Why Travel to Bhutan from India?
Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a captivating destination for Indian travelers seeking a blend of serene landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual tranquility. Its proximity to India makes it an accessible yet exotic escape, perfect for a trip to Bhutan from India.
Known for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan offers a unique experience with its pristine environment, ancient monasteries, and vibrant festivals. Bhutan tours from india are increasingly popular due to the ease of travel, visa-free entry for Indians, and the allure of exploring a Himalayan kingdom that balances tradition with modernity.
How to Reach Bhutan from India
By Road
One of the most scenic ways to embark on a trip to bhutan from india is by road. The journey typically starts from border towns in West Bengal or Assam. The most popular route is through Phuentsholing, accessible from Siliguri or Bagdogra, West Bengal, which is about a 4-5 hour drive or you can choose Kolkata to Bhutan bus which takes 5 – 6 hours to complete the route and cost about Nu. 200.
You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Siliguri to Jaigaon, the Indian town bordering Phuentsholing. This route is ideal for those seeking budget-friendly bhutan travel packages from india, as it avoids airfare costs. The road trip offers stunning views of the Himalayan foothills, making it a memorable start to your bhutan tours from india.
By Air
For convenience and speed, flying is the preferred option for many bhutan tours from india. Paro International Airport is Bhutan’s only international airport, serviced by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines.
Direct flights are available from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Guwahati. A flight from Delhi to Paro takes about 2-3 hours, with tickets ranging from INR 15,000 to 40,000 round-trip, depending on the season and booking time. Many bhutan tour packages from india include airfare, making it a hassle-free option for travelers.
By Train (to Border Towns)
While there are no direct trains to Bhutan, you can travel by train to border towns like New Jalpaiguri (NJP), Siliguri, or Hasimara in West Bengal, or Guwahati in Assam. From NJP, it’s a 4-5 hour drive to Phuentsholing.
Trains like the Rajdhani Express or Shatabdi Express connect major Indian cities to these stations. This option is cost-effective and suits those looking to customize their holiday packages for bhutan from india with a mix of train and road travel.
Entry Points to Bhutan from India
Phuentsholing
Phuentsholing, the primary gateway for bhutan tours from india, is a bustling border town adjacent to Jaigaon, West Bengal. It’s the most accessible entry point for road travelers, where you can obtain an entry permit at the Immigration Office. The Bhutan Gate here is a popular spot for photos, blending Indian and Bhutanese aesthetics.
Gelephu
Located along the Assam border, Gelephu is a quieter entry point, ideal for those exploring southern Bhutan. It’s less crowded than Phuentsholing and offers a serene start to your trip to bhutan from india.
Samdrup Jongkhar
This entry point in eastern Bhutan connects to Darranga in Assam, about 50 km from Guwahati. It’s suitable for travelers planning to explore eastern Bhutan before heading to central regions like Thimphu or Paro.
Bhutan Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
Do Indians Need a Visa to Bhutan?
Indian citizens do not require Bhutan visa from India, making it a convenient destination. Instead, an entry permit is issued upon arrival, valid for Thimphu and Paro.
Documents Required for Entry
To obtain the entry permit, you need a valid Indian passport (with at least six months’ validity) or a Voter ID card. Children under 18 require an original birth certificate. Two passport-sized photographs and travel insurance are also necessary. For road travelers, permits are issued at Phuentsholing’s Immigration Office, while air travelers get them at Paro International Airport.
Entry Permit vs. Special Area Permit
The entry permit allows access to Thimphu and Paro. To visit other regions like Punakha, Bumthang, or Trongsa, a Special Area Permit is required, obtainable from the Immigration Office in Thimphu. Many bhutan tour packages from india include permit assistance to streamline the process.
Cost of Traveling to Bhutan from India
Entry Fees (SDF – Sustainable Development Fee)
Indian tourists must pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of INR 1,200 per person per night, with a 50% discount for children aged 6-12 and no fee for those under 5. This fee supports Bhutan’s sustainable tourism initiatives.
