How To Reach Bhutan From India – by Flight, Train and Road?

Bhutan: An Overview

Bordered by India to the south, east, and west, and by China to the north, Bhutan remains one of the most isolated nations in the world, with its government prioritising the preservation of its distinct identity and environment. Do not forget to go through the travel tips for Bhutan before packing your bags!

One of the defining features of Bhutan is its commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH), a holistic development philosophy that prioritises the well-being and happiness of its citizens over mere economic growth. 

This concept, coined by the fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, emphasises spiritual, physical, social, and environmental health as essential components of development.

How To Reach Bhutan From India:

• By Air:

The most common way to reach Bhutan from India is by flying into the Paro International Airport, which is the only international airport in Bhutan. 

There are regular flights operated by Druk Air (the national carrier of Bhutan) and Bhutan Airlines from several Indian cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bagdogra. 

The flight from Delhi to Paro takes approximately 2 hours, while flights from other Indian cities may have varying durations. It’s advisable to book flights in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• By Road:

Travellers can also travel to Bhutan from India by Road. The main entry points are through the border towns of Phuentsholing and Samdrup Jongkhar. Phuentsholing, located in the southern part of Bhutan, is connected to the Indian state of West Bengal. 

Samdrup Jongkhar, on the other hand, is in southeastern Bhutan and shares a border with the Indian state of Assam. From these border towns, travellers can hire taxis or use public buses to reach other destinations within Bhutan. 

It’s important to note that Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Bhutan by land routes, but they need to obtain a permit from the immigration office at the border.

• Additional Tips:

Before planning a trip to Bhutan, travellers should check the latest travel advisories, visa requirements, and entry regulations, as these may vary depending on factors such as nationality and current global circumstances. 

Additionally, it’s recommended to book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Flights to Bhutan from India:

• Direct Flights:

Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3, New Delhi → Paro International Airport

Cost: ₹ 27,541 Onwards (Oneway)

• Connecting Flights:

Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3, New Delhi →Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (16h, 40 mins Layover) → Paro International Airport

Cost: ₹ 18,935 Onwards (Oneway)

Check out the list of Airports in Bhutan to make your travel more convenient!

How to Reach Bhutan by Railway from India:

It is not possible to reach Bhutan by train but visitors can reach stations like Siliguri, Hasimara, New Alipurduar etc. → then take a taxi or bus to reach Bhutan

Bhutan from India by Train

Rajdhani

New Delhi (NDLS) → New Alipurduar (NOQ)

(26 hrs 30 mins)

Cost: ₹3705 Per Adult

Hasimara → Bhutan (Taxi/Cab)

Hasimara is 17 kilometres from Phuentsholing, and shred jeeps and taxis are easily available from there to reach Bhutan.

Cost: ₹13,000 Oneway (3 hours, 14 Minutes)