road trip to bhutan from kolkata

Kolkata to Bhutan : How to Get to Bhutan From Kolkata

The preferred way of travelling from kolkata to bhutan.

Time Take by Flight: 4 h 20 min

Kolkata To Bhutan By Flight

Option 1: From the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata,one can take a flight to Paro International Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan. Bhutan Airlines (private) and Druk Air (national) operate a number of direct flights to and from Paro every week. The duration is around 1 hour 30 minutes. Option 2: The other viable option is that you can also take a flight to Bagdogra Airport which would take an hour and then to Paro Airport, which takes around half an hour or so.

Flight Options Available

Kolkata to paro (ccu to pbh) .

Bhutan Airlines B3701 and B3715 operate flights to Paro daily the duration is around 1.5 hours. The departure time is 8:15 AM and arrival is at 9:55 PM daily except Tuesday and Wednesday when arrival and departure timings are 15 minutes ahead. Druk Air 121, 211 and 501 operates flights every day except Thursday and the duration is the same as Bhutan Airlines. On Monday, Wednesday and Friday, departure time is at 9:10 AM and arrival time is at 10:50 AM. On Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, departure time is at 8:30 AM and arrival time is at 10:10 AM. On Saturday, however, flight departs at 9:10 AM and arrives at 10:50 AM.

Kolkata To Bagdogra, Bagdogra To Paro (CCU-IXB-PBH)

It is better to book your Kolkata to Bagdogra flight on Sunday or Tuesday because Druk Air KB131 operates flight on these two days only. The flight departs at 9 AM and arrives at 10 AM. Air Asia, IndiGo, Spice Jet, Go Air and Air India operate nonstop flight to Bagdogra Airport and the time taken by the flight ranges around 1 hour 20 minutes.

Kolkata To Bhutan by Bus

Bus Options Available (Direct)

Esplanade/ Sealdah To Phuentsholing On every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, the Bhutanese Government buses leave at 7 PM and on the alternate days i.e. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the buses return from Phentsholing Bhutan Post Office at 3 PM. Time Taken: 18-25 hours Cost: 300-350 INR/ BTN

Kolkata To Bhutan By Car

Route Options

Malda-Jaigaon-Phuentsholing Route (Via NH12) Duration: 9 h 17 min (368.7 km)

Bardhaman-Raiganj-Goagaon-Siliguri-Jaigaon-Phuentsholing (Via NH12) Duration: 15 h 22 min (609.6 km)

Asansol- Bhagalpur -Nagrakata-Phuentsholing Route (Via NH27) Duration: 15 h 9 min (613.9 km)

Road Conditions

Kolkata to bhutan by train.

Train Options Available

Sealdah to hasimara duration: 16 h 40 min (696.0 km).

Train 1: Kanchankanya Express 13149 (A/C, non-A/C), daily Train 2: Kolkata- Alipurduar Special Fare Train 03129 (A/C, non A/C), Sunday Train 3: Karmabhoomi Express 22511, Thursday (from Howrah) Cost: Around 330-370 INR/ BTN Duration: Around 14hrs 35min

From Hasimara to Phuentsholing Duration: 40 min (19.6 km)

Sealdah to new jalpaiguri (shortest 570kms), new alipurduar (shortest 717kms) or siliguri (563kms).

From Kolkata, Haldibari Superfast Tri-weekly Intercity Express, Kanchanjungha Express, Teesta Torsa Express, Guwahati Express, Shatabdi Express, Kamrup Express, Padatik Express, Darjeeling Mail, Kanchankanya Express, Uttar Banga Express etc. Duration: Around 10-15 hours depending on the train and destination From Jalpaiguri , you can either take a connecting train to Hasimara or get a taxi to reach Jaigaon or Phuentsholing. From Siliguri , you can avail the Royal Bhutan Government bus departing near the Heritage Hotel on Hill Cart Road at 1:30 PM and 7:30 PM â€“the tickets cost INR 62. From New Alipurduar Jaigaon is 60 kilometres from New Alipurduar and both taxi and bus are available to reach Jaigaon. Some trains also pass Falakata from Siliguri â€“while a taxi from Siliguri to Phuentsholing takes around 4 hours, from Falakata it takes around 1.5 hours.

Tips: It is better to book your tickets for about 120 days in advance to get your seats confirmed. Check online to check the days on which the above-mentioned trains run.

Additional Tips

Keep your itinerary ready, otherwise travelling visa will not be sanctioned. Get in touch with any tour operator to get the permits beforehand. A free-of-cost travel permit is given in Phuentsholing for an Indian national although, for a vehicle, you need to pay a reasonable amount to get car permit sanctioned by Road safety And Transport Authority. Turn up before 9:00 AM (Bhutanese time). Carry ID proof (voter ID card, PAN card, driving license etc.) with a passport (valid for six months minimum), insurance paper in case you are driving your car, pollution certificate of the vehicle and RTO book. The travel permit is only applicable for visiting Paro and Thimphu for seven days. For other destinations like Phobjikha and Bumthang , you have to get a separate license from RSTA in Thimphu. Non-Indians need a visa and also an exit stamp on their passports from Indian Immigration Office. After disembarking at Jaigaon main stop, get your luggage and get down at the Immigration Office. After completing the formalities, you can reach the Bhutan Gate on foot as it is close by.

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How to Plan a Trip to Bhutan from Kolkata?

Bhutan, set in the Himalayas, is known as the “Land of Happiness.” This beautiful country, with its impressive landscapes and deep cultural roots, welcomes travelers from Kolkata for a special adventure. Bhutan stands out because it values the happiness and well-being of its people and environment, creating a welcoming and magical atmosphere for visitors.

The country’s dedication to maintaining its natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it even more attractive. Bhutan offers enriching experiences, from breathtaking mountain scenery to lively cultural festivals. Visitors can explore ancient monasteries, walk through peaceful valleys, and enjoy the friendly hospitality of the Bhutanese. A trip to Bhutan from Kolkata promises to be unforgettable, filled with joyful and eye-opening moments.

Table of Contents

Your Gateway to Bhutan’s Wonders: The Kolkata Connection

Are you a wanderlust enthusiast craving new cultural experiences and exotic flavors? Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, awaits you. Embark on a Bhutan Package Tour from Kolkata and immerse yourself in a land of natural splendor, vibrant festivals, and heartwarming hospitality.

Bhutan: A Mosaic of Experiences

Despite its modest size, Bhutan’s experiences are vast and varied. Shielded from the world until the 1970s, Bhutan has preserved its pristine environment and unique culture. From awe-inspiring architecture to spiritual journeys, and from hiking through stunning landscapes to capturing the essence of untouched beauty, Bhutan is an unspoiled paradise on Earth.

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Your Bhutan Adventure with Tusk Travel

Tusk Travel Private Limited, the premier India Tour Operator based in New Delhi , offers comprehensive packages that include competitive flight prices, comfortable accommodations, expert English-speaking guides, and skilled drivers. Prepare for an unforgettable journey to Bhutan!

A Glimpse into the Bhutan Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Paro, transfer to Thimphu
Day 2: Full-day sightseeing in Thimphu
Day 3: Journey from Thimphu to Phobjikha Valley
Day 4: Travel from Phobjikha Valley to Punakha
Day 5: Punakha to Paro and sightseeing
Day 6: Hike to Taktsang Monastery in Paro
Day 7: Day excursion to Chela-La-Pass
Day 8: Departure from Paro

Entry Formalities for Indian Tourists

Indian tourists need a valid passport with six months of validity beyond their intended departure date from Bhutan. While a visa is not required, an Entry Permit is necessary, along with payment of the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).

Why Choose Tusk Travel for Your Bhutan Journey?

Since 2018, Tusk Travel has been a trusted name for organizing Bhutan tours from Kolkata. As an authorized agent, we offer exclusive airfare deals. Our pre-purchased hotel inventory for peak seasons, authorization by the Tourism Council of Bhutan, and in-depth knowledge of Bhutan ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

Best Time to Book Your Bhutan Tour

Bhutan, with its four distinct seasons, is a year-round destination. However, the optimal time for a Bhutan tour from Kolkata is during spring (March to May), when the valleys are vibrant with blossoms, and the weather is mild.

Travel Options to Bhutan from Kolkata

By Air: Direct flights from Kolkata to Paro with Bhutan Airlines
By Road: Travel via Bagdogra Airport to Phuentsholing
By Train: Journey to New Jalpaiguri/Siliguri/Alipurduar, followed by road entry into Bhutan

A Bhutan Package Tour from Kolkata with Tusk Travel is your key to unlocking the mystical charm of Bhutan. From majestic fortresses to ancient monasteries, Bhutan’s allure is bound to captivate your senses and leave a lasting impression. Get ready for an adventure that will etch a special place in your heart.

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About The Author

Indians expected to pay more money to travel to Bhutan, starting this season

Bhutan Plans To End Free Trip For All Indian Passport Holders

Road Trip to Bhutan – Journey of a Lifetime

It’s very easy to drive along the road than sitting and writing a travelogue. Still, I will try my best to jot down the memories created throughout my Kolkata to Bhutan road trip.

It had been quite a long time since I made any road trips. This trip was overdue since I drove down to Kolkata from Gwalior in 2015. With Durga Puja approaching this year, the road trip itch returned with vigor. Initially, the plan was for Himachal but considering many reasons, we settled down for a road trip to Bhutan.

Once the plan was made and finalized, it was time to make the itinerary. After some research work through the internet and with help from many threads in this group, the same was also finalized within a couple of days.

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Road Trip to Bhutan from Kolkata

The finalized travel plan look liked below.

Kolkata to Malda (Stay at WBTDC Tourist lodge, Malda) – Day 1
Malda to Siliguri (Stay at WBTDC Tourist Lodge, Siliguri) – Day 2
Siliguri to Phuentsholing (Stay at Park Hotel, Phuentsholing) – Day 3
Phuentsholing to Thimphu (Stay at Hotel Bhutan, Thimphu) – Day 4
Sightseeing in Thimphu – Day 5
Thimphu to Phobjikha (Stay at Kichu Resorts, Phobjikha) – Day 6
Phobjhika to Punakha (Stay at Hotel Vara, Punakha) – Day 7
Punakha to Paro (Stay at Golden Roots Resort and Spa, Paro) – Day 8
Taktsang Monastery Trek – Day 9
Chele La and Exploring Paro – Day 10
Paro to Jaldapara (Stay at Jaldapara Eco Stay) – Day 11 & 12
Jaldapara to Malda (Stay at a friends place) – Day 13
Malda to Kolkata (Home sweet home) – Day 14

Day 1: Kolkata to Malda

Initially, the plan was to cover the entire stretch from Kolkata to Siliguri in one go. But as I was traveling with my five years old daughter and considering this trip was to be her first major one, I decided to make a night halt at Malda instead and then proceed to Siliguri on the next day.

My plan was to reach Phuentsholing on 14th October (Monday). So keeping that in mind, we started from Kolkata on 12th October so that we can reach Phuentsholing on 14th Morning from Siliguri. Booking was already done in advance at WBTDC tourist lodges in Malda and Siliguri in advance.

We left Kolkata at 7.30 A.M and after a brief stopover at Shaktigarh, turned on the Bardhman – Moregram stretch. We also crossed the beautiful ROB at Bardhman on our way. The road is in good condition barring few stretches. Around 1.45 pm, we reached COCO BP Moregram and had lunch there.

Further journey till Malda was smooth. Roads are good leaving few sections before Farakka. Crossing Farakka was very smooth as we did not encounter any traffic. But we had a tough time negotiating traffic on the outskirts of Malda, especially at Kaliachak. I had to tailgate a long queue of trucks. We finally reached Malda tourist lodge around 5 pm.

Also Read: Mount Batur Sunrise Trek – A Hike to Remember

Day 2: Malda to Siliguri

The next morning we left Malda tourist lodge at 8.30. The day being Sunday, we had to negotiate less city traffic along the Malda roads and soon we were on the highway.

The road condition was not very bad with occasional potholes which were very difficult to anticipate and then negotiate. On a couple of occasions, I had no other option but to drive through them and doing so, once I heard a loud thud from the front left wheel side. My initial reaction was ‘OMG the shocker must have been damaged badly’. But after driving for some time and then a visual inspection did not reveal anything. The build quality of TATA stood apart.

