How To Reach Bhutan?
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Entry Points to Bhutan
By Air:
Paro International Airport is Bhutan’s only international airport, serviced by Bhutan’s national airlines, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. Direct flights to Paro are available from:
- India: Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bagdogra
- Nepal: Kathmandu
- Thailand: Bangkok
- Singapore and Bangladesh: Dhaka
Flights to Paro offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days.
By Land:
Phuentsholing (Southern Bhutan): The most popular land entry point, especially for Indian tourists. Located on the Indo-Bhutan border, about 160 km from Siliguri (West Bengal), this route connects well with Indian cities like Bagdogra and Kolkata.
Other Land Entry Points:
- Gelephu (Central Bhutan): Accessible via Assam, about 250 km from Guwahati.
- Samdrup Jongkhar (Eastern Bhutan): Located around 150 km from Guwahati, ideal for exploring eastern Bhutan.
Visa and Permit Requirements
- International Travelers (Excluding Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian Citizens):
- A visa is required, arranged through licensed Bhutanese tour operators. A scanned passport copy is needed, and the visa is processed within a few days.
- Visa Fee: $40.
- Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian Citizens:
- No visa is required. Indian travelers must carry a passport or voter ID and obtain a travel permit at entry points like Phuentsholing or Paro.
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): ₹1200 per night per person for Indian citizens, introduced in 2022.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
International Tourists: USD $200 per night per person, contributing to Bhutan's sustainable tourism efforts. This fee typically covers accommodation, meals, transport, and guide services.
Indian Tourists: ₹1200 per night per person.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for trekking and enjoying rhododendron blooms.
- Autumn (September to November): Best for clear skies and scenic views of the Himalayas.
- Winter (December to February): Perfect for those who prefer fewer tourists and snow-covered landscapes.
- Monsoon (June to August): Lush greenery, though heavy rains may disrupt travel.
Popular Tourist Destinations
- Paro: Home to the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) and Paro Dzong.
- Thimphu: Capital city known for the Buddha Dordenma Statue, Tashichho Dzong, and National Memorial Chorten.
- Punakha: Famous for the stunning Punakha Dzong and Punakha Suspension Bridge.
- Bumthang: Spiritual heartland with ancient monasteries and sacred valleys.
- Phobjikha Valley: A picturesque valley known for its migrating black-necked cranes in winter.
Accommodation & Packages
Most visitors opt for pre-arranged tour packages, which include accommodation, meals, transportation, and a licensed guide. These packages are offered by licensed Bhutanese operators and can be tailored based on preferences.
Transport Within Bhutan
- By Road: Private vehicles, taxis, and tourist buses are common, but the roads are winding due to mountainous terrain.
- Domestic Flights: Bhutan has domestic airports in Bumthang and Gelephu, but flights are limited.
Flight Connectivity to Bagdogra Airport (Closest Indian Airport to Bhutan’s Land Border)
Bagdogra Airport, located in Siliguri (West Bengal), is the nearest airport to Bhutan. From here, you can travel by road to Phuentsholing (160 km).
- Delhi: Indigo, SpiceJet, and Vistara.
- Fare Range: ₹3500-₹7000 (Economy Class).
- Kolkata: Indigo and GoAir.
- Fare Range: ₹2000-₹4000 (Economy Class).
- Mumbai: Indigo, GoAir, Air India.
- Fare Range: ₹5000-₹9000 (Economy Class).
- Bangalore: Indigo, SpiceJet, and Vistara.
- Fare Range: ₹5000-₹8000 (Economy Class).
- Chennai: Indigo and SpiceJet.
- Fare Range: ₹6000-₹10,000 (Economy Class).
Rail Connectivity to Bhutan’s Border
Bhutan doesn’t have its own railway network, but the following Indian railway stations are close to the Bhutan border:
- Hasimara: Connected by the Kanchankanya Express (Train No. 13149) from Kolkata.
- New Alipurduar (NOQ) and New Coochbehar: Well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other cities.
Train Options:
- Chennai to NJP (New Jalpaiguri):
- Chennai Central – New Jalpaiguri Weekly Express (Train No. 22611), approximately 39-40 hours.
- Kolkata to NJP or Hasimara:
- Kanchankanya Express (13149), running daily.
Fare Estimates:
- Sleeper Class: ₹500-800
- AC 3-Tier: ₹1000-2000
- AC 2-Tier: ₹2000-3000
Toll Plazas from Bagdogra to Jaigaon
If traveling by road, you’ll encounter two toll plazas along the way. Here’s a breakdown:
- Ghoshpukur Toll Plaza
- Location: Ghoshpukur, approximately 20 km from Bagdogra.
- Toll Fees: ₹75 for light vehicles (cars, jeeps, vans) and ₹225 for heavy vehicles (buses, trucks).
- Distance to Next Toll Plaza: About 70 km to the next toll.
- Nagrakata Toll Plaza
- Location: Nagrakata, about 70 km from Ghoshpukur.
- Toll Fees: ₹70 for light vehicles and ₹230 for heavy vehicles.
- Distance to Jaigaon: After this, you're around 60 km away from Jaigaon.
Total Toll Fees:
- Light Vehicles: ₹145 in total.
- Heavy Vehicles: ₹455 in total.
Currency
The local currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian Rupees are widely accepted, though ₹2000 notes may not be accepted everywhere.
Cultural Etiquette
Bhutan is a deeply religious country. Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries or Dzongs, and remove shoes before entering religious sites.
Safety & Health
Bhutan is one of the safest countries for travelers. Basic medical facilities are available in larger towns, and for more serious conditions, patients may be transferred to India or Bangkok. Make sure to bring any necessary medications, as supplies in remote areas may be limited.
By following this guide, you’ll have a seamless experience in Bhutan, from planning your entry to navigating toll plazas and enjoying the country’s beautiful landscapes. Safe travels!
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