For many travelers in the world, visiting Bhutan is a dream. Bhutan is one of the most unique travel destinations in South Asia because of its unspoiled natural beauty, exquisite monasteries, the concept of the nation’s happiness, friendly locals, and more.
The census town of Jaigaon in India serves as the entry point to Bhutan for Indian tourists traveling by road. The Bhutanese town of Phuentsholing is located directly across the gate from Jaigaon (North Bengal), which lies on the Indo-Bhutan border.
This blog will guide you on understanding how to plan a Bhutan trip from Jaigaon if you intend to take the journey by road. You'll know exactly how to plan your vacation to Bhutan with ease by the end.
Why Plan a Bhutan Tour from Jaigaon
The Jaigaon–Phuentsholing Border is the main land entry point for Indian tourists planning to visit Bhutan. Jaigaon is the most convenient starting place since it is easily accessible from Siliguri, Hasimara, and Bagdogra Airport. You can enter Phuentsholing after arriving in Jaigaon (Alipurfuar district) to finish the immigration procedures before continuing on into Bhutan.
Several primary factors contribute to Jaigaon's popularity:
- It serves as the official gateway for Indian tourists traveling by road to Bhutan.
- The Phuentsholing Immigration Office handles the processing of travel papers and permits.
- Jaigaon boasts a variety of accommodation choices, tour operators, and transit choices.
- Compared to flying straight into Paro, Bhutan's only international airport, it is less expensive and simpler.
If you are planning a visit to Bhutan, as an Indian visitor, you have to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Phuentsholing, Thimphu, and Paro. You have a plan with a reliable Bhutan tour package from Jaigaon because having a licensed tour guide is mandatory.
Step 1: How to Reach Jaigaon
You must go to Jaigaon before you can schedule your Bhutan trip, and the primary choices are given below:
By Air
The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport in northern West Bengal, and the location of Jaigaon is around 160 miles from Bagdogra and takes 4–5 hours to get there. From Siliguri City to Jaigaon, you may reserve a bus, a private taxi, or even a shared taxi (both are in North Bengal).
By Train
Jaigaon is nearly 18 miles from Hasimara, the closest train station (Alipurduar District). Trains from major Indian cities like Delhi, Guwahati, and Kolkata arrive in the region, and from Hasimara, you may go to Jaigaon via cab or autorickshaw.
By Road
From Siliguri to Jaigaon, there are shared jeeps and regular buses, and you may follow the NH-31 route, which leads to Jaigaon, if you're driving.
Step 2: Insights into Entry Requirements for Bhutan
Required Documents:
- A current Indian passport or voter ID card that is valid for at least six months.
- Photos (passport sized) (at least two copies).
- Details of a hotel reservation in Bhutan (sometimes needed for confirmation).
- A birth certificate is required for children under the age of eighteen.
Details of the Permit:
- For Indian tourists, the permit is free.
- You will first be granted permission to ascend to Paro Valley and Thimphu.
- You must apply for a special permit in Thimphu if you want to go outside of certain regions (such as Haa Valley, Trongsa, Punakha, Bumthang, etc.).
Step 3: Booking Your Bhutan Tour Package from Jaigaon
Option 1: Reserve Through a Jaigaon Tour Operator
Option 2: Do-It-Yourself
- Hotels in Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha may be reserved online using well-known hotel booking platforms.
- Once you enter Phuentsholing, hire a local cab, as Indian cabs are not permitted in Bhutan for sightseeing.
- This alternative might be more affordable and offers you more choices.
Step 4: Suggested Itinerary for Bhutan Tour from Jaigaon
Day 1: A Visit to Phuentsholing
- Arrive at Jaigaon and go to Phuentsholing.
- Get to Jaigaon and finish the immigration process.
- Spend the night in Phuentsholing or make the six-hour trip to Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
- Tour the local markets of Thimphu, including places like Tashichho Dzong, Simply Bhutan, and Buddha Dordenma Statue.
- Savor the goodness of Bhutanese cuisine, pay a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, and engage in the serene ambiance of the capital city.
Day 3: Drive to Paro
- A delightful journey that starts from Thimphu to the valley town of Paro.
- Explore the local streets, Rinpung Dzong, and the Paro Museum.
Day 4: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
- One of the key highlights of every vacation to Bhutan is the well-known 5-6-hour trek to Taktsang Monastery (Upper Paro Valley).
- Spend the night in Paro.
Day 5: Return to Phuentsholing or Jaigaon
- Return in the direction of Jaigaon.
- Return to Hasimara/ Bagdogra at your convenience from here to continue your trip.
- You might adjust two to three extra days to your plan if you wish to include Punakha or Bumthang.
Step 5: Tips for a Smooth Bhutan Tour
- Get started early because Phuentsholing immigration procedures might take some time.
- Keep cash on hand. Indian Rupees are only accepted in Bhutan.
- When visiting monasteries and dzongs, show respect for the indigenous way of life by dressing modestly.
- Purchase a Bhutanese SIM card in Phuentsholing to improve connectivity and stay connected.
- In the spring and fall, hotels and taxis fill up fast, so make reservations in advance.