Finished our breakfast at a roadside dhaba with some puri, sabzi, and then a hot cup of chai. There I met a couple of bikers from Kerala who were also riding to Bhutan.

After crossing Raiganj, we took the Botolbari route, and soon I was driving through some very good countryside roads. The road condition is very good for most of the stretch and manageable for the rest. I thoroughly enjoyed my drive through the Botolbari stretch.

Just before joining NH 27, there is no road for almost 400 meters. Instead of following Google at this point I just took a left turn and followed a couple of other cars through a narrow lane and joined NH 27. The point of left turn seemed to have an Auto stand and thus can be easily identified. I have marked the spots on the map below.

Bagdogra to Siliguri

We had lunch at Islampur and proceeded towards Bagdogra. The drive till the Bagdogra was beautiful. We spotted some beautiful tea estates on our way and couldn’t resist the temptation to explore one of them. Below are some pictures of us enjoying at a tea estate.

We reached the WBTDC tourist lodge at Siliguri at 4 PM. I must say that the lodge is very good. I never expected a state-owned property to be so beautifully maintained.

During the evening, we went to explore the famous Bidhan market at Siliguri. But the day being Sunday and also because of Laxmi Puja, most of the shops were closed.

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Day 3: Siliguri to Phuentsholing

The D day has arrived. I got up very early as I was super excited. Till that day I had only watched many YouTube videos of people crossing the iconic Sevoke Bridge and driving through Dooars and entering Bhutan through Phuentsholing. But now I was going to do it myself.

We left the guest house at 6.30 am. The guest house staff was generous enough to pack our breakfast. The drive through the Sevoke forest area was really awesome which can’t be described in words. We crossed the Sevoke Bridge within no time.

The road is very good and I thoroughly enjoyed driving on the surface. We had to negotiate a little bit of traffic near the Hasimara railway station. My excitement was growing gradually as we were getting closer to Bhutan. Finally, we entered Phuentsholing through the entry gate at around 11 am (Indian time) and drove straight to Park Hotel.

I had done the reservation in advance through MMT and also had contacted an agent in advance to help us through the Immigration process.

The day being Monday and the time being after Durga Puja, I was expecting a heavy rush at the immigration office at Phuentsholing. By the time we reached the Immigration office, it was already lunchtime. So we decided to finish lunch as we all were feeling very hungry.

We went to Zmorky Restaurant, just opposite the immigration office, and ordered some Bhutanese Red Rice, Ema Datsi, and Kewa Datsi. Aditri, my daughter and the youngest member of the group, was in no mood to taste the Bhutanese Cuisine, so we ordered some noodles for her.

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Phuentsholing

The food was awesome. By now we were already feeling the difference. The Jaigaon side being so noisy but just a few meters away we were standing at a place that was so calm and quiet. People were all crossing the roads through the designated ZEBRA crossings, which we find very difficult to include in our daily habits.

I just spotted the rate of petrol at the adjacent petrol pump and was shocked to see that Bhutan which is a dependent economy, offering Petrol at Rs. 63; even though they import Petrol from us.

Ooops I need to take the vehicle permit before that. But by that time RST Phuentsholing was already closed for business. So I planned to obtain the vehicle permit the next day at the earliest and proceed towards Thimphu.

So the next main job was to obtain a Bhutanese SIM card and without further delay, I got myself the Tashi SIM with added Data from the Tashi center, which was just at the backside of our hotel.

I was eager to visit the nearby Karbandi Monastery during sunset time but the plan ultimately did not come through and instead, we explored Phuentsholing town in the evening.

Day 4: Phuentsholing to Thimphu

I was at the RST Office by 9 am and got the vehicle permit within 15 minutes. Now we were officially permitted to explore Bhutan. We started for Thimphu at 11 am. As the journey was progressing, my excitement level was rising as this was my first hill drive.

We got our documents stamped at the first check post which is roughly 5 km from Phuentsholing. The roads were very good and were becoming scenic as we were gaining heights.

In between, we tanked up my Nexon at Gedu. The second document verification at Chukha was also completed without any hassle. Soon after that, we had a brief stopover at the Dantek canteen for lunch. This place offers some beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Our further journey to Thimphu was very comfortable and smooth. By the time we reached our hotel, the whole Thimphu city was lit up and looking awesome.

Throughout the journey from Phuentsholing, I relied upon Andriod Auto which was working flawlessly and it didn’t disappoint me this time too. Google nicely guided me through the lams or lanes of Thimphu city to my Hotel. I had made a reservation at Hotel Bhutan through MMT. The hotel is located very close to the Immigration Office in Thimphu.

The Check-in process was very smooth which is kind of unexpected in India. We wanted to explore the Iconic Clock Tower Square so without wasting any time just kept our luggage in the room and drove down to the Clock Tower Square.

It was getting late and cold and the shops were bringing the shutters down. We found a nice restaurant named “The Rice Bowl” and finished our dinner with some sumptuous Bhutanese cuisine. The Samu Datsi was out of the world.

Day 5: Thimphu Local Tour

The next morning I woke up to some stunning views from the window. Just after breakfast, we proceeded towards the Immigration office to get our stay extended and get the entry permit for Punakha and Phobjikha. It was just 5 minutes away from the hotel by walk. All the required formalities were completed within 1 and a half hours. Now the next job was to obtain the vehicle permit from the RST office and got it done by the afternoon. The rest of the day was spent exploring Thimphu city.

Day 6: Thimphu to Phobjikha valley

Considering the distance from Thimphu to Phobjikha valley, I decided to start a bit late from Thimphu. We got up early in the morning as usual and went for a walk to explore the neighborhood. Throughout the walk, we experienced some awesome morning views and clicked a lot of photos.

We started for Phobjikha at 11 am and soon after crossing the Thimphu city joined the highway. The road I must say is well maintained and smooth. It’s a sin if I don’t mention the beautiful Dochula Pass.

Often a violent history and dark times encourage people to create something inspiring and beautiful, and this is exactly what the people of Bhutan did. They created Dochula Pass, Bhutan in honor of 108 Bhutanese soldiers who died in a 2003 military operation.

On a clear sunny day, the pass offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges but I was not so lucky to witness the beauty as it was cloudy.

After spending almost an hour we proceeded further towards Punakha and crossed Punakha on our way to Phobjikha valley. In between witnessed some rain and a full-fledged rainbow thereafter.

One must take a sharp U-turn from the Bumthang – Ura highway to proceed towards Phobjikha valley. This road is comparatively narrow and the climb is steep. Two vehicles crossing each other on this stretch can be tricky at times. Gradually the Gangtey valley became visible as I drove further. My plan was to visit the Gangtey Monastery first and then Phobjikha. It was twilight when we reached Gangtey Monastery and all of us were spellbound after seeing the beautiful landscape. It seemed like someone must have painted them nicely on a canvas.

Also Read: Bhutan – From the Eyes of a 12-Year-Old

After exploring the monastery, we proceeded towards our hotel in Phobjikha. It was already dark by the time we left the Gangtey monastery.

The road to Phobjikha is not very good and it being dark, at times it was getting difficult to negotiate. Our reservation for the day was done at Kichu Resorts and while following Google maps I missed a right turn and instead landed at the Black Necked Crane Visitor center.

We rectified the mistake in no time and checked in to our hotel at 6 in the evening. Kichu Resorts is a new property and nicely maintained. As it was already dark and the outside the temperature was hovering around 1 -2 Degree C, we chose not to venture out and settled for the day in our rooms after having some delicious snacks and dinner thereafter.

The next morning our plan was to do a nature trail and visit the Black-necked Crane visitor center on our way to Punakha.

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Day 7: Phobjikha Valley to Punakha

The morning greeted us with some mesmerizing view from the resort balcony. For one moment I thought “God, I wish I could stay here permanently.” One just can’t take his eyes off the beautiful landscape. The hamlet was gradually waking up. The experience of the nature walk was out of the world.

Now it was time to bid adieu to Phobjikha and after completing all the formalities for the morning we checked out from Kichu Resorts with a promise of coming back again, I made to myself. We visited the Black Necked Crane Visitor Centre and proceeded towards Punakha.

The reservation was done through Bhutan Bookings. The hotel is located a bit away from Punakha City but it offered a stunning view of the valley and the river. After keeping our luggage we left for the Punakha Dzong but couldn’t enter it for the day as the ticket issuing time was already passed.

So we explored the nearby places and waited for the lights to come up. Once it was dark and the lights were on the Dzong offered altogether a different look. We returned back to the hotel after spending some quality time at the Dzong.

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Day 8: Punakha to Paro

As usual, the urge of viewing the early rays of the sun on the mountains didn’t let me sleep for long and I woke up very early and looked through the window and I must say the view didn’t disappoint me. The novice photographer within me was very eager to capture each and everything through the lenses.

The Nag Yul Bum Temple adjacent to the Dzong. It houses the original volume of the Kanjur, which is the golden holy book of the Drukpa School of Thought.

Famous suspension bridge at Punakha.

We decided to skip the plan for Chimi Lakhang and proceeded straight to Paro.

Creating memories.

From Chuzom the beautiful Paro Chu accompanied us almost throughout our drive to our hotel. I had booked our stay at the Golden Resorts and Spa through MMT. This resort is around 6 km away from Paro city and very near to the famous Taktsang Monastery aka Tigers Nest . The monastery was visible from the balcony of my room. The next day our plan was to visit the monastery.

Day 9: Taktsang Monastery trek

The early part of the morning was spent in experiencing the sunrise and capturing it through the lens.

Our plan was to reach the starting point of the trek as early as possible. Likewise, we stuffed our tummies with aloo parathas and proceeded for the trek. We carried some snacks and dry fruits along with us for the trek. As my five years old daughter was also going to trek the whole stretch with us, I was a bit nervous about her. I thought to hire a pony but the kid insisted upon trekking all the way up on her own.

The trekking path is tricky and it demands you to be fit, if not the fittest. We saw many people gasping for breath in between. But everyone who was trekking was determined to complete it and visits the sacred monastery. It was really admirable. I even saw a couple who might be in their 70s were trekking along with us.

After trekking for almost 2 hrs, we reached the cafeteria and that means we might have already covered 65-70% of the trek. My daughter didn’t show any signs of fatigue till now and she was all busy running around. We spent 30 mins at the cafeteria, refueled ourselves, completed the bio breaks, and resumed the trek.

The route after the cafeteria is more steep compared to the route till the café and one needs real stamina to trek the remaining part. Now I understood why many people at the café were talking about returning back. But we were all for completing the whole trek and finally, we reached the point from where the stairs start and one can get the prominent view of Tigers Nest.

Taktsang Monastery

We entered the monastery at around 1 pm. Here one needs to submit cameras, mobile phones, and other valuables. After doing the formalities we were greeted by a lady guide who explained everything about the monastery to us. All the fatigue of the trek vanished instantly once we entered the sacred monastery. After spending some quality time at the monastery, we started our journey back to the base point.

I must say the return trek is not so easy and it also demands strength and stamina. Although it takes lesser time, one can’t take things easy. It took all of us 6 hrs to complete the whole trek and my daughter successfully completed this. She deserved a treat on that day.

Now we all were feeling hungry and planned to venture into the city instead of getting back to our hotel. As decided, we drove to Paro City and started looking for a good restaurant to fill our empty stomachs.

We checked into the Sonam Toppel Hotel and Restaurant and ordered some momos. Man, I must say those were the best momos I have ever had.

You can’t keep the ladies away from shopping. Despite being damn tired the female gang (my wife Sharmila and my friend’s better half Moni) was ready to explore the market and drill holes in our pockets. The evening was spent nicely and we went to bed with the satisfaction of completing the trek to Tigers Nest.

The next day my plan was to drive to Chele la. This trip, being my first hill drive, driving up to Chele la was kind of an achievement for me which I wanted to do at any cost.

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Day 10: Chele La and Exploring Paro

I got up early in the morning but the day was cloudy. I saw clouds covering the hills. After some time even the Tigers Nest was also not visible. After searching through a lot of youtube videos, I knew that on a clear sunny day one can see the snowcapped peaks of the mountains from Chele la.

