Is Passport Required for Bhutan? Experts Latest Guide 2025

The big question is that Is passport required for Bhutan? The travel plan involves a peaceful Himalayan trip to Bhutan for 2025. Many Indian travellers need to know whether a passport is needed to visit Bhutan. Travellers need to watch for changes in protocols and regulations for their trips ahead. Travellers should prepare proper documentation when traversing Bhutan by air or road, ensuring their journey remains without complications. The guideline provides all essential information regarding passport needs, permits, and current travel regulations for Indians travelling to Bhutan. Let’s dive deep into finding more about  Is passport required for Bhutan from india by air?

Latest Facts & News (2025): Start Your Journey with Confidence

• As of 2025, Indian citizens enjoy privileged entry into Bhutan, but must comply with updated procedures and documentation:

• People of Indian nationality can enter Bhutan without a visa in 2025 but they must follow the current procedural requirements.

• As an Indian citizen entry without a visa is possible but you need an Entry Permit for traveling purposes.

• Indian citizens must show either their valid passport valid for 6 months or their Voter Identity Card to enter the country.

• Indian nationals may enter Bhutan through either Paro Airport by air or Phuentsholing by road.

• Traveling minors between 18 and 18 must present their passport or original English birth certificate accompanied by one or both of their parents.

• Standard Entry Permits restrict access to travelers in both Thimphu and Paro cities only. Other regions of Bhutan can only be visited using special permits.

• Indian tourists must pay an amount of Rs. 1,200 as Sustainable Development Fee per night. Discounts are available for children.

• A requirement from the government demands tourists in Bhutan to book their vacations through official local tour operators.

• A compulsory travel insurance is recommended for all visitors.

• The currency regulation allows Indian citizens to bring Rs. 25,000 rupees in Indian notes where the denominations are Rs. 500 or lower.

• To buy a local SIM card in Bhutan you need original passport documents together with a picture of yourself.

Planning a trip to Bhutan from India?Wondering  Is passport required for Bhutan from india by air? Discover the latest rules, documents, and insider tips to ensure your journey is smooth, hassle-free, and fully compliant with 2025 regulations!

Is Passport Required for Bhutan from India?

When the question is asked  Is passport required for Bhutan from India by air? You should that when entering or staying in Bhutan during 2025, all Indian citizens need only valid proof of identity without needing a visa. For document access, the Indian government approves either a passport or a Voter ID card. Indian nationals can enter and stay in Bhutan without needing to obtain any visa because the nations maintain a special relationship. The entry points operate under official supervision by requiring proper identification from travellers. Let’s answer the question in det Is passport required for Bhutan, in detail in this blog.

Also Read: Passport Types in India: Expert's Latest Guide

Travel Documents Required for Bhutan Entry (2025)

The big question is that Is passport required for Bhutan from India by air, but what you should know is that, the process of visiting Bhutan through India for the year 2025 requires planning. The journey becomes easier with clear knowledge about the needed documents. All Indian citizens must possess a valid identification to receive an Entry Permit before they can complete their immigration procedures, both by air and by road.

Acceptable Documents for Indian Citizens

• Valid Passport (with at least 6 months' validity)

• The Election Commission of India provides this identification document as a Voter ID Card.

• Children below 18 years: Original birth certificate (in English) along with the parents’ documents

• A minor who carries their passport can replace their birth certificate to enter the country.

Documents are key in answering the question of  Is passport required for Bhutan? The entry documents are operable for both air-bound and road-bound admissions. Entry Permits become available to travellers at Paro International Airport through air travel, while road entry occurs at either Phuentsholing or Gelephu.

Tracks for entering Bhutan include both Voter ID and Passport, yet immigration officers demand supplemental identity verification on certain occasions.

Passport vs. Voter ID – Which Should You Carry?

As we are answering the question,  "Is passport required for Bhutan"? While both are valid, choosing between a passport and a Voter ID depends on your mode of travel and travel plans in Bhutan.

Recommendation: Carry your passport if possible, especially for air travel and travel beyond Thimphu and Paro.

