Bhutan is a stunning country known for its rich culture, religious significance, and breathtaking natural beauty. Tourists from around the world visit Bhutan to experience its diverse attractions.
Until the 1960s, traveling to Bhutan was challenging due to its dense jungles and high, frozen mountain passes. However, it is now easily available by various modes of transport due to its economic development and tourism growth. Domestic and international airports connect this country with multiple parts of the World. And its road connectivity with neighboring countries is good.
Are you considering visiting this country? Read this guide on how to reach Bhutan. You can choose any mode of transportation based on your preferences.
How to Reach Bhutan: Your 3 Main Options
Option 1: Flying to Bhutan (Fastest & Most Convenient)
Best for: Time-conscious travelers, first-time visitors, those seeking scenic mountain flightsParo International Airport – Your Gateway to Bhutan
Paro International Airport is Bhutan’s only international airport, situated at an elevation of 7,300 feet above sea level. After reaching the airport, you will find various transport options to reach your desired destinations in Bhutan.
Moreover, Gelephu Airport, Yonphulla, and Bathpalathag are other major domestic airports in Bhutan
Key Flight Routes from India:
| From | Flight Duration | Frequency | Average Cost |
| Kolkata | 1 hour | 3-4 times/week | ₹15,000-25,000 |
| Delhi | 2.5 hour | 3-4 times/week | ₹20,000-35,000 |
| Guwahati | 1 hour | 2-3 times/week | ₹18,000-50,000 |
| Mumbai | 3 hours (via Delhi) | 2-3 times/week | ₹25,000-40,000 |
Important Notes:
- Book 2-3 months in advance for better rates
- Weather can affect flight schedules, especially in the summer months
Option 2: Road Journey to Bhutan (Most Popular)
Best for: Budget travelers, road trip enthusiasts, flexible itineraries
Travel to Bhutan by road is more accessible and more convenient. There are 3 official entry points by road from India: Samtse and Phuentsholing (western Bhutan), Gelephu (central Bhutan), and Samdrup Jongkhar (eastern Bhutan).
Indian citizens need an entry permit from the Immigration Office of the Royal Government of Bhutan, located in Phuentsholing, which is on the Indo-Bhutan border, across from Jaigaon. In addition to this entry point. Once you obtain the permit, you will be able to explore Bhutan.
Route 1: Jaigaon to Phuentsholing (Most Popular)
- Starting Point: Siliguri, West Bengal
- Distance: 150 km (4-hour drive to border)
- Border Crossing: Jaigaon (India) ↔ Phuentsholing (Bhutan)
Step-by-step journey:
- Reach Siliguri: By train, bus, or flight to Bagdogra Airport
- Travel to Jaigaon: Shared taxis, buses are available every 30 minutes
- Cross to Phuentsholing: Walk across the border (open 6 AM – 10 PM)
- Get entry permit: At Immigration Office opposite Jaigaon
Route 2: Bongaigaon to Gelephu (Scenic Eastern Route)
- Starting Point: Guwahati, Assam
- Distance: 230 km (6-hour drive)
- Best for: Travelers from Northeast India
This route offers stunning Himalayan views and fewer crowds, making it perfect for nature lovers.
Route 3: Darangamela to Samdrup Jongkhar (Eastern Entry)
Note: The southeastern crossing at Samdrup Jongkhar is primarily an exit point for those traveling to eastern Assam.
Option 3: Train + Road Combination (Most Economical)
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, those enjoying long journeys
Rail travel is the cheapest way to reach Bhutan from India, with Hasimara in West Bengal being the closest railway station to the Bhutan border.
Major Train Routes to Border Towns:
To Hasimara (Closest to Phuentsholing):
- From Delhi: Kamrup Express, Guwahati Express
- From Kolkata: Kamrup Express (direct)
- From Guwahati: Multiple daily trains
- Journey time: 12-18 hours from major cities
From Train Station to Border:
- Hasimara to Jaigaon: 30 km by taxi/bus (₹200-400)
- NJP to Jaigaon: 150 km by taxi/bus (₹800-1,500)
Entry Requirements & Documentation
For Indian Citizens (Simplified Process)
Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Bhutan, as stipulated in the 1949 treaty between the two nations, which allows for free movement.
Required Documents:
- Primary: Valid Indian passport (6+ months validity)
- Alternative: Indian Voter ID card with photograph
- For children under 18: Birth certificate in English
Entry Permit Process:
- At border: Visit Immigration Office with documents
- Processing time: 15-30 minutes
- Cost: Free (₹100 contribution to Army Welfare Fund)
- Validity: 15 days (extendable in Thimphu)
Travel Beyond Paro and Thimphu
The basic entry permit allows visits to Thimphu and Paro only. For other areas like Punakha, Wangdiphodrang, and Bumthang, you need a special area permit from the Immigration Office in Thimphu.
Transportation Within Bhutan
Getting Around Bhutan
Renting a car with a driver from a car rental company or tourism service provider is the most convenient way to travel in Bhutan, as self-drive vehicles are not available.
Transportation Options:
- Hired cars with driver: Most popular, flexible
- Local buses: Budget-friendly, connects major towns
- Domestic flights: Limited routes, weather dependent
- Taxis: Available in cities, metered or negotiated rates
Average Costs:
- Car with driver: ₹3,000-5,000 per day
- Local bus: ₹50-200 per journey
- Domestic flight: ₹8,000-15,000 per sector
- City taxi: ₹200-500 per trip
Essential Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Money Matters
- Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) = Indian Rupee
- Cash limits: Indians can carry up to ₹25,000 in ₹500 notes, above which denominations must be ₹100 or below
- ATMs: Available in major towns
- Credit cards: Limited acceptance, carry cash
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress code: Modest clothing, especially at religious sites
- Photography: Permission required at monasteries
- Tipping: ₹200-500 per day for guides/drivers
- Religion: Respect Buddhist customs and traditions
Health & Safety
- Altitude:Thimphu and Paro are just below 2500m where Acute Mountain Sickness can occur
- Insurance:Recommended for medical emergencies
- Water: Bottled water advised
- Climate:Pack layers for temperature variations
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ensure 6+ months passport validity
- Birth certificates mandatory for under-18s
- ATMs limited, carry adequate Indian currency
- Check seasonal patterns before booking
- Area permits are required for destinations beyond Paro-Thimphu
- Travel insurance is essential for destinations at high altitudes