We started for Chele la at around 10 am. I was feeling a bit nervous as many youtube videos have termed Chele la drive to be tricky and the road to be dangerous.

Soon after leaving the Bondey – Haa highway for Chele La, the road became narrow but the surface was good. The road offers a stunning view of the lush valleys, pine, and rhododendron forest. The route is almost entirely covered in the forest.

The more we proceeded through the road, the nervousness gradually converted into confidence, and finally, the sight of the prayer flags of Chele la greeted me. Soon I was atop the Land of Thunder Dragon. The sense of accomplishment can’t be expressed in words.

It was very windy on top of the pass. The weather god was not kind to me and the mountain peaks remained covered under the cloud. Couldn’t help.

Soon it was time to say goodbye to Chele la and drive down to Paro City. En route to the city, we spent some time at the Paro viewpoint and later visited the Paro Dzong and adjoining museum.

This was the last day of our trip so all of us were feeling a bit sad. The good time really passes off so quickly. It was time to pack our stuff again and get ready for the return journey.

Day 11: Time to Return Home

Today our plan was to halt at Jaldapara for the night. We finished our breakfast and checked out of the hotel by 9.30.

The day was going to be a hectic one as driving from Paro to Phuentsholing was going to take almost 6 hours. Then I will have to negotiate the Jaigaon traffic en route Jaldapara. The drive, as usual, was beautiful but the joy was missing as it was time to come back and get back to our real life.

After crossing Gedu the weather suddenly deteriorated and all of a sudden the whole road was covered with clouds. The visibility was reduced drastically and it was really getting tough driving in that condition. It was altogether a great experience driving through the clouds.

We reached Phuentsholing by 4.30 pm and allowed 1 hour’s time to the lady gang for their shopping. We crossed the Bhutan gate around 6 pm and entered the busy Jaigaon area with unruly traffic. Reached Jaldapara Eco Stay by 8 P.M. This property was booked through OYO Rooms and it is very close to Jaldapara Reserve Forest.

We spent the next two days at Jaldapara Eco Resort. This property is well maintained and in the lap of nature. Our plan of doing a safari at Jaldapara reserve Forest could not materialize. We just spent the time there and Proceeded towards Kolkata on 24th October. Reached Kolkata on 26th October after spending 25th at Malda at a friend’s place.

Also Read: Bhutan Travelogue – One Step Closer to my Soul

Few Observations:

Hyundai and Kia Motors seem to be the most favored brands of the Bhutanese people. Most of the cars I noticed in Bhutan was either Hyundai Creta or Kia Sportage. TATA motors don’t seem to have any foothold in Bhutan. I don’t know why. The presence of Maruti cars is negligible.

People are very punctual, friendly, and helpful.

The most important observation is about the coverage of Tashi Cell. Its 4G coverage is superb without a single drop in signal. Throughout my journey in Bhutan, I relied upon the Android Auto through the Tashi Cell and it didn’t let me down, not for a single moment.

Turn by turn the navigation through the mountains was accurate. So people visiting Bhutan with cars should not worry about the navigation and need not to download offline maps.

I hope the travelogue and the information above on a road trip to Bhutan were of help. If you have any questions or need any other details, please feel free to ask in the comments section below, or at our Community Forum , and I will be glad to answer.

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About bhutan : rated 4.4 /5 (based on 1457 reviews) | Packages starting from ₹12,430/-

Bhutan Tour Package From Kolkata

For those seeking an unforgettable vacation, a Bhutan tour package from Kolkata is the ideal choice. You'll find that this place is not only peaceful, but the people are also friendly and down to earth. Bhutan is also renowned for its monasteries and mountain forts. Surprisingly, this place primarily uses red rice and chilies as its main ingredients in its cuisine. When it comes to planning a holiday, pre-planning is crucial to avoid confusion at the last moment. Be well-prepared and planned for your journey with Bhutan Tour Package From Kolkata to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.

Places to Visit In Bhutan From Kolkata

Ideal duration.

When you are looking out for Bhutan Tour packages from Kolkata, it’s important to know the ideal duration to explore Bhutan properly. Though, it does take 30 days to fully explore and wander bhutan but a minimum of 5 days is needed.

Best Time to visit Bhutan

If you want to enjoy the chilly weather of Bhutan then it is advisable to visit this beautiful place in the Months of December, January and February moreover it is considered to be off season as well. Moreover in the month of December, it is less crowded as well.

The spring season starts from the Months of March to May moreover the weather is pleasant as well. If you want to experience the festival such as Paro and Punakha Tschechu then it is recommended to travel in the Months of September to November respectively.

Though, this place has four types of season namely Summers, Autumn, Spring and winters so if you wish to feel the summer vibes of Bhutan then it is advisable to visit this fascinating place in the Months from June to August.

How to reach Bhutan from Kolkata?

If you are thinking about how to reach from Kolkata to bhutan then there are multiple ways:

You can take a direct or connecting flight to reach Bhutan.

If you plan to drive from Kolkata to Bhutan then it is going to be a long one but it will be totally worth it by crossing three districts.

If you plan to travel from Kolkata to Bhutan through Train? So there is no direct train but you can reach to the defined station and from there you can take a cab or reach. Hasimara. It is situated in west bengal which is 17 Km away from Phuentsholing, you will easily get a train as Indian Railways operates from here.

In the end, it's better to take a flight so that you reach without much of a traveling and why to waste your precious time? and bhutan is considered to be a bit of an expensive place so why to spend a little bit more of an amount on traveling when you can save and spend on other things.

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Faqs for bhutan, is bhutan safe to travel to.

Yes, Bhutan is one of the safest places to visit in the world.

Is there a visa on arrival for Indians in Bhutan?

Indians don’t need a visa for Bhutan. They are given 7 days entry-cum-stay permit.

What are some of the top places to visit in Bhutan?

Some of the top places to visit in Bhutan are:

Paro Taktsang
Punakha Dzong
Rinpung Dzong
Gangteng Monastery
National Museum of Bhutan
Kichu Lhakang

How many days are ideal for Bhutan?

To explore Bhutan one needs 4 to 5 days.

Can Indian currency be used in Bhutan?

Yes, Indian currency can be used in Bhutan.

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Tips for Travellers

If you are looking out for Holiday packages from Bhutan to Kolkata, then it is always advisable to remember these few tips so that you avoid any mishappening in the end:

It is always important to carry your important documents.
It is advisable to plan your holiday during the festival time because you will experience a different type of environment altogether. There are many festivals which will surely be new to you so why not experience such amazing yet joyful events?
Apart from the places like Thimphu and paro, the nightlife at other places are near non existent so it's better to carry something to read or something through which you can keep yourself occupied.
If you are planning for your holiday in the winter season, it is recommended to carry your woolens and to cover yourself because it is a pretty cold there.
Few of the places does not allow photography so kindly respect the laws or else check with your guide in case of any confusion.
Traditional hotels, cottages and guest houses are easily available but if you look out for few luxury hotels, they will turn out to be a bit expensive so it is advisable to plan your stay accordingly.
Well, here are a few tips which will help your holiday to turn out to be much safer and convenient without any kind of confusion at the very end moment.

If you are looking out Bhutan Tour packages from Kolkata it is always recommended and advisable to make a day to day itinerary of your own which brings us to a very important point and that is safety. Though Bhutan is considered to be an expensive place but it is totally worth it. You will easily get a discount on your flights as well as the places you plan to stay if you pre-book it so what are you waiting for?

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How To Reach Bhutan From India

Table of contents.

Bhutan is the only country which measures its progress through the Gross National Happiness Index and hence, it is known as the ‘Happiest Country in the World’. Tourists from all the corners of the world visit Bhutan to explore its ancient monasteries and indulge in its adventurous trekking expeditions . Even though Bhutan tourism is flourishing by the day, the country adopts a holistic approach to protecting and preserving its natural resources, environment, culture and heritage. Want to visit this happiest country in the world? Wondering how to reach Bhutan? Here are the answers to all your questions.

There are two ways to reach Bhutan from India – by air and by road. Indian passport holders do not require any visa to enter Bhutan; you need to carry your passport or a voter ID card to get the entry permit. Or leave the hassles and book a Bhutan holiday package .

Here is the Summary of How to reach Bhutan.

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How to reach Bhutan by air?

Paro is the only international airport in Bhutan and has connecting flights from Delhi, Bagdogra, Guwahati, and Mumbai . You can take direct flights from Kolkata to Paro. Hence, there is more frequency of flights from Kolkata to reach Bhutan. The number of flights from Delhi and Mumbai are less as compared to Kolkata and Bagdogra. Druk Air is the national airline of Bhutan and flights can be booked only through the official websites of this airline.

If you are travelling through Nepal, you can take direct flights from Kathmandu to Paro. You can experience the most exciting journey from Kathmandu to Paro as the airplane passes over the four highest mountains in the world . All the other major cities in Bhutan are well-connected with domestic airlines.

Recommended Read – Why Bhutan is the Happiest country in the world

How to reach Bhutan by road?

smokymountainrider.com

Want to go on a road trip to Bhutan ? Here is all you need to know on how to reach Bhutan by road.

Indians who wish to travel to Bhutan by road need to acquire an ‘entry permit’ from the Immigration Office of Royal Government of Bhutan in Phuensholing , which is located on the Indo-Bhutan border opposite Jaigaon, West Bengal. But this ‘entry permit’ allows an Indian tourist to visit Paro and Thimphu only. If you wish to go beyond Thimphu and Paro then you need to obtain a ‘special area permit’ from the Royal Government of Bhutan Immigration Office in Thimphu. It is also possible to arrange the visa from Kolkata at Royal Bhutan Consulate Office. It is better to apply 10-12 days prior to your visit.

Must Read – Top places to visit in Bhutan

To reach Bhutan by road, you have to go through three border points in India. They are a) Jaigaon – Phuensholing Border, b) Gelephu and c) Samdrup Jongkhar. The Jaigaon – Phuentsholing border is preferred by most of the travellers as it is easily accessible and can get you the entry permit easily. If you are on tight budget, you can travel by local buses or else can hire a car or jeep to travel within Bhutan. It takes 4 hours to reach Phuensholing from Bagdogra Airport and around 6 hours to reach Thimphu from Phuensholing. Private taxis and buses are also available from Bagdogra, New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri which connects National Highway NH31 at Sevoke road and will take you to Thimphu.

Also Read – Why Bhutan’s Druk Trek should be on your wish list

FAQs About Bhutan

1. What is the best time to travel to Bhutan?

Any time of the year resonates well with a travel to Bhutan. However, the charm of the place is simply outstanding in the autumn and spring seasons which usually fall between the months of September to November and March to May respectively. The climate is warmer and pleasant at this time and the skies are clearer too. Also, many great festivals fall during these seasons.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan? How can I get it?

For any foreigner wondering How to Go to Bhutan from India , it is necessary to know that visa is essential to enter the country. It should be arranged, prior to the travel, through a licensed Bhutanese touring company or one of their international travel partners. Although other foreign nationals need to obtain a clearance beforehand, Indians and Bangladeshis can receive it upon entry. While it is approx. about $40 for others, Indians, Maldives nationals and Bangladeshis can get visa free of cost.

3. Is there need to get a tour operator for travelling to Bhutan?

Yes. As a rule of the Bhutan Government, you need to obtain a tour package to the country either through a licensed local tour operator or one of their international travel partners.

4. How is the food in Bhutan?

If your planning to Go to Bhutan from India , you simply mustn’t miss out on its yummy food. Bhutanese cuisine is known for being very spicy since the people like to use a lot of chilies in their food. Pork, beef and chicken are commonly eaten, with some vegetables alongside the main dish of rice.

5. Is Bhutan safe for solo travel?

Yes. Bhutan is one of the safest places for travelling, even if you are planning to go on a solo trip. It is perfect for travelling with your family and friends but backpackers too find the destination most attractive. Women travelling looking for a safe travel destination can very well choose this region for a memorable experience. Nevertheless, basic safety precautions are still advised and encouraged to be taken when travelling alone to the country.

