Chandigarh is known for its planned streets, beautiful gardens, and peaceful vibe, but if you are looking for a destination filled with mountains, monasteries, and untouched landscapes, Bhutan is a perfect escape. If you are wondering how to reach Bhutan from Chandigarh, there are multiple travel options available depending on your time, budget, and comfort.
There are no direct flights or trains from Chandigarh to Bhutan. The easiest way is to take a connecting flight from Chandigarh Airport (IXC) through Delhi (DEL) or Kolkata (CCU) and reach Paro International Airport (PBH), Bhutan’s only international airport.
For budget travellers, taking a train from Chandigarh Railway Station to nearby railway stations like New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Hasimara (HSA), followed by a road journey to the India-Bhutan border, is a practical option.
If you enjoy long drives and want to experience different landscapes along the way, a road trip from Chandigarh to Bhutan is also possible. The route takes you through the plains of North India before entering Bhutan through the Phuentsholing border.
Whether you are travelling solo, with family, or planning with Bhutan tour packages, this guide explains how to go to Bhutan from Chandigarh by flight, train, and road, along with routes, travel time, distance, and costs.
What is the Best Way to Reach Bhutan from Chandigarh?
The best travel option depends on whether you want speed, affordability, or a scenic journey. Flights are the fastest, while train and road options are better suited for travellers who want to save money or enjoy the journey.
For most travellers, flying through Delhi is the easiest choice. It saves time and allows you to spend more days exploring Bhutan’s popular places like Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha.
Chandigarh to Bhutan Distance by Air, Train & Road
The Chandigarh to Bhutan distance depends on the mode of transport you choose.
By Air
The aerial distance between Chandigarh and Bhutan is around 1,200–1,500 km.
Since there are no direct flights from Chandigarh Airport (IXC) to Paro International Airport (PBH), travellers need to take connecting flights through Delhi, Kolkata, or other Indian cities.
The total journey time is usually 6–12 hours, depending on the layover.
By Train
There are no direct trains connecting Chandigarh with Bhutan because Bhutan does not have a railway network.
If you are checking how to reach Bhutan from Chandigarh by train, you first need to travel to railway stations near the Bhutan border:
- New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP)
- Hasimara Railway Station (HSA)
The train journey from Chandigarh to these stations covers approximately 1,300–1,600 km and can take 25–40 hours, depending on the route and connections.
From there, you need to travel by road to Jaigaon and enter Bhutan through Phuentsholing.
By Road
For travellers planning how to reach Bhutan from Chandigarh by road, the journey is longer but offers a unique travel experience.
The road distance from Chandigarh to Bhutan is approximately 1,600–1,900 km, depending on your final destination.
The common route is:
Chandigarh - Delhi - Lucknow - Siliguri - Jaigaon - Phuentsholing - Bhutan
A road trip usually takes around 3–4 days with overnight stops.
How to Reach Bhutan from Chandigarh by Flight
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Bhutan from Chandigarh.
If you are searching for how to reach Bhutan from Chandigarh by air, you should know that there are no direct flights from Chandigarh Airport (IXC) to Paro International Airport (PBH).
Most travellers take connecting flights through:
- Delhi Airport (DEL)
- Kolkata Airport (CCU)
- Bagdogra Airport (IXB)
The most common routes are:
- Chandigarh (IXC) - Delhi (DEL) - Paro (PBH)
- Chandigarh (IXC) - Kolkata (CCU) - Paro (PBH)
- Chandigarh (IXC) - Bagdogra (IXB) - Bhutan by road
Option 1: Chandigarh to Paro via Delhi (DEL)
Route:
Chandigarh Airport (IXC) - Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL) - Paro International Airport (PBH)
The Delhi route is the most preferred option because Chandigarh has good connectivity with Delhi.
Flight Details
Delhi has regular flights from Chandigarh, making it easier to plan your connection. However, Paro flights operate on limited schedules, so always check timings before booking.
Option 2: Chandigarh to Paro via Kolkata (CCU)
Route:
Chandigarh Airport (IXC) - Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (CCU) - Paro International Airport (PBH)
Kolkata is one of the major gateways to Bhutan and is geographically closer to the country.
Flight Details
The Kolkata route can be convenient because the final flight to Paro is shorter.
Option 3: Chandigarh to Bagdogra (IXB) + Road Journey
Another popular option is flying to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) and continuing by road.
Route:
Chandigarh (IXC) - Bagdogra (IXB) - Siliguri - Jaigaon - Phuentsholing - Bhutan
Details
After reaching Jaigaon, travellers can cross into Phuentsholing and continue towards Bhutan’s popular destinations.
Chandigarh to Bhutan Flight Ticket Price
The cost of a Chandigarh to Bhutan flight depends on your travel dates, booking time, season, and the route you select. Since there are no direct flights, the total fare includes the domestic flight from Chandigarh to a connecting city and the onward flight to Paro.
Flight prices are generally higher during peak travel months like October to December, festivals, and long weekends. Booking your tickets early can help you get better fares.
Note: Flight prices mentioned above are approximate and may change depending on airline availability, travel dates, season, and booking time.
