My Experience in the Last Himalayan Kingdom – Bhutan

Blog By Saptadeepa

Surrounded by the Himalayan Mountain ranges, lies a tiny nation on the world map which can be missed by your eyes. Bhutan is an Independent nation surrounded by India at its south and China at its north and yet shares no similarity to both its neighbours. While both India and China have excelled in the races to make a significant mark on the global map, Bhutan seems in no hurry to adapt to the ever-evolving race of globalization. All that matters to Bhutan is the happiness of the Bhutanese people.

The idea of Bhutan was a mystical land beyond my imagination until I visited.

How to reach Bhutan –

Indian nationals can have an easier entry to Bhutan. The most preferred and economic route is via roads connecting Jaigaon (a hill station in West Bengal,India) to Phuntsholing (border district of Bhutan). A permit to enter Bhutan can be obtained from Regional Immigration Office at Phuntsholing gate. A valid Indian Passport or Voter Id card is sufficient. Please check the Bhutanese holiday calendar before planning the travel dates as the Govt. Immigration office are closed on holidays. A road trip may reduce your Bhutan travel cost by 10k.

There are also flights connecting Delhi or Bagdogra in India to Paro International Airport, Bhutan. Only Bhutan Airlines and Druk Airlines operate India to Bhutan flights. No other commercial airlines fly into Bhutan.

Note – Indians entering Bhutan need not pay any fees for the permit.