6. What are the major attractions of the country?

The following attractions are the places that best answer How to Go to Bhutan from India and have most satisfying travel experience:

Paro Taktsang
Rinpung Dzong
Punakha Dzong
Tashichho Dzong
Manas National Park
National Museum of Bhutan
JomolhariSimtokha Dzong

Ready to plan a trip to the Happiest Country in the World? Book our Bhutan Tour Packages and explore the royal monasteries and Dzongs

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10 budget tips for visiting Bhutan

Jan 28, 2024 • 7 min read

These top tips along with a guide to daily costs can help you plan your budget for a visit to Bhutan © skaman306 / Getty Images

Bhutan’s unofficial label as a modern-day Shangri La remains its biggest pull.

It’s full of details that are stranger than fiction: the only country in the world without traffic lights, with a national dish that hosts chili as the main ingredient (not a mere addition), and where Lama Drukpa Kunley, the 15th-century mystic lovingly known by the Bhutanese as the "divine madman" upholds the phallus as a protector against evil.

Despite being an expensive destination, with some careful planning it's possible to have many of Bhutan 's top experiences while keeping your costs down. Here's how.

A female tourist looks at the intricate carvings around the windows of an ancient building

Daily costs

The first financial bullet to bite is Bhutan’s daily charge, which was recently halved to US$100. Also known as a "sustainable development fee", the reduced cost no longer covers accommodation or transport, but conversely, it gives you the flexibility to design your itinerary as per your budget .

Basic room for two: Nu 3500–4000
Farm stays: Nu 2500
Public transport: A shared taxi between cities costs about Nu 1500 per person, and a bus seat will cost about a third of that. A full taxi hire for sightseeing or travel averages around Nu 3500 for up to 100km (62 miles).
Tea/coffee: Nu 80–150
Sandwich: Nu 300
Dinner for two: Nu 1200
Beer/pint at the bar: Nu 250

Average daily cost: Nu 8000–10,000

1. Start your trip to Bhutan regionally

There are no direct flights to Bhutan from the global West. Most flights will have a stopover in neighboring India , so it’s wise to plan ahead and book separate tickets – first to India, and then onwards to Bhutan. Drukair is Bhutan’s national airline, and it has plenty of connections to New Delhi and Kolkata.

Either way, you’ll have to change planes, and if the tickets are done separately, it can save you up to a solid US$500. If you are not pressed for time (and have an Indian visa too), you can also squeeze in a short stopover to explore Delhi or the Golden Triangle, and really get your money’s worth.

That said, the cheapest flights into Bhutan are from Kathmandu, Nepal. Plus, you'll fly directly over Mount Everest – making it the most scenic route too.

Vehicles of the Bhutanese transport company cross the Indo-Bhutan border gate, covered with dragon paintings

2. Enter Bhutan by road

Tickets for the national carrier Drukair are on the higher end, but flying into Bhutan is not the only way to get there. Visitors up for slow travel can take a train/cab ride to Bhutan from Kolkata in India, via Hasimara and Phuentsholing.

New Jalpaiguri in India is the best-connected big train station to Phuentsholing. From the Indian capital, it takes over 20 hours by train at a minimal cost of around INR 2500 (US$30) for a premium seat (AC sleeper berth). Alternatively, you could fly to Bagdogra to beat the clock. The cost of the taxi and the time taken to Phuentsholing is nearly the same from both the train station and the airport – around INR 5000 (US$60) for around four hours of travel.

Bonus: The Phuentsholing immigration terminal is staffed through the week now (previously, you'd have to wait until Monday to clear immigration if you got in on the weekend), so you've got that much more flexibility on dates.

3. Know the rules well to avoid Bhutan-specific fines

Bhutan imposes heavy fines for breaking its strict policies that include no honking in certain zones and tobacco consumption outside designated zones, that can cost anything upwards of Nu 5000, along with a license suspension. Ensure that you follow the rules to avoid a plump setback to your wallet.

4. Time your visit right for cheaper options

Like most popular destinations, it's cheaper to visit Bhutan in the shoulder season, with unfavorable weather usually being the downside. Bhutan has two major travel seasons – spring and autumn – but a trip there during winter can still be rewarding for budget visitors. The valleys of Thimphu , Paro and Punakha that form the main cultural triangle of Bhutan are at elevations low enough to see little to no snow in the winter (February is comfortable with woollens, at around 10–12°C/50–54°F), so if you stick to it, you will, at best, be cold in the evenings (around -4°C/25°F) but have the option of retiring to your room. Climate change across the Himalayas has now shifted up the rhododendron bloom, so other than hotel discounts, you could also catch nature’s scarlet show as early as February.

The offseason period between June and August, when monsoons hit the country, is even cheaper. If you don't care about trekking or camping (leech alert!), you are in for some great deals – expect to pay about 20% less on air travel and accommodations.

5. Travel in greater numbers to share guide costs

Conveyance costs in Bhutan could be a deal breaker for solo travelers, especially since public transport systems in this part of the world are not as smooth as a mirror. There will surely be a cheap bus alternative available but it will cost you more in terms of time and effort, so it is best to share a taxi with a travel partner or two. Traveling with more people will also help you split the cost of the guide, which continues to be compulsory for foreigners and is upwards of Nu 2000 per day.

People dancing in colorful masks in a courtyard full of spectators

6. Check the festival calendar

Instead of paying specifically to attend a cultural show or have a paid one organized at your hotel, try to match your timing with an ongoing festival . Not only are many of these free to attend, but they're also bigger and better. Devotees, masked dancers, little children in their gho (traditional robes), and curious tourists all descend on the demarcated sites for pageants straight out of a fantasy. Pick any of the larger tschechus , or masked dance festivals, and if you luck out you may just get a rare glimpse of Bhutan's very poised king in attendance.

Note that festivals in Bhutan follow the lunar calendar; check dates before booking your trip and ideally cross-check them with your guide.

7. Opt for guesthouses over high-end accommodations

Unless you are staying at a five-star hotel in Bhutan, there isn’t a dramatic difference in other categories in hotels. Guesthouses are clean and comfortable with decent bathrooms, and housed in beautiful buildings that adhere to the traditional architecture as the state demands.

If you are able and willing to climb stairs, ask for a room on the top floor; they have slightly lower ceilings because of the roof design making them smaller (but also complete with the cozy attic vibe). Since the older buildings do not come with lifts, these rooms usually go for a lower price. Farm stays in city outskirts are also becoming increasingly popular as great value-for-money options. Plus your money will be going directly to local people instead of a hotel chain.

8. Eat local dishes

Eating out in Bhutan is not crazy expensive, so if you can toughen up for local foods, you will emerge a winner. Ema datse , Bhutan’s much talked about national dish, uses whole chilies dunked in cheese stew, and is surprisingly not the fire-fest it sounds like. Paired with rice, it is hugely popular and a lunch staple available at most local restaurants, including highway stopovers, at very reasonable prices. If the chilies scare you, leave them aside and have the rice with the mildly spicy cheese gravy. Pork with fried rice, noodles, dumplings and other mainstream dishes can also make for an affordable but satisfying meal.

9. Buy from the source

Whether it’s groceries or local handicrafts, you’re better off buying directly from the source. Bhutan has several traditional art schools where not only can you watch artists at work and get an insight into the form and training, but also buy directly from them instead of purchasing the same at a hiked price from a souvenir store. A traditional handmade mask will cost you anywhere from Nu 2000 to Nu 8000 at the source, but will be sold at a high-end store for Nu 10,000 to Nu 15,000.

10. Camp on the hiking trails

The cultural monuments and intangible heritage of Bhutan are its undisputed draw, but its great outdoors is something else too. The recently reintroduced Trans Bhutan trail may be deemed as one of the greatest Himalayan walks, but it is also an expensive trail starting from the less accessible eastern end of the country.

Fortunately Bhutan has some other shorter and wildly beautiful trails, where the lower cost of camping can help balance your hotel stays and eating out, with the added bonus of a hiking experience thrown in. Factor in a per day cost of at least US$200 all-inclusive for treks.

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The MOST Perfect Itinerary for Bhutan Road Trip

Bhutan is one country that provides you with a lot of opportunities to explore and immerse in the experience. It is the biggest question everyone has – how much time would genuinely be sufficient to enjoy Bhutan. After all, it is not every day that one can plan trips like these.

So, today, I bring you the perfect trip that can be covered in a week and give you a good glimpse and feel of the nation.

So, let’s begin.

Let's quickly dive into the details:

The Most PERFECT 7-Day Bhutan Trip Itinerary

I will mention here that you can genuinely customize Bhutan trips and add more days to get more experiences packed into your travels. However, if you can only spare a week to get to the land of dragons , try this plan. Also, I should mention here that this is an itinerary made from the India perspective.

Day 1: Arriving in Phuentsholing

Even though there are many ways to get to Bhutan from India, the most common and convenient way is from the border of Jaigao-Phuentsholing. Jaigao is the last Indian town, and from Pheutsholing , the Bhutanese territory starts.

Opened Monday-Friday from 9 AM – 5 PM, it is in the immigration office of Phuentsholing, where nearly all border accessing applications for tourists arrive. Provide a photo ID, and you get permission in a couple of hours, depending upon how long the queue is.

If you manage to get permission before 2 pm, it is well worth using the same day and traveling to Paro. Those not hurrying can even consider staying for the first night in Phuentsholing, which has enough to offer to a tourist.

But for those short with time, a 4-hour journey to Paro (from Phuentsholing) can be easily made the same day they applied for a tourist permit.

To enter in Phuentsholing, you need not have a tourist permit with you. Even an Indian number plate vehicle can pass through with no problem. But as soon as you exit Phuentsholing, towards Thimpu or Paro, there’s an immigration checkpoint that asks for a valid tourist permit. I have a detailed post covering all the permits, how to get them, why you need them.

Rinpung Dzong - A Buddhist Monastery in Paro, Bhutan

The journey to Paro to Phuentsholing takes nearly 4 hours if you’re driving, or 6 hours if you’re taking a public bus . The journey is rather impressive and enjoyable. From the sea level of Phuentsholing, you only pretty much go uphill throughout the trip before you end up a much colder town of Paro located at 2100+ meter altitude above the sea level.

The well maintained four-way highway, built by Indian Border Road Organization ( BRO ), moreover makes Phuentsholing to Paro & Thimpu a very sought after Himalayan Roads for motorbikes in India wanting to ride in Bhutan.

Dheeraj Sharma

Day 2: Paro to Thimpu

Today you will be moving on from Paro and heading towards Thimpu. But, this won’t happen before you truly experience Paro – which has a bunch to offer as well. Of course, you will want to visit Tiger’s Nest Monastery – this is usually a bucket list item for most.

Even with packing a big punch on this day, you can still reach Thimpu on time. That is only possible as Paro to Thimpu is a short stretch of nearly 50km, and a smooth highway connecting two cities is moreover the best in the country, thus saving you enough time no matter when you leave.

Since Paro has the only international airport in Bhutan and Thimpu is the capital – the highway moreover stays good in shape throughout the year. It takes one and a half to two hours to travel between the two cities.

Day 3: Thimpu to Bhumtang

Today’s journey is excruciating. Thimpu to Bhumtang is a long way and a brutal; there is some road widening work after Punakha was going on last year, and made it worse. There are some specific timings within which you need to cross the stoppages. Otherwise, you may need to wait on a few check posts for a few hours.

Pro Travel Tip : Do not forget to check this complete travel guide for traveling to Western Bhutan .

If you keep going and by the grace of luck, you are not stopped anywhere. In essence, even in this best-case scenario, you’ll need nearly eight hours to cover the 250 km stretch of a highway-under construction.

However, a few handy night-lodge services right next to the Bus station in Bhumtang offer an easy option of booking a dorm bed for as little as 150 Rupees, making it up to you for a long and rough journey.

As a town, Bhumtang doesn’t offer much to see than a 15th-century monastery and old-world charm. However, there are a bunch of hikes nearby here.

Day 4: Bhumtang to Trashigang

Another brutal and long stretch of a ride, Bhumtang to Trashigang , can again take 8 or 9 hours of your daylight. The route is moreover not in shape to be driving once it’s dark.

But on a good note, there isn’t much road construction going on the way. Leave with the first light to avoid any problems. There are enough budget accommodations in Trashigang.

