Licensed Bhutan tour operator · Est. 2018 · Thimphu
Bhutan Tours, Where Happiness Begins
Sacred monasteries, peaceful valleys, living festivals and high mountain trails, on a private journey designed by a Bhutanese team in Thimphu. We handle your visa, SDF, permits, licensed guide, car and certified hotels.
Licence No. 1052914
100% private & customised
Visa & SDF handled
50% deposit option
Plan your Bhutan journey
Get a free day-by-day itinerary and itemised quote from our team in Thimphu, usually within 48 hours. No obligation.
2018
Founded in Thimphu
No. 1052914
Licensed by the Department of Tourism
100%
Private, customised trips
48 hrs
Typical reply with a free quote
The Kingdom awaits
Not a place to rush through. A place to feel.
Bhutan is the last Himalayan kingdom, where 69.7% of the land is still forest and Gross National Happiness guides government policy. Walk through living monasteries, quiet valleys and high mountain trails, with every detail handled by a Bhutan-based team.
01
Monasteries
Butter lamps, morning chants and dzongs that are still working fortresses, from Tiger’s Nest to Punakha Dzong.
02
Valleys
Rice terraces in Punakha, black-necked cranes in Phobjikha each winter, and apple orchards in Bumthang.
03
High trails
Day hikes over prayer-flag passes, the Druk Path, and the Snowman Trek for the truly adventurous.
Featured Bhutan tours
Our most-loved Bhutan tour packages for 2027
6 Days / 5 Nights
Luxury · Wellness · Private
Spa rituals, hot stone baths and yoga in Thimphu, Punakha and Paro, ending with the Tiger’s Nest hike.
- Thimphu · Punakha · Paro
Private tour · Free quote
6 Days / 5 Nights
Our most popular first trip
Dzongs, Dochula Pass, Punakha’s river valley and Tiger’s Nest at an easy pace: the classic introduction to Bhutan.
- Paro · Thimphu · Punakha
Private tour · Free quote
11 Days
Western and central Bhutan
Go beyond the west to Phobjikha’s crane valley, Trongsa and the ancient temples of Bumthang.
- Paro · Thimphu · Punakha · Bumthang
Private tour · Free quote
Chencho Gyeltshen
Founder & Proprietor
Meet our founder
Bhutan is our home. Welcoming you is our privilege.
Kingdom of Happiness Tours is a Bhutanese-owned travel company built on local knowledge and personal hospitality. Born and raised in Bhutan, we know our country through its traditions, landscapes, communities and everyday life.
Led by founder Chencho Gyeltshen, we create private, personalised journeys that connect Bhutan’s celebrated landmarks with meaningful local experiences. From your first conversation to your farewell, we take time to understand what matters to you and plan every detail with care.
Est. 2018 in Thimphu
Licence No. 1052914
100% Bhutanese-owned
Why travellers choose us
You are our guest, not a booking
We welcome you the way we would welcome someone into our own home, and show you the Bhutan we grew up in.
Itineraries beyond the expected
The classic dzongs and valleys, plus monastery stays, farmhouse nights, camping, yoga, festivals and food journeys.
Quality over quantity
No high-volume tourism. Every trip is private and carefully managed, with time to slow down.
Fair, fixed, honest pricing
Prices based on real costs and the service we deliver, with the SDF, visa and taxes shown clearly on every quote.
Flexible payment
Pay in full, or pay 50% to secure your visa and bookings and settle the balance when you arrive in Bhutan.
Licensed and locally accountable
Licensed by the Department of Tourism (No. 1052914) and run from Thimphu, so the people who plan your trip also deliver it.
Bhutan tours for every traveller
Choose your kind of Bhutan journey
Every trip is private and can be tailored. Start with the style that suits you and we will shape the rest around your dates.
Every package includes
Visa processing
SDF payment
Licensed Bhutanese guide
Private car & driver
Certified hotels
All meals
Monument entry fees
Places to visit in Bhutan
Bhutan's most loved destinations
Bhutan travel rules for 2027
What every traveller should know before booking
Bhutan welcomed more than 200,000 visitors in 2025 and 149,141 in the first half of 2026, up 48% on the year before. Here are the rules and changes that matter for your 2027 trip, checked against official sources.
SDF: US$100 a night until 31 August 2027
Adults pay US$100 per night; children 6–11 pay US$50 and under-6s are free. Indian nationals pay Nu 1,200 per night. We pay it for you with your visa.
