FAQs

Most nationalities require a visa to enter the Kingdom, obtained at least seven working days before arriving in the country. Amankora’s team is ready to help with every step of the visa process, which requires a high-resolution, colour passport copy (valid for at least six months following the date of arrival), alongside proof of return flight tickets, travel insurance and paid accommodation.

Nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives can obtain a visa on arrival (or online in advance to save time), while Indian nationals require a permit (also obtainable online or on arrival). 

The SDF supports Bhutan’s development, preserving tradition, conserving the environment and creating opportunities for youth.  

As of 1 September 2023, the following SDF rates apply to all visitors:  

• $100 per adult per day  
• $50 per child (6-12 years) per day  

These rates will remain until 31 August 2027 and will be applied to your Amankora bill upon checkout.  

As an Amankora guest, a personal vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide, will always be at your disposal. 

The Amankora Reservations team will handle every detail of your Amankora Journey. Our services include providing a personalised Journey Itinerary, coordinating your flights into Paro via DRUK Airlines and processing your Bhutan Visa and Sustainable Development Fee. 

For an extraordinary experience that showcases and captures every facet of the country, we recommend 10-14 nights spent travelling to all five of Amankora’s lodges, allowing time to visit all five unique valleys. For those with less time, a fulfilling adventure can be had by visiting two to three lodges in seven nights. Depending on your preferred dates, our team is on hand to tailor your itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your time in the Kingdom. 

Bhutan is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience. Peak months are March, April, September, October and November, while the summer season (from May to August) brings light rain, transforming the landscapes to vivid green and making for unrivalled hiking. The quieter winter months (from December to February) offer crisp, clear weather, perfect for exploring Bhutan’s cultural, spiritual and historic sites in peace and quiet.  

Each Amankora Lodge is located in a different valley with its own distinct landscapes, climate and local identity. Each Valley offers its unique variety of activities and experiences inviting guests to experience a different aspect of Bhutan – whether immersing in history, nature, spirituality or culture.  

Each of the five valleys has its own personality. Our comprehensive Amankora Experience Guide details all of the activities available at each lodge, allowing you to create a personalised itinerary.

Yes, this is possible but not recommended. By exploring Bhutan with Amankora alone, guests benefit from travelling with the same driver and guide throughout their journey. Many guests form a special bond with their guide, which not only enhances their time in Bhutan, but makes their stay even more seamless. 

Yes, your stay includes your own private vehicle, driver and guide, who are on hand to take you wherever you wish, whenever you wish. This flexibility is the joy of an Amankora Journey, with every detail tailored to suit your interests and preferences.  

The Reservations Team will send you a detailed Amankora Journey Itinerary that highlights some of the signature activities and experiences per Lodge. They will also send you an Experience Guide that provides a more detailed and comprehensive list of activities and experiences available at each Lodge including Wellness, Spiritual, Cultural and Culinary activities. On arrival, the Lodge Management will discuss these with you in person to help you plan and coordinate with your dedicated driver and guide, making the most of your time. We advise guests not to plan too much in advance, allowing for flexibility and fluidity throughout your journey.  

Most activities and experiences are included in your rate, such as all hikes, adventure activities (archery, mountain biking), spiritual activities, entrance fees to monuments, temples, and monasteries.  Spa treatments, our Signature Culinary Experiences and specific activities such as white-water rafting are subject to additional charges.  Our Culinary Experiences include spectacular private dinners and lunches such as the Riverside Barbecue at Punakha, the Potato Shed Dinner in Gangtey, the Forest & Fortress Dinner or the Tigers Nest Recovery Lunch in our Log Cabin in Paro, and the Forest Stream Dinner in Thimphu. The Reservations team can send you a full price list including our Spa Menu.