Day 5: Trashigang to S. Jongkhar

Trashigang to S. Jongkhar takes you back to (a not so great but manageable) highway again, with a few patches of highly landslide-prone area. The journey is nearly 190 km and takes around 7 hours to complete.

At S. Jongkhar, you exit and enter into Indian territory, and as soon as you do that, the roads turn into the better state (with no mountain range at all). It’s a good idea to be staying in S. Jongkhar in Bhutan if you’re planning to spend a night there, rather than on the Indian town of Sashipur (the other side of the border) as it’s less chaotic and offers better accommodation option.

Pro Travel Tip : Do not forget to check this complete travel guide for traveling to Central Bhutan .

Buffer Days

I have kept a couple of buffer days, for you to indulge in some hikes and also keep a day additional in case your permits don’t come up in time.

Important tips for making the most of your journey

It is always best to get the Bhutan permits from Kolkata before the trip itself .
Since there are enough petrol stations on the way, and every day you will be riding a max of 300 km, there is no need to carry extra jerkins for petrol.
There are no repairing shops between any two destinations, so it’s a good idea to stay prepared and carry extra equipment.
Most of the roads (except for the famous highways connecting Paro and Thimpu ) are wrong in shape, so we advise you to go for a ride only if you have an enjoyable riding experience.

Pro Travel Tip : Are you wonder how much will be the cost of Bhutan trip? Check our detailed guide on how to calculate the cost or budget of Bhutan trip ?

Self-driving through Bhutan on a road trip

Although most people have guided and planned tours, Indian Nationals are lucky not to worry about that. If you are fortunate enough to design your travels. Also, you should know that roads are the only option to travel within the cultural kingdom , car rental service in Bhutan is the first important thing that you should take care of to explore and uncover more of the mysterious nation.

Bhutan has no shortage of travel agencies who provide unbeatable travel services in an instant. Car rental agencies also offer the best alternatives for self-drive car rental services in Bhutan. So, here are some useful tips you must not forget while booking a car rental for the Bhutan tour.

For booking a self-driving car in Bhutan, bring your valid personal ID proof and your driving license. Bring Xerox-copy for each of your required documents, and bring along your passport size photos.

Book Bhutan car rental services before 6-7 months before your visit for the best prices and best vehicles. Also, this is applicable for any self-drive rental bookings across countries – do check reviews, prices, and services online before paying for any XYZ Bhutan travel agency.

Pro Travel Tip : Do not forget to check this complete travel guide for traveling to Eastern Bhutan .

Things to keep in ming for driving in Bhutan

If you’re planning for self-driving in Bhutan, remember the speed limits- which are 8 km/h – 20 km/h. The maximum speed limit in cities is 30 km/h, and the maximum speed limit in the country is 50 km/h.

Also, all passengers and drivers must wear set-belts. Overtaking vehicles from the left or unsafe distance is strictly prohibited. It is compulsory to give way to pedestrians, and your minimum driving age for light vehicles should be 18 years.

I will go so far as to say that you should not be driving at night and avoid it as much as you can. Bhutan is in the process of developing its infrastructure, and you might hit portions on the road where there are no street lights or markings or villages nearby. Further, during monsoons, there is a risk of landslides that can block roads , causing inconvenience.

Bhutan is perfection for any duration. However, if you’re so persistent that you must go and don’t have the luxury of time, then indulge in this slightly hectic 7-day version.

Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions on traveling to the Himalayas.

So, happy vacation and enjoy safe and delightful driving in Bhutan.

About Unplugged Life Founded in the summers of 2016, Unplugged Life is a travel company specializing in bespoke leisure tours for domestic & inbound tourists traveling in India and parts of Asia. We see ourselves as artists who love to create unique travel experiences that our guests will cherish for a lifetime. Why Choose Us? We're bridging the gap between the locals & city folks. Having traveled extensively across every region we operate in, we have developed an understanding of the needs of our guests, their stay preferences, and travel styles. We also have a deep insight on the on-ground realities, the way a local would. Our itineraries and accommodations are chosen to create an experience for our guests. From visiting the most beautiful places to providing the best hotels, guest houses, and homestays, we ensure that with Unplugged Life every guest goes back happy and smiling.

Chindi & karsog – an offbeat place travel guide [himachal pradesh], garhwal in uttarakhand – most common itinerary [day by day plans], harsil – gangotri trip | most common itineraries [day-by-day plans].

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Best Way to Reach Bhutan, the happiest country

March 7, 2024
110 Comments

Bhutan is the only country with a Happiness Index! Tourists from all over the globe visit Bhutan for either cultural trips or trekking expeditions. Our trip was more of a cultural excursion. We visited Monasteries and Dzongs which are spread throughout the country. The experience of visiting these peaceful structures made our stay in Bhutan a spiritual sojourn.

This post will let you know how to reach Bhutan. Also, I have appended some recommendations and suggestions which you can consider during your trip.

So, go through the pointers and let me know your concerns or questions in the comments section.

If you are planning to go by road, continue reading.

You will have to reach Kolkata in order to embark a train which will take you further towards Bhutan. If you are traveling from North India, you can consider reaching Delhi, Kanpur or Ranchi. In addition, there are direct flights from Kolkata to Paro (Bhutan). Hence, you will have more options from Kolkata to reach Bhutan.

2) Reach Hasimara by Train

Hasimara is a small town in the Jalpaiguri District of West Bengal. The town is situated at a distance of 17 KM from the Indo-Bhutan Border. In order to reach Hasimara, you will have to board a train from Kolkata. For North Indians, you can take a train from Delhi, Kanpur or Ranchi as mentioned earlier.

You can visit the Indian railway website to know about the timing, duration & timetable of the trains. We had boarded the Kanchankanya Express from Kolkata which reached Hasimara at 10:30 AM in the morning.

3) Reach Jaigaon By Taxi/Bus

Jaigaon is the Indian town touching Indo-Bhutan Border. All the formalities to acquire permission, in order to enter Bhutan, will be carried out here at the immigration office. Every individual will have to acquire permission to enter Bhutan. You can take an Indian car in Bhutan, but you need a separate permit for the car.

When you get a permit for Bhutan, it will only cover Thimpu & Paro. In case you want to go to Bumthang or any other distant destinations, you need a separate permit.

You can take help of local tour operators or do it yourself. Kindly note, you will have to provide a pre-decided itinerary to acquire the permit. In our case, we had taken help of a local tour operator and he got all the essential permits quickly.

Documents you need to carry

To get your permit, you require either a Passport or Voter’s ID. Because of the friendly relations between India and Bhutan, you would not require Visa. In case you do not have a passport or Voter’s ID, please carry any other identity proof like driver’s license or Pan Card. You will have to visit the Indian immigration office and ask for the further procedure to acquire a permit. They will provide you the assistance required.

Once you have executed the required formalities, you can enter Bhutan and proceed according to the itinerary. In our case, by the time we got permits, it was quite late. Hence, we had to stay in Jaigaon for a night.

Is There A Train From India to Bhutan?

Unfortunately, there is no direct India Bhutan Train. However, you can reach Bhutan by train up to a certain point and then transfer to another mode of transportation, like a taxi or bus, to cross the border. Here’s what you need to know:

Train Options

Closest stations: The closest railway stations to Bhutan are Hasimara, New Alipurduar, New Jalpaiguri, and Siliguri, all located in West Bengal, India. These stations are within 17-60 kilometres of the Bhutan border town of Phuentsholing.
Train routes: You can find trains to these stations from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bangalore. You can check train schedules and book tickets on the Indian Railways website .
You can also take a flight from Bangalore to Bhutan. When you choose this Bhutan flight from Bangalore, you will reach Paro in Bhutan as you can find many flights that take you from Bangalore to Paro.

How To Reach Bhutan from the Border?

Taxis: The most common option is to hire a taxi from the nearest station to Phuentsholing. The journey takes about 1-2 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions. You can negotiate the fare with the taxi drivers beforehand.
Buses: You can also find shared buses or private buses from the stations to Phuentsholing. Buses are generally cheaper than taxis but may take longer due to more stops.
When it comes to a road trip, Guwahati to Bhutan Distance is around 358 km. You can take the Sarpang – Gelephu – Trongsa Highway route in this mode.
Similarly, Siliguri Bhutan distance is around 491 km. You can take this road trip from this West Bengal City to reach Bhutan via the PNH1 road.

Important Things to Remember

Visa requirements: All foreign nationals, including Indians, require a visa to enter Bhutan. You can apply for a visa online through the Bhutanese government website .
Border crossing: The border crossing at Phuentsholing can be busy, especially during peak season. Allow enough time for immigration formalities.
Permits: Depending on your itinerary, you may also need to obtain additional permits for trekking or visiting certain areas in Bhutan. You can find information about permits on the Bhutan Tourism Council website .

Alternative Options

Flying: Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Bhutan. The only airport in Bhutan is Paro Airport, which has flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. Apart from a flight from Bangalore to Bhutan, you can find flights from other major Indian cities as well to Paro.
Road trip: If you have a valid Bhutanese visa and driving permit, you can also drive to Bhutan from India. However, this option requires careful planning and knowledge of the border crossing procedures.

I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Bhutan!

I hope you find this post helpful. Feel free to browse through my experiences and recommendations by reading articles mentioned below.

1) 10 Things to do in Bhutan

2) Reason to avoid Bhutan Nightclubs

3) Trek to Tiger’s Nest, Paro

4) Places to visit in Bhutan, 25 best picks

In case you have specific queries about reaching Bhutan, kindly comment here J

110 thoughts on “Best Way to Reach Bhutan, the happiest country”

very nice…. Short & Sweet…

I am glad you liked it 🙂

There are lot of airlines that offer cheap airfares for the trip.

really very informative….thanks

Hey, I am glad you liked it Riya.

Hey Srini, it is better if you reach kolkata and take a flight from there or also catch a train to Hasimara. Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air would provide a flight from Kolkata to Paro. Paro and Thimpu are the major places to visit in Bhutan.

very nice blog. sweet.

hi..i’m planning 2 visit Paro & Thimpu in October for 5days & 6nights..i hv some questions- 1) is there any other places should be visited??we r not looking for a hectic schedule-if its far away,we won’t go.. 2)Should we book a car(preferably a winger or something like that) for the whole trip or make the booking from just only phuntsholing to paro & make some arrangements there locally??give an idea about car fare details!! 3)How costly r the Paro hotels??we r gonna take 5rooms for 12 people..is there any other mode of accommodation-i mean like guest houses in villages etc??? Thanx in advance

Hi Pralay, I have answered your queries below1) There is this place Bumthang which is say 5 hours drive from Thimpu. It is called mini-Switzerland by travel agencies. It is a very peaceful village with a river flowing. I visited a monarchy there early in the morning and it was my one of the best experiences. I have written about it here – http://www.travelmax.in/2013/04/21/things-to-do-in-bhutan/Also , you can cover Punakha which comes in between Thimpu to Bumthang. Punakha is again same as Bumthang. If you have to choose, I recommend you prefer Bumthang. 2) Book a car from Jai Gao which is the town in India near Indo-Bhutan border. Book this for the whole trip so that you do not have to rely on local arrangements in Thimpu or Paro. If you book the whole trip, you will get a better deal. In addition, the travel agencies who will provide you the car can also arrange for your hotels at all the destinations. Try to get a whole package from them. We hired a Tata Sumo which charged us Rs 2000 per day. For 12 people, you will have to check with the travel agencies. 3) The Paro hotels are not that costly. You can expect a decent double bed room for Rs 1000 to Rs 1200. Obviously the prices vary according to the hotel that you book. There are guest houses in villages. But, you will have to check with travel agencies. They do not recommend them as they take a hit on their commission. So, if you want to stay in a guest house, you will have to search for them yourselves. I hope my reply clarifies your queries. Let me know if anything else is required.

Can we hire the car in Bhutan itself. which we can drive ourselves ?? I am looking forward to visit Bhutan this year. or will it be better if we contact the travel agencies in Bhutan ?

Thanks for sharing these kind of information.I like ur blog. it’s very informative about for people from Kolkata! Keep it up 🙂

Thank u brother.. 🙂

Very good and useful information .Thanks a lot.

