Nidhi
Subhash Staff answered 5 months ago
Traveling to Bhutan involves a few specific steps and considerations, especially for first-time visitors. Here’s a detailed guide:
1. Visa and Entry Requirements
Visa: All foreign nationals (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian citizens) need a visa to enter Bhutan. Visa applications must be processed through a Bhutanese tour operator or a travel agent who is licensed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB). The visa is typically issued after booking a tour package.
Documents Needed: Passport (valid for at least six months), completed visa application form, and passport-sized photographs. Your tour operator will handle the visa processing and provide you with a visa clearance letter.
2. Flights
International Flights: The main international gateway to Bhutan is Paro International Airport (PBH). Flights to Paro are available from major cities in India (Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra), Nepal (Kathmandu), and Thailand (Bangkok). Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are the two airlines operating flights to Bhutan.
Booking Flights: Book your flight through the airlines directly or through a travel agency specializing in Bhutan tours.
3. Entry Points and Immigration
Arrival: Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you will need to present your visa clearance letter. You will also need to go through immigration, where your visa will be stamped.
Travel Permits: For visiting areas outside Thimphu and Paro, such as Bumthang, Punakha, and Phobjikha Valley, additional permits are required. These are typically arranged by your tour operator.
4. Travel Packages
Tour Packages: Most visitors to Bhutan travel on a pre-arranged tour package which includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and a guide. The minimum daily tariff set by the TCB includes all these services.
Booking: Book your tour package through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international travel agency that specializes in Bhutan.
5. Currency
Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN): The local currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum, which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian Rupees are also widely accepted in Bhutan.
Currency Exchange: Currency exchange services are available at the airport, major towns, and banks.
6. Health and Safety
Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required, but it’s a good idea to be up-to-date with routine vaccines. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers health, trip cancellations, and other emergencies.
7. Local Transportation
In-Country Travel: Local transportation is usually arranged by your tour operator. Options include private cars, vans, and sometimes shared buses. Public transport is limited.
Domestic Flights: For longer distances, domestic flights might be available but are less common.
8. Accommodation
Types of Accommodation: Bhutan offers a range of accommodation from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Your tour package will include accommodations that match your package type.
Booking: Accommodation is typically arranged by your tour operator as part of your package.
9. Cultural Tips
Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries and temples. Avoid wearing revealing clothing.
Respect Traditions: Follow local customs, such as removing shoes before entering religious sites and not touching sacred objects.
10. Language and Communication
Language: The official language is Dzongkha. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Internet: Internet access is available in major towns and hotels, but it might be limited in remote areas.
11. Important Contacts
Tourism Council of Bhutan: For official information and guidelines.
Local Embassy/Consulate: In case of emergencies or for additional assistance.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Bhutan.
Sameer Staff answered 3 months ago
Reaching Bhutan requires some planning due to its controlled tourism policy, but the experience is well worth it. Here are the main ways to reach Bhutan:
1. By Air
Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan, located about 6 km from Paro town and 50 km from the capital, Thimphu. Flights to Bhutan are available from select countries.
Airlines:
Druk Air (Bhutan’s national carrier)
Bhutan Airlines
Direct Flights: Bhutan is connected by direct flights to the following cities:
India: Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Guwahati, Bagdogra
Nepal: Kathmandu
Thailand: Bangkok
Singapore
Bangladesh: Dhaka
Note: Paro Airport is known for its challenging approach, as it is surrounded by mountains. Only a limited number of trained pilots are licensed to land there.
2. By Road
From India: You can enter Bhutan by road from India, primarily via the border town of Phuentsholing, located in southern Bhutan. This is a popular option for travelers from India, as well as those combining trips to Nepal, Sikkim, or Darjeeling with Bhutan.
Entry Points:
Phuentsholing (bordering Jaigaon, West Bengal, India): The most commonly used entry point, around 170 km from Siliguri in West Bengal. From Phuentsholing, you can drive to Thimphu (5-6 hours) or Paro (4-5 hours).
Gelephu (bordering Assam, India): Another entry point, less frequently used, but suitable for travelers coming from Assam. It’s about a 10-hour drive to Thimphu.
Samdrup Jongkhar (bordering Assam, India): Suitable for those coming from the northeastern states of India. It takes around 3 hours to reach Guwahati in Assam from this border, and about 15 hours to reach Thimphu.
Indian Travelers: Indians do not need a visa for Bhutan but must carry a valid passport or voter ID to enter.
3. By Train (to Indian Border)
Bhutan doesn’t have a railway network, but travelers can take a train to stations near the India-Bhutan border and continue by road.
Nearest Railway Stations:
Hasimara Railway Station: About 17 km from Phuentsholing (West Bengal). There are trains from Kolkata, Delhi, and other Indian cities to Hasimara.
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station: Located in Siliguri, about 150 km from Phuentsholing. NJP is a major hub with trains connecting to various parts of India.
Alipurduar Junction: Another option, around 60 km from Phuentsholing.
4. By Bus (From India)
Direct Bus Services: Buses operate from Indian cities like Kolkata and Siliguri to Phuentsholing. From Phuentsholing, local buses and taxis are available to reach Thimphu or Paro.
Kolkata to Phuentsholing: Approx. 18-22 hours by bus.
Siliguri to Phuentsholing: 4-5 hours by bus.
Visa and Permits:
Foreign Nationals (except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must pre-arrange a visa before traveling to Bhutan. Visas are processed by licensed Bhutanese tour operators or international partners as part of a pre-paid travel package.
Indian Nationals do not need a visa but must carry either a passport or voter ID for entry. They are also required to get an Entry Permit upon arrival at the border or Paro Airport, which can be extended if visiting other regions of Bhutan.
Bhutan offers limited entry points to ensure sustainable tourism, but whether you fly into Paro or enter by road, the scenic beauty and cultural richness make the journey rewarding.