Entry Permit Process for Indians

While answering the question whether Is passport required for Bhutan, you should know that Indian citizens require an Entry Permit to visit Bhutan. The permit is issued on arrival at entry points—either at Paro Airport or Phuentsholing land border.

Entry Permit Issuance Points:

• Air: Paro International Airport

• Road: Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar

Required Documents:

• Valid Passport or Voter ID

• Passport-size photographs

• Hotel booking details (if available)

• Itinerary and travel dates

• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)

Step-by-Step Checklist:

1. Arrive at the Bhutan entry point (air or road)

2. Submit your passport/Voter ID at the immigration desk

3. Fill out the Entry Permit form

4. Provide your hotel bookings and travel details

5. Receive Entry Permit (usually valid for Thimphu & Paro)

If you plan to travel beyond Paro and Thimphu, you must apply for a Special Area Permit from the Immigration Office in Thimphu.

Special Requirements for Minors

Ensure that your minor travelling children have their complete paperwork to prevent entry challenges.

Required Documents for Minors:

• All minors must show their valid passport or an original birth certificate, which must be in English.

• Accompaniment by at least one parent/legal guardian

• For entry purposes, parents must present their passport as well as their voter identification.

• A recent passport-size photo of the minor

• The birth certificate needs to present the original document, written in English. Translated copies must be notarised.

• Why Children under 18 Years cannot Travel Alone Because They Need Their Parent or Legal Guardian for Constant Companion. The possession of a passport by the child helps with streamlined border entry and prevents additional official documentation requirements.

• The safer method for travelling involves maintaining several duplicate birth certificates along with multiple copies of parental documents.

Also Read: Latest Documents Required for a Lost Indian Passport

Bhutan Entry by Air vs. Entry by Road – What’s Different?

The big question is whether Is passport required for Bhutan, one should know. The procedure of entry differs between air and road transportation for future Bhutanian tourists from India during their 2025 visit, since immigration procedures and permit release methods both stand as separate aspects. Understanding these distinct procedures allows people to select their most suitable travel route. 

Key Differences Between Air and Road Entry in Bhutan 2025

Let’s find out more about the key differences:

Road entry is ideal for travelers combining Bhutan with Indian cities like Siliguri or Jaigaon, while air entry offers a direct and scenic arrival into Paro.

Is Passport Required for Bhutan from India by Air?

The big question is whether Is passport required for Bhutan? Yes, a passport or Voter ID is required for Indian citizens travelling to Bhutan by air. At Paro International Airport, immigration officers issue the Entry Permit after checking your identity documents.

Documents Required at Paro Airport:

• Valid Indian Passport (6 months validity) or Voter ID

• Passport-size photograph

• Hotel booking confirmation

• Return flight details or travel itinerary

Important Notes:

• A passport is preferred for quicker processing and travel beyond Paro/Thimphu.

• Entry Permit is valid for Thimphu and Paro only.

• To visit places like Punakha, apply for a Special Area Permit in Thimphu.

Air Travel Tips:

• Book a window seat for breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

• Keep printed copies of all documents.

• Travel insurance is recommended, though not mandatory.

Also Read: How to Apply for Lost Passport? Step-by-Step Guide

Is Passport Required for Bhutan from India by Road?

The question is that Is passport required for Bhutan? The entry checkpoints, including Phuentsholing and other points, require Indians to show their valid passport and Voter ID for road access. Entry Permit initiation takes place following border identity verification. You can travel with a voter ID along with a passport-size photo and hotel details.

Permits Beyond Thimphu and Paro – Special Area Permits

A Special Area Permit becomes required for destinations outside Thimphu and Paro.

Application Process:

• Indian citizens can acquire permits at the Immigration Office in Thimphu.

• Send a copy of your Entry Permit to the authorities.

• Internal Revenue Department requires both your itinerary schedule and your hotel reservations.

Popular Destinations Requiring Special Permit

• Punakha

• Haa Valley

• Bumthang

• Trongsa

You should create your travel schedule ahead of time so you can easily visit locations outside main cities after obtaining approval from the authorities.