Hi Umang…. Need an urgent help… I have been looking for booking air tickets to paro from delhi. none of the travel websites seem to be booking for bhutan. can you please help? we are planning to go to travel from 8th June to 15th June.

I am planning to drive to Bhutan from Kolkata. Do I have to take the permit for my car in advance or can this be done at the border?

Hi Sumit, You can hire the car in Bhutan. However, I would recommend to hire a car from India as in Bhutan it might be costly to hire one. Also, Indian Travel agents in Jaigao will be better than Bhutan travel agents

Thank you Krishna. Its great to know that you liked the article 🙂

Hi Satish, this can be done at the border. However, I am not sure about any taxes that might get levied.

Hi Durba, I am sorry I was not able to provide help. Was revamping the website and somehow missed this comment. So? How was your trip?

There sure are many 🙂

Hello, I enjoy reading all of your article post. I wanted to write a little comment to support you.

Very good blog post. I definitely appreciate this site. Thanks!

Thanks , I have just been looking for information about this topic for a long time and yours is the best I have came upon so far.

I am glad you liked it!

Nice to know that you like it! Cheers!

Hello, I really liked this post. Thanks for sharing!

Glad I could help Nathan 🙂

hi umang From Lucknow want to visit Bhutan for a family trip in last of May How to reach and where u suggest for stay with my parents

Hi Saumitra,

To reach Bhutan, you need to reach Hasimara first. From there, you can reach Jaigaon which is the Indo-Bhutan border and located at a distance of 17-18 KMs from Hasimara.

Now, there is no direct train/flight/bus from Lucknow to Hasimara. Hence, I am listing down the possible ways of reaching Hasimara from Lucknow.

1) Take train number 05636 from Lucknow to New Jalpaiguri. From Jalpaiguri, you can take the Kanchankanya Express (13149) to reach Hasimara. However, train number 05636 is only operational in the particular seasons as it is a special train. Hence, you might want to check the availability first.

2) Reach Allahabad by bus or train. From Allahabad, you can catch Mahananda Express (Train no 15484) and reach Hasimara.

Apart from the above mentioned modes, you can also opt for a route to reach Hasimara via Patna.

I hope you find my answer helpful. Thanks for stopping by!

I want to go bhutan this may.From Jaigaon I will book a agenies to travel bhutan what will be the cost? Total expense to travel bhutan?? Is it enough to stay 5 days in bhutan? Name the agency which is better??? Cn u tell the tourist place in bhutan?

1) The cost for a the whole package (Including Transport & Accommodation) for 5 days/4 nights should be in the range of 6k – 8k per person 2) Apart from the package cost, you would be requiring cash for food & shopping. You can keep 2k-3k aside per day depending on your priorities 3) Staying in Bhutan for 5 Days is enough if you are going for a cultural trip. You can consider going to Thimpu & Paro, 3 Days & 2 Days respectively. In can you want to go for an adventurous trip, you might want to add a couple of more days as these destinations are a little far 4) There are many agencies in Jaigaon at Indo-Bhutan border. You can talk to multiple travel agencies and compare the itineraries and accommodation options that they are including in the package. After comparing each travel agent, you can select one. 5) For deciding the tourist places, have a look at this list of Things to do in Bhutan that I had created.

Hope this helps. Cheers!

thanks bro…may god bless u..

I am glad I could help! Enjoy your trip. Let me know your experience 🙂

Thanks for the perspective.

I am planning a trip in the month of June-end and i had read somewhere that there are direct buses from Kolkata to Pheuntsholing. Do you have any information on this? Is it advisable to take this bus or take a train to Hasimara?

I personally prefer train over bus. It would take 14+ hours to reach Jaigao from Kolkata in Bus. I am not sure if that would be comfortable.

I plan to travel later this year[around Oct end or early Nov]

question is, is there a chance of roads closed due to snow/bad

weather during this time? The cold will not be a problem. Also as you mentioned earlier, there are travel agencies in Jaigaon

and booking a package with them will be cheaper/cost effective? We are a group of 4-5 adults planning to travel to Paro, Thimphu,

Punakha/bumthang, Gangtey and Haa. Can you tell me of any other

places of interest that I can include and what could be the

approximate cost and duration of stay? You said you hired a sumo @ rs.2000 pd, for 4-5 people is it possible

to rent a smaller car at a lesser price for the entire trip? Supposing we decide to stay at a farmhouse, wanted to know if its

safe in terms of valuables like camera/wallets/watches etc? Also is liquor available in Bhutan?

I plan to travel later this year[around Oct end or early Nov] question is, is there a chance of roads closed due to snow/bad weather during this time? The cold will not be a problem. Also as you mentioned earlier, there are travel agencies in Jaigaon and booking a package with them will be cheaper/cost effective? We are a group of 4-5 adults planning to travel to Paro, Thimphu, Punakha/bumthang, Gangtey and Haa. Can you tell me of any other places of interest that I can include and what could be the approximate cost and duration of stay? You said you hired a sumo @ rs.2000 pd, for 4-5 people is it possible to rent a smaller car at a lesser price for the entire trip? Supposing we decide to stay at a farmhouse, wanted to know if its safe in terms of valuables like camera/wallets/watches etc? Also is liquor available in Bhutan?

Responses are in-line

Q: I plan to travel later this year[around Oct end or early Nov] question is, is there a chance of roads closed due to snow/bad weather during this time? The cold will not be a problem. A: No, there is nothing to worry about snow. Oct – Nov are completely fine. You might experience lower temperature. But, it’s not an issue.

Q: Also as you mentioned earlier, there are travel agencies in Jaigaon and booking a package with them will be cheaper/cost effective? A: Yes. If would be cost-effective. If you travel on your own, you might end up renting costly properties as you might not be able to explore the cheaper options.

Q: We are a group of 4-5 adults planning to travel to Paro, Thimphu, Punakha/bumthang, Gangtey and Haa. Can you tell me of any other places of interest that I can include and what could be the approximate cost and duration of stay? A: You have covered almost 90% of places. However, you can consider going to Jigme Dorji National Park.

Q: You said you hired a sumo @ rs.2000 pd, for 4-5 people is it possible to rent a smaller car at a lesser price for the entire trip? A: Yeah Sure! We were provided a sumo by the travel agent. Provided your agent has a smaller car, you can surely rent it.

Q: Supposing we decide to stay at a farmhouse, wanted to know if its safe in terms of valuables like camera/wallets/watches etc? A: Well, in general, Bhutan folks are very friendly and honest. However, I would recommend to stay at a particular farmhouse only if you feel comfortable

Q: Also is liquor available in Bhutan? A: Very important question :P. Yes, liquor is available in Bhutan and it’s very affordable too! Do try the druk beer.

Hope I have been to answer your questions well. Let me know in case you have any other questions.

Please share contacts of tour operator who arranged car from Jaigaon and time taken from jaigaon to paro by car.

Hi Umang, I am planning to visit Bhutan this oct during the puja vacation. I have been looking for information on google and so far ur blog seemed most helpful. I have a few queries. If u kindly respond that would be most helpful. 1. Im from calcutta. If i take druk air n arrive at Paro, how am i supposed to arrange for necessary permits n all? 2. Should i contact a tour operator? In that case could u please provide me with ur operator’s number? 3. How long does Kanchankanya take to reach hasimara n how long it is from hasimara-phuntsholing-thimpu? 4. Could u suggest me an itinerary please? For a 6days tour. In case of a tour agency, will there be options i can choose from? Too many questions. Hope u wont feel annoyed. Thank u.

Hi Kuheli, I’m glad you found my blog helpful. I have answered your questions below.

1) They have gov offices at the airport from where you can get the permits

2) Yes, contacting a tour operator will help as they will expedite the time taken to get permits. My tour operator was from jaigao. Hence, his number won’t help you. Let me know if you still want it.

3) kanchankanya would take 14-15 hours to reach Hasimara. From there, time taken will be hasimara to phoentsholing: 1 hour, phoentsholing to Thimpu: 6 hours as far as I remember.

4) a sample itinerary can be 2 days in Paro, 2 days in Thimpu and 2 days in Bumthang. However, it might depend on the type of your travel as in, what do you seek out of the itinerary

Yes you can choose tour operators.

I hope I answered your questions satisfactorily. Have a great trip!

Hi, Sorry for delayed response. Below mentioned is a number

Anil, Dynamic tours: 097 332 73755

Hi umang, I am travelling from Bhubaneswar. Planning to visit bhutan.and dargelling and gagtok. 1)Suggest either by car or bike. Which will be best. if bike from which rly station we should start journey(siliguri/jalpaiguri/or any other). 2)And duration of visit,costing envolve in it too. 3) places to visit in and around and is it require to book hotel in advance.

Sorry for bothering u

1) Hi, If you are Solo or with a partner, I would suggest Bike. It would be tiring, but worth it :). For bike, you should start from Jalpaiguri. 2) You can consider 7 days. Total cost would be around 8-10k per head, not including fuel. 3) For places to visit, you can read my “10 Things to do in Bhutan”. At a macro level, you can visit Thimpu, Paro & Bumthang. Trek to Tiger’s nest in Paro is a must do activity.

Hope I answered your queries satisfactorily. 🙂

Hi Umang I am planning to visit Bhutan in last week of Jan 2016 from Mumbai (to & fro). I wanted to know if its good time to visit bhutan (its our 1st anniversary)? What are the travel options from Mumbai to Bhutan as I believe there is no direct flight to Bhutan Which all places to visit in Bhutan What would be the appx cost per person for luxory tour? Are there good hotels ? PLs do help

January is an amazing time to visit Bhutan! Yes, due to weather, it would be cold. But, that makes this happy country more peaceful.

Yes, there are no direct flights from Mumbai. In order to reach Bhutan from Mumbai, you need to first go to either Delhi or Kolkata. From both these cities, you can catch a direct flight for Paro, Bhutan. To book, you can check Drukair website.

For places to visit in Bhutan, you can check my 10 Things to do in Bhutan article. But, in a nutshell, you can cover Thimpu, Paro & Bumthang. There are many unexplored places also in Bhutan which you can explore at leisure.

For a luxury tour, it totally depends on your preferences. But, if I have to assume, I would say that per person, per day, you can account for Rs 3500 – 4000. This would include everything.

Yes, there are some good hotels in Bhutan. But, for that I would recommend exploring tripadvisor as I myself stayed in a budget hotel.

Hope you find my answers useful.

Good to know that!

Hello Umang!

Loved every blog on Bhutan! Filled with details and information! I’m planning to visit Bhutan next month for about 11 days.I have a few questions in this regard-

1. Can I travel without a guide or a travel agent? I mean by myself? I love to explore places on my own, will it be possible? I’m traveling solo.Is it safe to explore without travel agents?

3.I’m a budget traveler and I want some information abt stays like hostels/couchsurfing/B&B’s that are really cheap, but good n safe.could you give me some links on this if you’ve an idea?

4.Will it be possible to travel in Bhutan using public transport alone? how is the connectivity w.r.t to buses?

Sorry to bombard you with a lot of questions! Your suggestions would be of great help to me! Thanks a lot!

Great to see you planning a solo trip to Bhutan. Also, I’m glad you liked my posts.

Coming to your questions, please find my responses inline.

1. Can I travel without a guide or a travel agent? I mean by myself? I love to explore places on my own, will it be possible? I’m traveling solo.Is it safe to explore without travel agents? Yes. You can surely travel without a guide or Travel agent. But, please make sure you have all the permits in place. It might be difficult to enter certain regions without proper permission. Ask as many questions as you want to the office which will issue the permit. As far as safety is concerned, I can confidently say that Bhutan is pretty much safe for a solo woman traveler. However, please avoid travelling lonely and long routes at night.

2. I’m planning on visiting Thimpu, Paro, Haa valley, Bhumthang and Gangtey/Punakha. Will it be possible to cover in 11 days? Which do you prefer among this that you feel I should not miss? Anything I need to add or reduce? Please suggest. I guess you have covered the best places. Out of these places, you should not miss an early morning walk in the small town of Bumthang. There is monastery there which you can visit. It’s would be a great experience.

