Imagine yourself standing on the mountain trails, surrounded by beautiful green valleys and towering peaks that touch the clouds. The aroma of pine trees fills the air around you, and the distant sound of monastery bells adds a peaceful sound to your surroundings. Welcome to the land of dragons, Bhutan, a land where nature, culture, and spirituality blend seamlessly. This place is a dream destination for Indian travelers. So if you’re planning a trip to this dreamy destination or wondering how to travel to Bhutan from India, then this complete guide is perfect for you, as it covers everything from visas and permits to travel routes, costs, and insider tips.
Whether you like a road trip or a quick flight, we’ve covered everything.
Do Indians Need a Visa or Passport to Travel to Bhutan?
The most common question that comes to everyone’s mind is, “Is a passport required for Bhutan?” or “Do we need a visa to travel to Bhutan?” So the good news is that Indians require no visa or passport for traveling to this dreamy place but they must have their valid ID proof at the border or at the airport. This ID proof can be a voter ID card or your valid Indian passport.
If you want to stay longer or travel independently, then you can get the Bhutan permit online for that, you need to visit their official website https://immi.gov.bt/ . There you need to create your account, fill out the application, pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), and submit it for approval.
How to Travel to Bhutan from India by Road?
For those who love road trips and adventures, travelling in Bhutan by road is the best option for you. This road trip to Bhutan can help you to make so many amazing memories, either with family or friends. But if you are travelling solo, then this option is definitely for you. Here’s what you need to know about Bhutan by road:
- India to Bhutan by road:
There are three primary entry points from India.Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar. Phuentsholing in the west connects to West Bengal’s Jaigaon, while Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar in the south and southeast, respectively, connect to the Indian state of Assam. Phuentsholing is the busiest and easiest for first-time travelers. So you can select an entry point according to your plan.
- India to Bhutan Distance
- Jaigaon to Phuentsholing: This is the most popular way to get there. If you’re traveling from Kolkata, you’ll cover about 570 km, which usually takes around 12 to 14 hours by road. On the other hand, if you’re coming from Siliguri, it’s a shorter trip of about 170 km, taking roughly 5 hours.
- Gelephu: Nestled in the southern part of Bhutan, the journey from Guwahati to Gelephu covers about 250 km, which typically takes around 6 to 7 hours by bus or car.
- Samdrup Jongkhar: This is another southern entry point, located roughly 200 km from Guwahati, and the drive usually takes about 4 to 5 hours.
When you enter Bhutan, you will notice that roads and highways are developed and well-maintained by the people. The buses and taxis are available; that means if it is a budget trip, then you can use public transport for travelling.
How to Travel to Bhutan from India by Air?
Now if you are the one who likes mountains but does not like road trips, you prefer quick and comfortable flights. In that case, you can travel there by air.
- Nearest airport to Bhutan – The nearest airport to Bhutan is Paro International Airport. It is the only international airport in Bhutan.The Bagdogra Airport (IXB) located in Siliguri, India, which is also the closest airport to Bhutan, is sometimes preferred by international travelers.
- Direct flights/connections from Indian cities – Some cities provide direct flights to Paro, like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bagdogra. Flight Duration will be around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the departure.
Bhutan Travel Cost for Indians
Now this Bhutan travel cost will completely depend on how you are planning your trip, basically what kind of accommodations and transport you will prefer.A normal budget trip will cost around INR 30000 to INR 70000 per person for 4-5 day trip.The SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) is now $15 a day until 2027 for indians which is about Rs. 1200 else the entry is free.
A major consideration for any trip is the budget. Here’s what to expect in terms of Bhutan travel cost:
- Flights: Return flights to Bhutan (direct to Paro or through a gateway city like Bagdogra) may be priced anywhere between ₹15,000 and ₹40,000 or higher, depending on your departure city and how much in advance you book.
- Accommodation: Cheap guesthouses can charge between ₹1,000 and ₹2,000 a night. Facilities from modest hotels start between ₹3,000-₹7,000 or occasionally even higher.
- Food: Food at restaurants can be cheap, and budget travelers can easily spend around ₹1,000-₹2,000 a day.
- Local Transport: You can travel in a shared taxi, by bus, or rent your own private car, and costs range from a few hundred rupees to a couple of thousand per day!
Best Time to Visit Bhutan from India
Choosing the right time for any trip can make the difference for an optimal experience; for the trip to Bhutan, the ideal time is between the months of:
- Spring season (March to May): The weather is warm and the mesmeric rhododendrons bloom across the country, making it even more beautiful
- Autumn season (September to November): The skies are clear, the festivals are vibrant and the weather is just the right temperature pleasure for outdoor activities
The months of June to August is not best time to travel there, as the monsoon tides can make any bike trip along the Bhutan roads undone
Even though it is tempting to go to the Bhutan mountains during the months of November to February due to the cooler weather, it is ideal for mountain lovers because of the wonderful snow vistas as well.
Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Travel from India in 2025
Tips for First-Time Travelers
Pointers for Travelers for the First Time an informative guide on how to undertake a trip to Bhutan for the first time
- Documentation: Always keep the entry permit and identification document close. Even citizens from India require the necessary documents for certain areas
- Money: The national currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN), although Indian Rupees are also accepted. There is a limited number of ATMs; hence, cash is recommended.
- Local Culture: Modest attire must be worn to monasteries. Shoes, caps, and loud voices must be taken off and avoided.
- Itinerary Recommendations: For a balanced experience, focus on the centers of Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, and the Phobjikha Valley. The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is a key landmark and should be visited
Conclusion
Bhutan is not just a place to visit, but it is an expression of the essence of culture. Planning a trip for Indian travelers is hassle-free and pocket-friendly, be it you fly directly into Paro or take a road adventure into Bhutan. Visa requirements are not going to trouble you, in case you need a simple permit , you have multiple entry routes, and the journey is as rewarding as the destination itself.
One can plan their trip by merely knowing the ideal month or time to travel from India to Bhutan.Therefore, just get ready to pack your bags, have all your documents, and embark on an expedition that will bring you closer to the monasteries, mountains, and warm Bhutanese people. You are heading into the Land of Dragons!