How to Reach Bhutan from Chandigarh by Train
If you are checking how to reach Bhutan from Chandigarh by train, there is no direct train that takes you to Bhutan because the country does not have a railway network. The closest railway stations are located in West Bengal, near the India-Bhutan border.
The two main railway stations used by travellers are:
- New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP)
- Hasimara Railway Station (HSA)
From these stations, you can continue by road to Jaigaon and cross the border into Phuentsholing, Bhutan.
The train route is longer compared to flying, but it is a good option for travellers who want to reduce travel costs.
Option 1: Chandigarh to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) by Train
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) is one of the most popular railway stations for travellers heading towards Bhutan.
Route:
Chandigarh - New Jalpaiguri (NJP) - Siliguri - Jaigaon - Phuentsholing - Bhutan
The railway distance from Chandigarh to NJP is approximately 1,300–1,500 km.
The journey usually takes around 25–35 hours, depending on the train route and connections.
Train Journey Details
There are limited direct train options, so many travellers prefer taking a train through major railway connections like Delhi, Lucknow, or other North Indian railway hubs.
Always check the latest train availability on IRCTC before planning your journey.
After Reaching New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
Once you reach NJP, you need to travel towards Jaigaon, the Indian town located near the Bhutan border.
NJP to Jaigaon Route:
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) - Siliguri - Sevoke Road - Hasimara - Jaigaon - Phuentsholing
Distance & Travel Time:
Travel options from NJP include:
- Private taxi
- Shared cab
- Bus till Siliguri, followed by shared transport
A private taxi from NJP to Jaigaon usually costs around ₹3,500–₹5,000, while shared options are more affordable.
Option 2: Chandigarh to Hasimara Railway Station
Hasimara Railway Station (HSA) is another good option for travellers because it is closer to Bhutan compared to NJP.
Route:
Chandigarh - Hasimara (HSA) - Jaigaon - Phuentsholing - Bhutan
Hasimara is located in West Bengal’s Alipurduar district and provides easier access to the Bhutan border.
Details
The main advantage of Hasimara is that you save several hours after completing the train journey. From the station, taxis and shared vehicles are available to Jaigaon.
NJP vs Hasimara: Which Railway Station Is Better?
For most travellers, NJP is easier because it has better train connectivity from different parts of India. However, Hasimara is more convenient if you find a suitable train route.
How to Reach Bhutan from Chandigarh by Road
For travellers who enjoy long journeys, a road trip from Chandigarh to Bhutan can be a memorable experience. It allows you to explore different parts of North India before reaching the Himalayan kingdom.
However, this is not the fastest way to travel. The journey covers more than 1,500 km and requires proper planning.
If you are wondering how to go to Bhutan from Chandigarh by road, the common route is:
Chandigarh - Delhi - Lucknow - Siliguri - Jaigaon - Phuentsholing - Bhutan
Road Trip Details
A road journey is ideal for travellers who enjoy:
- Flexible travel plans
- Exploring places on the way
- Scenic drives
- Slow travel experiences
However, keep extra buffer time because traffic, weather, and road conditions can affect travel duration.
Route From Jaigaon to Bhutan
Most travellers entering Bhutan by road use the Jaigaon–Phuentsholing border.
The route is:
India Side:Jaigaon, West Bengal
Bhutan Side:Phuentsholing, Bhutan
After completing entry formalities, travellers can continue towards popular destinations like Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha.
Distance From Phuentsholing:
The roads are scenic, but the mountain curves can make the journey longer than expected.
Chandigarh to Bhutan Travel Time Comparison
If you are wondering how much time it takes to reach Bhutan from Chandigarh, it depends on your chosen mode of transport.
Bhutan Tour Packages from Chandigarh
Planning transport, hotels, permits, and sightseeing separately can take time. A planned Bhutan tour package from Chandigarh can make the journey easier, especially if you are visiting Bhutan for the first time.
WanderOn’s Bhutan tour packages include organised stays, transportation, itinerary planning, and trip support so travellers can enjoy their holiday without worrying about daily arrangements.
These packages are suitable for travellers who want a planned itinerary with comfortable stays and organised transfers.
Practical Tips Before Travelling from Chandigarh to Bhutan
- Book Flights Early: Flights to Paro International Airport (PBH) operate on limited routes, so booking early is a good idea, especially during peak travel months.
- Keep Comfortable Layover Time: If you are travelling via Delhi or Kolkata, avoid very short connections. Bhutan flights have limited schedules, and delays can affect your journey.
- Carry Some Cash: Although digital payments are becoming common, carrying some Indian currency is useful for small purchases, local transport, and roadside stops.
- Check Weather Conditions: Bhutan experiences different seasons. Winter can be cold, while monsoon months may affect road journeys due to rain and landslides.
- Keep Documents Handy: Keep your ID proof, hotel details, and permit-related documents easily accessible during your journey.
- Choose the Right Entry Point: If you are travelling by air, you will enter through Paro International Airport (PBH). If you are travelling by road, Phuentsholing is the most common entry point.