3.I’m a budget traveler and I want some information abt stays like hostels/couchsurfing/B&B’s that are really cheap, but good n safe.could you give me some links on this if you’ve an idea? I’m not sure about Couch surfing. But, there surely are good budget hotels available. We booked our hotels through a travel agent in Jaigaon, the Indo-Bhutan border town. Hence, I would not be able to suggest online bookable hotels.

4.Will it be possible to travel in Bhutan using public transport alone? how is the connectivity w.r.t to buses? There is public transport. But, the connectivity is not that great. However, traveling to Thimpu, Paro, Punakha & Bumthang should be east.

I hope you find my answers helpful. Do let me know if you require additional information regarding any point.

Cheers & have a safe trip 🙂

dear Umang, regards about your prestigious information. please tell me about children who are not more then 18 yrs of age. they have no voter id card as well as passport. how we get permission to visit Bhutan. thanks.

You can show the child’s birth certificate or school ID if any.

Well Written & very informative. Thanks for share information.

I am planning to visit in March 2016 is this good time to visit ? I am From Bangalore I need to Travel Plans BY Air and also in Bhutan ? If possible please Share your contact details so that we can speak and work it out ?

Yes, March 2016 is a perfect time to visit Bhutan.

From Bangalore, you can’t fly directly in Bhutan. I suggest you reach Kolkata or Delhi and then take a flight for Bhutan from there.

Thanks for the quick respond, I need to plan about the stay in Bhutan as well. I will be travelling with my wife so I need to be very sure about things.

Can you please help me out to plan accordingly and stay over there. You can email me your contact details so that we can have a quick chat on the same.

Regards -Aswins

this is pawan from Delhi. i want to visit thimpu Butan. so may you tell me all about tour and budget hotel and transport facilities from jaigoan to Thimphu by its cost. i shell be very thankful to you.

tour dataed – 25-10-2015- 05-11-2015

seriously very very informative you are,good patience to answer every query…regarding my concern,we are group of 6 planning to travel from kolkata and would like to go adventourous covering sikkim and bhutan ..we have 8 days to spend,what would be the best way to cover both?is it feasible?doesn’t mind even if it is hectic…one hired cab for whole trip willl it work?

I am glad you found the post informative.

I personally wouldn’t recommend to cover both sikkim & Bhutan. It would be very hectic and you wouldn’t be able to enjoy either destinations.

Dear Aswin,

If you want to fly than you can come from Bangalore to Bagdogra airport and from there it will take you 4 hrs to drive to Phuentsholing -Bhutan

Dear Pawan,

If you coming by Train than you have a direct train from Delhi to New Alipurduwar (NOQ) and from there it will take you 1 hr to drive to Jaigaon ..If you reach early in morwani to Jaigaon than you can do the permit formalities and same day you can move to Thimphu or paro..

Reagrds Harish Morwani

Thank you for your input. But, from Delhi, one can also reach Hasimara by Mahananda Express. Hasimara is closer to Jaigaon as compared to New Alipurduwar.

That’s a good idea. But, the flight from Bangalore to Bagdogra is 4 hr long. I would not prefer such a long flight myself.

Hi Umang I am from patna and want to go to Bhutan next week with my wife and one year old baby boy . I have Fortuner car . So please advice me to convenient way to travel Either car or train to NJP. I want to spent 4 night 5 days . I want some shopping there .

Hi Sarfaraz,

I’m assuming that you plan to take the car with you in Bhutan. With the car, you would have liberty and you can roam around freely. So, I think car would be better.

My parents wants to visit Bhutan for 10 to 11 Days what would cost of that, if you know some good travel group then please suggest me.

Thanks, Suvabrata

Hi Suvabrata,

The budget depends largely on the kind of activities you would like to indulge in while in Bhutan

Hi …. we r planning to travel bhutan dec 25…1st Jan ..we have 2 children, I wanted to know there will be get snow that time, and weather plz help me

Hi Mily, You might find snow at Bumthang. Not in Paro or Thimpu. However, the weather conditions can make it snow without predicting.

Me n my husband want to travel Bhutan in budget.at month of may ..but my husabd have all I’d except passport.n I don’t have passport and voter I’d. But I have pan n aadhr card.would u plz suggest me..we can travel easily Bhutan or not.. Leave A Reply

Hi Shivangi, yes, you can visit Bhutan without a passport.

As me & my frnd are travelling in the month of May to Bhutan from Bangalore & we are supposed to reach Kolkata & from there to Paro or taking train is good? Please suggest…

Hi Chaithra, if you like train journeys, prefer for it. The landscapes are beautiful! But, then you will have to take a long road from border to Paro. It lasts about 8 hours. You can choose.

Hi I m planning to visit bhutan in june 1st week by road Which places should I visit and can you suggest some good hotels there Preferred clean and atleast 3star categories

This article gives clear idea in support of the new users of blogging, that genuinely how to do blogging.

Hii…i really want to go bhutan from new delhi by train …how to reach…plzzzz reply me its an emergency …and also what is the fare of train …please reply me …i will wait. I have to reach royal college thimpu.

nice blog of telling us about beautiful places, and If you are planning to go somewhere by train then Check seat availability train for your journey after book your ticket.

Hey Umang! I am planning a travel to Bhutan from Chennai. The route I chose is :- Chennai to Guwahati via flight. Guwahati to hasimara via train(what do you suggest?) From Hasimara how far is Bhutan and what is the best route and mode of transport

Your route sounds good to go with. Once you reach Hasimara, the border town of Jaigaon is some 20 Kms far. You can hire a Jeep from Hasimara station itself.

Hi I am from Bangalore, need to visist Bhutan this novemeber? Is ther no direct flights from bangalore ? if yes ? which airlines? Also please list me the wonderful places to visit in bhutan for a week’s ittenary.

Hi Sneha, No there are no direct flights from Bangalore to Bhutan.

I m SUSANTA from bhubaneswar, odisha. I plan to visit Bhutan. Plz. Tell me a easy route from bhubaneswar to Bhutan

Hi I am parvin from kerala I like to visit Bhutan please tell me a easy route from Kerala to butan. Thanks

Is there any flight from Delhi to Bhutan.

For 4N/5 D what will be the total cost per person.

Hi i am planning to visit bhutan on july 8 this year till july 12. Please suggest is it a proper time to visit bhutan.. Or rain can spoil our visit. Also help us wirh local tour operator who can get permits

Hi, i am planning to go bhutan during aug11-15 pls suggest plan from patna. It will be solo trip and if possible any contact no for travel agent

Hi sonam, check drukair

I saw your trip on triphobo. How did you get to Phuentsholing from B’lore in jus 6 hours??

Hi Sherin, Apologies, seems to be an error. I will get it rectified. Thank you for sharing your observation.

Hi Umang, Your article is very informative. Please share the itineary you have followed while travelling in Bhutan. Thanks in advance!!

Hi Umang!very informative post!I plan to travel Bhutan in May and this will be my first solo trip…Please tell me how to travel from Pune to Bhutan in an economic but comfortable way

´hi dear…i am plan to visit there solo….is it safe…and can give some contact no who can help in planing my trip.

hi can u tell me how much i need to pay for permit to enter in bhutan

Hai Umang Trivedi Sir, I gone through your article and replies and it is very very informative and useful to the tourists who wants to visit Bhutan. I just want the tourist operators list with phone numbers if you have. What are your other articles on other areas of interesting places?

Hi Umang is der any direct flight from Kolkata to Bhutan i am planing for a short trip with my friends in August

Get to know more things about Bhutan from the article !!

I look for a travel buddy with shoestring budget Urgent

I am planing to travel a honeymoon trip for Bhutan from Chennai on December. Kindly advice the best and cost effective way to reach Bhutan

This is the perfect article for anyone who is looking for bhutan guide. This will help me to understand everything about how to plan my bhutan trip. Thank you Umang.

Hi Umang, Please could you suggest the cheapest and quickest means of travel from Paro to Guwahati other than via flight… I have to travel on 18 October 2018 and as I was trying to research, there seem to be no flights available on this date.. Is it so? Kindly confirm. What would be the next best option? Thanks.

Hi Umang I’m from Australia and wanted to spend some time inBhutan. What is the procedure to get visa to live there for a while. And how much money do I need to visit there. Please send me all the details. Thanks

Hii!! Am planning a family road trip to bhutan from delhi. I see 2-3 routes for the same. Any tried n tested one?? Any inputs shall be helpful

Pretty! This has been a really wonderful post. Thanks for providing this information.

What’s up every one, here every person is sharing such knowledge, so it’s nice to read this website, and I used to pay a quick visit this webpage everyday.

The blog has been a great achievement because I have been able to help my blog, which has been my blog since I was a great friend,

thank you so much my blog. Web Designing Course

Hey Umang. That’s very kind of you to reply toevery comment . Well We(4 adults: mum, papa, brother and me) are planning a trip to bhutan this dec . We are from Jaipur. The main issue is how to reach there. About places to visit you have mentioned them in the comments . Another thing is what should we pack( wollen clothes ) since we exactly don’t know about the weather conditions in dec. And yes,… How was your experience of bhutan.?

Thanks for your valuable information shared on this site.This information very useful to us.

In response to Stok Kangri’s rapid degradation, the Stok Village Committee and ALTOA (All Ladakh Tour Operators’ Association) have announced a three-year ban on trekking and climbing on Stok Kangri peak. Stok Kangri will remain closed from 2020 to 2022.

You can try Kang Yatse 2 in place of Stok Kangri. Click here for Kang Yatse trek preparation guide https://www.altitudeadventureindia.com/trip/kang-yatse-2/

Kang Yatse 2 is a great alternative to the Stok Kangri trek in Ladakh. Stok Kangri will remain closed from 2020 to 2022 due to the ban. The Stok Village Committee and ALTOA (All Ladakh Tour Operators’ Association) have announced a three-year ban on trekking and climbing on Stok Kangri peak.

Click here for Kang Yatse 2 trek preparation guide https://www.altitudeadventureindia.com/trip/kang-yatse-2/

Bhutan Packages from Kolkata | Get Upto 50% Off

Book your Bhutan tour packages from Kolkata with Thrillophilia and get ready to experience majestic views of mountain ranges and vibrant cultures. Thrillophilia offers various of Bhutan tour packages from Kolkata, full of amazing deals and discounts. To suit every kind of traveler, Thrillophilia’s Bhutan trip Packages from Kolkata are customizable and can be personalized according to one’s needs. Not only are Bhutan holiday packages from Kolkata your best bet for an unforgettable vacation, but we also offer locally curated tours for the best experience. The Thrillophilia team is also available to you 24/7 to answer any questions or address any doubts you may have. Thrillophilia provides a variety of Bhutan packages from Kolkata including trips suitable for solo travelers as well as families. Bhutan is known for its breathtaking valleys, prominent dzongs, heritage monasteries, picturesque rivers, and scenic lush green valleys. You can visit the many beautiful monasteries or experience nature in its purest form. You can even indulge in numerous activities like trekking, and camping or experience the many festivals celebrated in all their glory. Therefore, why are you still waiting? Book your trip to one of the happiest countries, Bhutan, with Thrillophilia with a Bhutan vacation Packages from Kolkata. Browse Top Bhutan Tour Packages By Theme: Bhutan Honeymoon Tour Packages , Bhutan Tour Packages for Family , Bhutan Group Packages , Bhutan Luxury Tour Packages

Places to Visit on Bhutan Trip From Kolkata

Here are some of the Best places to Visit in Bhutan: 1. Paro : A must-include place on your Bhutan tour packages from Kolkata, Paro is a fusion of natural beauty and mysticism. Famous for the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, its stunning cliffs and peaceful valleys are unforgettable.To enhance your Paro experience, consider Paro tour packages , seamlessly blending cultural immersion with the picturesque landscapes, 2. Thimphu : Thimphu, Bhutan's vibrant capital, mixes the modern with the ancient. Wander its lively streets to find colourful markets, historic structures, and cultural treasures. This is where traditional Bhutanese life meets the contemporary world. 3. Gasa: Gasa, located in western Bhutan, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and the historic Gasa Dzong. Nestled amidst majestic mountains, it offers trekkers the challenging Snowman Trek, one of the world's most demanding. Gasa also boasts hot springs, providing a therapeutic respite, making it a unique destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. 4. Trongsa : At Bhutan's heart lies Trongsa, known for its impressive dzong and panoramic vistas. Its central location and historical importance are unparalleled. The Trongsa Dzong, an architectural wonder, is a labyrinth of spiritual and administrative significance. 5. Punakha Dzong : Standing majestically at two river junctions, Punakha Dzong is an architectural and historical marvel. More than just a feast for the eyes, it is a treasure trove of Bhutanese history, hosting significant cultural events. Book Punakha tour packages & get a chance to admire lush greenery, the dzong's architecture complements the serene riverside setting.

