge applies.

2. Meals:

   • The daily tariff covers three meals per day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are typically served in the hotels or at local restaurants and feature Bhutanese and continental cuisine.

3. Licensed Tour Guide:

   • A licensed English-speaking tour guide is included to accompany you throughout your trip, provide insights into Bhutanese culture and history, and ensure compliance with Bhutan's tourism regulations.

4. Transportation:

   • Transport within Bhutan (including a driver and vehicle) is included for sightseeing and traveling between destinations. The mode of transport varies depending on the number of travelers and the terrain.

5. Entrance Fees:

   • Entry fees to various monasteries, dzongs (fortresses), museums, and other tourist attractions are covered.

6. Camping Equipment & Supplies (for trekking trips):

   • For those opting for treks, the tariff includes camping equipment, cooks, and support staff.

What's Not Included in the Daily Tariff:

1. Flights to/from Bhutan:

   • The cost of international flights to Bhutan (typically via Drukair or Bhutan Airlines) is not included in the daily tariff and must be purchased separately. Common departure points are Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore.

2. Luxury Accommodation or Upgrades:

   • If you choose to stay in luxury hotels (4-star or 5-star), there will be an additional surcharge on top of the daily tariff.

3. Personal Expenses:

   • Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, souvenirs, and additional snacks or beverages beyond the standard meal plan are not included.

4. Travel Insurance:

   • Travel insurance is not included in the daily tariff. Tourists are advised to purchase travel insurance before their trip to cover any emergencies.

5. Alcohol and Extra Beverages:

   • While basic meals are covered, alcoholic drinks and certain extra beverages like premium teas, coffee, or bottled drinks may incur additional charges.

6. Visa Fee:

   • The visa processing fee of USD 40 is not included in the daily tariff and is a one-time fee that must be paid before arriving in Bhutan.

7. Additional Tours/Activities:

   • Special activities such as hot stone baths, rafting, or private cultural performances may require additional payments and are not included in the standard tariff.

8. Tipping:

   • Tips for guides and drivers are not covered and are left to the discretion of the traveler.

Summary of Costs:

• Included: SDF, 3-star accommodation, meals, guide, transportation, entry fees, camping for treks.
• Not Included: Flights, luxury hotel upgrades, personal expenses, travel insurance, alcohol, visa fee, extra tours/activities, tipping