How To Reach Bhutan From India – by Flight, Train and Road?
Welcome to the gateway to the mystical kingdom of Bhutan with the help of our Bhutan Tour Package! If you’re eager to embark on a journey to this enchanting land of happiness and tranquillity, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Let us guide you on how to reach Bhutan from India, ensuring a seamless and magical travel experience.
Bhutan: An Overview
Bhutan, a small landlocked country nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique approach to governance and development.
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:
There are two major ways to reach Bhutan from India. Here are the two means of transportation along with their prices:
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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.
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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.
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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:
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Direct Flights:
Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3, New Delhi → Paro International Airport
Cost: ₹ 27,541 Onwards (Oneway)
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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)
How much does a trip to Bhutan cost from India?
A trip to Bhutan can cost between ₹35,000 and ₹125,000, depending on the length of the trip and the type of hotel you stay at.
Is Bhutan visa-free for Indians?
Yes, Indian passport holders do not require a visa to travel to Bhutan. Only an Entry Permit is necessary.
How can Indians enter Bhutan?
Indian nationals can enter Bhutan with an entry permit at the port of entry if they have a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
Can we go to Bhutan by train from India?
It is not possible to reach Bhutan by train but visitors can reach stations like Siliguri, Hasimara, New Alipurduar etc.
What is the cheapest way to go to Bhutan from India?
The cheapest way to get from India to Bhutan is to line 12 bus and fly which costs ₹18,000 – ₹42,000 and takes 4h 3m.
Which is the nearest railway station to Bhutan from India?
Hasimara is the nearest Indian railway station to Bhutan. It is merely 20 km from the border city of Bhutan.
Can I visit Bhutan without a passport?
Indian nationals intending to visit Bhutan are required to carry any of the two valid ‘Travel Documents’ (a) Valid Indian Passport having validity of minimum 6 months. (b) Voter Identity Card, issued by the Election Commission of India.