Things to Do on Bhutan Tour From Kolkata

Here are some of the best things to do in Bhutan : 1. River rafting on the Mo Chhu River: Feel the rush as you navigate the Mo Chhu River's waters during your Bhutan trip from Kolkata. Perfect for beginners and rafting enthusiasts, this activity combines adrenaline-pumping excitement with breathtaking natural views. 2. Exploring Paro: Take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Paro. This town is a blend of historical wonders and natural beauty. You can also explore local landmarks, taste authentic Bhutanese cuisine, and absorb the rich cultural atmosphere. 3. Visiting Punakha Dzong: Step into the historical grandeur of Punakha Dzong, an architectural gem of Bhutan. Positioned where two rivers meet, its stunning structure and historical depth offer a mesmerising experience making it a must-visit spot as a part of your Bhutan travel packages from Kolkata. 4. Shopping at Thimphu's weekend market: Dive into the lively atmosphere of Thimphu’s weekend market. It is a bustling hub where you can discover local crafts, fresh local produce, and various unique finds. 5. Relaxing in Bhutanese hot springs: End your day in Bhutan with a soothing dip in its natural hot springs. These tranquil waters are relaxing and believed to have healing qualities.

Best Time to Go For Bhutan trip From Kolkata

Bhutan is an all-year-round destination where in every season you have something to do. However, the best time to go for a Bhutan trip from Kolkata is between March to May and September to November. These months are perfect, showcasing Bhutan in full splendor, with temperatures averaging between 10 to 22 degrees Celsius in most parts of the country. Spring unveils a tapestry of vibrant flowers, ideal for photography enthusiasts, while autumn offers clear skies and a comfortable climate, great for outdoor explorations. This period ensures a delightful experience as you delve into the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Bhutan.

How to Reach Bhutan From Kolkata

By Air: One of the most convenient ways to reach Bhutan from Kolkata is to travel by air. You can avail a direct flight from the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata to the Paro International Airport in Bhutan. Some airlines operating on this route include Air India Express, Bhutan Air, SpiceJet, Thai Airways, and Druk Air. The average duration of the flight is around 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.

The Weather of Bhutan

1. January to March: In Bhutan, the first quarter is crisp and dry, ideal for those preferring cooler weather. January sees temperatures around 9.4°C in Paro and slightly warmer in Thimphu. February and March gradually warm up, perfect for enjoying clear skies and panoramic views. This period is great for booking a Bhutan tour package from Kolkata. 2. April to June: April marks the onset of monsoon, bringing a warm and wet climate. With temperatures rising to 17.6°C in Paro and 20.1°C in Thimphu in April and even higher in June, this period is lush and vibrant. Ideal for those who enjoy nature in bloom, it’s a great time to opt for a Bhutan package from Kolkata. 3. July to September: Peak monsoon season means warm weather and regular showers. July and August are the warmest, with temperatures around 25°C in Paro. It's a unique time to witness Bhutan's rain-washed landscapes, making it a distinctive choice for availing Bhutan travel packages from Kolkata. 4. October to December: As the monsoon recedes, October brings cool and dry weather. This quarter, especially November and December, is perfect for those who enjoy crisp air and clear skies, with temperatures dropping to around 9.9°C in Paro. It is an ideal time for buying a Bhutan tour package from Kolkata, offering beautiful views and comfortable trekking weather.

FAQs Related To Bhutan Trip From Kolkata

The currency used in Bhutan is called Bhutanese Ngultrum, or BTN. 1 BTN is equal to INR 1. No, it is not necessary to exchange money before visiting Bhutan. This is because Indian currency is legal in Bhutan and can also be used all throughout the country. However, it is important to note that only denominations up to INR 500 are accepted there. Furthermore, you may also want to carry some local currency as you explore the country since finding ATM and banking facilities in remote areas of Bhutan may be difficult.

Bhutan Tour Packages

Glimpse of Bhutan | Dzong Special
Wonders of Bhutan | FREE Excursion to Paro
Experiential Bhutan | Free Gangtey Gompa Monastery Excursion
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Rev up Your Adventure | Bhutan Bike Expedition
Vacation in Bhutan | FREE Excursion to Taktsang

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Sightseeing, our partners, bhutan tours from kolkata faqs, what are the best places to visit in bhutan.

Buddha Dordenma
Taktsang Palphug Monastery
Punakha Dzong
Tashichho Dzong
The National Memorial Chorten
Rinpung Dzong Monastery
Punakha Suspension Bridge
National Museum, Paro
Jigme Dorji National Park

What are the best things to do in Bhutan?

8 Days Sightseeing Tour of Bhutan
9 Days Sightseeing Expedition to Bhutan
9 Days 8 Nights Honeymoon Sightseeing Tour in Bhutan
Haa Valley Sightseeing Tour
Thimphu Sightseeing Tour
Half-Day Punakha Sightseeing Tour
Tiger Nest Hiking, Bhutan
Paro Sightseeing Tour with Kyichu Lhakhang
Thimphu Sightseeing Tour with Simtokha Dzong
Gangtey Sightseeing Tour

What are the best tour packages of Bhutan?

Explore Bhutan | FREE Motithang Takin Preserve Excursion
Holidays in Bhutan | FREE Dochu La Pass Excursion
Gems of Bhutan | Thimphu Punakha & Paro
EXCLUSIVE Bhutan | FREE Tiger Nest Hiking Experience

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Bhutan to Kolkata drive

Bhutan to kolkata road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Bhutan to Kolkata. If you're planning a road trip to Kolkata, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am start at Bhutan drive for about 3 hours

1:00 pm Kuenselphodrang stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:00 pm drive for about 5.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 8.5 hours

10:00 am leave from Bagdogra drive for about 4.5 hours

2:24 pm Raiganj stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:24 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 7 hours

9:00 am leave from Malda drive for about 4 hours

12:46 pm Berhampore stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:46 pm drive for about 3.5 hours

5:18 pm Santipur stay for about 1 hour and leave at 6:18 pm drive for about 3 hours

9:18 pm arrive in Kolkata

day 3 driving ≈ 10.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Kuenselphodrang Bagdogra (4 answers) Raiganj Malda Berhampore Santipur

Where's the best place to eat in Kolkata?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Peter Cat , which was mentioned 2 times.

Want to research more popular restaurants in Kolkata? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Kolkata?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Kolkata. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Kolkata.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Kolkata to Bhutan drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Bhutan to Kolkata . Or get a full Bhutan to Kolkata flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Bhutan well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Bhutan!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Bhutan to Kolkata

places to eat

alternate routes

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How to Reach Bhutan

How to reach Bhutan? If this is the question bothering you from planning an exciting trip to the Land of Thunder Dragons, you are at the right place! Bhutan – the Happiest Kingdom, is among the most magical tourist destinations in the world. Spread with picturesque valleys, fortified by the mighty Himalayas, dotted with pious monasteries, dzongs, temples, and adorned with rustic, yet colourful tradition and cultures, this country embraces everyone with an open heart.

With Phuentsholing, Samdrup-Jongkhar, and Gelephu as the only highland areas that allows access to international visitors; mostly via India, one can easily reach the Last Himalayan Kingdom. Be it by road, train, or by air, visitors shouldn’t think much on how to reach Bhutan from their preferred destinations. And in case, you too are worried about how to reach this gorgeous country, scroll till the last of this page to know more about how to reach your favourite tourist destination without any hassles!

Acquiring Bhutanese Visa

Sharing international border with India, Bhutan can be reached easily through multiple Indian destinations – West Bengal and Assam. Also, since the permitted entry point to Land of Thunder Dragons are located within a proximity to these Indian destinations, one can reach Bhutan by road easily through these points.

Visitors planning to visit Bhutan by road, should firstly acquire an entry permit or authorization from the Immigration Office of Royal Government of Bhutan, which is located just at the Indo-Bhutan border. The office is located at a close hand to West Bengal’s town called Jaigaon. Entry permit obtained from this Immigration Office allows visitors to visit Paro Valley and Thimphu. However, this office also issues special permit that allows international tourists to visit other major tourism destinations in Bhutan. Samdrup-Jongkhar and Gelephu also have immigration centres that grants Bhutanese Visa to visitors.

Visitors coming down directly from Kolkata, can get their visa from the Royal Bhutan Consulate Office. Once visa is acquired, one can enter the Bhutanese territory from any of the three authorised points: Samdrup-Jongkhar, Gelephu, and Phuentsholing-Jaigaon.

How to Reach Bhutan by Road

Road Trips by Personal Vehicle:

The Bhutanese town Phuentsholing shares its border with an Indian town called Jaigon (West Bengal). If you are planning to reach Bhutan by road, Jaigaon would be the most befitting destination to embark on a road trip to the Happiest Himalayan Kingdom.

In case, you are planning your Bhutan trip from the Indian state of Assam, Gelephu in Bhutan would give you an easy access. This Bhutanese town is merely 50km away from Bongaigaon district in Assam (India). Be it your private vehicle or a rented one, you can always prefer this route to reach Bhutan by road.

Samdrup Jhongkar is the third point to make an entry into the Land of Thunder Dragons. This Bhutanese town is located around 150km from Guwahati (Assam, India). Guwahati, being the capital city of Assam, has an abundance of tourism options and offers an easy-to-access corridor to reach Bhutan via road trips.

Siliguri in West Bengal is the nearest Indian metropolitan city to Bhutan. Visitors planning bus journeys to reach Bhutan can take buses from Siliguri to reach the town of Jaigaon, which shares international border with Phuentsholing (Bhutan). The duration of this journey is around 4hours, is quite comfortable, and offers some of the best views of scenic tea gardens, mountainous landscapes, remote villages, and much more.

Visitors who wishes to reach Bhutan by bus from or around Kolkata (India), can board direct buses to Phuentsholing (Bhutan) from Esplanade Station in the City of Joy. These buses are operated by the Royal Bhutanese Government, and it takes around 18hours for the visitors to reach the Land of Thunder Dragons from Kolkata via these Bhutanese buses.

How to Reach Bhutan by Train

Unfortunately, the Last Himalayan Kingdom has no direct access to rail transport. However, visitors planning to reach Bhutan by train can board a train to Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri, New Alipurduar, or Hasimara railway stations, and finally make an entry to Bhutan’s town of Phuentsholing via Jaigaon by road.

Distance Between Phuentsholing and the Railway Stations:

Siliguri – Phuentsholing: 155km (4 Hours)

New Jalpaiguri – Phuentsholing: 156km (4 Hours)

New Alipurduar – Phuentsholing: 60km (2 Hours)

Hasimara – Phuentsholing: 20km (1 Hour)

Visitors travelling from other parts of India, can opt for any of the mentioned railway station as most of the express trains has stops across these stations.

How to Reach Bhutan by Air

Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. Surrounded by peaks that reaches more than 5,500m, flying or taking off from this airport is quite treacherous. Thus, only a few pro-pilots are authorized to operate in Paro International Airport. Though such an exhilarating airport, it is well connected via direct and connecting flights from several international airports and cities.

Druk Air – Bhutan’s national air carrier, has regular flight connectivity with other international destinations such as Kathmandu (Nepal), Bangkok (Thailand), Dhaka (Bangladesh), and Singapore. Popular Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Bodh Gaya, Guwahati, and Bagdogra also has regular flights; both direct and connecting flights, to and from Bhutan. Bhutan Airlines also offers an array of regular and connecting flights to reach Bhutan. Most of these connecting flights fly between India and Bhutan via Kathmandu in Nepal.

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Less Than 10,000
10,000 - 20,000
20,000 - 30,000
0 To 5 Nights
6 To 8 Nights
8 or More Nights

Type Of Packages

Fly In Fly out
Drive In Fly Out
Drive In Drive out
Fly In Drive Out
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