Getting to Bhutan is an adventure that combines modern transportation with the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach this enchanting kingdom:
Travel by Air:
International Flights to Paro: Bhutan’s only international airport is located in Paro, surrounded by majestic mountains. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate flights from various international destinations, including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, and Singapore. The flight between Paro and Kathmandu is particularly awe-inspiring, offering panoramic views of four of the world’s highest peaks – Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kangchenjunga. This journey provides a visual spectacle, weather permitting.
Domestic Flights: Within Bhutan, domestic flights connect to Yonphula in the east, Bumthang in the central region, and Gelephu in the south-central area, facilitating convenient exploration of the country.
Travel by Land
International tourists can enter Bhutan through three land border entry points: Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar.
Phuentsholing Gateway: Approximately 170 kilometers east of the Indian national airport at Bagdogra, Phuentsholing serves as a gateway to Bhutan’s mountainous terrain. The journey to Thimphu involves navigating turns and bends, taking around six hours to cover the 176-kilometer stretch.
Gelephu Route: About 250 kilometers from Thimphu, Gelephu provides an alternative entry point. Travelers experience the transition from sub-tropical to alpine zones, with the journey passing through three districts and taking around ten hours.
Samdrup Jongkhar Entry: Serving as the sole entry point from Assam, India, Samdrup Jongkhar is approximately 150 kilometers from Guwahati. The scenic journey spans about 700 kilometers, passing through various districts and typically taking a minimum of three days to reach Thimphu.
Entry Permit:
Upon arrival in Bhutan, immigration officers will endorse your permit. This may require you to be present in person with your passport and passport photographs or a voter’s registration card. The endorsement is done at entry points in Phuentsholing, Samdrup Jongkhar, and Gelephu for road travelers, and at Paro Airport for those arriving by air.
Bhutan’s unique blend of tradition and natural beauty awaits, welcoming travelers to embark on a remarkable journey through its rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes.
