The way to Bhutan

Bhutan, a landlocked country in South Asia, offers three primary points of entry for travelers. The first is Phuentsholing, in the south, providing access from the Indian plains of West Bengal. The second is via Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar in the southeast, connecting Bhutan with the Indian state of Assam. The third is Paro, served by Bhutan’s national carriers, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. These gateways ensure convenient access to Bhutan from various regions.

Travel by Air

Bhutan’s air transport network centers on a single international airport, with domestic flights to Yonphula in the east, Bumthang in central Bhutan, and Gelephu in the south-central region. Paro International Airport lies at an altitude of about 7,300 feet above sea level and is surrounded by mountains and hills rising up to 16,000 feet. Druk Air operates flights to destinations including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, and Singapore.

Travel by Land

Phuentsholing, approximately 170 kilometers east of Bagdogra, an Indian national airport, serves as the main overland entry point and the start of a scenic journey through Bhutan’s varied landscapes. The winding road to Thimphu, the capital, covers about 176 kilometers and takes roughly six hours.

Gelephu, in south-central Bhutan, is about 250 kilometers from Thimphu. The route passes through subtropical lowlands before gradually climbing into the alpine zone, with a travel time of around ten hours.

Samdrup Jongkhar, the only entry point into eastern Bhutan, is located about 150 kilometers from Guwahati, the capital of Assam. From Samdrup Jongkhar, the journey continues through Trashigang, Mongar, Bumthang, Trongsa, and Wangdue before reaching Thimphu. Covering roughly 700 kilometers, this route typically takes at least three days.

Arrival Formalities

Upon arrival in Bhutan, visitors must complete an endorsement process with immigration officials. Travelers are required to present their passport and several passport-sized photographs, or a voter registration card, and must appear in person. For land arrivals, endorsements can be processed at Phuentsholing, Samdrup Jongkhar, or Gelephu. For air travelers, the process is completed at Paro International Airport. All visitors must ensure these formalities are completed before engaging in any activities within Bhutan.