How To Reach Bhutan From India

Bhutan is the only country which measures its progress through the Gross National Happiness Index and hence, it is known as the ‘Happiest Country in the World’. Tourists from all the corners of the world visit Bhutan to explore its ancient monasteries and indulge in its adventurous trekking expeditions. Even though Bhutan tourism is flourishing by the day, the country adopts a holistic approach to protecting and preserving its natural resources, environment, culture and heritage. Want to visit this happiest country in the world? Wondering how to reach Bhutan? Here are the answers to all your questions.

There are two ways to reach Bhutan from India – by air and by road. Indian passport holders do not require any visa to enter Bhutan; you need to carry your passport or a voter ID card to get the entry permit.  Or leave the hassles and book a Bhutan holiday package.

Here is the Summary of How to reach Bhutan.

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How to reach Bhutan by air?

Paro is the only international airport in Bhutan and has connecting flights from Delhi, Bagdogra, Guwahati, and Mumbai. You can take direct flights from Kolkata to Paro.  Hence, there is more frequency of flights from Kolkata to reach Bhutan. The number of flights from Delhi and Mumbai are less as compared to Kolkata and Bagdogra. Druk Air is the national airline of Bhutan and flights can be booked only through the official websites of this airline.

If you are travelling through Nepal, you can take direct flights from Kathmandu to Paro. You can experience the most exciting journey from Kathmandu to Paro as the airplane passes over the four highest mountains in the world. All the other major cities in Bhutan are well-connected with domestic airlines.

Recommended Read – Why Bhutan is the Happiest country in the world

How to reach Bhutan by road?

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Want to go on a road trip to Bhutan? Here is all you need to know on how to reach Bhutan by road.

Indians who wish to travel to Bhutan by road need to acquire an ‘entry permit’ from the Immigration Office of Royal Government of Bhutan in Phuensholing, which is located on the Indo-Bhutan border opposite Jaigaon, West Bengal. But this ‘entry permit’ allows an Indian tourist to visit Paro and Thimphu only. If you wish to go beyond Thimphu and Paro then you need to obtain a ‘special area permit’ from the Royal Government of Bhutan Immigration Office in Thimphu. It is also possible to arrange the visa from Kolkata at Royal Bhutan Consulate Office. It is better to apply 10-12 days prior to your visit.

Must Read – Top places to visit in Bhutan

To reach Bhutan by road, you have to go through three border points in India. They are a) Jaigaon – Phuensholing Border, b) Gelephu and c) Samdrup Jongkhar. The Jaigaon – Phuentsholing border is preferred by most of the travellers as it is easily accessible and can get you the entry permit easily. If you are on tight budget, you can travel by local buses or else can hire a car or jeep to travel within Bhutan. It takes 4 hours to reach Phuensholing from Bagdogra Airport and around 6 hours to reach Thimphu from Phuensholing. Private taxis and buses are also available from Bagdogra, New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri which connects National Highway NH31 at Sevoke road and will take you to Thimphu.

Also Read – Why Bhutan’s Druk Trek should be on your wish list

FAQs About Bhutan

1. What is the best time to travel to Bhutan?                  

Any time of the year resonates well with a travel to Bhutan. However, the charm of the place is simply outstanding in the autumn and spring seasons which usually fall between the months of September to November and March to May respectively. The climate is warmer and pleasant at this time and the skies are clearer too. Also, many great festivals fall during these seasons.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan? How can I get it?                             

For any foreigner wondering How to Go to Bhutan from India, it is necessary to know that visa is essential to enter the country. It should be arranged, prior to the travel, through a licensed Bhutanese touring company or one of their international travel partners. Although other foreign nationals need to obtain a clearance beforehand, Indians and Bangladeshis can receive it upon entry. While it is approx. about $40 for others, Indians, Maldives nationals and Bangladeshis can get visa free of cost.

3. Is there need to get a tour operator for travelling to Bhutan?

Yes. As a rule of the Bhutan Government, you need to obtain a tour package to the country either through a licensed local tour operator or one of their international travel partners.

4. How is the food in Bhutan?

If your planning to Go to Bhutan from India, you simply mustn’t miss out on its yummy food. Bhutanese cuisine is known for being very spicy since the people like to use a lot of chilies in their food. Pork, beef and chicken are commonly eaten, with some vegetables alongside the main dish of rice.

5. Is Bhutan safe for solo travel?                  

Yes. Bhutan is one of the safest places for travelling, even if you are planning to go on a solo trip. It is perfect for travelling with your family and friends but backpackers too find the destination most attractive. Women travelling looking for a safe travel destination can very well choose this region for a memorable experience. Nevertheless, basic safety precautions are still advised and encouraged to be taken when travelling alone to the country.

6. What are the major attractions of the country?                                

The following attractions are the places that best answer How to Go to Bhutan from India and have most satisfying travel experience:

• Paro Taktsang
• Rinpung Dzong
• Punakha Dzong
• Tashichho Dzong
• Manas National Park
• National Museum of Bhutan
• Mo Chhu
• JomolhariSimtokha Dzong
• Chele La

Ready to plan a trip to the Happiest Country in the World? Book our Bhutan Tour Packages and explore the royal monasteries and Dzongs