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.