Latest Bhutan Entry Rules for Indians (2025)

The Government of Bhutan has introduced updated entry rules for Indian travellers in 2025 to streamline tourism and preserve its ecological and cultural heritage. These rules apply to both air and road entries and include mandatory fees, tour operator bookings, and insurance norms. If you're planning a trip this year, here's everything you need to know based on the latest Bhutan travel guidelines for Indians in 2025.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indian Tourists

Indian nationals are now required to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) when entering Bhutan. This is part of Bhutan’s approach to high-value, low-volume tourism, ensuring environmental conservation and enhanced travel experiences.

Key Details:

• SDF for Indians in Bhutan: INR 1,200 per person per night.

• Who is exempt? Children below 5 years are exempt. Children aged 5–12 get a 50% concession.

• Payment Method: Payment must be made in advance through a licensed tour operator or online payment portal.

• Refund Policy: Refunds may be issued if travel plans change, subject to cancellation terms.

The SDF contributes to infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and community development in Bhutan.

Mandatory Tour Operator Booking

In 2025, booking through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator is mandatory for all Indian travellers. This measure ensures compliance with travel rules and guarantees a smooth, organised experience.

Why This Is Required:

• The Bhutan tour operator's requirement for Indians ensures that travellers follow legal entry procedures.

• Tour operators handle permits, accommodations, guides, and transport.

• Travellers can customise itineraries while staying within Bhutan’s tourism regulations.

Benefits of Using a Tour Operator:

• Hassle-free Entry Permit processing

• On-ground support and emergency assistance

• Help with SDF payments and permit extensions

• Assistance in securing a Special Area Permit for locations beyond Thimphu and Paro

Choose a registered Bhutanese tour operator to ensure an authorised, seamless travel experience.

Travel Insurance and Currency Regulations in Bhutan 2025

Having travel insurance is strongly advised and may become a mandatory requirement during future visits. Indian tourists must also adhere to Bhutan’s updated currency rules in 2025.

Bhutan Travel Insurance for Indians:

• Should cover medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.

• Most tour operators assist in arranging travel insurance as part of the package.

Currency Rules for Indians in Bhutan:

• INR accepted: 100, 200 and 500 notes are widely accepted.

• 2,000 notes are not reliably accepted due to change and counterfeit concerns.

• Credit/debit cards have limited usability; carry enough Indian cash or exchange currency in Thimphu or Phuentsholing.

• Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is at par with the Indian Rupee (INR) and is used interchangeably within Bhutan.

Stay updated on currency rules for Indians in Bhutan by checking official advisories before travelling.

How to Enter Bhutan from India? Latest Step-by-Step Guide in 2025

The following procedure will help you enter the country without issues:

1. Make sure you possess a passport or a Voter ID, either of which is enough for entry.

2. The only authorised method to book Bhutanese travel is through a domestic tour operator company.

3. Make advance bookings at hotels before arrival.

4. Get travel insurance

5. You must arrive at the main entry points, which are Paro or Phuentsholing.

6. The procedure requires submission of documents and completion of the required form.

7. Receive Entry Permit

8. You need to stay only in Thimphu and Paro if you lack a special travel authorisation Permit.

9. You must follow local regulations and keep your permit accessible at every moment.

Verify the present government guidelines before planning your journey.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Travelling to Bhutan: Experts Insights 2025

• The Passport and ID documents must be verified for valid expiration dates before anyone embarks on their journey.

• People without insurance risk being denied entry to the destination.

• Beyond Thimphu and Paro, you need to obtain a special permission for travelling to additional regions.

• Your arrival after the border crossing time may result in an extended wait time for entry.

• The use of local currency must be constrained to official limits.

• You should review your documentation multiple times and keep duplicate paperwork with you to prevent late-time difficulties.

Conclusion

The biggest question is whether Is passport required for Bhutan? The process of visa-free entry for Indians into Bhutan will continue until 2025 as long as they maintain valid documents alongside all updated requirements. A passport or Voter ID, together with an official Entry Permit, will grant you access to explore the scenic valleys of Bhutan. Those who wish to travel extensively to Bhutan need special permits while abiding by sustainable tourism requirements.

Plan your trip to Bhutan immediately by following the comprehensive guide, which ensures a confident journey. To know more about passports and travel, visit TerraTern now!