Bhutan has extended its USD 100 per-night Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for international tourists until 31 December 2029, offering greater certainty to travellers and tourism businesses.
The existing rate was due to expire on 31 August 2027. The extension means foreign tourists paying in US dollars will continue to pay USD 100 for each night spent in the country. Under the current arrangement, a tourist staying for seven nights will have to pay USD 700 as SDF. The fee is separate from accommodation, travel, food, guide charges and visa fees.
The USD 100 rate was introduced on 1 September 2023 through a 50 per cent reduction from the earlier USD 200 levy. Indian tourists, however, follow a separate fee structure. The SDF revenue supports Bhutan’s environmental conservation, cultural preservation, healthcare, education and infrastructure development. The extension is expected to help tour operators, hotels and travel companies plan packages for the coming years.