Terms & Conditions
Booking policies and travel arrangements
Last updated: February 15, 2026
1. Booking & Payment
- Booking requests are not confirmed until 100% payment is received.
- Upon submitting a booking request, our team will contact you with payment instructions.
- Full payment must be received at least 30 days before the tour start date to secure your booking.
- Payments can be made via bank transfer or credit card.
- All prices are quoted in USD unless otherwise specified.
- Bookings are subject to availability and will only be guaranteed once payment is confirmed.
2. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
All visitors to Bhutan must pay the Sustainable Development Fee of USD $100 per person per night (USD $50 for children aged 6-12, free for children under 6). This fee is mandated by the Royal Government of Bhutan and is included in our tour packages unless otherwise stated.
3. Visa Requirements
All international visitors (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) require a visa to enter Bhutan. We will process your visa application upon receiving full payment and required documents. Visa approval is subject to the Tourism Council of Bhutan.
4. Cancellation Policy
- More than 30 days before departure: Full refund minus 10% administrative fee
- 15-30 days before departure: 50% refund
- 7-14 days before departure: 25% refund
- Less than 7 days before departure: No refund
Cancellations must be made in writing via email to bywaysinquiry@gmail.com. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance.
5. Itinerary Changes
While we make every effort to operate tours as planned, we reserve the right to modify itineraries due to weather conditions, road closures, festival date changes, or other circumstances beyond our control. Alternative arrangements of similar value will be provided.
6. Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. For trekking tours, insurance must cover activities at high altitude (up to 5,500m) and helicopter evacuation.
7. Health & Fitness
Some tours involve high altitude and physical activity. You are responsible for ensuring you are fit to participate. Please inform us of any medical conditions or dietary requirements at the time of booking.
8. Liability
Byways Tours & Travels acts as an agent for hotels, airlines, and other service providers. We are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage arising from services provided by third parties. Our liability is limited to the tour cost paid.
9. Code of Conduct
While in Bhutan, guests are expected to:
- Respect local customs, traditions, and religious practices
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
- Follow the instructions of guides and local authorities
- Not engage in any illegal activities
- Respect environmental conservation practices
10. Photography
Photography is generally permitted but may be restricted inside temples and during certain ceremonies. Always ask permission before photographing local people. Drone photography requires special permits.
11. Governing Law
These terms are governed by the laws of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Any disputes shall be resolved through arbitration in Thimphu, Bhutan.
12. Contact Us
For questions about these terms, please contact us: