Planning your Bhutan trip from India? Whether you prefer a scenic drive or a short flight, Bhutan is easily accessible for Indian citizens - with no visa required and multiple routes available.
Here's your complete 2025 guide to how to travel to Bhutan from India, covering both air and road options, key border points, required documents, and helpful travel tips.
Option 1: Travel to Bhutan by Flight from India
Bhutan's only international airport is in Paro, and several Indian cities offer direct flights.
Direct Flights to Paro (PBH):
- From Bagdogra (IXB) - ~1 hour
- From Kolkata (CCU) - ~1.5 hours
- From Delhi (DEL) - ~2.5 hours
- From Guwahati (GAU) - ~1 hour (limited schedules)
Airlines Operating:
- Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines)
- Bhutan Airlines
Tip: Flights to Bhutan are scenic - try to sit on the left side when flying into Paro for views of Mt. Everest and the Himalayas.
Option 2: Travel to Bhutan by Road from India
If you prefer to enter Bhutan by road, the most popular and accessible route is through the Phuentsholing border, located in southern Bhutan, adjoining Jaigaon (West Bengal).
Main Border Entry Points:
- Phuentsholing (West Bengal side: Jaigaon) : i. Nearest airport: Bagdogra (IXB) - 4.5 to 5 hrs drive, ii. Common route: Bagdogra/Siliguri → Jaigaon → Phuentsholing → Thimphu/Paro
- Gelephu (Assam side) : i. For those entering from eastern India, ii. Requires longer road travel to reach western Bhutan
- Samdrup Jongkhar (Assam side: Guwahati) : i. Entry for eastern circuit (less common for first-time visitors)
Recommended Route (Most Popular)
Bagdogra → Phuentsholing (Jaigaon) → Thimphu/Paro by Road
- Fly into Bagdogra Airport
- Drive to Phuentsholing (~160 km / 4.5-5.5 hrs)
- Complete Entry Permit formalities
- Continue to Thimphu (~6-7 hrs) or Paro (~6 hrs) by Bhutanese vehicle
This route is scenic, budget-friendly, and perfect for combining Dooars with Bhutan (if desired).
Entry Requirements for Indian Citizens
- No visa required
- Required documents (any one): i. Valid Passport (minimum 6-month validity), ii. Voter ID (EPIC)
- Entry Permit required (issued at Paro Airport or Phuentsholing)
- Carry multiple passport-size photographs
- Entry Permit is free, but you must pay the SDF (Rs. 1,200 per night)
Optional: Entry Permit can now be pre-applied online (recommended for smoother processing)
Which Is Better - Road or Flight?
| Feature | Road Entry (Phuentsholing) | Flight to Paro |
|---|
| Cost | More economical for groups | Slightly higher but time-saving |
| Travel Time | Full-day drive from Bagdogra | 1–2.5 hrs depending on city |
| Entry Formality | Done at border office | Done at Paro Airport |
| Scenic Value | Gradual mountain experience | Stunning aerial views |
| Flexibility | Good for combining Dooars or Darjeeling | Direct Bhutan access |
Travel Tips for Indian Tourists
- Book your Bhutan tour package through a licensed operator to ensure permits, SDF, and transport are arranged
- If entering by road, start your journey from Bagdogra early in the day to reach Phuentsholing before permit office closes
- Carry cash in Rs. 100/ Rs. 200 notes - Indian currency is accepted
- Prepare for long, scenic drives in Bhutan - travel is part of the experience
Let Us Handle the Logistics
Still unsure whether to fly or drive? We’ll help you choose the route that fits your timeline, comfort, and budget - and take care of all permits, pickups, and paperwork.
