Bhutan follows a unique tourism policy known as “High Value, Low Impact”, designed to preserve the country’s pristine environment, rich culture, and way of life. As part of this initiative, the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is levied on all international tourists.

The SDF is charged per person, per night, and stands at USD 200 regardless of season however it is currently set at USD 100 per person per night for international tourists. This reduced rate, down from the previous USD 200, was implemented to encourage tourism recovery post-pandemic and will remain in effect until August 31, 2027. These funds are directly reinvested into Bhutan’s development projects—supporting vital areas such as environmental conservation, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

This fee is a cornerstone of Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable tourism, allowing visitors to enjoy meaningful experiences while contributing to the wellbeing of the country and its people.