How to Travel Bhutan?

Travelling to Bhutan is easy. If you take flights you can fly from Kathmandu, Bangkok, Delhi, Singapore and Dubai.

Traveling to Bhutan by Air

Entry Points:

• Paro International Airport (PBH) is Bhutan’s sole international airport, located approximately 6 km from Paro town and about 54 km from Thimphu.

Airlines:

• Drukair and Bhutan Airlines are the two carriers operating flights to and from Paro, connecting Bhutan with cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore.

Required Documents to enter bhutan:

1. Valid Passport: Must have at least six months’ validity from the date of entry.
2. E-Visa Approval Letter: All international tourists (except nationals of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must obtain a visa prior to arrival. This is arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
3. Travel Insurance: Proof of valid travel insurance covering the duration of your stay.
4. Flight Tickets: Confirmed return or onward flight tickets.

🚗 Traveling to Bhutan by Road

Entry Points:

• Phuentsholing: The most commonly used land entry point, located on the border with the Indian state of West Bengal.(Distance 155km 3hr 45 mins).
• Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar: Other entry points; however, their operational status may vary, so it’s advisable to check current conditions before planning your journey.

For Indian Citizens:

• Entry Permit: Indian nationals do not require a visa but must obtain an entry permit at the border. Required documents include:
  • Valid Passport or Voter ID Card.
  • Two recent passport-sized photographs.
  • Completed entry permit application form.

For Other Nationalities:

• E-Visa Approval Letter: Similar to air travel, an e-visa must be obtained in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
• Indian Transit Visa: Since entry by road involves transiting through India, a valid Indian visa is required.

💰 Additional Requirements

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF):

• USD 100 per person per night for all international tourists aged 6 and above.
• Exemptions: Children below 6 years are exempt. Visitors to Bhutanese border towns for less than 24 hours are also exempt.

Best Time to Visit Bhutan

Bhutan is a year-round destination, but your experience will vary depending on the season. Here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect time to explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon:

Spring (March to May) – The Most Beautiful Season

Bhutan comes alive in spring with blooming rhododendrons, lush valleys, and clear skies. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.

• Perfect for: Nature lovers, trekkers, and cultural enthusiasts
• Highlights: Paro Tsechu Festival, vibrant flowers, scenic treks
• Weather: Mild and comfortable

Autumn (September to November) – Clear Skies & Festivals

Autumn offers breathtaking mountain views and some of Bhutan’s most spectacular festivals. The weather is crisp and dry—perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

• Perfect for: Festival-goers, photographers, and hikers
• Highlights: Thimphu Tsechu, stunning Himalayan views
• Weather: Cool and clear

Summer / Monsoon (June to August) – Green & Serene

Though Bhutan receives heavy rains in summer, it transforms into a lush paradise. This is the low tourist season, so you’ll enjoy quieter attractions and better deals.

• Perfect for: Peaceful retreats and budget travelers
• Highlights: Verdant landscapes, fewer tourists
• Weather: Warm and wet, with occasional showers

❄️ Winter (December to February) – Quiet & Magical

Winter is cold, especially in the mountains, but rewards visitors with clear skies and snow-dusted peaks. It’s a peaceful time to visit if you don’t mind the chill.

Weather: Cold, especially at night

Perfect for: Snow lovers, photographers, and off-season explorers