Bhutan Travel Guide 2026: Paro Tiger's Nest, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, Haa and Phobjikha Valleys
Browse more guides: Bhutan travel | Asia destinations TL;DR I spent sixteen days crossing Bhutan in spring 2026, from the prayer-flag passes of Paro to the crane wetlands of Phobjikha. The Sustainable Development Fee dropped to USD 100 per night in September 2023 (Indians pay INR 1,200), making the trip cheaper than expected. You still need a licensed tour operator and a fixed itinerary. The country rewards slow travel and patience. Why Visit Bhutan in 2026 Bhutan is the only country I have visited where the government measures Gross National Happiness alongside Gross Domestic Product. The kingdom reopened tourism in September 2022 and halved its Sustainable Development Fee in September 2023 from USD 200 to USD 100 per adult per night. For Indian passport holders the fee is INR 1,200, and entry permits are issued on arrival at Paro Airport or Phuentsholing. Three reasons pushed me to book 2026. First, the rebuilt Wangdue Phodrang Dzong reopened after the 2012 fire. Second, the T...