5% GST since 1 January 2026
A 5% goods and services tax applies to tourism services such as hotels and tours. It is not charged on the SDF and is shown on every quote.
A licensed guide at all times
Under the Department of Tourism notice of 8 April 2026, tourists must be accompanied by a licensed guide throughout their stay.
Certified hotels only
Tourists must stay in accommodation certified by the Department of Tourism. Every hotel and farmstay we book is certified.
Insurance optional, still wise
Travel insurance has not been mandatory since April 2024, but we strongly recommend cover that includes medical evacuation.
More flights and new hotels
Drukair restored Paro–Guwahati–Bangkok twice weekly and added a third weekly Singapore flight in April 2026. Taj Gangtey, Terma Linca Paro and TUI Blue Paro Taktsang opened in 2026.
Bhutan tour cost 2027
What does a Bhutan tour actually cost?
Your trip has three parts: the government SDF (US$100 per adult per night until 31 August 2027), a one-time US$40 visa fee, and your tour package. A 5% GST has applied to tourism services since 1 January 2026 and is shown on your quote; it is not charged on the SDF. Indian nationals pay an SDF of Nu 1,200 per night and need no visa.
Our standard tour package rates
Per person per night with 3-star hotels or certified farmstays, all meals, private vehicle and driver, licensed guide and monument entry fees.
Solo traveller
US$250 / night pp
2 people
US$150 / night pp
3–4 people
US$115 / night pp
5–10 people
US$100 / night pp
11+ people
US$90 / night pp
Children aged 6–11 pay half the SDF and under-6s pay none. Luxury hotels and special experiences are quoted separately.
Example: 2 adults, 7 nights
Standard private tour, excluding flights.
SDF: 7 nights × US$100 × 2
US$1,400
Tour: 7 nights × US$150 × 2
US$2,100
Visa: US$40 × 2
US$80
Estimated total
≈ US$3,580
Plus 5% GST on tour services. We send an exact, itemised quote for your dates.
Getting there
How to get to Bhutan
By air into Paro
Paro is Bhutan’s international airport, and one of the most dramatic landings in the world. Two Bhutanese airlines fly there: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines.
- Gateways include Bangkok, Singapore, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Dhaka and Guwahati
- From the USA, Europe or Australia, connect in Bangkok, Singapore or Delhi
- From Hong Kong there is no direct flight: connect via Bangkok or Singapore
- Flying from Kathmandu, ask for a left-side window for Himalayan views
- We book your flights with your tour and send the e-tickets
By road from India
Most visitors to Bhutan enter by road: 58.6% of arrivals in the first half of 2026 came through Phuentsholing.
- Phuentsholing: about 4 hours from Bagdogra airport, 5–6 hours' drive to Thimphu
- Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar: entry points for central and eastern Bhutan
- Indian nationals get an entry permit at the border with a passport or Voter ID
- Your guide and car meet you at the border gate
Bhutan visa and SDF, handled
How to get your Bhutan visa in five steps
As a licensed operator we apply for your visa through the Department of Immigration’s online system. To date we have not had a single visa rejected.
01
Plan your itinerary
Tell us your dates, group size and interests on WhatsApp, email or the form. We design your trip together.
02
Confirm and pay
Pay in full, or 50% to start your visa and bookings, with the balance payable on arrival. We accept transfers via Wise and cards.
03
Send your documents
A scan of your passport (valid for six months beyond your departure) and a recent passport-size photo.
04
We apply for your visa
We submit your application with the US$40 visa fee and the SDF to the Department of Immigration.
05
Receive your e-visa
Your visa approval is emailed to you, usually within five working days. Show it at check-in and on arrival.
When to go
The best time to visit Bhutan
Bhutan is open all year. Spring and autumn bring the clearest weather and the biggest festivals; winter and summer are quieter. Festival dates are from the Department of Tourism’s tentative 2027 list.
Spring
March to May
Rhododendrons, clear days and Paro Tshechu (18–22 March 2027). One of the two best seasons.
Summer
June to August
The green monsoon season: fewer visitors, lush valleys and summer discounts, with some rain and road delays.
Autumn
September to November
Clear Himalayan views, harvest and the big festivals, including Thimphu Tshechu (10–12 October 2027). Our busiest months.
Winter
December to February
Crisp, clear and quiet, with black-necked cranes in Phobjikha and the Punakha festivals (13–18 February 2027).
