Getting to Bhutan

As a result of its remote location, getting to Bhutan can be a bit of a challenge, but the effort is well worth it. Regardless of the entry point, all visitors to Bhutan must have a visa and be accompanied by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The Bhutanese government requires visitors to book their travel arrangements through a licensed tour operator, who will take care of all logistics, including visa applications, accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing. There are several ways to reach Bhutan, including by air and by road.

By Air: The easiest way to reach Bhutan is by air. The country has only one international airport, Paro International Airport, which is located in the Paro Valley. The airport is served by several airlines, including Druk Air, Bhutan’s national carrier, and Bhutan Airlines. Flights to Paro International Airport operate from several cities in the region, including Delhi, Kathmandu, Bangkok, Singapore, and Dhaka.

Flights to Paro International Airport are typically limited and can be expensive, but the views of the Himalayan peaks during the flight are breathtaking. Visitors are advised to book their flights well in advance to ensure availability.

By Road: Visitors can also enter Bhutan by road from neighboring countries. There are three border crossings open to tourists: Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar. Visitors entering Bhutan by land must obtain a valid permit from the immigration office at the entry point and must be accompanied by a licensed Bhutanese guide.

The Phuentsholing border crossing is the most popular and is located in the south of the country, near the Indian state of West Bengal. The border crossing is connected to the Indian town of Jaigaon, and visitors can travel by car or bus from there.

The Gelephu border crossing is located in the south-central region of the country, near the Indian state of Assam. Visitors can travel to Gelephu by car or bus from the Indian town of Guwahati.

The Samdrup Jongkhar border crossing is located in the southeastern region of the country, near the Indian state of Assam. Visitors can travel to Samdrup Jongkhar by car or bus from the Indian town of Guwahati.

Domestic Traveling: Once visitors arrive in Bhutan, getting around the country can be challenging due to its mountainous terrain and winding roads. However, there are several options for domestic travel, including:

1. Taxis: Taxis are available in most towns and cities in Bhutan. However, visitors should be prepared for higher fares due to the country’s small size and limited transportation options.
2. Buses: Public buses operate in Bhutan and are the most affordable way to travel between towns and cities. However, the buses can be crowded and uncomfortable, and the schedules can be unpredictable.
3. Rental Cars: Visitors can rent cars from several companies in Bhutan. However, the roads in Bhutan can be challenging to navigate, and visitors should be prepared for long drives and steep inclines.
4. Domestic Flights: Druk Air, Bhutan’s national carrier, operates domestic flights between Paro and several other cities in Bhutan, including Bumthang, Gelephu, and Trashigang. Domestic flights are typically limited and can be expensive, but they offer a convenient way to travel long distances quickly.

In conclusion, getting to Bhutan may require some planning and effort, but the experience of visiting this beautiful and unique country is worth it. Whether you choose to arrive by air or by road, there are several options for domestic travel that will allow you to explore Bhutan’s stunning landscape and rich culture.