Discover Bhutan

The Sustainable Development Fee, or SDF, is a daily charge paid by all visitors on a tourist visa. Introduced to support Bhutan’s growth and preserve its unique culture and environment, the SDF helps manage visitor numbers to keep tourism sustainable. Bhutan's stance on tourism is defined by its "high-value, low-volume" approach, prioritising sustainability and cultural preservation over mass tourism.

Bhutan is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world, and according to the 2025 Global Peace Index, it ranks as the safest country in South Asia. Crime rates are very low, and visitors often describe Bhutan as peaceful, respectful, and incredibly welcoming.

That said, we always recommend taking basic precautions like securing valuables and following local advice, especially if you’re trekking in remote areas.

The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN), symbolised as Nu. It is pegged to the Indian rupee at par, meaning 1 BTN equals 1 INR. For the most current exchange rates and conversions, you can refer to reliable financial platforms such as Wise wise.com or XE xe.com.

The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, a unique language with Tibetan roots that’s spoken across much of the country. However, Bhutan is home to many regional dialects and languages, reflecting its rich cultural diversity, especially in remote villages.

English is widely taught in schools and used in government and tourism, so travellers usually find it easy to communicate with guides, hotel staff, and many locals involved in the travel industry.

Bhutan is packed with cultural gems and natural wonders, but if you’re short on time, these are the top three must-visit spots:

If you want to find out more, read our article: Bhutan travel guide – Top 12 places to visit in Bhutan

No, all tourists visiting Bhutan are required to travel with a licensed tour guide. As of September 2023, independent travel without a guide is not permitted. This policy is part of Bhutan’s commitment to high-value, low-impact tourism, ensuring visitors gain cultural insight while helping preserve the country’s heritage.

At Follow Alice, we partner with experienced local guides who not only manage logistics but also enrich your journey through storytelling, cultural context, and insider tips.

For more information, read our article: How much does it cost to travel to Bhutan in 2025?