Budget vs. Luxury Travel Options
The bhutan tour cost for indian travelers varies based on itinerary, accommodation, and activities. Budget bhutan travel packages from india start at INR 12,000-20,000 for a 3-4 day trip, covering basic hotels, meals, and transport. Luxury holiday packages for bhutan from india can range from INR 70,000 to 1,00,000, offering premium accommodations and exclusive experiences. Flights, if included, add to the cost, while road trips are more economical.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan from India
The best time to visit Bhutan from India is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). Spring offers vibrant blooms and pleasant weather, perfect for trekking and sightseeing. Autumn is dry and clear, ideal for festivals like Paro Tshechu or Thimphu Tshechu. Monsoon (June-August) brings lush greenery but can disrupt road travel, while winter (December-February) is cold but offers clear Himalayan views.
Top Places to Visit in Bhutan
Thimphu
The capital city blends modernity with tradition, featuring landmarks like Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, and vibrant markets. It’s a must-visit on any trip to bhutan from india.
Paro
Home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Paro offers stunning landscapes and cultural sites like Rinpung Dzong. It’s a highlight of most bhutan tour packages from india.
Punakha
Known for its majestic Punakha Dzong and scenic river valleys, Punakha is perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Bumthang
The spiritual heart of Bhutan, Bumthang boasts ancient temples and serene valleys, ideal for those seeking tranquility.
Haa Valley
A lesser-known gem, Haa Valley offers pristine landscapes and cultural experiences, perfect for offbeat bhutan travel packages from india.
Cultural Etiquette & Travel Tips for Indians
Respect Bhutan’s culture by dressing modestly, especially at religious sites—avoid shorts, t-shirts, or flip-flops. Greet locals with “Kuzu zangpo la” and use “la” for politeness. Thank you in Bhutanese is "Kadrin Chey la" Photography is restricted inside temples, so seek permission. Opt for bottled water, as tap water may not be safe. Carry Indian currency (INR 500 or less, up to INR 25,000) as it’s widely accepted. For safety, choose a licensed tour operator for your bhutan tours from india, as guides are mandatory for most areas.
Bhutan Tour Packages from India
- Bhutan Classic Tours: Ideal for first-time visitors, these Bhutan tour packages from India focus on Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha. Lasting 5–7 days and priced at INR 15,000–30,000, they include hotels, meals, guides, and permits. Expect a balanced itinerary with visits to dzongs, monasteries, and local markets—perfect for families and solo travelers.
- Bhutan Festival Tours: These holiday packages for Bhutan from India revolve around vibrant events like Paro or Thimphu Tshechu. Running 6–8 days during spring or autumn, prices range from INR 25,000–50,000. Experience masked dances, music, and culture, with guided sightseeing and 3-star stays included.
- Bhutan Adventure Tours: Tailored for active travelers, these Bhutan travel packages from India include treks like Druk Path or Bumthang Owl Trek. Tours last 7–10 days and cost INR 35,000–60,000, covering gear, guides, and cultural stops such as Haa Valley and Chele La Pass.
- Bhutan Birding Tours: Perfect for bird lovers, these 7–9 day Bhutan tour packages from India explore hotspots like Phobjikha and Bumthang. Priced at INR 30,000–55,000, the tours include expert guides, eco-lodge stays, and sightings of rare species like the black-necked crane.
FAQs about Bhutan Tours from Indian
Q: How much does a Bhutan trip cost from India?
A: The bhutan tour cost for indian travelers starts at INR 12,000 for budget packages and can go up to INR 1,00,000 for luxury bhutan travel packages from india.
Q: Do Indians need a guide for Bhutan tours?
A: Yes, a licensed guide is mandatory for most areas, often included in bhutan tour packages from india.
Q: What is the best way to reach Bhutan from India?
A: Flying to Paro from Delhi or Kolkata is the fastest, while road trips via Phuentsholing are scenic and budget-friendly.
Q: Can I customize my Bhutan tour package?
A: Yes, many operators offer customizable holiday packages for bhutan from india to suit your preferences.
By choosing the right bhutan tours from india, you can experience the magic of this Himalayan kingdom with ease and comfort, creating memories that last a lifetime.
