Planning a trip to Bhutan? Here’s an exciting opportunity to make your visit even more rewarding—by purchasing tax-free gold! Yes, you read that right. Bhutan’s government is making it easier for tourists to buy gold, offering some of the most affordable prices you’ll find compared to India and even Dubai. The best part? This initiative is designed to promote tourism, and the process is as simple as ticking off a few requirements.
Why Should You Buy Gold in Bhutan?
On February 21, 2023, Bhutan’s government announced that tourists could buy tax-free gold as a special gesture to commemorate the Birth Anniversary of His Majesty The King and Losar (the Bhutanese New Year). This decision not only marks an auspicious occasion but also serves to boost tourism by offering a unique, valuable benefit to visitors.
So, why opt for gold in Bhutan? Here’s the key reason: **it's cheaper**. The gold prices are tax-free, making it a better deal than buying gold in India or Dubai. And with the Bhutanese Ngultrum almost equal to the Indian Rupee, Indian tourists can take advantage of this deal without worrying about unfavorable exchange rates.
Requirements to Buy Gold in Bhutan
Before you rush to the duty-free shops, here’s what you need to do to be eligible to purchase gold as a tourist:
1. Pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Every tourist visiting Bhutan must pay the SDF, which is ₹1,200/day/person (for Indian tourists) or $100/day (for international tourists). This fee is part of Bhutan’s effort to promote sustainable tourism and preserve its environment and culture.
2. Stay at a Certified Hotel
You must spend at least one night at a hotel that’s certified by Bhutan’s Department of Tourism. When you make your gold purchase, you’ll need to produce a receipt as proof of your stay.
3. Pay in USD
While in Bhutan, you’ll be required to make the gold purchase in US dollars, so be sure to bring some with you.
4. Produce Visa/Permit Copy or SDF Payment Receipt
You’ll also need to show proof of your visa or permit. Alternatively, the receipt for your SDF payment issued by Bhutan’s Department of Revenue and Customs will suffice.
5. Submit Identification Documents
You must submit a photocopy of your passport when making the purchase. For Indian tourists, a voter ID is also accepted.
Once you’ve ticked off all these boxes, you’re all set to buy gold from Bhutan’s duty-free shops!
Where to Buy Gold: Duty-Free Shops in Bhutan
Bhutan has two main duty-free shops where you can purchase gold:
1. Phuntsholing Duty-Free Shop
- Location: Bank of Bhutan (Main Branch)
- Contact: 17455553
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 3 PM (Monday to Friday), Closed on weekends
2. Thimphu Duty-Free Shop
- Location: Norzin Lam, Chubachu
- Contact: 17856807
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 3 PM (Wednesday to Monday), Closed on Tuesdays
These duty-free shops, owned by the Bhutanese finance ministry, are not-for-profit and focus solely on promoting tourism. You won’t just find gold here—these outlets also offer a range of luxury items, making them a must-visit spot for any traveler looking for exclusive goods at unbeatable prices.
Check Gold Prices in Bhutan
Before heading to the duty-free shop, you can check the latest gold prices online. This will give you a sense of how much to budget for your purchase. [Click here to see the gold prices in Bhutan](https://gold-bt.onrender.com/).
Make sure to review the “IMPORTANT” advisory on the page to stay updated on any guidelines or price changes.
Comparing Gold Prices: Bhutan vs. India
When comparing gold prices in Bhutan to those in India, Bhutan has a significant advantage due to its tax-free offering. In India, gold purchases come with a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 3%, plus any local taxes. This means buying gold in Bhutan allows you to avoid these extra charges, making it a more affordable option.
Moreover, according to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), passengers traveling to India can carry gold jewelry up to a certain limit without paying additional duty. Male travelers are allowed up to 20 grams of gold jewelry (valued at ₹50,000), while female travelers can bring up to 40 grams (valued at ₹1,00,000). So, you can maximize your savings by bringing back gold from Bhutan within these limits.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Souvenir from Bhutan
If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, don’t miss out on the chance to buy gold at some of the best prices you’ll find anywhere. Just make sure you fulfill the necessary requirements, visit one of the certified duty-free shops, and take advantage of this rare opportunity. With Bhutan’s tax-free gold, you’ll be bringing home not just memories but also a valuable souvenir that will last a lifetime.
Happy shopping, and enjoy your trip to Bhutan—where the mountains are high, the culture is rich, and the gold is affordable! ✨
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