Estimating the Travel Cost to Bhutan from India: A Detailed Budget Guide
Traveling from India to Bhutan can be a captivating experience, offering insights into the culture, spirituality, and natural beauty of the Himalayan kingdom. Understanding the costs involved is crucial for planning a smooth and budget-friendly trip. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the travel costs you might incur when planning a visit to Bhutan from India.
1. Entry and Travel Permits
- Entry Permit: Indian nationals do not need a visa but must obtain an Entry Permit for travel in Bhutan. This permit is issued free of charge upon arrival, with valid travel documents like a passport or Voter ID.
- Route Permit: If planning to travel beyond Paro and Thimphu, a Route Permit is required, which can also be obtained for free in Thimphu.
2. Transportation Costs
- By Air: Direct flights to Paro are available from cities such as Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and Bagdogra. Round-trip airfares typically range between INR 15,000 to INR 30,000, depending on the season and how early you book.
- By Road: Many travelers enter Bhutan by road through the border town of Phuentsholing, accessible from West Bengal’s town of Siliguri. The journey from Siliguri to Phuentsholing is about 150 km, and travel costs by taxi or personal car can range from INR 2,000 to INR 3,000 one way.
3. Accommodation Costs
- Budget Stays: Guesthouses and budget hotels can cost anywhere from INR 2,500 to INR 4,000 per night.
- Mid-range Hotels: Comfortable hotels typically charge between INR 3,000 to INR 6,000 per night.
- Luxury Resorts: Premium options such as Aman Resorts or Taj Tashi may cost upwards of INR 10,000 per night.
4. Daily Expenses
- Food and Dining: Meals in local restaurants can cost between INR 200 to INR 700. Dining in hotel restaurants or upscale eateries may cost INR 700 to INR 1,500 per meal.
- Local Transportation: Taxi fares for short distances within cities like Thimphu and Paro can be around INR 300 to INR 500. Renting a car with a driver for a full day might cost about INR 4,000 to INR 6,000.
5. Additional Costs
- Guided Tours: Hiring a guide for specialized tours (cultural, trekking) may cost around INR 2,000 to INR 3,500 per day.
- Entrance Fees: While many monasteries and dzongs do not charge entrance fees, some popular sites might have nominal fees ranging from INR 100 to INR 1,500.
- Souvenirs and Shopping: Depending on personal preferences, allocate funds for handicrafts, textiles, and other local products.
Tips for Budgeting Your Trip
- Plan and Book Early: Especially for flights and accommodations, to avail of the best prices.
- Travel in Groups: Sharing costs for accommodations and transportation can significantly reduce expenses.
- Eat Local: Enjoying meals at local eateries rather than at tourist-centric restaurants can help save on food expenses.
- Consider Off-Peak Travel: Traveling during the off-peak seasons (June-August and December-February) can lead to lower costs for flights and accommodations.
Planning a trip to Bhutan from India requires careful budgeting, but with the right information, you can manage costs effectively while enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer. By considering all potential expenses and choosing options that fit your budget, your journey to Bhutan will be both enriching and enjoyable.