Bhutan festivals 2027
Where tradition still dances
Tshechus are sacred festivals where monks and villagers perform masked dances in dzong courtyards. Dates follow the Bhutanese lunar calendar; these are the Department of Tourism’s tentative 2027 dates. Rooms fill months ahead, so book early.
Punakha Drubchen & Tshechu
13–18 February 2027
Paro Tshechu
18–22 March 2027
Ura Yakchoe, Bumthang
18–22 April 2027
Thimphu Tshechu
10–12 October 2027
Black-Necked Crane Festival
11 November 2027
Jambay Lhakhang Drup
14–17 November 2027
Trekking in Bhutan
Bhutan's best treks, guided by locals
Independent trekking is not allowed in Bhutan; every trek needs a licensed trekking guide and crew, which we arrange.
7 Days / 6 Nights
Most popular first trek
Paro to Thimphu past ancient ruins, glacial lakes and rhododendron forests. Moderate, for fit hikers.
- Paro to Thimphu
From USD 1,950
11 Days / 10 Nights
Quiet, off the beaten path
Forests, high ridges and traditional villages with wide views of the eastern Himalaya.
- Western Bhutan
From USD 2,850
30 Days
For experienced trekkers only
One of the world’s toughest treks: high passes above 5,000 m through the remote Lunana region.
- Northern Bhutan
From USD 8,900
Know before you go
Bhutan at a glance
Capital
Thimphu, at about 2,300 m
Currency
Ngultrum (Nu), pegged 1:1 to the Indian rupee
Language
Dzongkha; English is widely spoken
Time zone
GMT+6, no daylight saving
Electricity
230 V; plug types D, F and G
Forest cover
69.7% of the country (2023 survey)
Emergency
Police 113 · Ambulance 112 · Fire 110
Dress code
Shoulders and knees covered in dzongs and temples
Plan with our travel guides
Things to do in Bhutan and first-timer tips
Testimonials
What our travelers say
Real travelers. Real stories. Real reasons to trust us.
★★★★★
I’m happy to report a great trip with kingdom of happiness tours. We arrange this trip independently using email and WhatsApp we picked Kingdom of happiness over many alternatives. We came to learn that guides are contracted and cars are rented so your trip really comes down to the professionalism/responsiveness/knowledge of the company
★★★★★Absolutely incredible experience from start to finish. This trip to Bhutan exceeded all expectations. We had the chance to discover a truly unique culture, and everything was perfectly organized.The guides were outstanding — knowledgeable, kind, and deeply passionate about their country. They made the entire journey immersive and meaningful.
★★★★★
We had unforgettable experience travelling beautiful Kingdom of Bhutan. Thanks to our tour operator "Kingdom of Happiness Tours" for providing us knowledgeable and friendly tour guide Ms Chenco and team, due to them we were very comfortable and informed throughout our journey of Bhutan. Thanks and best wishes G Lakshmisha , Bangalore , INDIA
★★★★★The agency is very friendly and warm . They catter to all your needs . The agency treats you like a family. Clears all your doubts . Best travel friendly agency to be with . Didn’t disappoint even a bit . Anyone looking to visit Bhutan .. please reach out to this agency . They are the best !! Highly recommend ☺️.
★★★★★We travelled to Bhutan last year with Kingdom of Happiness Tours, and the agency did an amazing job from start to finish. They ensured our safety throughout the trip and customized the itinerary perfectly to suit our family’s needs.The owner, Mr. Chenco, is very understanding, kind, and attentive. We never faced any issues during our journey.
How it works
From first message to Paro in four steps
01
Send your enquiry
Share your dates, interests and budget. We reply within 48 hours.
02
Shape your itinerary
We suggest routes, hotels and experiences and refine them with you.
03
Confirm and get your visa
We arrange your visa, permits, hotels, guide and transport.
04
Travel and enjoy
Your private guide and driver look after you, with local support throughout.
Bhutan travel FAQ
Questions about Bhutan tours
Answers from our team in Thimphu, checked against official rules for 2026–2027. See all 79 answers on our Bhutan travel FAQs page.
Do I have to book through a licensed tour operator?
Yes. International tourists book through a licensed Bhutanese operator, who arranges the visa, SDF, certified accommodation and a licensed guide. Kingdom of Happiness Tours is licensed by the Department of Tourism (licence No. 1052914).
How much does a Bhutan tour cost?
Your total is the tour price plus the SDF (US$100 per adult per night until 31 August 2027) and the US$40 visa fee. Our standard private tours start from about US$150 per person per night for two people, including hotels, meals, guide, car and driver. See our Bhutan travel cost guide.
