Budgeting for a 5-Day Trip to Bhutan: A Detailed Cost Breakdown
Planning a 5-day trip to Bhutan requires understanding the unique structure of travel costs in the country, which operates under a policy designed to promote sustainable tourism. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of expected costs for a 5-day journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, helping you plan effectively for an enriching travel experience.
Understanding Bhutan’s Minimum Daily Package Rate
Bhutan’s tourism model is unique; all tourists (except citizens from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must pay a Minimum Daily Package Rate (MDPR), which is set by the Bhutanese government. This rate covers most aspects of the trip, including accommodation, food, transport, and an official guide. The MDPR varies by season:
- High Season (March, April, May, September, October, November): USD 250 per person per day.
- Low Season (January, February, June, July, August, December): USD 200 per person per day.
Cost Breakdown for a 5-Day Trip
Assuming you are traveling in the high season, the cost calculation for one person would be as follows:
- MDPR for 5 Days: 5 days x USD 250 = USD 1,250
This rate includes:
- Accommodation: 3-star hotels or equivalent.
- Meals: Three meals per day.
- Transportation: All internal ground transport as per the itinerary.
- Guide: Licensed English-speaking Bhutanese tour guide.
- Entrance Fees: Fees for museums, monuments, and cultural sites.
Additional Costs
While the MDPR covers the essentials, there are additional costs that you should consider:
- Airfare: International flights to and from Bhutan are additional. Flights from major cities in India such as Kolkata, Delhi, and Bagdogra to Paro are the most common routes used by tourists. Round-trip airfare from these cities typically ranges from USD 250 to USD 500 depending on the season and how early you book.
- Visa Fee: For those requiring a visa, the cost is USD 40.
- Personal Expenses: Shopping, additional snacks, alcoholic beverages, and tips are not covered under the MDPR. Budgeting an additional USD 50-100 for personal expenses is advisable.
- Travel Insurance: Recommended for all international travel; costs vary by provider and coverage.
Total Estimated Cost for 5 Days (excluding flights and personal expenses):
- From India (for Indian citizens): Depending on additional expenses and shopping, expect to spend about INR 1,000 to INR 2,000 per day additionally.
- From Other Countries: Typically, including the visa fee and a conservative amount for personal expenses, the total might range from USD 1,350 to USD 1,500.
Tips for Budgeting
- Book Early: Airfares can be cheaper when booked well in advance.
- Travel in Groups: If you are not from India, Bangladesh, or the Maldives, traveling in a group can help in reducing the cost as the MDPR is fixed per person regardless of group size.
- Understand Package Details: Ensure you know what the MDPR covers; ask your tour operator for a detailed list of inclusions and exclusions.
- Carry Local Currency: For additional purchases, it’s helpful to have some Bhutanese Ngultrum or Indian Rupees in small denominations.
A 5-day trip to Bhutan offers a glimpse into the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Understanding and planning for the costs involved will help ensure that your journey is as stress-free as it is memorable, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the unique Bhutanese experience.
