The Best Ways to Travel to Bhutan from India: Routes, Tips, and Options
Traveling from India to Bhutan is a journey that blends the ease of geographic proximity with the excitement of entering a new cultural and natural landscape. This guide explores the best ways to travel to Bhutan from India, offering insights on transportation options, entry points, and travel tips to ensure a seamless and enjoyable trip.
Overview of Travel Options
India shares multiple border gates with Bhutan, making overland travel a popular choice. Additionally, direct flights from India to Bhutan make it convenient for those looking to minimize travel time.
1. By Air
Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Bhutan from India. Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan and has direct flights from several cities in India.
- Departure Cities: Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and Bagdogra are the primary Indian cities with direct flights to Paro.
- Airlines: Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are the two airlines that operate these routes.
- Duration: Flights from Kolkata to Paro take about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it one of the fastest options.
- Advantages: Flying is the fastest way to reach Bhutan and offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayas.
2. By Road
Traveling by road to Bhutan from India is a scenic and adventurous option. The main entry point for road travel is through the border town of Phuentsholing, accessible from West Bengal.
- Starting Point: Bagdogra is the nearest airport in India to Phuentsholing. You can fly into Bagdogra and then drive to the border.
- Driving Route: From Bagdogra, Phuentsholing is approximately a four-hour drive. Car rental services and taxis are available from Bagdogra Airport.
- Other Entry Points: Besides Phuentsholing, other land entry points include Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar, though they are less commonly used by tourists.
- Advantages: Road travel allows you to enjoy the landscape changes from the plains of West Bengal to the mountains of Bhutan. It also gives flexibility to stop and explore local areas along the way.
Required Documentation
- Entry Permit: Indian nationals do not need a visa to enter Bhutan but must obtain an Entry Permit. This can be acquired at the border in Phuentsholing or, for air travelers, upon arrival in Paro.
- Required IDs: Indian travelers need to carry either a valid Indian passport or a Voter ID card. PAN cards, Aadhaar cards, and driving licenses are not accepted as valid travel documents for entering Bhutan.
Travel Tips
- Plan Ahead for Permits: If traveling by road, consider staying overnight in Phuentsholing to complete the entry permit process, as it can take a few hours.
- Currency: The Indian Rupee is widely accepted in Bhutan, but notes of INR 2,000 are often not accepted. It’s advisable to carry smaller denominations or exchange money for the Bhutanese Ngultrum.
- Health and Safety: While Bhutan is generally safe and welcoming, it’s always good to follow general travel safety tips like keeping your valuables secure and traveling with travel insurance.
- Altitude Awareness: Some parts of Bhutan, especially trekking routes, are at high altitudes. Acclimatize appropriately and stay hydrated.
Choosing Your Best Route
Whether you choose the aerial route for its quickness and ease or the road for its scenic value, traveling to Bhutan from India offers an array of experiences suited to different travel preferences. Each journey provides its own unique set of memories, so consider what works best for your schedule, budget, and adventure level.