What is the SDF?
The Sustainable Development Fee is a government fee of US$100 per adult per night until 31 August 2027. Children aged 6–11 pay US$50, under-6s are free, and Indian nationals pay Nu 1,200 per night.
How do I get a Bhutan visa?
We apply online for you once your trip is confirmed. You send a passport scan and photo; the visa costs US$40 and approval usually takes up to five working days.
Do Indian nationals need a visa?
No. Indian nationals need an entry permit, issued at Paro Airport or the land borders, with a passport or Voter ID. They pay an SDF of Nu 1,200 per night.
Can I travel in Bhutan without a guide?
No. Under the Department of Tourism’s April 2026 notice, tourists must be accompanied by a licensed guide at all times.
When is the best time to visit Bhutan?
March to May and late September to November for clear weather and the big festivals. Winter is quiet and clear, and summer is green and less crowded.
How many days do I need?
Five to seven days covers Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and often Phobjikha. Ten days or more lets you reach Bumthang and central Bhutan.
Is a 5-day Bhutan tour enough for a family?
Yes. Five days covers Paro, Tiger’s Nest, Thimphu and Punakha at a family-friendly pace. Children under 6 pay no SDF, and children aged 6–11 pay half.
What is included in your tour packages?
Certified hotels or farmstays, all meals, a private vehicle and driver, a licensed guide and monument entry fees. The SDF, visa fee and international flights are shown separately.
How do I pay?
Pay in full, or pay 50% in advance to secure your visa and bookings and settle the balance on arrival in Bhutan. Transfers via Wise or card payments are accepted.
Is travel insurance required?
No, it has not been required since April 2024, but we strongly recommend cover that includes medical evacuation.
How do I fly to Bhutan?
Drukair and Bhutan Airlines fly into Paro from hubs including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu and Singapore. You can also enter overland from India at Phuentsholing or Samdrup Jongkhar.
Is Bhutan safe?
Yes. The US government rates Bhutan at Level 1, its lowest risk level. The main things to plan for are mountain roads and altitude.
Can you customise my tour?
Yes. Every trip is private and built around your dates, interests and budget, from festivals and treks to honeymoons and wellness retreats.
How quickly will you reply?
Usually within 48 hours, with a day-by-day itinerary and an itemised quote. More answers are on our Bhutan travel FAQs page.
What is the SDF used for?
The Sustainable Development Fee funds free healthcare and education for Bhutanese citizens, conservation and the protection of Bhutan’s culture, as part of the country’s “high value, low volume” tourism policy.
How far ahead should I book?
Two to three months for most tours. For Paro or Thimphu Tshechu, and for lodges such as Amankora or Six Senses in spring and autumn, book four to six months ahead or more.
Is there a direct flight from Hong Kong to Bhutan?
No. Fly to Bangkok or Singapore and connect to Paro with Drukair or Bhutan Airlines. A 5-day family tour from Hong Kong works well with this routing.
What currency should I bring?
The ngultrum (Nu) is pegged 1:1 to the Indian rupee. Bring US dollars or another major currency to exchange. Cards work in many hotels and larger shops in Thimphu and Paro, but carry cash for rural areas.
Can I use my phone and the internet?
Yes. Buy a local SIM from B-Mobile or TashiCell with your passport, and most hotels have Wi-Fi. Coverage is good in towns and along main roads but patchy on treks.
What should I wear in Bhutan?
Comfortable layers and good walking shoes. In dzongs and temples, cover shoulders and knees, remove your hat, and do not take photos inside the shrines.
Will the altitude affect me?
Paro and Thimphu sit at about 2,200–2,300 m and Tiger’s Nest at 3,120 m. Most visitors adjust easily; we schedule the Tiger’s Nest hike after a few days and keep the first day gentle.
Can I see a festival on my trip?
Yes, if you time it right. In 2027, Paro Tshechu is 18–22 March and Thimphu Tshechu is 10–12 October. See our Bhutan festivals calendar for all dates.
Book your Bhutan tour
Ready to experience the Kingdom of Happiness?
Tell us your dates and interests. Our local team will design a personalised itinerary and an itemised quote, and handle everything from your visa to your airport farewell. Free, with no obligation.
- Licensed operator, licence No. 1052914
- Bhutanese-owned, based in Thimphu
- Reply within 48 hours
Plan my trip to Bhutan
Free itinerary and itemised quote